ACE Tech Course Descriptions
Mathematics
Language Arts
Science
Social Science
Career & Concentration
Foreign Language
Electives
Mathematics
Algebra I - 9th Grade
This course introduces the language of Algebra where the focus is strengthening problem solving skills and mechanics while making connections to real world situations. Concepts taught in this course include algebraic properties, slope, polynomial equations, factoring, and linear systems.
Geometry - 10th Grade
Geometry introduces and challenges those to find the mathematical patterns that occur in everyday life. The focus of this course will be on problem solving techniques applied to various geometric concepts including polygons, symmetry, three–dimensional figures, theorems/proofs, and the coordinate plane.
Geometry Honors- 10th Grade
The purpose of this class is to introduce, challenge, and inspire students to find the mathematical patterns that occur in every day life. Students will how to find correct answers using multiple methods, as well as problem solving techniques that are necessary for standardized tests. Furthermore, students will extensively use proofs in higher-level mathematics.
Algebra II/Trigonometry - 11th Grade
Algebra II is a branch of mathematics that focuses on the analyses of relationships between lines, angles, trigonometric functions and their applications. The emphasis of this course is on problem solving, reasoning, and communication of mathematical ideas in conjunction with understanding and connecting concepts.
Algebra II/ Trigonometry with Construction Application - 11th Grade
Algebra II/Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that focuses on the analyses of relationships between lines, angles, trigonometric functions and their applications. The emphasis of this course is on problem solving, reasoning, and communication of mathematical ideas through demonstration of how fundamental math principles are used in the construction industry.
Pre-Calculus - 12th Grade
Pre Calculus is a rigorous mathematics course where the interconnection of mathematic topics and problem solving strategies are central. This course is designed to engage students in the learning of mathematics through exploration of various concepts including limits and continuity, functions, equations, inequalities, arithmetic and geometric sequences, and derivatives
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Language Arts
English I Writing - 9th Grade
English Writing will help students learn how to persuade and inform others through writing and speaking. The 1st marking period will tackle etymology, grammar, Letter Writing, and the ACE Persuasive Writing model. The 2nd marking period will deal with Business Writing with students working in groups to create a business, develop a business portfolio, and host a Mock Career Fair. The 3rd marking period will explore Research Writing by having students research an author and complete an Author Biography, Book Talk, and write a Letter to the Author. They will also participate in a Group Read Project where they will take character and chapter notes, create vocabulary and study questions guides, and give a presentation to the class. The 4th marking period will explore Creative Writing in the areas of poetry, short stories, memoirs, and speeches. Students will first analyze the work of others and then complete their own Creative Writing Portfolio.
Literature I - 9th Grade
Through the exploration of genres, Literature I develops the skills of reading, composition, literary analysis, and oral communication. Students explore literature across genres by studying representative short stories, documentaries, essays, novels, poetry, drama, and film. Each student maintains a graduation portfolio containing their best work in order to track their progress in composition skills.
English II - 10th Grade
Through the exploration of world literature, English II further develops the skills introduced in English I: reading, composition, literary analysis, and oral communication. The student explores the cultural diversity of the world by studying representative historical documents, short stories, documentaries, essays, novels, poetry, drama, and film. The student maintains a portfolio of their best work in order to track their progress in composition skills. English II and World History complement one another as the student explores and interprets literature as historical artifact.
American Literature - 11th Grade
This class is a study on American Literature and the American Dream. To simplify this year, I have chosen 3 areas of focus and essential questions for each area. Through presentations, group and individual work, tests, and papers, you will be able to answer each question and relate it to the novels we will be reading.
American Literature Honors - 11th Grade
American Literature will take a decidedly multicultural look at the creation and development of the “American” as portrayed through a variety of sources. We will specifically examine historical documents, short stories, essays, memoirs, novels, plays, music, and film to provide evidence of the American evolution. The skills that will be required to excel in this class are reading, literary analysis, verbal communication and debate, multiple forms of composition, and finally and most importantly an OPEN MIND! The students will also be required to develop and maintain a portfolio that will track and show progression through the class.
College Writing - 12th Grade
Capstone for Language arts focusing on the writing aspects of the college application process, teaching students to think critically, articulate viewpoints, and provide an effective analysis through writing. All students will develop college and career portfolios that include formal research papers and career related writings.
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Science
Introductory Physics - 9th Grade
This is an introductory level physics course. The course will emphasize the combining of algebra skills and inquiry-based exploration of fundamental physics concepts. Students will investigate the following topics: laws of motion; acceleration and force; weight; composition of matter; energy transfer; heat and temperature; wave motion; properties of light, colors, lenses, and mirrors; static electricity and magnetism. Students will create and maintain an Interactive Notebook to keep a conceptual and graphical record of their learning.
Chemistry - 10th Grade
This is a regular chemistry course at the college preparatory level. Motivation, an ability to work independently, a willingness to meet with the teacher outside of class if necessary, and competency in algebra are important for success. Topics include: traditional chemical analysis, industrial and biochemical reactions, the mole concept, oxidation/reduction reactions, basic organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory exercises are included. Since the majority of the curriculum is applied with a focus on hands-on activities, this course will require active participation, discussion and the use of the scientific method.
Chemistry Honors - 10th Grade
This is an advanced college preparatory course in chemistry recommended for those students who have a strong interest in participating in more independent studies alongside chemical instruction. Students should have previously demonstrated above average abilities in deductive reasoning, computational skills, and abstract conceptualization. Topics include: modern atomic theory, the mole concept, chemical periodicity, oxidation/reduction reactions, theories of chemical bonding in biochemical and industrial reactions, chemical energetics, acid-base reactions, rates of reactions, equilibrium, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory exercises are used where appropriate. The majority of the curriculum is applied with a focus on hands-on activities. This course will require active participation, discussion and the use of the scientific method.
Biology - 11th Grade
This is an introductory level biology course, emphasizing the investigation of living organisms and their life processes. Students will explore the following topics: Characteristics and classification of living organisms; the history of life on earth, adaptations and ecological systems; patterns and interrelationships among living systems, both internal and external; genetics, inheritance, and bioengineering; the human body, health, disease and immunity; bioethics and technology. Students will work within established safety requirements, perform laboratory investigations and manipulate data, be expected to complete and present several projects, and produce at final portfolio project relating biological concepts to design and construction principles.
Physics I - 11th Grade
The first year physics course is an introduction to the concepts of Newtonian Mechanics. The focus is on understanding and being able to apply principles of linear and 2-dimensional motion, forces, Newton’s Laws, energy, and circular motion. Emphasis is placed on discovery and hands-on learning. Student understanding is evaluated by performance on design projects as well as problem-solving.
Materials Science & Engineering - 12th Grade
This course is an introduction to the principles of materials science, the study of the structure and properties of materials. Emphasis will be on materials and processes used in the building trades, including structural materials such as steel, concrete, ceramics, and wood, and on materials used in electrical, plumbing, windows, and other areas. Coursework will consist mostly of hands-on projects exploring the relationship between the process of manufacturing materials and their physical structure and properties.
Physics II - 12th Grade
The second year physics course covers gravity, rotational mechanics, waves, sound, light and color, electrostatics, and currents and circuits, and magnetism. As with the first-year course, discovery, hands-on learning, and design projects are an important part of the curriculum, however there is more emphasis on use of mathematics as a tool for understanding the physical principles.
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Social Science
Economics & Engineering - 9th Grade
This course exposes students to the worlds of business, product development, manufacturing, technology, global wealth, and environmental policy. This course is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and the workplace; explore techniques to build critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and teamwork; explore inquiry-and problem-based approaches to teaching and learning; and to link the classroom with real world applications. Students will apply their knowledge to solve problems, craft arguments, write persuasively, perform internet research, convey ideas to an audience, and conduct presentations using technology.
World History - 10th Grade
Through the exploration of the culture, geography, and past and current events of different regions, World History will develop analysis, interpretation, and critical thinking skills. Students will develop their own perception of history with the study of historical documents, and film. Their unique perception will be represented in a portfolio containing journals, essays and projects completed throughout the year. World History and English II complement one another as the student enriches history through critical reading and analysis of novels.
U.S. History - 11th Grade
This course is designed to deepen each student’s awareness of his/her American heritage and responsibilities as a citizen. Students will examine the development of the Constitution of the United States and the ways in which our government has evolved over time. All students are required to pass a test on both the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. Student will engage in an examination of economic, intellectual, cultural, social, and environmental developments, as well as civil rights, labor issues and topics in foreign policy which have confronted citizens throughout various eras in our nation’s history. Students will then evaluate the response of the government and individual citizens to these issues. In addition, students will develop skills in critical reading, issue analysis, and arguing point of view. Historical research is a year-long focus as each student prepares a cumulative research project.
Women's Studies - 12th Grade
This Women’s Studies course examines the many facets of female development from birth through old age. The student explores a variety of themes through the study of psychological concepts and literary selections. These themes include gender role development, adolescence, self-esteem, relationships, employment and career options, women’s political power, and women’s health issues. The goals of the course include the further refinement of written and oral skills, the identification of the variety of opportunities for women, and an appreciation for the diversity of women’s experiences.
Psychology – 10th – 12th grades
Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior. This course introduces the student to the methods employed by psychologists in understanding human behavior. Topics include the history of psychology, brain and behavior, motivation and emotion, states of consciousness, the process of learning, intelligence and memory, stress and personality adjustment, and mental disorders and treatments. Students are actively involved in their learning as they journal, research, conduct experiments, give presentations, read and review current topics in periodicals, and view contemporary films which deal with various psychological themes. The study of psychology promotes empathy towards others, an appreciation of the unique nature of the individual, and the importance of sound mental health.
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Career & Concentration Courses
Manual Drafting - 9th Grade
Through the exploration of basic architectural elements, architectural drafting develops the fundamental drafting skills which allow students to communicate graphically. The ability to measure objects or spaces precisely, using a ruler, architectural scale or measuring tape is a major focus of this drafting course. Upon demonstration of the ability to take accurate measurements, students will learn how to manually produce 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional drawings accurately from measurement. However, in addition to being able to communicate graphically, students will develop the skills necessary to give clear and concise oral presentations.
Architecture & AutoCad - 10th Grade
Construction Documents are significant to any form of visual communications within the building industry. First we must understand how to read basic floor plans and then learn how to use the basic tools provided by AutoCAD. We will practice how to sketch, draft and then implement these onto the computer. We will also explore the relationship of the city of Chicago, its neighborhoods, as well as other valuable assets that the city provides to analyze visual properties. The computer will be used as a main tool to create, manipulate and transform drawings. We will evaluate our hand drafting skills and recreate our sketched and drafted illustrations into computer aided drawings
Advanced Architecture I - 11th Grade
Advanced Architecture I is a required course for junior students that have chosen Architecture as a concentration at ACE Tech Charter High School. Students begin the course practicing intermediate computer drafting techniques that will be utilized to successfully complete professional design projects throughout both semesters. Throughout the year Advanced Architecture I also focuses on basic construction techniques which give students an understanding of how residential buildings are constructed. Students will be able to produce two dimensional CAD drawings of floor plans, elevations, and sections at the completion of this course.
Advanced Architecture II - 12th Grade
Advanced Architecture II is a required course for Senior Students that have chosen Architecture as a concentration at ACE Tech Charter High School. In this course students are given large scale city and regional planning projects that involve more than just the study of buildings. Students are challenged to study different neighborhoods and environments to solve problems that result in three dimensional CAD models, plans, elevations, and detail drawings. Advanced Architecture II is a college preparatory course for students that are considering studying Architecture at the university level.
Green Architecture - 11th & 12th Grades
In this course students begin learning about the different materials and energy sources that are harmful not only to our bodies, but to our immediate environment and to our planet. Once these toxic materials and energy sources are identified, an investigation develops on solutions that focus on ways to protect our environment in the way we construct buildings and spaces. Students are required to create sustainable designs using AutoCAD, and produce physical study & final models for presentations. Throughout the course students will also visit building examples around Chicago that demonstrate green architecture, sustainable design, and hybrid homes.
Building Trades I - III - 9th - 12th Grades
Students will explore the different aspects of the construction industry, learning about potential careers in different trades areas. This will be supported by hands on projects in different construction disciplines, providing students with tangible skills for entering the construction sector.
Principles of Engineering -11th Grade
Principles of Engineering is a course taught in partnership with Project Lead the Way, a national organization that promotes pre-engineering education in secondary schools. The course introduces students to the concepts and practice of engineering. Students work in teams to accomplish tasks with real-world applications. In the process, they learn how to design and build operational devices and systems, as well as learning how to use important tools, such as computer-aided design, control systems programming, and basic principles of mechanical engineering.
Civil Engineering & Urban Design - 11th Grade
Civil Engineering and Urban Design is a college prep class designed for 12th graders. The primary purpose of this class is for students to understand how city is structured and designed through science, and how a city is structured and designed by human behavior, environment, and social priority. Students will learn about Civil Engineering in classroom based and hands on construction, with particular emphasis on Reavit drafting software, surveying equipment, soil testing, building codes, building and site components, and utilities and building design. Students will develop knowledge through project-based learning.
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Foreign Language
French I - 10th & 11th Grades
The purpose of this class is to introduce students to the French language and culture. Students will learn how to read, write, and speak the language while studying why people around the world speak and study it.
Spanish I - 10th & 11th Grades
This introductory course has three main goals: for students to communicate in Spanish, gain an appreciation of Spanish and Latin American cultures, and to make connections to other disciplines.
French II - 11th & 12th Grades
The purpose of this class is to enhance student knowledge of the French language and culture. Students will practice reading, writing, and speaking the language while studying why people around the world speak and study it.
Spanish II - 11th & 12th Grades
This course focuses in the instruction of basics skills in the Spanish language. Students will be taught important elements of language learning, which they will apply in this class. Upon completion of this course, students will have a well rounded introduction to the world of Spanish.
Advanced Spanish II - 11th & 12th Grades
This course is designed to explore beyond the basic knowledge of Spanish. Students will be expected to complete more rigorous tasks in the areas of: grammar, literature, composition and verbal skills. In order to accomplish this we will use higher levels of learning such as: analysis and synthesis. Upon completion of this course, students will have a higher knowledge and awareness of the target language by improving their reading, writing and verbal skills.
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Electives
Art
This course continues the exploration of drawing and painting. We will explore many themes and work with many different mediums. We will work from still life and other subject matter while exploring line, shape, space, and value. In the second semester we will work with color, and painting techniques. Self-expression and participation will be encouraged and expected.
Business
This course focuses on entrepreneurs, entrepreneurial ventures, and the entrepreneurial process through case study and development of a formal business plan. The course looks at how entrepreneurs develop innovative strategies aimed at goal achievement by effectively linking internal core competencies to external competitive advantage.
Information Technology
This course is a broad introduction to the use of computers as tools for creativity, communications and organizing information. We at Ace do not assume that you have any previous computer experience, but even those students who are already advanced computer users will find activities to challenge them. In addition to learning the technical fundamentals of computer use, we hope to help you build your skills in researching information, making appropriate ethical choices about the use of computers, and using technology to help you learn on your own and pass your new skills on to others.
Journalism
This course is an introduction to newspaper writing and editing resulting in the production of a school newspaper and yearbook.
Perspective Drawing
An introduction to the vocabulary and basic concepts of design: contrast and harmony; balance and applying texture; linear, symmetry-asymmetry; geometric and clustering forms of organization. Exercises developing creativity, and manual skills to cope with design, development of visual values for structuring and articulating 2D and 3D compositions in different media.
Piano
This course is designed to teach students the basics of playing the piano and educate them on key historical and contemporary composers. By the end of the year, students should be able to read music and play late beginner/early intermediate piano pieces. Students learn to play the piano on digital keyboards, and as the instructor, I communicate with students through headsets. Tests are performance based, quizzes are written and based on theory, and homework assignments are taken from theory exercises relevant to each unit. Overall, the class will be divided between instruction time, and individual/group practice time.
Photography
We will explore the world of photography. We will learn about the many features of a digital camera and how to manipulate to create beautiful images. We will learn how to use digital software such as Photoshop to manipulate, retouch, and organize our photographs. We will also learn about different photographers and their work. The course will concentrate on photographer’s techniques including studio lighting.
Physical Education
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