English
is studied in order to gain proficiency in both written and verbal
communication. Such proficiency enables the student to communicate
effectively with a variety of audiences and to function more efficiently in the
workplace. During the planned progression of the curriculum from lower to
middle to upper school, students learn to think analytically and to interpret
diverse language patterns in the context of the time and culture from which
they spring. The Department of English at APDS exists not only to prepare
its students for college work but also to produce thinking, responsible
citizens.
These
goals are achieved by concentrating on the basics of composition, grammar and
syntax along with the study of literature from many periods and genres.
Students apply their knowledge of these basics--literary conventions, grammar,
figurative language, interpretive strategies, media techniques, genre
distinctions, and language structure--as they learn effective written and oral
communication techniques.
Graduates
of APDS who have progressed through the English curriculum will be able to
write clearly, read perceptively, and communicate effectively; they will be
supremely well prepared for sophisticated work in selective colleges and
universities. The humanities approach will produce citizens who are able to
relate literary works to relevant works of art, music, philosophy, and
religion, individuals who will enjoy reading as a lifetime pursuit.
GOALS
To foster a
humanities approach in our teaching
To emphasize
writing as the core of our program
To encourage
reading as a life skill; discuss works as literature, not just as stories
To encourage
articulate, effective oral expression and public speaking
To keep
communication fluent and emphatic within our department
To provide
the best academic experience for our students
Mathematics
MISSION
The
Mathematics Department seeks to foster the development of logical thinking and
problem solving strategies in order that these skills may be applied in a wide
range of disciplines. As a college preparatory school, students are prepared to
be successful in future study in areas such as mathematics, science,
engineering and social studies. As the future world in which our students
will live becomes more technological, the math department integrates those
aspects of technology that become available while maintaining a traditional
view regarding the basic skills students should master at each level.
Beginning
in the Lower
School,
manipulatives, games, and calculator and computer technology are used to
enhance the development of traditional math skills. In the Middle School,
manipulatives, computer software, games and calculators are used. As students
move into Algebra I in the eighth grade, the graphing calculator is introduced.
Always, some of the evaluations are done without the use of technology so that
basic skills in both arithmetic and algebra are mastered. The Upper
School
curriculum follows a strongly traditional approach with extensive work at the
board or in small groups. Advanced Placement courses in mathematics are
available, including AB Calculus, BC Calculus, and Statistics. Individual
attention is a frequent feature during class time and is extensively available
before and after school. In addition, individual student needs are met
through flexible scheduling of advanced students.
The
math classrooms all have multiple white-boards and overhead projectors to
facilitate student participation. Many math classrooms have light projectors
from which teachers can manipulate the computer as part of the lesson. In
addition, two math classrooms, one in middle and one in upper school, have
SmartBoard technology.
GOALS
To understand numbers and number systems, the meanings of
operations, the relationships of those operations to one another.
To be able to compute fluently; to recognize measurable
attributes of objects and the units and systems of measurement; to choose
the appropriate tools and formulas for measurement.
To reflect on the process of problem solving so that problem
solving skills may be applied and adapted to a broad range of contexts.
To understand patterns and relationships and analyze situations
using mathematical models, algebraic symbols, geometric representations
and appropriate statistical methods.
To analyze characteristics of two and three dimensional
geometric figures and to use models and coordinate geometry to represent
those figures.
To recognize reasoning and proof as a fundamental aspect of
mathematics and to develop and prove conjectures through various types of
reasoning.
To use the language of mathematics to express mathematical ideas
coherently and effectively; to be able to read and evaluate mathematics
written by others.
To formulate questions that can be addressed with data and to
collect and organize that data to show relevant answers and to apply
mathematical ideas in contexts outside of mathematics.
Science
MISSION
The
Science Department exists to provide our students with a diverse background in
the sciences that will act as a strong foundation for advanced studies. Our
classroom and lab activities promote scientific curiosity and encourage
investigation. Class activities and projects grant students the opportunity to
gain experience and confidence through individual research while promoting
development of communication skills in written and oral media. Activities and
evaluation measures stimulate and promote analytical thinking and critical
analysis skills. Our supplemental activities and events facilitate the
students' understanding of the cultural and social aspects of scientific
developments while current events and research reports increase our students'
awareness of current scientific discoveries. Our cumulative goal is to
encourage both the faculty and the student body to contribute their scholarship
to the community in current and future endeavors.
The
Science Department accomplishes our goals through acquiring and retaining
faculty well-versed and passionate in their specific fields of study. The instructors
in our department utilize a broad range of effective teaching strategies to
reinforce and build upon concepts at each division level. Our activities foster
curiosity, initiative, creativity, and objectivity. We encourage students to
develop an understanding, respect and appreciation for the environment in their
daily actions. Our teaching strategies attempt to develop skill in
rational thinking processes which underlie the scientific approach to problem
solving. Through assorted assignments, we encourage students to access
scientific information in various forms and conduct scientific inquiry.
Graduates
of APDS will be more observant of the world around them and will be more
competent in making informed decisions by using their knowledge of science. Our
goal is that our students will be successful in future endeavors of scientific
study.
GOALS
To experience the richness and excitement of knowing and
understanding the natural world
To develop an inquiry-based approach to the unknown
To develop academic skills and habits to promote success at
higher levels of study
To understand science linkages with technology
To increase scientific literacy which also encompasses learning,
reasoning and creative thinking
To handle, construct, and manipulate materials in a safe and
productive manner
To develop the ability to measure, organize and communicate
scientific information
To practice analytical thinking and to utilize the scientific
method in problem-solving
To recognize the importance of organization and independent
student responsibility
Social Studies / History
MISSION
The
mission of the History Department is threefold: first, to enable students to
understand the world they are inheriting and be prepared to live as global
citizens; second, to equip students with both an appreciation for, and facility
for a critical appraisal of lives, institutions, and events past and present;
and third, to acquire skills that allow them to communicate effectively their
knowledge and ideas.
To
fulfill the History Department goals, we commit to academic freedom and
encourage open discussion and free inquiry; affirm a commitment to student
analysis of historical events through primary documents, maps, globes,
simulations and games; promote cultural diversity and tolerance by offering
courses dealing with world civilizations, nations and peoples; and in
compliance with recognized national standards, integrate knowledge, skills, and
perspective within and across disciplines.
GOALS
To foster a humanities approach in our teaching
To emphasize writing skills as an important part of our program
To encourage independent reading
To encourage articulate, effective oral expression and public
speaking
To keep communication fluent and emphatic within our department
Fine Arts
MISSION
The
mission of the Fine Arts Department is to assist our students with the ability
to express themselves artistically, to exercise the imagination, and to develop
an understanding and appreciation of visual and performing arts. We strongly
believe that art education is fundamental in fostering a balanced individual
and society.
The
Fine Arts Department offers art experiences at all levels, from Preschool to
senior year. Students are involved in visual arts, drama, and chorus from
very early on. The art faculty is degreed in the arts, and is passionate
about fostering artistic skills in Prep students, whether it is in front of an
easel or on the stage. Students are taught the basic "language" of the
various art forms, visual and performing, and are given many opportunities for
hands-on experiences. Students are also taught how to look at and develop
ideas about art, while developing a sense of constructive criticism they will
be able to use in their adult life.
The Fine
Arts Department seeks to provide a positive experience and allow our students
to posses a well rounded view, vocabulary, and appreciation in relation to the
art world around them throughout their lives.
GOALS
To exhibit proficiency at an age-appropriate level in both
visual and performing arts.
To demonstrate competency in at least one art form.
Students should have a wealth of personal experiences from which to draw
in developing an adult appreciation for all of the arts.
To develop and present basic analyses of works of art in various
disciplines from structural, historical, and cultural perspectives.
To acquire an informed acquaintance with
exemplary works of art from a variety of cultures and historical periods,
and a basic understanding of historical development in the arts
disciplines.
To analyze various types of arts knowledge and skills
comparatively within the arts and across other academic disciplines.
Ultimately, students will arrive at a thoughtfully developed
understanding of the nature, value and meaning of the arts as a part of
their own humanity and as a source of enrichment throughout their lives.
Foreign Language
MISSION
The
Foreign Language Department seeks to develop its students into well-rounded
individuals who have a knowledge and appreciation of foreign cultures and
civilizations and a tolerance and acceptance of cultural differences of various
peoples. The department believes that the study of both modern and
classical languages is an integral part of preparing students to function
effectively in a world community made smaller and more interdependent
daily.
The
Foreign Language Department offers a curriculum that focuses on achievement of
oral proficiency, the ability to read and write in a foreign language, and
development of awareness of other cultures, including their literary and
artistic contributions. Exposure to foreign language is started in the Lower
School,
where students, through songs, games, and tactile experiences, focus on oral
production and recognition. Courses in the Middle and Upper
Schools
stress more rapid acquisition of vocabulary, fundamental, intermediate, and
advanced grammatical skills, and cultural literacy. Modern language classes are
taught almost exclusively in the target language, while Latin is taught in
English. They emphasize real-life situations and vocabulary as well as
culture, history, and literature. The classroom experience in the middle
and upper schools is enhanced through regular visits to the state-of-the-art
language lab, where students can practice their listening and speaking skills
as well as access foreign language web materials.
The
Foreign Language Department believes students who pass through our foreign
language program should reach proficiency, both written and (for the modern
languages) spoken, in a foreign language (or languages); acquire an
understanding of the heritage, cultural values, and practices of the foreign
country or countries studied; and develop lifelong strategies for studying
other foreign languages and cultures.
GOALS
To offer a variety of linguistic experiences in second language
acquisition
To foster communicative skills in listening, speaking, reading,
and writing
To explore the various facets of world cultures in the target
language
To develop and expand global awareness
Physical Education
MISSION
Daily
physical education is an integral part of the educational process at Augusta
Preparatory
Day School.
The emphasis at all levels is on the development of physical skills and the
utilization of these skills to foster the continued social, emotional, and
intellectual growth of our students. During the elementary years it is
important that children learn to use and control large and small muscles.
Activities should be chosen to require gross and fine motor movements. At
the middle school, physical skills should be refined and extended. A
balanced approach to individual and group development will contribute to a
healthy adult life.
GOALS
To develop social skills, a sense of fair play within
established rules and a concept of team play and sportsmanship
To promote self-esteem and an appreciation of ones abilities
with an opportunity to develop leadership qualities
To develop and maintain physical fitness through activities
which aid cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, endurance and
flexibility, agility, balance, coordination, power, reaction time, and
speed
To refine basic knowledge and skills with an introduction to
team strategy
To provide team competitions based on previous instructions
taught within the unit
To develop an understanding of safety in physical fitness and
build a sense of personal accountability
I
have been involved in education for a long time, both as a student and as a
teacher. I've seen many changes and
trends come and go; goals have changed, and so has the role of teacher. Today's educational establishment is highly
politicized with goals far beyond the teaching of ideas and skills to enable a
person to succeed in society. Education
today, teaching today, is often an instrument of social engineering. The focus has changed from teaching how to
think to teaching what to think.
(NOTE:
Veteran English teacher Wayne Buckley
first presented this article to the Augusta Prep faculty several years ago,
having been asked to share his wisdom on the art of teaching.)
