What the Studies Say About Copper Canyon Academy's Effectiveness!
Course Descriptions
PDFCopper Canyon Academy private all girls’ boarding school offers all of the core classes needed to earn a high school diploma, including:
- English: 8-12, Literature (American and British)
- Science: Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science
- Mathematics: Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus
- Social Studies: American History, World History, Geography
- Foreign Language: Spanish
- Health
- Computer Technology
- Electives
- Speech
- Vocational Skills
- Choir
- Dance
- Physical Education
- Psychology
- Art: Oils, Acrylics, Clays, Sculptures, 3-D, Woods
- Home Economics
Detailed Course Descriptions
English
Language Arts 1
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
Language Arts 1 focuses on fundamental English grammar, punctuation, spelling, usage, mechanics, and vocabulary development. Students are taught the basic literary elements as part of the curriculum. Writing and basic research skills are emphasized, and literature circles are incorporated into the methodology. Both prose and poetry are used as illustrative models to help enhance students' ability to express themselves through writing. Readings are from books, short stories, poetry, newspaper articles, and other genres.
Language Arts 2
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Language Arts 1 or equivalent
Language Arts 2 examines how language can be used to entertain, inform, persuade, and express feelings. The course encourages students to be analytical readers and creative writers. Through reading and writing, students gain a better understanding of how the written word is used to influence and affect the world around us. Writing skills are emphasized, through essays, poetry, formal letter-writing, research papers, and literature circles. Students continue their work on the vocabulary development that was begun in Language Arts 1.
World Literature
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Language Arts 2 or equivalent
This course is an introductory overview of literature from around the world, encompassing various genres that expose students to a compelling range of literary materials. Students examine not only the literary merits of the works read, but also their historical context and relevance. Emphasis is placed on journal-writing, vocabulary, and grammar. Students are responsible for composing expository as well as creative pieces. World Literature is a two-semester course, with World Lit A covering up to the 19th century, and World Lit B post-1800. The two sections may be taken in either sequence.
American Literature
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: two years of high school English, or permission of instructor
Students in this course study the evolution of the American consciousness through selected works of American literature from all eras of U.S. history. The development of uniquely American styles is examined as a reflection of the American experience. Genres include novels, short stories, and poetry. Works studied may include those of such authors as Melville, Whitman, Steinbeck, Poe, Hemingway, and Fitzgerald. Emphasis is placed on student writing, which includes journal-writing during every class session. This is a two-semester course, with American Lit A covering the years up to 1900, and American Lit B encompassing the post-1900 period. The two sections may be taken in either sequence.
Women's Literature
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: two years of high school English preferred
This upper-level English course focuses on contributions from women writers, and specifically what it means to be a woman in our current society. There is a heavy focus on writing and multi-genre projects. Through reading, writing, and discussion, students address the extent to which women's stereotypes, roles, and expectations have changed through the years. Works of such authors as Emily Dickinson, Laurie Halse Anderson, Virginia Woolff, and Jane Austen will be read in this course.
Shakespeare
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Language Arts 2 or equivalent
This course emphasizes the unique contributions and significance of Renaissance literature, focusing on the dramas and poetry of Shakespeare. Expository prose and critical analysis is central to this course. Considerable attention is paid to refining students' writing precision. Because of the inherent theatricality of Shakespeare's works, students will be expected to memorize and perform substantial portions of Shakespeare plays.
British Literature
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: three years of high school English preferred
This survey of British literature will include selected works from the Anglo-Saxon period to the contemporary. As part of the class format and through advanced readings, emphasis is placed on genres, literary terms, historical context, and development of the English language. A goal of this course is for students to hone their literary analyses and insights through creative and expository pieces.
Advanced World Literature
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: three years of high school English preferred
Mathematics
Practical Mathematics
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
Practical Math focuses on the fundamentals of mathematics. While it will by design touch on elements of pre-algebra, the focus is on computation, problem-solving, money management, and mathematics applied to real life. Basic operations are reviewed, as well as such practical topics as ratio and proportion, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
Pre-Algebra
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
Pre-Algebra is typically the last mathematics course a student will take before embarking on Algebra 1. As such, students in pre-algebra will at a minimum be exposed to the key ideas of mathematical symbolism, the concept of variables, and how to reason mathematically. Content will include the real number system, fractions, basic algebraic expressions, signed numbers, square roots, and solving basic equations and inequalities.
Algebra 1
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or equivalent
In this course students discover how all the mathematics that they have learned up to this point in their schooling fits together. The two semesters of Algebra 1 provide the primary foundation for virtually all future work in mathematics and science. Material that is covered here will include further work on the topics first explored in pre-algebra, as well as such subjects as linear graphing, polynomials, exponential notation, and basic functions.
Geometry
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Through geometry students learn spatial conceptualization. In this class deductive and indirect proofs will be dealt with through the language of geometry. The first semester focuses on perpendicular and parallel lines, properties of triangles, quadrilaterals, and the Pythagorean theorem. In the second semester students will use a variety of geometric tools in addressing such material as logic, analytic geometry, transformations, similarity, area of circles and polygons, and trigonometry.
Algebra 2
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
As the last high school mathematics course taken by many students, Algebra 2 serves in essence as the problem-solving synthesizer. The foundation provided by Algebra 1 and Geometry is solidified, as more problem-solving skills are acquired. Material that is covered here will include such topics as advanced algebraic expressions, quadratic functions, rational expressions, sequences, conic sections, matrices, and exponential and logarithmic functions.
Pre-Calculus
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Mathematics through Algebra 2
This course provides the necessary framework for the successful study of calculus and advanced college mathematics. Topics that are addressed in the first semester, in Pre-Calc A, will include right triangle trigonometry, graphing analysis, and trigonometric functions and identities. In Pre-Calc B the focus shifts to functional notation and manipulation, vectors, and polar coordinates.
History/Social Studies
World Geography
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
This course is a survey of the geography of the world's regions. It includes the ways in which environmental resources are utilized to satisfy the needs and wants of mankind. There is emphasis on land use, economic development, population, and scarcity. Knowledge of the cultural and economic interaction between regions enables the student to better understand contemporary world problems and potentials.
World History
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: None
World History is a study of selected topics and themes from the earliest civilizations and cultures to the present. It takes a global view of historic processes, patterns of social interaction, geography, and the relationship of change and continuity over time. There is an emphasis on the development of Western culture and civilization, and the extent to which the West's encounters and interactions with the non-Western world have helped to define and direct the course of world history.
American History
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: one year of high school social studies preferred
This required course is a study of selected topics and trends in American history, designed to familiarize students with the major events, ideas, and developments in the history of the United States. The thematic approach of this class aims to deepen students' knowledge of American political and social institutions and processes. American History is a two-semester course, and World War I marks the chronological break between the two terms.
U.S. Civil War
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: one year of high school social studies
U.S. Civil War provides an in-depth survey of the sectional conflicts dividing the United States in the first half of the 19th century, detailing each action that caused the South to secede from the Union. Emphasis is placed upon topics relating to social, political, military, diplomatic, ethnic, religious, and economic factors. Also examined is the impact of the Civil War era on the various peoples who comprised the Union and the Confederacy and how they, in turn, influenced the conflict around them.
American Government
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: American History preferred
This course is a study of the major themes that define the structure of American government and that characterize the nature of American democracy. The pillars of the U.S. government-the Constitution and Bill of Rights-are studied in depth. Students will learn about the three branches of government, the federal system, and other key facets of Western-style democracy. In addition, students will be introduced to specific elements of civic participation and their personal responsibilities in the political, economic, and social processes, as well as how Americans serve government at the ballot box, on juries, and in offices of public trust.
Sociology
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: one year of high school social studies
This topics-oriented course provides an overview of the basic theories, concepts, research methodologies, and terminology comprising the formal study of human society. Students will explore how sociological theories and methods can be applied to examinations of one's daily life. Topics of investigation include the relationship between the individual and society, social groups, inequality and power, social institutions, and social change.
Economics
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: two years of high school social studies
This upper-division course will introduce students to major economic concepts such as scarcity and choice, cost opportunity, supply and demand, market and command economies, and the role of government in economics. An emphasis will be placed upon the study of the stock market, demonstrating to the student an integrated approach to the study of economic theory and principles.
Psychology
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: one year of high school social studies
Psychology provides students with the opportunity to explore the theories and realities of human behavior in order to gain increased mastery and understanding of our actions and decisions. Content areas include psychological theory, research methods, sensation and perception, and developmental psychology. Students investigate not only the scientific study of human behavior, but also how to implement and apply this knowledge to their everyday lives through research, case studies, and role-playing.
Government Seminar
Credit: 0.25
Prerequisite: one year of high school social studies; overall B average minimum
This upper-level political science course culminates with students participating in the rigorous week-long Presidential Classroom program in Washington, D.C. As such, it is as much a leadership experience as it is a behind-the-scenes look at Washington. As a Presidential Classroom Scholar, students have the opportunity to experience a hands-on immersion into the political decision-making process at the federal level. There is a specific focus to each week; topics that rotate through the P.C. curriculum include international relations, national security, technology, the media, and law.
Science
Physical Science
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
Physical Science provides a conceptual introduction to physics and chemistry and the scientific method. Content areas include electricity, magnetism, and gravity. As aids in discovery, students learn tools such as collecting and analyzing data, measuring and calculating, using the metric system, the periodic table, motion studies, and scientific equipment and technology.
Earth Science
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: None
Earth Science is a two-semester course that teaches students about the natural phenomena observable on Earth, and the forces at work in nature that shape the space around us. Earth Science A focuses on geology and astronomy; Earth Science B, on oceanography and meteorology. Resources will include the usual classroom and lab material as well as the natural outdoor lab that surrounds the school: Arizona's Verde Valley. The course is in two semesters, and the two terms can be taken in either sequence.
Biology
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: one year of high school science preferred
Biology teaches students about the nature and organization of Earth's living organisms and systems. Major topics investigated will be the history of biology, identification and classification of organisms, the structure of ecosystems, and the immediate role and impact of biology in our daily lives. The geographic setting of Copper Canyon Academy-the Verde Valley-provides a compelling natural laboratory for biology field studies.
Chemistry
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: one year of high school science; mathematics through Geometry preferred
Chemistry teaches students about the natural and man-made elements that exist in the universe, and the multitude of compounds that can be made by combining them. Major topics investigated include atomic structure and classification of elements, qualitative analysis, chemical bonding and the synthesis of molecules, and the critical role of chemistry in our daily lives.
Physics
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: two years of high school science; mathematics through Algebra 2
In this upper-level course students will investigate the behavior and structure of matter in the world around them. Special emphasis is placed on the connections of physics to other scientific disciplines. Topics addressed include mechanics, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, relativity, and atomic structure.
Foreign Language
Spanish 1
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: None
The foundations of the Spanish language are taught in this course, with a focus on grammar, vocabulary, and Hispanic culture. Specific topics in the first term will include the conjugation of regular -ar, -er, and -ir verbs, as well as the study of pronouns, question words, numbers, dates and time-telling, definite and indefinite articles, and noun gender and agreement. In the second semester students learn about stem-changing verbs, tener expressions, reflexive verbs, indirect object pronouns, comparisons, present progressive, and demonstrative adjectives.
Spanish 2
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Spanish 1
This course continues to build on the foundation established in Spanish 1. Close attention is paid to the rules of grammar, reading comprehension, and continuous verbal practice. Content areas include past tense and commands. Students will design and create story-books, and read fables and legends. Vocabulary learned in this class will assist the student in such areas as childhood activities, giving directions, weather, news and events, writing a letter, and describing places.
Spanish 3
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: Spanish 2
Taught entirely in Spanish, this is an advanced conversation course that also delves into Hispanic literature. Topics of classroom conversation are generally readings-based. Students will examine and discuss not only fables and legends, but they will also explore the works of such writers as Pablo Neruda, Isabel Allende, Miguel de Cervantes, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Sandra Cisneros, Jorge Luis Borges, Octavio Paz, Lope de Vega, and Frederico Garcia Lorca.
French 2
Credit: 1.0 (two terms)
Prerequisite: French 1
This course continues to build on the foundation established in French 1. It allows students who have completed two or three semesters of French at previous schools to continue-and perhaps complete-their French studies. Close attention is paid in this class to the rules of grammar, reading comprehension, and continuous verbal practice.
Fine and Performing Arts
Introduction to Visual Arts
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
This is an exploratory art class, serving as an overview of the discipline of visual arts. Students will be introduced to various techniques and styles of art. The class focuses on the elements and principles of design, including line, shape, color, space, texture, and balance. Pencil, acrylic paint, oil pastels, charcoal, papier-mache, and clay are used as media.
Advanced Visual Arts
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Intro to Visual Arts or equivalent
Advanced Visual Arts builds on the foundation established in Intro to Visual Arts, helping the student develop enhanced techniques as well as a more personal style of self-expression. Students are introduced to the more significant and compelling elements in the history of art.
Painting and Drawing
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Intro to Visual Arts
In this two-dimensional art class, students cover techniques in shading and depth. Types of works that they will be expected to work on will include self-portraits, still lifes, and landscapes. Media used will be oil pastel, colored pencil, water color, tempura, and acrylics.
Three-Dimensional Design
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Intro to Visual Arts, or permission of instructor
In this sculpture and interior design class a variety of materials, including clay, wood, plaster, papier-mache, wire, and plaster of paris, are used to create three-dimensional art forms. Students will use both additive and subtractive methods of producing sculpture.
Choir
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
Students learn in this performance class the basic fundamentals of vocal technique and individual and ensemble singing. They learn songs from standard choral repertoire, as well as show tunes, folk tunes, and inspirational songs. Students are introduced to the lives and music of great composers, and are taught elements of music appreciation. Typically, students in this class perform in public, on-campus and off-campus.
Dramatic Arts
Credit: 0.5 Prerequisite: None
Drama is designed for the novice as well as the trouper, to serve any student who wishes to acquire or enhance skills in the performing arts. Content areas will include monologue, improvisation, audition techniques, scene studies, and character development. In addition, students have the opportunity to learn stage management, scenic design, costuming, and other technical aspects of theater production. Typically, students in this class will perform a full-scale theater production for the school, as well as smaller skits and shows off-campus.
Musical Theater
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Choir and/or Drama preferred
This performance class aims to teach the skills and language of the performing arts through the disciplines of music and theater. Students investigate the operatic roots of the musical play, and become familiar with the works of prominent composers of the genre such as Verdi, Mozart, Wagner, Bizet, and Puccini. This class culminates in the full-scale production of a musical for the school.
Shakespearean Drama
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: Drama or equivalent
This course investigates and analyzes Shakespeare's tragedies, comedies, and histories from a performance and theatrical stance. As an aid to understanding, the English language of the Elizabethan era is studied and practiced in some depth. Students memorize and perform major sections from selected plays, and typically present a full-scale production of one Shakespeare play toward the end of the semester.
Physical Education
Physical Education
Credit: varies
Prerequisite: None
At Copper Canyon students receive a structured regimen of physical fitness, conditioning, and participation in intramural sports. Activities generally include distance running, calisthenics, weight training, and use of exercise equipment. Students are introduced to a wide array of exercising and conditioning opportunities, and are expected to run a minimum of 1.5 miles per week. A student's level of effort and performance in P.E. is a factor in her progression through her therapeutic program.
Interscholastic Team Sports
Credit: varies
Prerequisite: generally by try-out
Copper Canyon students compete against local schools in the team sports of basketball, volleyball, soccer, and softball.
Interdisciplinary
Speech
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
This course teaches methods used in communication, with a special emphasis on public speaking. The course examines listening, speaking, verbal and non-verbal messages and other skills used to present information to individuals and to audiences. Students will be expected to make presentations to an audience on a regular basis. The course will include speech construction, public speaking, and writing.
Health
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
In this required course students learn about the physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of human health. Content areas such as wellness, stress, infectious disease, nutrition, and reproduction are among the topics covered. The methodologies used in this class are interactive and include group and individual projects, skits, lectures, the Internet, and lecture-based journaling activities that apply to their daily lives.
Journalism
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisite: None
In this course students learn journalistic writing, photojournalism, and publishing styles, using Desktop publishing and other tools and resources. Investigation, surveying, and interviewing techniques are used as part of the curriculum. During the semester this class periodically publishes a school newsletter.
Vocational Education
Credit: varies
Prerequisite: by application
Upper-level students have the opportunity to gain useful life experiences through job shadowing and assisting school faculty and staff in their work. Activities include food preparation and distribution in the kitchen, serving as school receptionist and answering the telephone, and working as an office assistant for staff.
Teaching Assistant
Credit: varies
Prerequisite: Mastery of subject; permission of instructor
Qualified Copper Canyon students have the opportunity to receive credit by assisting teachers in the classroom.
Personal Development
Credit: 0.25 per level
Prerequisite: None
Personal Development represents a series of four separate ongoing modules that serve as a key component of a CCA student's therapeutic work. The work required for each individual level varies, but includes such activities as journal-writing, submitting life stories, giving oral reports, making appropriate transition plans, and performing the role of mentor. Skills and values obtained include interpersonal communications, social interaction, decision-making, stress management, teamwork, active listening, conflict resolution, and establishing healthy relationships.