The department chairpersons are charged with the responsibility of maintaining current staff development programs in their subject area. Ground level school improvement initiatives are discussed and implemented with careful and precise delivery mechanisms in order to obtain the best overall results possible. New research and school improvement initiatives are studied carefully by each department for future implementation. The chairperson will schedule departmental meetings in order to achieve this goal.
Please browse our Department Pages to learn more about each department.
Mathematics Department
Dear parents and students,
Here you will find useful information about current Math classes, programs offered by Math Department, and the Advanced Math & Science Program (AMSP)
Programs Offered
LSE Math program is based on the Saxon Math series. The students are being placed according to their skill levels rather than their grade levels..
Math 7/6
Built upon Math 6/5, this level of Math takes it a little bit further and introduces the students to intermediate level Math concepts. This program also prepares the students to future concepts that will require logical and critical thinking.
Math 8/7
This level of Math pushes the students' critical thinking skills and logical abilities. It strengthens the basic concepts of Math and shows a variety of ways to solve a certain problem, hence opens up the students' minds. It also prepares the students to pre-algebra and algebra classes for high school and/or college.
Pre-algebra
In Pre-algebra class, the students are introduced to multi-dimensional thinking, detailed calculations on geometric shapes and measurement, as well as the real-life applications of algebraic concepts. This course is also a gateway to high school Algebra course.
Algebra 1
This course is the foundation for high school mathematics courses. It is the bridge from the concrete to the abstract study of mathematics. Topics include equations, inequalities, functions, linear functions, system of equations and inequalities, exponents and polynomials, quadratic functions and equations, data analysis and probability, exponential and radical functions, rational functions and equations. Real world applications are presented within the course content and a function's approach is emphasized.
Geometry
In this course topics include sets, real numbers, lines, planes, angles, triangles, congruence, proofs, geometric inequalities, perpendicular lines and planes in space, parallel lines and planes, polygonal regions and their areas, similarity, plane coordinate geometry, circles, spheres, sectors, trigonometry, symmetry, transformations, vectors, and solids..
Algebra 2
Algebra 2 treats topics that are traditionally covered in second-year algebra, and also covers a considerable amount of geometry. Time is spent developing geometric concepts and writing proof outlines. Students completing this course will have studied the equivalent of one semester of informal geometry. Applications in subjects such as physics and chemistry, as well as real world problems, are also covered. In this course, students will learn; graphical solution of simultaneous equations, basic trigonometric functions, scientific notation, radicals, conic sections, roots of quadratic equations, including complex roots, properties of real numbers, geometric proofs, factoring, inequalities and systems of inequalities, logarithms and antilogarithms, exponential equations, algebra of polynomials, vectors, algebraic word problems, gas law, set theory, probability.
Pre-Calculus
This is a college level course designed to extend the topics of Advanced Math like principle and applications of exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations, trigonometric functions, identities and their graphs, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric equations. An additional aim of this course is to introduce new topics like Matrices and Determinants, De Moivre’s theorem, Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences and the Binomial Theorem, permutations and combinations, the rational Pre-Requisite roots theorem. A graphing calculator is recommended for his class.
AP Calculus AB (for students who are advanced in Math)
This course covers mathematical function behaviour, including limits, derivatives and integral and their applications and also examines applications to geometry, engineering, science and business. Students are expected to take The AP Calculus AB exam. A graphing calculator (TI-83) is strongly recommended for this class.
AP Calculus BC (for students who are advanced in Math)
This course covers differential equations, slope fields, logarithmic equation, Euler’s method; Series investigated graphically, Polar coordinates and graphing, parametric equations and Vector functions. Students are expected to take The AP Calculus BC exam. A graphing calculator (TI-83) is strongly recommended for this class.
Math Counts Competition
All Math Counts issues including the selection of the contestants are now being coordinated under the AMSP program.
AMSP (Advanced Math & Science Program)
AMSP is an advanced program provided by ACCORD Institute for Education Research that motivates and encourages gifted students for academic studies in grades 6-8. Early Math and Science training by experts ensures early specialization and solid scientist background for gifted students.
AMSP aims to train student towards prestigious Math and Science competitions in national and international level. AMSP's condensed training program helps gifted students to develop their critical and analytical thinking skills while providing a challenging environment for them.
How to qualify?
The student (who is not on academic or behavioural probation) must take a placement test provided by ACCORD Institute. According to his/her performance, s/he will be contacted by both Math Department teachers and ACCORD representatives. For detailed information about ACCORD Institute, you may visit their official website at www.accordeducation.org
Science Department
The science department is happy to welcome everyone back to a new school year! The science department is composed of four teachers this year. Ugur Buldur is a 2nd year teacher of 9th grade general science and physics at Lotus. Dezerae Daniels is a 5th year teacher of 7th grade and Biology and serving as department chair. Kris Kubiak is a 5th year teacher of 6th grade and 9th grade general science at our school. Monica Turner is our newest addition this year and she is teaching 8th grade and chemistry. We all look forward to a fun and exciting year here at Lotus School for Excellence. Below you will find more information about what each grade level will be learning more about and is corresponding with the Colorado State Standards for Science.
Middle School
6th grade: Our sixth grade classes are a mixture of different types of sciences. Students will learn physical science topics such characteristics of the states of matter, atoms and how they combine to form larger molecules, and relationships among mass, weight, volume and density. Some life science topics 6th graders learn about are changes in the environment and how they affect people and multiple types of ecosystems. Some earth science topics that are discussed are as follows: types of renewable and non-renewable energy resources and how they affect human populations, the structure and natural processes of our earth, as well as the composition of our atmosphere.
7th grade: Most of the seventh grade year consists of life science topics which have to do with the anatomy and physiology of the cell, the processes the cell carries out, genetics and multiple lines of evidence that show evolution of organisms over time. Seventh graders also discuss and explore the properties of mixtures and how they can be separated. The year is concluded with earth science topics such as natural disasters and how they affect our earth and its’ living and non-living factors.
8th grade: Students in eighth grade focus primarily on a basic introduction to physics topics. These topics mainly include forces, waves, and different types of energy found on our planet. Students also re-touch on the topic of genetics and how traits are passed on to further generations by the use of punnett squares. Earth topics discussed in 8th grade are about the similarities and differences between climate and weather on our ever changing planet. Our solar system and the outer realms of space are discussed such as earth, moon and sun relationships.
High School
9th grade: A mixture of all the science is a continued theme in 9th grade. This class is designed to re-teach and go into further detail about many topics discussed in middle school. One semester they will be learning about physics and chemistry topics with Mr. Buldur. The second semester is discussing important topics in, on, and around our planet Earth with Mr. Kubiak. This course is designed as a review and overview of all the science topics so that students find success on their CSAP tests.
10th grade (Biology): Students in biology class start off on a micro-level discussing the important topics about the cell including it’s anatomy and physiology, active and passive transport of materials in and out of the cell, how cells use energy to survive, as well as how cells replicate. Students also dive deeper into genetics and evolution and how they affect living organisms in our world. The year is ended talking about the different types of kingdoms and the organisms that inhabit them. Students take a closer look at these animals in dissections and discussing their roles in the environment and different ecosystems.
11th grade (chemistry): Students in chemistry begin the year by studying the general properties of matter and the make-up of all matter: atoms. This leads into a study of the periodic table and the trends of the elements. Mid-year we begin investigating how atoms bond, and specially study what reactions can take place & how they take place with, with specific detail to changes in energy, spontaneity, gas laws, and reactant ratios and equilibriums. Finally, we end the year by looking acids & bases, how we use them today as scientists as well as a general population.
12th grade (physics): An introduction of the basic concepts of physics through exploration, concept development, and application. This course will engage students through an understanding of grade level appropriate text in an effort to connect essential ideas: mechanics of physics, properties of matter, heat, light, electricity and magnetism.. Special attention will be given to increase students’ conceptual learning prior to problem solving proficiency. Communication and relational skills will be enhanced as students work effectively with their classmates in laboratory experiments and activities.
12th grade AP Physics: Advanced Placement Physics B is a rigorous course designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory Physics course. The focus is to provide students with a broad conceptual background in Physics and necessary problem solving skills to apply those concepts in practical situations. It is recommended that students have a strong background in algebra and trigonometry. This course is a laboratory-based course with an emphasis on hands on experience. This course is designed to prepare students to take the AP Physics B examination. Class meets five days a week, one period of 50 minutes.
Language Arts Department
The Language Arts Curriculum
The overarching goal of the Language Arts Department varies by grade level.
Generally speaking, the Sixth Grade Curriculum is designed to focus on and develop strength in basic reading, writing, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.
The Seventh Grade Curriculum continues to build on the skills from the Sixth Grade Curriculum, but also utilizes those skills to emphasize self-analysis-- developing individual opinions about themes in literature, and clearly articulating value judgments and beliefs based on evidence.
The Eighth Grade Curriculum builds on the curricula before it, but emphasizes applying individual opinions and judgments to the bigger picture-- to community, to society, and to the world.
The Ninth Grade Curriculum builds on the previous years' work, and stresses the importance of tone and voice, particularly with regard to writing for audiences. As college opportunities loom before our Freshmen, they will prepare to write for various purposes and audiences as the the middle school grades do, but with far more scrutiny directed toward meaningfulness, honesty, and personal voice. The literature selections become more advanced, and survey themes common to the human experience, which high school students must become comfortable discussing and writing about in detail.
The Tenth Grade Curriculum continues to build on previous material, but paves the way for more advanced writing-- specifically the research paper, a core component of college level course material. Synthesizing large amounts of information and articulating original, individual responses to it is the goal as our Sophomores prepare for the college entrance essays they'll write, as well as the AP English program implemented in the Junior and Senior years of high school. Sophomores will branch into pop fiction, increase their reading and homework load, and use their voice to write with authority about abstract concepts.Content for English classes was designed to begin with fairly straightforward material, then use that material-- and the skills acquired during learning the material-- to gain a deeper understanding of material to follow. For example, the Sixth Grade Curriculum and Seventh Grade Curriculum begin with autobiography and biography. We then move to poetry, which provides a good introduction to Shakespeare. Shakesperean plays transition nicely into short stories, which in turn transition well into our novels. The Eighth Grade Curriculum begins with poetry, then follows with more advanced Shakespeare, short stories, and novels.
The Language Arts Curriculum builds upon itself, and students see the progression from concrete, skill based Language Arts to exploring more in-depth material that requires a higher level of critical thought and response. Learning, much like other facets of life, becomes a process of growth and discovery enriched by previous knowledge and experience. We welcome any feedback from outside, constructive or otherwise.
Social Studies Department
The Social Studies Department is happy to welcome everyone back! We hope that you had a great summer and are excited about the new school year! In her 6th year at Lotus, and teaching 9th and 11th grades, is Mrs. Sanders who also serves as the department chair. Beginning her 5th year here at Lotus, and teaching 10th and 12th grades is Mrs. Svoboda. Starting his 2nd year at Lotus, and teaching 7th and 8th grades is Mr. Gordon. Brand new to Lotus, and teaching 6th and 9th grades is Mr. Sisco. We have many exciting things planned this year. We have been working on creating a curriculum that allows students to learn in a variety of ways. There will be lectures, partner/group work, projects, and hands-on activities. Be sure to visit our websites for up-to-date information on homework, unit happenings, History Day information, and many other things.
Social Studies Curriculum for the 2011-2012 School Year
Middle School Program
For World History I & II, U.S. History and World Geography we use the History Alive! ® series that is provided through TCI. The mission of the company is to create, disseminate, and put into practice instructional strategies and accompanying social studies curricular materials so that educators can engage all students. The World History I textbooks cover the beginning of man through Ancient Rome. The World History II textbooks cover Medieval Times through the age of Enlightenment. The U.S. History textbooks cover the Native Americans through contemporary American society. The World Geography textbook covers the various regions of the world in three sections: physical geography, cultural geography, and current events.
State Standards-The History Alive! ® and Geography Alive! ® series are aligned with the Colorado State Standards for Social Studies at the Middle School level. The topics covered in the Social Studies program are: civics, economics, geography, and history. At the end of the year, a student will have learned about the above topics and how they correlate in World History, U.S. History, and Geography.
Instruction Methods
The History Alive! ® program offers a unique opportunity for students to learn from various methods. Throughout a unit, a student will have the opportunity to learn through reading, lecture partner/group work, hands-on activities, and projects. The method helps to reach all learning types and provide students with the opportunity to learn at many levels. In addition to the above methods, students will also be working with coordinating workbook pages. These pages help students to organize a chapter’s information into a format that is easy to understand and use. These workbook pages also serve as the foundation for many of the activities.
High School Program
The following Social Studies classes are offered to high school students for the 2011-2012 school year. Currently, all AP classes are taken online through Aventa Learning.
Crime & Law and Consumer Economics/Honors Crime & Law and Consumer Economics
Prerequisites: Teacher Approval for Honors
Grade: 9th and 11th
Credit: 1 Credit
Crime & Law (1st semester) will be using James A. Inciardi’s (an internationally recognized scholar and author) book which presents a solid overview of the structure, processes, and problems of the criminal justice system in the United States. Inciardi brings his significant field and research experience to bear on the revision of this successful textbook; his research background, his privileged access to national data, and his story-telling style of writing guarantee a unique perspective to criminal justice. The ninth edition includes many new “Famous Criminals” sections, added coverage on media and criminal justice, and updated exhibits that showcase research, historical perspectives, current events, and the viewpoints of victims in the criminal justice system.
Consumer Economics (2nd Semester) teaches students economic principles, how to manage family and personal finances, and how to make well-informed purchasing decisions. Topics includes: online banking and bill payment, online shopping, identity theft, and choosing services for your home. There is a focus on everyday skills like financial planning, saving, budgeting, credit use, as well as investing, buying insurance, understanding warranties, and smart shopping.
Government and Geography/Honors Government and Geography
Prerequisites: Teacher Approval for Honors
Grade: 10th
Credit: 1 Credit
Government (1st Semester) will discuss political ideology, the development of the political system and democratic institutions. Students will be able to evaluate the role of national governments and their relationship to the concept of liberty in a pluralistic society. The discussions will emphasize the changing political culture of American society and its effect on voting patterns, trends and the processes of government. The main driving thrust of the course is to be able to comprehend how political system works and apply to contemporary events.
Geography (2nd Semester) covers a study of man’s use of the earth. Emphasis will be place on building geographic skills and knowledge. Students will study geology, climate, regional resources, ecological issues, population distributions, as well as, various cultural aspects of each individual country studied and relationships to current events. Throughout the course students will increase knowledge of place names and identification.
U.S. History/Honors U.S. History/A.P. U.S. History
Prerequisites: Teacher Approval for Honors and A.P.
Grades: 11th
Credit: 1 Credit
U.S History and Honors U.S. History:History Alive! Pursuing American Ideals centers on the five founding ideals from the Declaration of Independence: equality, rights, liberty, opportunity, and democracy. Each generation has struggled with these ideals. Some have made little progress toward achieving them. Others have made great progress. This program invites students to become engaged in this struggle, from establishing an American republic to the making of modern America.
A.P. U.S. History: Provides advance work in the historical development of institutions and values that shape present day America through thematic/problems approach. Reviews democratic government; the use of nature; work; political and social reform; discrimination based on sex, race, and nationality; and individual and group contributions. Advanced work challenges students to be more analytical and creative through expanded assignments, real-world applications and enrichment opportunities.
World History/Honors World History/AP World History
Prerequisites: Teacher Approval for Honors and A.P.
Grades: 12th
Credit: 1 Credit
World History and Honors World History: Provides engaging visuals and interactive technology to help all students make connections between yesterday and today's world. First-hand accounts of history and document-based questions help your students develop and improve their critical-thinking skills. World History: Patterns of Interaction focuses on key concepts, themes, and patterns of interaction found throughout history. Your students will connect to the events and ideas of the past and see global connections.
A.P. World History: This is a college-level AP course designed to help students develop greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts and interactions between different types of Human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The chronological time frame is from 8000 BC to the present.
State Standards-All high school curriculums adhere to the Colorado State standards within their own subject as well as across subject areas. The topics covered in the Social Studies program are: civics, economics, geography, and history. At the end of the year, a student will have learned about the above topics and how they correlate in World History, U.S. History, Government, Geography, Economics, and Criminal Law.
History Day- All students enrolled in the honors program at Lotus are required to be a part of the National History Day Competition. All other students that are interested and wish to participate are always welcomed!
There are two divisions: junior-6-8 grades and senior-9-12 grades. Students may participate as an individual or with a group, but all members of a group must be within the same division.
The areas students can create projects in are:
Documentary
Exhibit
Paper (individual only)
Performance
Web Site
This competition brings history alive to students by allowing them to create projects on any subject they wish in a variety of formats. By understanding the past, students can better prepare themselves for the future. As more information is added to the websites about this year's theme and dates, the information will be updated here.
Colorado History Day-This website offers all the information you need to know about the Colorado History Day Competition. This year's theme is Debate & Diplomacy in History: Successes, Failures, Consequences.
http://www.coloradohistoryday.org/
National History Day-This website offers information that is helpful for students and parents on getting started with projects. If you click on the tab at the top labeled, "contest", it gives you helpful information on getting started, conducting research, and creating a project.
