2025 Summer Academics

Summer Reading

AP Biology

AP Chemistry

Honors Trig/Precalculus

Honors Calculus

HN Algebra 2

AP Calculus

HN Algebra 2

CIHS Accounting

AP European History

Honors U.S. History 2/3

AP U.S. History

Junior/Senior

Suzanne Maffei - [email protected]

1776 by David McCullough

Complete the book and then, after June 20, email Mrs. Maffei at [email protected] for the questions.

They will be due by June 27, 2025

Battle Cry for Freedom by James McPherson

Complete the book and then, after July 3, email Mrs. Maffei at [email protected] for the questions.

They will be due by July 10. 2025.

Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe

Complete the book and then, after July 24, email Mrs. Maffei at [email protected] for the questions.

They will be due July 31, 2025.

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair

Complete the book and then, after August 8th, email Mrs. Maffei at [email protected] for the questions.

They will be due the first full day of school, August 25, 2025.

AP US Government and Politics

Honors World Cultures

Freshmen

Stephanie Schmidt - [email protected]

Access the digital files to view the instructions, articles, and supplemental information.

https://www.slshs.org/ourpages/auto/2025/6/18/60667977607542419928/Instructions.pdf

https://www.slshs.org/ourpages/auto/2025/6/17/0076872763197286541415/How%20the%20Parthenon%20Lost%20Its%20Marbles.pdf

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hhQsei1RmPNFasmejHe9U213SOMcjC6GfyLODdCiyws/edit?usp=sharing

https://www.slshs.org/ourpages/auto/2025/6/17/76123358411447844961/Blood%20and%20Gold.pdf

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ldUjOxqWHDBkFFpv2xWdj9EQ0xNpP-H4yx_-lKBICh0/edit?usp=sharing

https://www.slshs.org/ourpages/auto/2025/6/18/6275325390483619604/Ethics%20in%20Archaeology.pdf

https://www.slshs.org/ourpages/auto/2025/6/18/0093992534998221819874/Nat%20Geo%20Archaeology.pdf

AP Literature & Composition

Seniors

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

Google Classroom- https://classroom.google.com/c/Nzg1MDgwMTY2OTcw?cjc=rgw6r573

1. The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger is a classic example of American literature from the Contemporary Era. It is a coming-of-age novel told from the perspective of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned 16-year-old who has been expelled from his prep school. The story follows Holden's chaotic weekend in New York City as he navigates his feelings of alienation, the "phoniness" of the adult world, and his desire to protect the innocence of childhood.

Be prepared for a 15-point quiz and to answer the following prompt: In what ways does Holden’s rejection of adulthood mirror cultural anxieties of the time?

2. The Importance of Being Earnest is a comedic play by Oscar Wilde that satirizes Victorian society's preoccupation with appearances and social etiquette. It will benefit your understanding to do some research of the Victorian time period and the rules and decorum of society that existed.
During your reading, locate nine direct quotes (3 from each of the 3 acts) that are meaningful sentences or phrases that support the following thematic subjects:
-the nature of marriage
-hypocrisy

-the constraints of morality
-the importance of not being “Earnest”

-the quest for truth and beauty
-elements of satire

Organize the quotes by theme. Within the theme type each quote, using quotation marks, and act and line number citations. Discuss how the quotes support the theme. Remember, the theme is a statement about the universalities of the human condition.

These should be written or typed in such a way that can be submitted to the Google Classroom for 25 points.

3. During the course of study, we will be analyzing many aspects of different pieces of literature through a critical lens. This takes a lot of creative thought and practice. Before I ask you to do this with the literature, I’d like you to try your hand at it with film. These same storytelling skills transfer into the shows and movies we enjoy every day. The purpose of this assignment is to show you the amount of detail and understanding we will be using throughout the year for our own analysis.

See the assignment, requirements, and rubric here. 50 points
Due on the second day of school: This must be typed in MLA format using Google Docs, as it will be submitted electronically via the Google Classroom page. *** AI-generated responses will be given a zero and there will be no ability to redo the assignment.
You may also be considered to drop the course.

Google Classroom code: RGW6R573

Honors Literature and Composition

Seniors

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

1. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic example of American literature from the Contemporary Era. It is a coming-of-age novel told from the perspective of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned 16-year-old who has been expelled from his prep school. The story follows Holden's chaotic weekend in New York City as he navigates his feelings of alienation, the "phoniness" of the adult world, and his desire to protect the innocence of childhood.

Be prepared for a 10-point quiz and complete the theme analysis assignment (25 points). You will choose a theme and a quote from the text to analyze further. See the assignment, requirements, and rubric here.

2. During the course of study, we will be analyzing many aspects of different pieces of literature through a critical lens. This takes a lot of creative thought and practice. Before I ask you to do this with the literature, I’d like you to try your hand at it with film. These same storytelling skills transfer into the shows and movies we enjoy every day. The purpose of this assignment is to show you the amount of detail and understanding we will be using throughout the year for our own analysis.

See the assignment, requirements, and rubric here. 50 points

Due on the second day of school: In proper MLA format (consult the Online Writing Lab of Purdue University if you are uncertain of format), a paper that discusses the prompt. This must be typed using Google Docs, as it will be submitted electronically via the Google Classroom page.
*** AI-generated responses will be given a zero, and there will be no ability to redo the assignment. You may also be considered to drop the course.

Google Classroom Code: NMMX3KLE

Literary Forms

AP Language & Composition

Juniors

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

Mrs. Maleski - [email protected]

1. Read Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. Fahrenheit 451 explores several key themes, including censorship, conformity vs. individuality, the power of knowledge, and the dangers of technology and mass media. Bradbury employs a variety of rhetorical devices to explore the dangers of censorship and the importance of knowledge and individual thought.
Choose at least three rhetorical devices Bradbury utilizes in the novel and analyze how they contribute to the overall message and tone of the work. During your reading, locate five direct quotes that connect the rhetorical devices to the overall themes and message of the novel:
-metaphor -ethos
-simile -logos
-allusions -pathos
-imagery irony
-symbolism
Provide specific examples from the text to support your claims using quotation marks and page number citations, and discuss how these rhetorical choices create a particular effect on the reader (tone, mood, author’s purpose). Consider how these devices contribute to the novel's dystopian setting and their impact on the protagonist, Guy Montag. You should type this in one document to submit on the second day of school for 25 points.

2. Choose one podcast and listen to at least three episodes of it. If you need help finding one, there is a list of suggested podcasts linked here. You can access podcasts from Apple, Spotify, or other streaming music services. There are thousands to choose from, but choose one that is “family friendly” and that you can talk about in a classroom setting.

You will then be required to write a one-page reflection. Your reflection should:
-Give the title of the podcast and a brief summary of what your episodes are about.
-What specific choices do the podcast producers make to create an engaging podcast?
-Podcasts can’t be boring or they won’t be successful. Producers hire good speakers, provide music, humor, sound effects, and other devices to engage their listeners.
-What rhetorical techniques or devices were used in the Podcast?
-Did you enjoy your episodes? Why or why not? Explain.
See the rubric with scoring and requirements here. 25 points

3. The AP Language and Composition synthesis essay requires you to develop a position on a given topic by combining information from a variety of sources, according to the College Board. Using the sample prompt and sources, follow the directions to analyze, select, and synthesize evidence from the three provided sources to support your argument, creating a cohesive and persuasive response. Use the 6-point rubric from the College Board. See the prompt, resources, and rubric here.

See the rubric with scoring and requirements here. Due on the second day of school: In proper MLA format (consult the Online Writing Lab of Purdue University if you are uncertain of formatting or citations), a paper that discusses the prompt. This must be typed using Google Docs, as it will be submitted electronically via the Google Classroom page.
*** AI-generated responses will be given a zero, and there will be no ability to redo the assignment. You may also be considered to drop the course.

Google Classroom Code: 45BZOM3S

Honors Language & Composition

Juniors

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

1. Read Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. Fahrenheit 451 explores several key themes, including censorship, conformity vs. individuality, the power of knowledge, and the dangers of technology and mass media. Bradbury employs a variety of rhetorical devices to explore the dangers of censorship and the importance of knowledge and individual thought. Analyze one character using various characterization techniques as a means to deepen your understanding of the text.
-Guy Montag
-Faber
-Beatty
-Clarisse McClellan
-Mildred Montag
-Granger

Complete the character analysis worksheet and provide specific examples from the text to support your claims using quotation marks, page number citations, and discuss how these choices create a particular effect on the reader. You will then transfer this information to complete the character poster. You can print this out yourself or request a copy before you leave for the summer. Be prepared to submit on the second day of school for 25 points.

2. Choose one podcast and listen to at least three episodes of it. If you need help finding one, there is a list of suggested podcasts linked here. You can access podcasts from Apple, Spotify, or other streaming music services. There are thousands to choose from, but choose one that is “family friendly” and that you can talk about in a classroom setting. As you listen, think about the choices made throughout the episodes. Podcasts can’t be boring or they won’t be successful. Producers hire good speakers, provide music, humor, sound effects, and other devices to engage their listeners.

You will then be required to write a one-page analysis. Your response must include:
Give the title of the podcast and a summary of what your episodes are about.
Analyze the podcast. What specific choices do the podcast producers make to create an engaging podcast?
-How would you describe the podcast's overall format and structure? (e.g., interview-based, narrative-driven, discussion-oriented, etc.)
-What are the different segments or sections of the podcast, and how do they contribute to the overall narrative?
-What is the podcast's target audience, and how does the content and style cater to them?
What are the main themes or topics explored in the podcast?
-How does the podcast use audio effectively (e.g., music, sound effects, narration)?
-Are the main ideas defined and clearly understood?
See the rubric with scoring and requirements here. 25 points

Due on the second day of school: In proper MLA format (consult the Online Writing Lab of Purdue University if you are uncertain of formatting or citations), a paper that discusses the prompt. This must be typed using Google Docs, as it will be submitted electronically via the Google Classroom page. ***AI- generated responses will be given a zero and there will be no ability to redo the assignment. You may also be considered to drop the course.

Google Classroom Code: PAUP5Z3A

American Literature

Juniors

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

The American Literature course includes several historical documents, speeches, and other non-fiction readings. To practice with this type of information, you will complete the podcast assignment.
Choose one podcast and listen to at least three episodes of it. If you need help finding one, there is a list of suggested podcasts linked here. You can access podcasts from Apple, Spotify, or other streaming music services. There are thousands to choose from, but choose one that is “family friendly” and that you can talk about in a classroom setting.

As you listen, think about the choices made throughout the episodes. Podcasts can’t be boring or they won’t be successful. Producers hire good speakers, provide music, humor, sound effects, and other devices to engage their listeners.

You will then be required to write a one-page analysis. Your response must answer the following:
-The title of the podcast and a summary of what your episodes are about.
-Analyze the podcast. What specific choices do the podcast producers make to create an engaging podcast?
-How would you describe the podcast's overall format and structure? (e.g., interview-based, narrative-driven, discussion-oriented, etc.)
-What are the different segments or sections of the podcast, and how do they contribute to the overall narrative?
-What is the podcast's target audience, and how does the content and style cater to them?
-What are the main themes or topics explored in the podcast?
-How does the podcast use audio effectively (e.g., music, sound effects, narration)?
-Are the main ideas defined and clearly understood?

Honors Poetry & Drama Composition

Sophomores

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

Google Classroom- https://classroom.google.com/c/NzY2MzI5MDA3MjEz?cjc=swqbgwid

1. "The Glass Menagerie," a poetic memory play by Tennessee Williams, tells the story of the Wingfield family in St. Louis during the Great Depression. It explores themes of memory, illusion, and the struggle for self-discovery within a fragile and emotionally charged environment. The play focuses on Amanda, a domineering mother, and her children, Laura, a shy and fragile woman, and Tom, who yearns for escape. The play unfolds through Tom's narration as he remembers and reflects upon his family's past.

As you read, begin to think about the elements that make up with story. You will be asked to create a presentation to discuss more of the analytical elements of plot, character, setting, etc. See the directions and rubric here. Be prepared to submit on the second day of school for 30 points.

2. Annotating Poetry & Recitations will be a large portion of the course. You will first choose a poem of interest to you. You may use one from the list of suggestions or one of your own (school-appropriate of course). Once you’ve chosen your poem, you will want to begin to annotate or make your notes on the poem. For your poem, you will want to follow the directions to analyze the poem to look for and mark/highlight the poetic elements. The final part of the assignment is to memorize the poem for oral presentation in class. (See the memorization tips). Remember to use expression and voice fluctuation. Eye contact with the audience is another requirement.

See the rubric with scoring and requirements here. 30 points- Due on the second day of school.

*** AI-generated responses will be given a zer,o and there will be no ability to redo the assignment. You may also be considered to drop the course.

Google Classroom Code: SWQBGWID

Poetry & Drama Composition

Sophomores

Ms. Herbertson - [email protected]

In this course, there will be a large focus on literary and poetic devices. To give you a sense of how in-depth we will study these, you will complete the summer poetry assignment.

First, choose a poem of interest to you. You may use one from the list of suggestions or one of your own (school-appropriate of course).

You then will need to analyze the poem, looking for and marking specific elements. It is helpful to print a copy of your poem to do this, but comments and highlighting on a Google doc will do. To analyze your poem, follow these steps and label the following:

1. Read the poem.
2. Read the poem again, this time aloud.
3. Map out the rhyme scheme. Does the poem rhyme? What is the pattern?
4. Theme: What is the theme? Poetry often conveys a message through figurative language. 5. The central idea and the subject matter can reveal the theme of a poem.
6. Language: From word choice to imagery, language creates the mood and tone of a poem. Are there any words or phrases that stand out to you?
7. Sound and rhythm: The syllabic patterns and stresses create the metrical pattern of a poem.
8. Structure: The framework of a poem’s structure affects how it is meant to be read. A poet sculpts their story around stanzas, line breaks, rhyme patterns, punctuation, and pauses.
9. Context: The who, what, where, when, and why of a poem can help explain its purpose. Look at these elements to discover the context of a poem.
10. Determine who the narrator is. Try to identify the speaker of the poem. Is it told through first-person point of view, second-person, or third-person? What tone does the narrator convey? The speaker’s identity influences the telling of the poem based on their personal perspective.
11. Paraphrase the poem line by line.

***BONUS- The final part of the assignment is to memorize the poem for recitations in class for a bonus opportunity.

HN/CIHS Holocaust Studies

Juniors/Seniors

Dr. Stefani Sobol-Pastor - [email protected]

Text of BONDI'S BROTHER must be picked up at SLSHS, and both must be returned to class on first day, completed. The written assignment will be checked for accuracy, clarity of thought, and plagiarism; no outside materials are necessary, however they may be utilized IF appropriately cited. Responses should be typed using standard MLA formatting, including all of the following: double spacing, spelling and grammar check, appropriate fonts/spacing, pagination. Students may choose to double-side their printed pages, but all written assignments must be typed and printed. Failure to present this adequately on the first day of classes will result in removal of the course from the student's schedule.

Please note: This is a College in High School course. It is actually ABOVE the typical HONORS level course, and is not appropriate for students who have not yet successfully completed, at minimum, their Sophomore level English and History course work. Students taking this course should to intend to register with our partnering university (Seton Hill) for the three credit hours offered this coming school year.

HN/CIHS Vocations/Social Justice

Seniors

Dr. Stefani Sobol-Pastor - [email protected]

The text of this incredible Apostolic Letter, OCTOGESIMA ADVENIENS, promulgated on May 14, 1971 by Pope Paul VI, needs to be thoroughly read for content. Not only will it be deeply discussed in class over the course of the first two weeks, but the first IMMEDIATE reading test will be on this vital work. Students who score less than an 80% on this first test, which will be given on the first day of classes, may be asked to consider a schedule change to the AC level.

Please note: This is a College in High School course. It is actually ABOVE the typical HONORS level course. Students taking this course should intend to register with our partnering university (St. Vincent College) for the three credit hours offered this coming school year.

HN/CIHS Sacraments/Morality

Juniors

Dr. Stefani Sobol-Pastor - [email protected]

The text of this incredible encyclical, EVANGELIUM VITAE, promulgated on March 25, 1995 by Pope St. John Paul II, needs to be thoroughly read for content. Not only will it be deeply discussed in class over the course of the first two weeks, but the first IMMEDIATE reading test will be on this vital work. Students who score less than an 80% on this first test, which will be given on the first day of classes, may be asked to consider a schedule change to the AC level.

Please note: This is a College in High School course. It is actually ABOVE the typical HONORS level course. Students taking this course should intend to register with our partnering university (St. Vincent College) for the three credit hours offered this coming school year.

AP Spanish 4