Curriculum

In this course, students focus on building basic skills in grammar by learning the parts of a sentence, different sentence structures and styles, the parts of speech, and how the parts of speech function in good writing. The students learn how to write in a variety of styles, including expository paragraphs about literature and creative pieces about their own lives; attention is placed on crafting thoughtful pieces with strong topic sentences with details to develop main ideas. Students read and analyze short stories, a play, novels in various genres, and poetry. They are challenged to make connections between different texts and their own lives, and texts and the world. The students learn to articulate their opinions in speech and in writing through class discussions, literature circles, and individual as well as group projects. Study of vocabulary helps them expand their knowledge of words and how to use them to good effect.

English 1 is the foundational course that develops the strong, integrated language skills that are vital for independent critical thought, effective written expression in varying forms, as well as the literal, inferential, and applicable comprehension of literature. This course is intended to develop students’ lifelong mastery of the English language across all academic subjects, and in all facets of life. Students will build grammar knowledge, refine their writing skills, expand their vocabulary, and analyze literary works from various genres, authors, and time periods.

English 2 continues to build upon the essential skills learned in English 1. The course serves to prepare students for the next two years of Literature and Language. This course centers around the theme of “The Human Experience.” Students will confront the question of what it really means to be human through engaging with and analyzing literature. The course begins with looking at the hero’s journey through classic Greek mythology, The Hobbit, and Beowulf. Students will then focus on poetry, reading works which span from the medieval era to the modern day. The course finishes with the Shakespearean play, Macbeth. This course is designed to deepen students’ understanding of literature while enhancing students’ critical thinking, communication, analytical, and writing skills.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional written assignments within each unit studied.

This course explores the long tradition of dystopian and post-apocalyptic literature by examining stories of worlds gone wrong and worst-case scenarios, warning readers about dangerous societal shifts or challenging them to imagine a better world. Through a combination of classic and contemporary short stories, novels, and essays, students will analyze how these narratives function as social commentary to address anxieties about new technology, warfare, pandemics, cultural trends, politics, and environmental destruction.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional written assignments within each unit studied.

This course will introduce and investigate the elements of the detective fiction genre, its subcategories, and a variety of authors and texts from the “who dunnit?” archives. Additionally, the course will introduce and employ components of formal and informal logic, as well as a sampling of the refutation, confirmation, invective, and narrative writing techniques and traditions.  Students will engage the critical thinking skills and problem solving strategies that are essential not only to the study of literature, but to the examination, investigation, and solution of riddles, puzzles, mysteries, and crimes.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional written assignments within each unit studied.

This course examines works that span several literary time periods from Colonial to Modern. Students will read a selection of poetry, plays, and fiction to gain an understanding of what makes the literature of the United States unique. These selections will be the starting point for discussions and writing assignments that will help students engage with literary analysis skills.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional written assignments within each unit studied.

This course covers topics including media literacy, media history, analysis of media production and content, the social and cultural impact of media, and digital awareness. Whether students aspire to work in media, journalism, or public relations, or simply want to be informed and responsible consumers of media, this course will provide the foundation needed to succeed in the media-saturated, increasingly digital world of the 21st century.

This course is offered to students who have successfully completed French 1, and is designed to further develop skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students will regularly communicate in French about present, past, and future events in their lives. French culture is presented through supportive technology, and authentic material whenever possible.

This course is self-paced during the school day. Students meet their French teacher one evening session per week for target language practice and assessments.

This course is offered to students who have successfully completed French 2. The goals of this course are to build French vocabulary, develop confidence and accuracy in speaking, improve writing skills, and improve listening and reading comprehension. More complex grammatical structures are presented in a variety of formats. An appreciation for the French-speaking world is encouraged through the discussion of customs and cultural events.

This course is self-paced during the school day. Students meet their French teacher one evening session per week for target language practice and assessments.

This course is offered to students who have successfully completed French 3. The goals of this course are to develop greater skills in reading, writing and speaking French, using concepts in a more sophisticated contextual setting. While reviewing and acquiring higher level grammar topics, increased emphasis will be placed on the study of current events and social norms of the French-speaking world. A greater appreciation for the French-speaking world is encouraged through deeper discussions of customs and cultural events.

This course is self-paced during the school day. Students meet their French teacher one evening session per week for target language practice and assessments.

This course will introduce, reinforce, review and build on listening, speaking, reading and writing skills of the target language and promote a cultural understanding of the Spanish speaking countries of South America. Students will be presented with material through a variety of learning modules and will have various opportunities and a variety of methods to show their understanding of the material provided. Students will be responsible for oral and written presentations individually and in groups. Topics studied will include grammar rules, routines and vocabulary of the classroom, introducing and describing yourself to others, likes and dislikes, calendar math, using days of the week, dates, months, seasons and weather, present, past and future, present tense of regular -AR, -ER, and -IR verbs, reading and interpreting texts, and family celebrations, holidays, and traditions.

This course will briefly review the basic concepts of Spanish 1 for proficiency and add to the cumulative knowledge of those topics. Use of the target language will be reinforced and practiced more regularly and with intensity to promote increased oral and written communication. More complex grammar topics will include present tense of irregular verbs, past tense of regular and irregular verbs, future tense of verbs, reading, interpreting, and partner discussion of chapter books, simple math through the 1,000s, culture and global importance of the target language with focus on the Spanish-speaking countries of Central America.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional speaking and written assignments within each unit studied.

This course is conducted completely in the target language with the purpose of increasing proficiency and creating an intense understanding of hispanic culture and its global importance. All topics from the previous two levels will be briefly reviewed for proficiency. More difficult grammar topics will be covered will include future and conditional tense, subjunctive tense, science and nature in relation to animals and ecosystems, reading, analyzing, and reviewing chapter books. Students are expected to have previous knowledge of the culture of the South and Central American Spanish speaking countries. Ancient Mesoamerican cultures will be explored.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional speaking and written assignments within each unit studied.

This course will be conducted completely in the target language, beginning with a review of the general topics, vocabulary, and grammar forms from the previous three levels. Hispanic culture will be studied, with a focus on Mexico, Spain, and all global Spanish speaking countries. Further topics will include, but are not limited to, global comparisons, reading and analyzing chapter books, and discussions of personality and character change. A greater emphasis on completing more complex written projects in the target language will be included. Areas of cultural discussion will focus on education, health, art, technology, transportation, and science.

This course combines the study of civics and government with the development of academic research, writing, and presentation skills. Students will examine the foundations of the American political system, including the Constitution, federalism, the three branches of government, civil rights and liberties, elections, political parties, and the role of citizens in a democracy. Throughout the course, students will conduct research using primary and secondary sources, evaluate the reliability of information, analyze current issues, and construct evidence-based arguments. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, public speaking, debate, and civic engagement as students explore how government policies and political decisions affect everyday life. By the end of the course, students will have completed multiple research projects and gained a deeper understanding of both the responsibilities of citizenship and the research skills needed for college and career success.

This course provides a foundational introduction to the major themes, events, and civilizations that have shaped world history. Students will explore key historical periods, from the earliest human societies to the rise of major civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and beyond. This course also serves as the starting point for a deeper understanding of the purpose and skills of the historian. Through the examination of primary and secondary sources, students will develop historical thinking skills such as analyzing cause and effect, recognizing patterns of continuity and change, and understanding historical perspectives. Emphasis will be placed on critical reading, discussion, and research as students investigate how geography, culture, politics, economics, and technology have influenced societies over time. Engaging activities, group projects, and writing assignments will encourage students to think like historians, making connections between the past and the present. This course serves as a foundation for future historical studies, equipping students with the analytical and research skills necessary for success in high school history courses.

U.S. History 1 offers an in-depth exploration of the significant events and transformations from pre-European contact through Reconstruction. Designed to engage high school students in a chronological study of the United States, the course examines the political, economic, social, and cultural developments that have shaped the nation. Through interactive lectures, primary source analysis, and critical discussions, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities of historical events and their lasting impacts on contemporary society. The course encourages critical thinking, effective communication, and an appreciation for the diverse perspectives that constitute U.S. history.

U.S. History 2 is designed to help students build the skills and knowledge needed to understand and think critically about the issues and eras of American history. Students will learn how to analyze historical documents and evaluate different interpretations of the past. Through lectures, research, and simulations, the course covers major events from the late 19th century to the present. The class begins with American imperialism and ends with current issues in the post-9/11 era. Throughout the course, students will focus on key themes such as diversity, American identity, culture, population changes, the economy, the environment, globalization, politics, citizenship, reform, religion, and war. Some of the larger units that we will cover in this course include The Great Depression, World War II, The Vietnam War, and The Civil Rights Movement.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional research and written assignments within each unit studied.

Students will examine the various conflicts and wars the United States of America has been involved with, starting with those that took place before the formation of the United States and continuing through the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Spanish-American War, the various conflicts against the native peoples of the Americas, the First and Second World Wars, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, the First and Second Gulf War, Afghanistan, and the conflict in Ukraine. Classes will consist of reviews of the causes and course of each of the conflicts, viewing of movies relating to the conflicts, and short papers and projects about the conflict being studied.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional research and written assignments within each unit studied.

Business Management introduces students to the main components of any business organization; human resources, marketing, production, and finance. The course will use case studies and businesses in the news to expose the students to situations and decision making in as close to real time as possible. The students will leave this course with an appreciation for what it takes to build a business, how to lead small groups, and what it takes to negotiate and work together.

Art History is a rigorous course that surveys the global history of art from Prehistory through Contemporary Art. This course is intended for students who are interested in the history of art and architecture.  Emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding of art historical concepts. Students will develop the essential skills of visual and contextual analysis. By examining works of art from diverse cultures and the relationships among these works, students develop an understanding of global artistic traditions. Students analyze works of art in their contexts, considering issues of patronage, gender, politics, religion, and ethnicity. The interpretation of the work of art is based upon its intended use, audience, and the role of the artist and the work of art in its particular society. Students will expand their knowledge of history, geography, politics, religion, languages, and literature as they explore the story of people as told through the art they created.

Students will learn the elements of common law crimes and defenses and constitutional issues surrounding search and seizure. The structure of law enforcement agencies and methods of policing will be studied, as well as the prison system and alternatives to prison such as probation and parole. An overview of the court system and trial process will culminate in students learning to write motions and conduct a mock criminal trial.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional research and written assignments within each unit studied.

The Sports and Society course looks at major issues in our modern society through the lens of sports. While the class mainly focuses on North American sports, we will also examine global examples when relevant. The course does not focus on what happens during games or on the field, but instead focuses on the social issues and trends that sports create or reflect within our society. Part of the class will be discussion-based, where students share ideas and build arguments about topics such as violence, gender, race, social class, politics, and religion. We will also spend time exploring different activities such as broadcasting, journalism, and basic research. This course is not lecture heavy. Most learning will come from readings, articles, and media sources. Students will be assessed through journal reflections, essays, small projects, presentations, and class participation. Some of the topics that we will dive into in the course include the history of the big 4 sports (football, baseball, basketball, hockey), the growth of scholastic sports, the economics of sports, and violence in sports.

This course is also offered at the Honors level which includes additional research and written assignments within each unit studied.

Psychology is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. This course introduces students to the major concepts, theories, and research methods used to understand human thought, emotion, and behavior. Students explore how individuals develop, learn, perceive the world, interact with others, and respond to various social and environmental influences.

Through class discussions, case studies, research activities, and real-world applications, students examine topics such as brain function, human development, personality, motivation, learning, memory, intelligence, psychological disorders, and mental health. The course encourages critical thinking and the evaluation of psychological research while helping students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

This course is a survey course consisting of 1 trimester of basic chemistry, 1 trimester of basic physics and several weeks of space science. Students will be prepared to take a regular full year course in physics or chemistry. Topics will include matter, the periodic chart, ionic and covalent bonding, kinematics, Newton’s laws of motion, the structure of the solar system and basic planetary geology. The scientific method and data collection will be stressed. Techniques such as online and in person labs, lab reports, lectures, projects, and problem solving will all be used throughout the year.

This course introduces fundamental concepts of biological life sciences and is designed to meet the needs of all learners. Topics include chemistry of living things, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Students will be engaged in class discussions, laboratory experiments, and other hands-on activities to help emphasize concepts. Students will identify, analyze and solve problems, and develop their inquiry skills to help them become better decision makers.

This is a first year course in the study of chemistry. The course will stress a basic understanding of matter at the atomic level and will include using the scientific method to carry out a number of experiments. The course content includes the study of the identification of elements, chemical reactions, acids and bases, properties of matter, and the related mathematical concepts. A working knowledge of Algebra 1 and exposure to Algebra 2 are recommended. Students should have a working knowledge of percent, ratio, proportions, graphing, solving forunknowns in an algebraic equation and the ability to solve word problems. Laboratory work and demonstrations will be used to illustrate the learning objectives and to enhance the students’ understanding of them.

Advanced Chemistry builds upon the core foundation of essential notions in chemistry, including bonding theory, atomic structure and the periodic table discussed in Chemistry. The course continues with topics such as chemical kinetics, energetics and equilibria, and introductory organic chemistry. Advanced Chemistry facilitates a wide range of experimental work designed to train students in a variety of core chemistry laboratory skills as well as proper experimental design, data collection and processing.

Physics is a math based physics course designed to prepare the student for future study in physics. The course will be a survey of the following general areas of physics: kinematics, Newton’s Laws, work and energy, circular motion, and momentum. If there is time additional material such as waves, oscillations, optics and electricity and magnetism will be explored. The course will utilize in-person and online labs, that take advantage of state of the art equipment, for data collection and analysis. The scientific method will be stressed with appropriate lab reports on experiments. Students are expected to have a working knowledge of Algebra 2, and a strong understanding of Algebra 1. In addition, knowledge of basic geometry of circles and triangles, as well as right triangle trigonometry, is expected.

Advanced Physics is a second year physics course covering several major topics in physics. Students will study topics in mechanics, dynamics, electricity and magnetism, circuits, vibrations and waves, sound, thermodynamics and optics. The course will use an algebra based text, and consist of many different teaching approaches and assessments including, lab investigations, interactive demonstrations, lectures, videos, different problem solving techniques, and the practice of the scientific method. Considerable attention is given to understanding how laws and theories are developed, and employed, to help us understand phenomena. Strong understanding of Algebra 2 is expected along with a basic understanding of trigonometry, and geometry. Mathematical skills such as derivations of new expressions, and manipulation of vectors, are developed throughout the course. A grade of B+ or better in Physics 1 is a prerequisite.

Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary course that explores the relationships between humans and the natural world. Students investigate environmental systems, ecosystems, biodiversity, natural resources, energy use, climate, pollution, and sustainability. Through scientific inquiry, data analysis, laboratory activities, and real-world case studies, students develop an understanding of environmental challenges and evaluate potential solutions.

The course emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and informed decision-making about environmental issues at local, national, and global scales. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze environmental problems, interpret scientific evidence, and propose sustainable practices that promote environmental stewardship and responsible citizenship.

This course will serve as an introduction to engineering, including basic physics. Students gain knowledge and develop skills in the application of science to a variety of fields including Newton’s Laws with applications, structural engineering, basic electronics and programming. Students will be engaged in hands-on classroom labs and activities that teach organizational skills, quantitative reasoning, and attention to detail. There will be two main projects including, designing, constructing, and testing, a balsa wood bridge, and then assembling, wiring, and programming a robotic car.  Prerequisite: Should have completed Algebra 1 and be able to solve three variable equations.

Anatomy and Physiology covers the structures and functions of the different parts of the human body. This course will provide both lectures and laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, observation of tissue specimens via microscope, and dissection labs.

Eighth grade math introduces the students to the order of operations, one and two step equations and several geometry concepts including area, perimeter, circumference, and the pythagorean theorem. This course will contain some basic statistics including probability and measures of central tendency. By the end of this course the student will have a solid foundation to move into Algebra 1.

Algebra 1 begins with a study of real numbers and operations over real numbers. This course will then delve into solving, writing, and graphing linear functions using real world examples. A study of the properties of exponents and radicals will then be followed by a unit on quadratic functions and their applications.

This course will cover various geometry topics and principles, including coordinate and spatial geometry, introductory trigonometry, angles, parallel lines, congruent and similar triangles, polygons and other figures, circles, the Pythagorean Theorem, etc. We will also focus on problems that serve to review our algebra skills and continue to develop our critical thinking skills through various problem-solving and real-world situations.

Algebra 2 focuses on a deeper exploration of algebraic principles and introduces more advanced algebraic topics. The purpose of this course is to build upon the foundation of Algebra I; to further develop students’ mathematical abilities and problem solving skills. This course covers linear and nonlinear equations, functions, polynomials, and more advanced algebraic concepts. Real-world application problems will be a priority throughout the year to develop and hone the critical thinking and analytical skills of each student.

This course is offered at an Honors level which will cover the above content as well as right triangle trigonometry, the Law of Sines and Law of Cosines, and trigonometric identities.

Pre-Calculus builds upon skills mastered in Algebra 2 and lays the foundation for work that will be learned in Calculus. Topics covered include: solving, graphing and transforming graphs of rational, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial and trigonometric functions. We will focus on understanding how to apply these skills to solve real world problems.

This course is offered at an Honors level which will cover the above content as well as series and sequences, conic sections, and an introduction to limits. The Honors level is designed for students who want to take Calculus at the Honors level.

Calculus Honors is available for students who have completed the Precalculus. This is a transition course to upper-level mathematics, engineering and computer science studies. This course will introduce the fundamental concepts of calculus: limiting behaviors, difference quotients and the derivative, Riemann sums, the definite integral, antiderivatives and indefinite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. The class will focus on becoming comfortable reading, writing and speaking the language of mathematics and applying the tools of calculus to solve a variety of real-life applications.

Statistics and Data Analytics is an introduction to univariate and bivariate data analysis methods. Descriptive statistics and data visualization methods will be employed to broaden the student’s statistical knowledge. An overview of sampling techniques for data collection, and introduction to statistical inference methods for decision making including linear regression, estimation procedures using confidence intervals and hypothesis testing will be explored. This is a hands-on course where the students will be collecting and generating their own data to graph and explore.

Financial Literacy will utilize the NGPF educational suite of materials as well as popular books, games, and financial education websites to introduce the students to budgeting, cash flow, and the importance of saving. There will be opportunities to learn about credit and credit scores, as well as the many different investment options that are available. Mock portfolios may be created for educational purposes, and for the fun of it!

This hands-on course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of art and design. Throughout the course, students will explore the elements and principles of art through studio exercises and projects. They will develop visual problem-solving skills and create original artwork using a variety of 2D and 3D processes and materials, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture.

Studio Art is a course designed for students who want to deepen their artistic skills and knowledge. Building on foundational drawing and painting techniques from earlier art classes, this course expands students’ abilities with a wider range of media and methods. While representational work through observational drawing remains central, new emphasis is placed on exploring space, color, and key design principles such as emphasis and composition. Like all studio art courses, this class will foster personal artistic growth through critical thinking, visual problem-solving, and creative risk-taking.

Painting and Illustration is a course designed for students who wish to further their study of studio art practices and techniques. This class will explore the elements and principles of art and design while introducing drawing and painting techniques and the vocabulary for visual art through studio exercises and projects. Lessons will focus on representational work while building observational drawing and painting skills, and will also expand to media, technique, and creative expression. Painting with watercolor and acrylic paint will be introduced, as well as the design concepts of composition and color theory. As with all studio art courses, this class will encourage personal artistic growth through critical thinking, visual problem-solving, and risk-taking.

Art History is a rigorous course that surveys the global history of art from Prehistory through Contemporary Art. This course is intended for students who are interested in the history of art and architecture. Emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding of art historical concepts. Students will develop the essential skills of visual and contextual analysis. By examining works of art from diverse cultures and the relationships among these works, students develop an understanding of global artistic traditions. Students analyze works of art in their contexts, considering issues of patronage, gender, politics, religion, and ethnicity. The interpretation of the work of art is based upon its intended use, audience, and the role of the artist and the work of art in its particular society. Students will expand their knowledge of history, geography, politics, religion, languages, and literature as they explore the story of people as told through the art they created.

This course is a guided study focusing on equipping students with essential skills that they will need for academic success, including executive function skills, knowledge and strategies to foster a lifelong love for learning. This course is designed to empower high school students with the tools they need to become confident problem-solvers, self-directed learners, and informed decision-makers.

This course is designed to empower students with the essential strategies and skills needed to succeed academically. Throughout this course, students will learn how to become organized, independent and effective learners which will in turn lead them to success.

This is a supervised study hall which allows students time to work on assignments during the school day in addition to the evening study hour.

This course provides students with essential research and writing skills that will serve as a foundation for success in high school and beyond. The research portion of the course teaches fundamental skills, including locating, analyzing, and using authoritative sources, understanding the research process, recognizing the function of research in academic work, and properly citing sources using appropriate formatting and attribution. Students will also explore copyright, research ethics, and the role of AI in research. These skills will be developed and reinforced through multiple research projects. The writing portion of the course focuses on developing strong academic writing skills. Students will learn how to construct clear and effective arguments, organize their ideas logically, refine their writing through revision and editing, and participate in the peer review process. By engaging in a variety of research and writing assignments students will build the analytical and communication skills necessary for success in high school and future academic pursuits.