BRIDGES ACADEMY ONLINE
BAO High School Curriculum Guide
CORE CURRICULUM
ENGLISH ENGLISH 9
In English 9, students will build their reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills by exploring the tension between the individual and society. Through the study of literature, short stories, poetry, and non-fiction texts, students will learn to read closely, identify central ideas, and use evidence to support their analysis. They will practice interpreting figurative language, examining word choice, and considering how structure shapes meaning. Students will also develop their writing through arguments, informative pieces, and narratives, revising and refining their work for clarity and purpose. Along the way, they will engage in thoughtful discussions, collaborate with peers, and make connections across texts and ideas.
ENGLISH 10
In English 10, we will read epics from a number of different traditions. We’ll start with the Sumerian Epic of Gilgamesh, the first written story in human history, followed by R.K.
Narayan’s Ramayana. We’ll look at film/television adaptations of the Odyssey and the Iliad. Then we’ll dip into a “modern” epic, Milton’s Paradise Lost. Finally, we will read a Mayan origin story, Popol Vuh; using the other epics we’ve read for comparison, students will argue for or against the idea that Popol Vuh is an epic.
As we grapple with these texts we’ll be thinking and talking about the role of storytelling to us humans: how we use stories to explain our societies and ourselves, and the ways foundational stories persist into the modern day.
ENGLISH 11
In this course we’ll read fiction, memoir, essays, and historic documents; we’ll look at visual art, listen to music, and watch film/videos.
Since this is a course in American literature, we’ll be focusing largely (but not exclusively) on writing by African Americans. There are a number of important reasons for this:
The Black experience is foundational to American history and identity - but this fact is seldom acknowledged or, at best, mentioned only in passing
In my opinion, Black American writers are doing some of the best contemporary American writing out there
Problems, questions, and arguments about the role of Black Americans within American politics, culture, and law are among the most controversial issues in 21st-century America—despite the fact that slavery was declared illegal in this country over 150 years ago.
You may have noticed that each of these statements is highly debatable! Thinking and talking about why that’s the case is part of what we’ll be doing in this course.
ENGLISH 12
In this course, we will lean into academic reading and writing in preparation for your transition to college. Since you’re going to college in the era of cloud-based writing and ChatGPT, a LOT of the “rules” and conventions are changing —rapidly.
Because of this, a lot of the work in this course is going to be unconventional, at least for an English class. You will read and analyze academic and internet texts and fiction; but you’ll also investigate for yourselves the uses (and misuses) of AIenhanced writing and web-based writing tools. You’ll visit a college library and put together an academic research bibliography; but you’ll present your work and cite your sources in a form that’s appropriate to your purpose and audience. Finally, we’ll wrap up the course by agreeing on a topic or genre that we’re all interested in, selecting our own texts, and creating “Research Library Acquisition Requests” in order to convince a librarian that your chosen text is one the (imaginary) library should add to its collection.
HISTORY WORLD HISTORY
World History 9 is organized by themes and addresses the ways leadership, trade, innovation, religion and philosophy impacted ancient and medieval societies. There will be a clear and consistent inclusion of non-western cultures so that the cultural pluralism of our present world can be better appreciated.
US HISTORY
Welcome to BAO US History, a course where we’ll be examining the story of the United States from a number of perspectives. Starting with foundational documents to utilize as a lens, students will trace the history of this great and complex nation, and observe the shifting social, economic, and political frameworks implemented. What are the promises of this nation, what are the lessons learned, and how can our students, as future actors on the world stage, learn from our history to shape our shared future?
ECONOMICS + GOVERNMENT
In Economics and Government, students will be examining two of the largest intersecting systems that impact everyday life. This course will be focusing on foundational principles of Economics, how material resources move through our society, and Government, the system that determines the distribution of said resources, and so many other facets of our lives. From cowrie shells to crypto, and from warlords to district administrators, we’ll examine how humans have bartered, bargained, and sometimes swindled their way to accumulation of power and resources; and how you can go about securing your own financial assets.
ART OF WAR
Welcome to The ART of War, a course where we’ll be looking at the utilization of media through Western History. This class will be focusing on hierarchies of power and systems of information, and how said powers have used information in order to influence the behaviors of populations. Through media such as government propaganda, religious doctrines, and fine arts, all the way to commercial advertisements, a war
of information is being waged as an undercurrent to human history. Understanding this battlefield, and the influence it has had on our society, is key in navigating our contemporary, information driven world.
MATH
STUDENTS PLACE INTO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING COURSES:
ALGEBRA 1
Algebra is often called a gatekeeper course because it opens the door to all other areas of study in mathematics. This course provides a comprehensive teaching of the fundamental aspects of problem solving. Major topics of study include evaluation of algebraic equations, exponent rules and manipulation, polynomials, solving and graphing linear equations, solving and graphing two variable inequalities, solving systems of equations, radicals, word problems, solving and graphing quadratic equations, and factoring.
ALGEBRA 2
This course is designed to build on algebraic and geometric concepts. It develops advanced algebra skills such as systems of equations, advanced polynomials, imaginary and complex numbers, quadratics, and concepts and includes the study of trigonometric functions. It also introduces matrices and their properties. The content of this course is important for students’ success on both the ACT and college mathematics entrance exams.
CALCULUS 1
A typical problem-solving technique involves formulating a problem, simulating it with a mathematical model, solving it in the context of the model, and then reinterpreting the solution in the original context. Mathematical models often take the form of functions or equations and solutions are often accessible by using the techniques of calculus. The fundamental tools of calculus are the derivative and the definite integral. Derivatives are used to solve problems involving rates of change, e.g., problems dealing with velocity, acceleration, or marginal cost. Definite integrals are used to solve problems involving entities that can be subdivided into infinitesimally small but tractable parts. In this course students are expected to develop a working knowledge of differential calculus, an understanding of the basic principles of integral calculus, and an appreciation of the significance of the surprising relationship that exists between these two segments of calculus.
CALCULUS 2
The great importance of calculus is quickly noticed by taking a look at the number of fields that use calculus to solve important problems. Calculus is used to solve everything from biology problems to economy problems. Problems monitoring the dynamic changes of biological samples, all kinds of optimization problems, and economic problems involving the interest rate need calculus to be solved. Besides the significant aspect that this part of mathematics helps in development of an analytical mathematical thinking, calculus proves its effectiveness by solving real, practical problems. Calculus II will introduce students to a variety of new techniques of integration, to some applications of integration, and to sequences and series. Students will be expected both to become proficient with basic skills and to
demonstrate an understanding of the underlying principles of the subject. Students should expect to make appropriate use of technology in this course. Knowledge of Calculus I will be assumed, in particular knowledge of the rules and concepts behind differentiation and basic integration.
CALCULUS +
This is an introductory course on linear algebra. The course introduces students to both the theory of vector spaces and linear transformations and techniques such as row-reduction of matrices and diagonalization. Geometry
In this course, students will understand the core mathematical concepts of Geometry through learning their vocabulary, signs, expressions, and applications in preparation for advanced high school mathematics. They’ll learn to ask appropriate and insightful questions that will facilitate classroom learning while also developing resourcefulness and problem-solving skills across the curriculum. Finally, students will become more comfortable with expressing their ideas through using the language of mathematics.
INTEGRATED MATH 2
Integrated Math 2 will focus on the key topics of Geometry. We will combine traditional teaching methods alongside project based learning in order to reinforce lessons taught in the classroom. There will be six units, each broken down into roughly five week sections to cover the entire year. Each unit will focus on a different area of Geometry.
INTEGRATED MATH 3
Integrated Math 3 will focus on the key topics of Algebra 2. We will combine traditional teaching methods alongside project based learning in order to reinforce lessons taught in the classroom. There will be six units, each broken down into roughly five week sections to cover the entire year. Each unit will focus on a different area of Algebra.
PRECALCULUS
This course will focus on key topics of Precalculus. It will introduce high level algebra concepts as well as covering trigonometry. The primary focuses will be a deep dive on trigonometric functions, and the resulting proofs and properties that can be shown because of them.
SCIENCE BIOLOGY
Students will cover a variety of Biology concepts including cell biology, organism taxonomy and physiology up to and including human biology, and interactions those organisms have with each other. This class also includes a physical lab portion where students learn lab procedures and how the scientific method applies to real life situations. The class will culminate with the presentation of a year-long project on a species of the student’s choice.
CONCEPTUAL PHYSICS
Physics is the most fundamental scientific discipline. It is the rigorous examination of cause and effect. In physics, mathematical language and theoretical models are applied to the physical world in order to understand it. The explanation of the properties and behavior of all observable and measurable natural phenomena are deduced, induced, and produced.
This course will serve as a deep-dive into the nature and practice of physics. We will be driven by a few simple questions: What is the language of physics, what is the role of experimentation, and how are the principles and laws of nature conceived as a result? Essentially, how does physics get on, and what does it mean to be a physicist? We will approach this in a couple different ways. Students will read selections from Richard Feynman's famous lectures on physics concerning the nature of science, and begin to learn what it means to think like a physicist. They will be exposed to the conventional practice of learning classical mechanics conceptually where they’ll apply the definitions to describe the behavior and causes of motion, and conduct labs where they will test these notions out. In addition, students will have the opportunity to learn the application of various physics concepts through an assortment of various hands-on STEM projects.
CHEMISTRY
With an emphasis on developing skills in reading, writing, research, and problem solving, students engage with chemistry-focused learning prompts, questions, readings, laboratories, and challenges. The majority of students’ written work is in the form of a reflection upon the learning process with an emphasis on applied chemistry. Laboratories are completed bi-weekly to reinforce learning of concepts. The laboratories take place during Friday classes.
WORLD LANGUAGE
SPANISH 1
Spanish 1 is an introductory course for students with little or no background in the Spanish language. The goal of this course is to help students to develop the ability to communicate in Spanish and understand basic Spanish as well as fostering an understanding and appreciation of the diversity of the Spanish-speaking cultures of the world. A strong emphasis is placed on using the language in a practical situation, while also helping students to grasp the basics of Spanish grammar, syntax, and morphology. Students will be exposed to basic grammar and vocabulary and cultural facets of Spanish/Latin cultures.
SPANISH 2
Spanish 2 builds on the skills learned in Spanish 1 and is designed for students at an early intermediate level. The course emphasizes communication in all three modes— interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational—through speaking, listening, reading, and writing activities. Students will expand their vocabulary, strengthen sentence formation,
and deepen their understanding of grammar, including regular and irregular verbs and the use of present, past, and future tenses. Cultural learning remains central as students explore the traditions, arts, history, and current events of Spanish-speaking communities. Hands-on projects, role plays, and discussions encourage students to think critically, collaborate, and compare cultural perspectives. By the end of the course, students will be able to use Spanish in more complex conversations, interpret authentic texts, and present ideas with greater fluency and accuracy.
SPANISH 3
Spanish 3 is an intermediate to advanced course for students with approximately 2 years background in the Spanish language. The goal of this course is to help students to strengthen the ability to communicate in Spanish, while at the same time continuing to experience the richness of the Hispanic culture. A strong emphasis is placed on using the language in any given practical situation, while also adding more complex grammatical structures to their oral and written speech. Subjunctive and indicative mode will be used interchangeably as well as present, past and future tenses.
SPANISH 4
Spanish 4 is an advanced course open to students who have earned at least a B in Spanish 3. It is taught entirely in Spanish in the form of a literature survey. Students will read fiction, poetry, and non-fiction works by Spanish and Latin American authors. Having already learned advanced grammar and developed speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills, students will focus on refining and perfecting these abilities. The curriculum is designed to deepen their appreciation for modern Hispanic literature while fostering self-expression in Spanish.
TALENT DEVELOPMENT BADGES/YOUNG EXPERT PROGRAM
The Young Experts Program (Badges) is a highly personalized learning model that invites students to explore a chosen topic as they develop skills in critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. The scope of all Badges work is interdisciplinary and asks students to: gain comprehensive knowledge of a topic; consider sources; replicate experiments, make logical connections, and verify results; synthesize points of data to create new theories or inventions; generate recommendations.
SEMINARS
JUNIOR SEMINAR
In Junior Seminar, students will learn important life and adulting skills. They will discover more about self and each other through career exploration, social-emotional guidance, and Socratic discussions. Further, they’ll start preparation for college and/or job applications, discuss college essay(s), recommendation letters, resumes, work permits, and other important information about employment. Lastly, students will begin to plan for their post-secondary transition, college, and gap year applications.
SENIOR SEMINAR
In Senior Seminar, students are supported in their postsecondary transition, college and gap year applications. They will discuss SEL topics related to post-secondary plans (selfadvocacy, roommates, scheduling) and will advance through the college and/or job application process, completing applications, college essay(s), resumes, and learning to interview.
ELECTIVES CREATIVE WRITING
In this course, we will learn about different kinds of creative writing and draft our own long- or short form creative pieces. We’ll workshop our own and others’ writing – which means learning to think of ourselves and each other as both writers and readers. Further, we’ll create development plans for one of our writing projects; learn where and how to submit work for publication; and create an online journal to showcase our work and the creative projects of other BAO students
DRAMA
During the year we will be focusing on Improv, Monologue/ presentations and Scene work/study. For improv we will be doing activities for students to be confident with their choices and trusting themselves. The monologue portion will focus on memorization and performing with confidence and clarity. Scene work is exactly as it sounds, the focus will be on collaboration, listening and trusting your scene partner.
ECOLOGY
This class will take students on a deep dive of the creation, maintenance, and development of ecosystems. Students will learn how various biotic and abiotic factors cause either change or stagnation in an ecosystem and how that affects others in the
biosphere. They will also use this information to explore scientific resources and see how past ecosystem activity is used to predict future changes and discuss current ecological topics. Throughout this class, students will also be guided through finding and participating in a community science project where they can collaborate with others to make a difference on a local or global scale.
FILM STUDIES
Welcome to Film Studies, where we’ll be doing a deep dive into the structure of cinema. In this class students will gain aesthetic literacy skills, dissecting the stories they love, learning to recognize tropes, cues, and indicators in film, and how those relate to the context in which the piece was created. We’ll be examining how film connects to human psychology, influences culture, and helps us grow as individuals. Also, it’s just a ton of fun, let’s watch some movies!
HORTICULTURE
Students will learn how to cultivate and manage plants for use by humans. Throughout the class, students will work on a plan for a small food, wildlife, or decorative garden appropriate for their area and conditions. As the class progresses, students will apply the principles they learn to develop the plan into a more comprehensive design. These will range from the purpose of the garden, to environmental and space constraints, to problem-solving and managing their garden in its mature state. By the end of the class, students will have an actionable plan that they can use in the coming spring and the knowledge to adjust or make a new plan for new conditions.
PHOTOSHOP
Are you ready to go digital? This course is designed to help artists, designers, and photographers wrap their heads around the fundamentals of Photoshop. This class is ideal for students who have never opened the program, as well as hobbyists or tinkerers looking to spruce up their skill set. Learn how to illustrate, design graphics for print, manipulate photos, create simple animations, and master the aesthetic tools that Photoshop has to offer.
SUPPORT
ACADEMIC SUPPORT + ADVISORY
All students need support. Whether it is to promote growth in a specific area, to help navigate complex social interactions, or to cultivate strengths, interests, or gifts, our Academic and Advisory (ASA) program provides students with the support they need to reach their full potential. Students meet in ASA with their advisor regularly each week for guidance related to their workload, social and emotional development, and other critical aspects of their educational experience.
AFTER-SCHOOL MATH SUPPORT
After school math support offers personalized assistance and skill development in mathematics for all BAO students. Held Monday through Thursday, this ungraded class provides oneon-one support tailored to individual needs, including homework assistance, concept clarification, and reinforcement of fundamental skills. Students benefit from dedicated time to address math assignments, strengthen their understanding of key concepts, and enhance their problem-solving abilities.