2019-19 Upper School Course Description

2019-20 ACADEMIC PROGRAM GUIDE

THE MISSION OF FRANKLIN ROAD ACADEMY Franklin Road Academy provides a challenging educational experience in an inclusive Christian community with an unwavering commitment to develop leaders of integrity and purpose.

We Will … Ø Inspire in our students a lifelong love of learning through a dynamic academic program which will

prepare them for success in life;

Ø Encourage students to discover their passions through opportunities in academics, the arts, athletics,

and servant leadership;

Ø Nurture leaders of integrity, guided by Christian principles, compelled to lead lives of compassionate

global citizenship.

The Upper School Academic Mission Franklin Road Academy emphasizes academic excellence while instilling a love for learning in our students.

We offer an outstanding college-preparatory program that is appropriately complemented and enhanced by a wide variety of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities in the arts, athletics, and through service. Our goal is to offer an educational experience that is both academically challenging and filled with opportunities which offer spiritual and personal growth. FRA is committed to exceeding standards for curricular content and using the classroom as an environment to teach and develop vital 21st-century skills.

The upper school administration offers our continued assistance in planning the high school course of study, identifying possible college choices and working through the college application and admissions processes.

Please feel free to contact the upper school office any time you need advice or assistance along the way.

We are pleased that you have selected FRA, and we look forward to working with you.

Franklin Road Academy 4700 Franklin Pike Nashville, TN 37220 U/S Office: (615) 331-6808 Fax: (615) 781-8551 Head of Upper School: Prentice Stabler

2019-20 ACADEMIC PROGRAM GUIDE Introduction: Planning & Programming.............................................................1 Four-Year Plan.........................................................................................................2 Graduation Requirements.....................................................................................3 Upper School Grading Scale, Academic Calendar..............................................5 FRA Course Offerings............................................................................................6 Course Descriptions English Department.................................................................................10 Mathematics Department......................................................................14 Science Department.................................................................................18 Social Studies Department.....................................................................23 World Language Department..................................................................30 Religious Studies Department...............................................................34 Fine & Performing Arts Department....................................................36 Physical Education Department.............................................................39 Technology Department.........................................................................40 Academic Electives...................................................................................42 Honors & AP Courses, Scheduling, Credit Policy.............................................44 Calculation of GPA...............................................................................................44 Class Rank.............................................................................................................44 Scheduling and Credit Policy..............................................................................44 Clubs, Student Organizations, Activities...........................................................47 Spiritual Life, Athletics........................................................................................48 Alpha & Omega, Interim, Key Facts......................................................................51 Service Life, Campus Facilities...........................................................................51

Note: This academic program guide is subject to change as necessary.

Please refer to the FRA website for the most current update.

PLANNING & PROGRAMMING The full Academic Program Guide with course descriptions is located on the FRA Portal. The purpose of the Academic Program Guide is to help parents and students become familiar with the academic program at FRA. We hope this information will assist you in making informed choices regarding your individual course of study. If you have questions regarding the academic program, please be sure to contact the head of upper school or academic coordinator.

A critical component to academic success is the planning ability afforded by the Four-Year Plan. Students will complete or update their Four-Year Plan for graduation each year. This process will allow students to assess their current schedules, personal skills, interests, and abilities and allow them set tentative goals for the coming years. The Four-Year Plan is likely to change as a student progresses from freshman year through senior year, and a commitment to seriously plan for the future ensures course selections are purposeful and sets students up to open as many opportunities as possible. You will find a Four-Year Plan template in the Course Description Book found on the FRA website.

When planning a course of study, we encourage each student to gather as much information possible by talking with parents, teachers, academic advisors, and school administrators. FRA offers extensive academic and college placement counseling, both of which are designed to help students establish healthy goals and ultimately gain admission to the college of their choice.

We strongly encourage students to actively pursue the most academically challenging course of study they can manage. Evidence of rigorous coursework is increasingly important in the college admission process, both for admission and for access to scholarships.

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Fine Arts (1)

P.E. (1)

Tech (.5)

Other Elect/SH

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NAME: _____________________________________________________________

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Religion (1)

CUMULATIVE CREDITS:

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World Lang. (2)

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Social Studies (3)

ANNUAL TOTAL CREDITS:

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Science (3)

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English (4)

ACADEMIC CREDITS:

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Math (4)

9th

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12th

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11th

Six credits required each year. At least five academic credits each year.

FOUR-YEAR PLAN

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS AND ACADEMIC NOTES Students must earn 24 total credits for upper school graduation.

Of those credits, 20 must come from academic courses.

4 units

Mathematics

4 units

English

3 units

Science

3 units

Social Studies

2 units

World Language

1 unit

Religious Studies

1 unit

Fine/Performing Arts

1 unit

Physical Education

½ unit

Technology

4½ units

Academic Electives

24 Units

Required for Graduation

In addition, FRA students are required to submit documentation of an average of five hours of community service per year for each of their four years of upper school. This service learning requirement will be appropriately adjusted for students who enter FRA after freshman year.

Participation and completion of our annual Interim program is also required. Four years of Interim is compulsory for graduation from FRA.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS AND COURSE OF STUDY English: All students must complete English I, II, III, and the senior level Critical Thinking and Writing course. In addition, seniors must complete a one-semester elective course in English.

Mathematics: All students must complete four years of mathematics beginning freshman year. Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and one or more upper level math courses (Pre-Calculus, Calculus, AP Calculus, Trigonometry and Analysis, or AP Statistics) must be taken. It is possible a student may receive Algebra I credit in grade 8 if he or she has met the academic standards for that class. In this instance, grade 9 placement will be Algebra II. Science: All students must successfully complete Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Social Studies: All students must successfully complete World History, U.S. History, and a combination of two other one-semester Social Studies Electives.

World Language: Students are required to complete two consecutive years of the same world language in grades 9-12 for graduation. Students who have demonstrated their ability with an average of A or high B are encouraged to take the third, fourth, or fifth year of a language; however, a teacher recommendation is required.

A student earning a final grade of 85 or above in grade 8 world language may choose to remain in the same language (level II) or switch to level I of another language.

A student earning a final grade of 84 or below in grade 8 world language will be carefully evaluated by the world language faculty to determine readiness for level II. • Students in this category may progress to level II only with the recommendation of FRA faculty and administration.

• Students who are not recommended for level II may choose a different language or repeat level I based on the recommendation of the world language faculty and administration.

Technology: All students must successfully complete one semester for a total of ½ unit of credit from the technology offerings.

Physical Education: All students must complete two semesters of Wellness, Dance and/or Performance Fitness.

Enrichments: Students must complete at least two semesters of religious studies: Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, the Life of Christ, Faith and Film, Christian Leadership, or World Religions.

Fine & Performing Arts: Students must successfully complete two semesters of fine or performing arts, selecting from the areas of art, drama, instrumental music, or vocal music.

The academic program at FRA is intended to offer an appropriate degree of flexibility regarding course selections. Inherent in the program is the opportunity to enhance the basic requirements when such consideration improves the academic preparation of an individual for a particular college program. FRA will make every effort to meet the elective requests of our students, but elective placement cannot always be guaranteed.

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UPPER SCHOOL GRADING SCALE GRADE A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CF

RANGE 100-97 96-93 92-90 89-87 86-83 82-80 79-77 76-73 72-70 69-0

GPA POINTS* 4.30 4.00 3.75 3.50 3.00 2.75 2.50 2.00 2.00 0.00

*FRA adjusts GPA by 0.5 points for Honors classes and one point for AP classes.

FRA reports weighted GPA on all school transcripts.

ACADEMIC CALENDAR The school year is divided into two semesters. Progress is reported to parents at the six-week and 12-week mark of each semester through the use of progress reports. Parents will receive written comments at the nine-week mark of each semester. Semester report cards will be emailed home within 14 days from the last exam.

Exams are given at the end of each semester. All students are required to take fall semester exams in full-year courses. In semester courses, seniors may earn exam exemption for the semester by having an average of 93 or higher. Seniors may earn exam exemption for all full-year courses in the spring semester by having a combined average of 93 or higher for the previous reporting periods. Exams will comprise 20 percent of the semester grade.

Dean’s List Students who attain an average of 90 or better in academic classes with no grade below 87 earn a place on the Dean’s List. Honors and AP classes have five points added to the quarterly grade to determine this honor.

Dean’s List is announced at the beginning of the following quarter.

Head’s List Students who attain an average of 95 or better in academic classes with no grade below 90 earn a place on the Head’s List. Honors and AP classes have five points added to the quarterly grade to determine this honor.

Students who earn this honor for each of the four quarters are named to the Annual Head’s List at the end of the year.

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FRA COURSE OFFERINGS All students must take at least six courses each semester. For all grades, five of the six must be academic courses. FRA requires 24 total credits, with 20 earned in academic classes, for students to be a candidate for graduation.

DEPARTMENT

COURSE

CREDITS

English

English I: Genres in World Literature English I (H): Genres in World Literature English II: The American Experience English II (H): The American Experience English III: British Literary Legacy AP English: Language & Composition English IV: Critical Thinking & Writing AP English: Literature & Composition English IV: Shakespeare Sampling English IV: Fictional Worlds, Tolkien Studies English IV: Creative Writing English IV: Cultural Conflict in the Novel Algebra I Algebra II Algebra II (H) Geometry Geometry (H) Pre-Calculus Pre-Calculus (H) Calculus AP Calculus – AB & BC AP Statistics Trigonometry and Analysis Biology I Biology I (H) Chemistry I Chemistry I (H) AP Biology AP Chemistry Anatomy & Physiology Physics I (H) Physics II Physics II AP Physics I Robotics Engineering Environmental Science Biotechnology Environmental Science Biotechnology

1 1 1 1 1 1 ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ ½ 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½

Mathematics

Science

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DEPARTMENT

COURSE

CREDITS

Social Studies

World History I World History I (H) AP World History U.S. History AP U.S. History AP Human Geography AP European History American Government World Studies: Ancient Mediterranean History, Literature, Art Economics U.S. History: 1820-1900 Psychology The Holocaust: Meanings & Implications War & Peace: Conflict in the Holy Land Introduction to Sociology: Survey of American Social Issues Reconciliation & African American History French I French II French III French III (H) AP French Language & Culture French Film, Music, & Literature Spanish I Spanish II Spanish III Spanish III (H) AP Spanish Language & Culture Contemporary Spanish Language & Music Spanish Culture Through Film Latin I Latin II Latin III (H) Latin IV/V (H) AP Latin Virgil Classical Mythology

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ 1 1 1 1 1 ½ 1 1 1 1 1 ½ ½ 1 1 1 1 1 ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½

World Language

Religious Studies

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World Language: Linguistics and Writing Old Testament Survey New Testament Survey Life of Christ World Religions Christian Leadership Faith & Film

DEPARTMENT

COURSE

CREDITS

Fine & Performing Arts

*Art I: Drawing *Art II: Color Theory *Art III: Painting AP Studio Art: Drawing *Ceramics I *Ceramics II AP Studio Art: 3D Design *Dramatic Arts I *Dramatic Arts II *Theater Tech *Jazz Ensemble *Introduction to Band *Introduction to Guitar *Vocal Ensemble *Concert Choir *Wellness *Dance *Performance Fitness Technology: Gaming & Simulation Digital Publications: Yearbook Digital Media Innovations Graphic Design Technology & Design Thinking AP Computer Science Principles Technology Internship Engineering Broadcast Journalism Broadcast Journalism II Robotics Public Speaking Broadcast Journalism Broadcast Journalism II Sports Business Criminology AP Capstone: Seminar AP Capstone: Research

½ ½ ½ 1 ½ ½ 1 ½ ½ ½ 1 1 ½ 1 1 ½ ½ ½ ½ 1 ½ 1 ½ ½ 1 0 ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ ½ 1 1

Physical Education Technology

Other Technology

Academic Electives

*Not an academic course

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SUMMER COURSES FRA offers summer sessions for students who want to pursue credit hours and complement their standard academic load. Summer sessions provide an opportunity to take a course a student might otherwise not be able to fit into their schedule, to earn a credit that might not otherwise fit into an otherwise full academic schedule, or advance their math track. Summer courses, other than Geometry, are offered in two different sessions – June and July – and earn ½ credit toward graduation. Geometry requires enrollment in both sessions. Students who take summer courses must still take the required number of academic courses each semester.

DEPARTMENT

COURSE

CREDITS

Mathematics Religious Studies Fine & Performing Arts Physical Education Technology

Geometry Faith & Film Photography Wellness Technology: Design Thinking

1 (both sessions required) ½ ½ ½ ½

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Curricular development and program design are an integral part of maintaining courses that challenge and prepare students for college. Each department at FRA is led by a department chair whose responsibility it is to maintain and develop curriculum and assist in implementing best practices in their respective curricular area for grades 5–12. The courses below represent thoughtful and intentional design to best prepare the FRA student for the rigors of college academics.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT All students must complete four years of English. All students take English I and II, and standard and Honors are offered in both. Junior year, students take either English III or AP Language and Composition. Senior year, students take AP Literature and Composition or a pairing of Critical Thinking and Writing plus a choice of one other English IV focused seminar. A teacher recommendation, high averages in previous work, and a minimum score above the required percentile on standardized tests are required for all Honors and AP courses.

English (4 credits required) The English curriculum in literature is based on the goal of developing critical readers who have strong reading, writing, and speaking skills. Sequential courses offer the continuing practice of grammar skills, the building of an extensive vocabulary, and the development of strong research and writing skills. Senior seminar electives provide an opportunity to study specific areas and to strengthen student writing skills.

Course Options: English I or English I (H) (9) English II or English II (H) (10) English III or AP English: Language & Composition (11) English IV: Critical Thinking & Writing* (12-mandatory for non-AP students) AP English Literature & Composition (12) English IV: Shakespeare Sampling* (12) English IV: Fictional Worlds, Tolkien Studies* (12) English IV: Creative Writing* (12) English IV: Cultural Conflict in the Novel* (12) *One-semester course English I: Genres In World Literature 1 Credit Grade 9 Through engaging with a variety of texts and genres, English I hones four primary skills: Reading Complex Texts, Writing, Thinking Critically, and Communicating Effectively. In addition, English I equips students with skills such as time management, self-advocacy, and professional communication so as to prepare them for success throughout their entire high school career and develop students’ ability to formulate, articulate, and defend complex claims. Vocabulary and grammar skills are acquired independently through the online programs of Membean and No Red Ink and are also strengthened within the student’s own reading and writing.

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English I (H): Genres In World Literature 1 Credit Grade 9 Through engaging with a variety of texts and genres, English I hones four primary skills: Reading Complex Texts, Writing, Thinking Critically, and Communicating Effectively. In addition, English I equips students with skills such as time management, self-advocacy, and professional communication so as to prepare them for success throughout their entire high school career and develop students’ ability to formulate, articulate, and defend complex claims. Vocabulary and grammar skills are acquired independently through the online programs of Membean and No Red Ink and are also strengthened within the student’s own reading and writing. The pacing, depth, and breadth of this Honors course will increase from that of English I in order to prepare students for the rigor of AP courses.

English II: The American Experience 1 Credit Grade 10 This course, designed for sophomore English students, explores the implications of what it means to be American. By reading from and into a variety of perspectives (regional, racial, religious, socioeconomic, and gender-based), we may begin to understand how our national community has defined itself in the past and how we might define it today. For this reason, we will be engaging in a number of different texts from an assortment of genres: poems, essays, letters, novels, short stories, and speeches. How do these multifarious perspectives change our perceptions about our past and inform our present? How do our perceptions about the American journey inform our faith? The primary focus will be on the development of skills and emphasizing the link between close reading, writing, and thinking. Vocabulary and grammar are taught within the student’s own reading and writing. Vocabulary and grammar skills are acquired independently through the online programs of Membean and No Red Ink and are also taught within the student’s own reading and writing.

Students will also engage in a year-long, inquiry-based learning project in which they pursue a project of interest to them to produce a product of benefit to others. A TED-style talk will be delivered at the end of the year as students reflect upon their experiences and the challenges and triumphs they encountered along the way.

English II (H): The American Experience 1 Credit Grade 10 This course, designed for sophomore English students, explores the implications of what it means to be American. By reading from and into a variety of perspectives (regional, racial, religious, socioeconomic, and gender-based), we may begin to understand how our national community has defined itself in the past and how we might define it today. For this reason, we will be engaging in a number of different texts from an assortment of genres: poems, essays, letters, novels, short stories, and speeches. How do these multifarious perspectives change our perceptions about our past and inform our present? How do our perceptions about the American journey inform our faith? The primary focus will be on the development of skills and emphasizing the link between close reading, writing, and thinking. Vocabulary and grammar are taught within the student’s own reading and writing. Vocabulary and grammar skills are acquired independently through the online programs of Membean and No Red Ink and are also taught within the student’s own reading and writing.

Students will also engage in a year-long, inquiry-based learning project in which they pursue a topic of interest to them within the realm of literature and write about their findings in two distinct papers. Each student will be matched with a faculty sponsor who shares their interest, and at the end of the year, students 11

will defend their theses in before a panel of faculty members.

English III: British Literary Legacy 1 Credit Grade 11 This course is an intensive study of the literature of the English canon. From its beginnings with the epic of Beowulf through more modern texts, students will be exposed to several major works of English literature and will study the cultures in which those texts were created. The course also focuses on writing effective sentences, paragraphs, and essays, with additional review of common grammatical errors. The course includes a vocabulary component to expand students’ working vocabularies. More independence is required in terms of students’ reading, writing, thinking, speaking, and analyzing abilities and in balancing their other studies and activities to come to class prepared to play an active role in discussion.

AP English: Language & Composition 1 Credit Grade 11 AP Language & Composition is a college-level course offered to juniors to help them become skilled readers of prose written in a variety of contexts which include essays, speeches, memoirs, and news articles, along with the graphics and visual images that frequently accompany both electronic and print media. Additionally, students are taught composition which emphasizes the expository, analytical, and argumentative writing skills needed for success in academic and professional settings.

English IV: Critical Thinking & Writing ½ Credit Grade 12 – Mandatory Based on what college students learn in composition courses, this course will require students to practice and hone their critical thinking skills as well as develop their skills in rhetoric. Students will pursue the essential questions of “what is the rhetorical situation?” and “what is the most effective argument for this situation?”

This course will emphasize collaboration and presentation skills as students analyze contemporary issues.

Students will immerse themselves in rhetoric, and in doing so, they will be required to take initiative, demonstrate leadership, ask good questions, and foster their own creativity. Students will read into and write in a variety of genres, engage in research, and participate in Socratic seminars. By the end of the course, students will be effective critical thinkers and communicators, preparing them for rhetorical situations in higher education and beyond.

AP English: Literature & Composition 1 Credit Grade 12 AP English is a college-level course in literature and composition. Extensive reading in the areas of poetry, drama, fiction, and literary criticism is required, and class participation is heavily emphasized. There is extensive written analysis of the literature studied, and, in preparation for the AP exam, practice exercises are included in the course.

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English IV: Shakespeare Sampling ½ Credit Grade 12 This course provides students with a broad exposure to several of William Shakespeare’s plays. Selections will include one play from each of Shakespeare’s genres: history, tragedy, and comedy. We explore the historical context of Shakespeare’s world and the context in which the plays are set with an introduction to Elizabethan language and culture. We will also analyze the theatrical and cinematic adaptations of each play.

The course focuses on writing effective sentences, paragraphs, and essays, with additional review of common grammatical errors. The course assesses students’ mastery of content through a variety of writing and close reading assignments, and class discussion.

English IV: Fictional Worlds, Tolkien Studies ½ Credit Grade 12 Through the exploration of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, students will consider how distance from reality allows writers and readers to examine issues that would otherwise hit too close to home, leading to the inevitable discovery that fantastic fiction (as all literature) does indeed reveal human truths. The course also focuses on writing effective sentences, paragraphs, and essays, with additional review of common grammatical errors. The course includes a vocabulary component to expand students’ working vocabularies.

More independence is required in terms of students’ reading, writing, thinking, speaking, and analyzing abilities and in balancing their other studies and activities to come to class prepared to play an active role in discussion.

English IV: Creative Writing ½ Credit Grade 12 Students will experience writing as a tool for critical thinking, self-discovery, and creative expression. The course is comprised of three units: fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. Students will analyze published works and produce their own writing in each of these genres. Writing skills will be developed through prewriting, editing, revising, and critiquing. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to identify successful elements of an effective piece of creative writing, participate in a writing community, and express themselves with originality and clarity in stories, poetry, and personal essays.

English IV: Cultural Conflict in the Novel ½ Credit Grade 12 With every advancement in transportation and technology, cultures around the world have been interacting with each other at an increasing pace. Sometimes the interaction is peaceable, sometimes violent. This course will explore various examples of cultural clashes and draw from a wide variety of cultures, time periods, and geographic locations. Possible topics and authors include the Holocaust (Levi, Kertesz, Spiegelman), Native Americans (Silko, Sherman), British Imperialism (Rhys, Conrad), African-Americans (Hurston, Toomer, Morrison), Chinese Americans (Yang, Kingston), the Middle East (Nafisi, Satrapi)

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MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT All students are required to enroll in a math course each of their four years in high school. Students must complete a minimum of four units: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Pre-Calculus or Trigonometry and Analysis. Those students who successfully complete Algebra I in grade 8 must still complete four years of mathematics during upper school. This additional course could be any of the following: Trigonometry and Analysis, Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, or AP Statistics. All Honors and AP courses require a teacher recommendation, a grade of “A” in a previous math course, and scores above the required percentile on standardized tests.

Mathematics (4 credits required) The mathematics curriculum is designed so that students learn to: • Read, write, and orally communicate mathematical concepts.

• Organize, analyze, depict, and interpret data to make decisions and predictions related to real-world situations.

• Solve theoretical and practical problems using essential concepts of algebra, geometry, probability, and statistics.

• Comprehend the relationships between mathematics, the sciences, and technology.

Topics in each class are presented numerically, graphically, analytically, and verbally to enhance the learning experience. AP courses in calculus and statistics follow the topic outlines set by the College Board for their respective disciplines. Graphing calculator competencies increase with each grade level, and students are exposed to the latest math software each year.

Course Options: Algebra I (8 & 9) Algebra II or Algebra II (H) (9–11) Geometry or Geometry (H) (10 & 11) Pre-Calculus or Pre-Calculus (H) (11 & 12) Calculus or AP Calculus (11 & 12) AP Statistics (11 & 12) Trigonometry and Analysis (12) Algebra I 1 Credit Grades 8 & 9 This introductory course is intended to build the foundation for further study in symbolic mathematics. The major concepts introduced will be simplifying expressions; solving equations, inequalities, and systems of equations in two or more variables; factoring polynomials; simplifying rational expressions; problem solving; defining, graphing, and exploring domains and ranges of functions; and simplifying radical expressions.

Students will explore data using regression analysis and use their regression equation to make predictions.

Graphing calculators will be used to solve problems, experiment with data, and verify conclusions.

Trigonometry and geometry are also explored on an introductory level.

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Algebra II 1 Credit Grades 9–11 A thorough review of topics from Algebra I comprises the first part of this course. More extensive study is given to the topics of radicals and complex numbers, linear and quadratic equations, and problem solving.

New concepts studied include conic sections, logarithmic and exponential functions, sequences and series, matrices, probability, and statistics. Mathematical modeling through regression analysis will be explored on a deeper level than in Algebra I. Trigonometry will also be explored in a more formal and extended fashion including graphs of the trigonometric functions with transformations.

Algebra II (H) 1 Credit Grades 9–11 Although this course covers much of the same material as the regular Algebra II class, there is a more rigorous approach to the study of those topics as well as further topics from geometry and trigonometry.

Specifically, students will look more closely at functions defined by tables, graphs, and equations, and utilize mathematical modeling more extensively. New concepts will be introduced numerically, graphically, analytically, and verbally whenever possible. Additional graphing calculator competencies will include solving systems of linear equations using matrices, finding roots of equations, solving non-linear systems of equations, and maximizing/minimizing graphs of functions.

Geometry 1 Credit Grades 10 & 11 This course is designed to emphasize the study of the properties and applications of common geometric figures in two and three dimensions (plane and solid geometry). It includes the study of transformations of plane figures and right triangle trigonometry. Inductive and deductive thinking skills are used in problem solving situations, and applications to the real world are stressed. This course also emphasizes writing proofs in various forms to solve (prove) properties of geometric figures.

Geometry (H) 1 Credit Grades 10 & 11 The sequence of this course will be similar to the regular course, but the scope will be much broader. In addition to the familiar topics, students will explore more challenging logic problems and write more extensive proofs. Analytic geometry will be explored in depth in preparation for more advanced math courses. Advanced mathematical concepts from Pre-Calculus and Calculus will also be introduced at an introductory level.

Pre-Calculus 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course in advanced mathematics provides an extensive and extended study of both algebraic and geometric concepts, with major emphasis on trigonometry, conic sections, functions and their graphs, and probability. The basic concepts of analytic geometry, including continuity and limits of functions, and the definition of the derivative are also introduced. Students will explore the representation of patterns using arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, including the use of sigma notation to represent series.

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Pre-Calculus (H) 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course is designed for students with the aptitude and desire to take calculus, either during senior year or in college. In addition to the topics covered in regular Pre-Calculus, students will be introduced to concepts that foreshadow calculus and continue to use algebra and trigonometry to model real-life problems. Students will also be more formally introduced to the “Rule of Four,” which encourages students to investigate mathematical ideas and processes graphically, numerically, algebraically, and verbally. Mathematical modeling and making predictions from models will continue to be explored, and graphing calculator technology will be utilized when appropriate.

Calculus 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This advanced mathematics course is ideally suited for students interested in business and economics, life sciences, and social sciences and who have met the prerequisites for a calculus course but are not ready for AP Calculus. Limits, differentiation, and integration are studied to the same depth that can be found in most first semester college calculus courses. Students are also given a brief introduction to solving differential equations by separation of variables. Students are encouraged to investigate mathematical ideas and processes graphically, numerically, algebraically, and verbally. Mathematical modeling and making predictions from models will be further explored, and graphing calculator technology will continue to be utilized when appropriate.

AP Calculus AB 1 Credit Grade 12 This course is intended as the final year of high school mathematics for students who are preparing for the advanced placement exam. The course begins with an extensive exploration of elementary functions with an emphasis on the relationships between functions and their graphs, and students will be introduced to the concept of families of functions. Both differential and integral calculus of a single variable are explored.

Theory and application are emphasized equally. Students are encouraged to look at mathematical ideas and processes numerically, graphically, analytically, and verbally. Emphasis will be placed on both the mechanics and the interpretation of differential and integral calculus. Students will become proficient with the entire range of their graphing calculator’s capabilities. Students taking this course will be expected to take the advanced placement exam in calculus for the purpose of receiving college credit in calculus.

AP Calculus BC 1 Credit Grade 12 Like Calculus AB, this course is intended as the final year of high school mathematics for students who are preparing for the advanced placement exam. In addition to the topics covered in AP Calculus AB, students will also be introduced to analysis of planar curves given in parametric, polar, and vector form; slope fields; Euler’s method; antiderivatives by substitution, parts, and simple partial fractions; logistic equations; Taylor polynomial approximations; and Taylor and Maclaurin series. The content of Calculus BC is designed to qualify students for placement and credit in a course that is one level beyond that granted for Calculus AB.

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AP Statistics 1 Credit Grade 12 The purpose of this AP course in statistics is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students will explore data (describing patterns and departures from patterns), sample and experiment (planning and conducting a study), anticipate patterns (exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation) and statistical inference (estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses.

Trigonometry and Analysis 1 Credit Grade 12 This course will provide a general overview of mathematics aimed at those seniors who will be majoring in the liberal arts, education, social sciences, business, nursing, and allied health fields. Students will study topics covered in a normal Pre-Calculus course with additional scaffolding in place. The core components of the course will center around evaluating all trigonometric functions in any radian measure using the unit circle, graphing and identifying key features of sinusoidal functions, and modeling using trigonometry. The analysis portion of the course will take the families of functions and explore features of each family. Other topics include the study of complex numbers, combinatorics, and sequences and series. Students who have had both Pre-Calculus and Trigonometry and Analysis will also be well-prepared for a college-level course in calculus should they choose to take it after entering college.

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SCIENCE DEPARTMENT The goal of the FRA science department is to prepare students with the skills and knowledge needed to develop a functional understanding of biological and physical principles in a college-preparatory setting.

Students are exposed to successively more sophisticated concepts and experimental skills that allow them to investigate the nature and behavior of matter, energy, and living organisms. The department staff is committed to active learning experiences, engaging the students through lecture, discussion, projects, and laboratory work. These serve to help students develop and enhance their ability to think critically and communicate intelligently about scientific problems and issues. Throughout the program, students are engaged in posing and investigating questions about observable natural phenomena, are involved in quantitative and qualitative analysis of information, and routinely examine the historical development of fundamental principles through the use of 21st-century skills.

Science (3 credits required) Science classes are designed to give students the ability to manipulate collected data in the classroom and the laboratory in order to prove or disprove hypotheses.

Extensive laboratory skills are taught and utilized in upper level classes. AP courses in Chemistry, Biology, and Physics follow the topic outlines set forth by the College Board for their respective disciplines. Required laboratory series in these classes prepare students for college laboratory success.

Course Options: Biology I or Biology I (H) (9) Chemistry I or Chemistry I (H) (10) AP Biology (11 & 12) AP Chemistry (11 & 12) Advanced Chemistry Topics (11 & 12) Anatomy & Physiology (11 & 12) Physics I or Physics I (H) (11 & 12) AP Physics I (11 & 12) Introduction to Robotics* (10–12) Introduction to Engineering* (10–12) Environmental Science* (11 & 12) Science & Technology* (11 & 12) Biotechnology* (10-12) *One-semester course Biology I 1 Credit Grade 9 This course is designed to give a basic understanding of living organisms and how they function. Biological communities, basic organic chemistry, cellular cytology studies, genetics, change over time, taxonomy, ecology, and botany are all studied. The units are planned with college preparation in mind as well as an effort to stimulate a genuine interest in the sciences. Extensive lab work, including dissections and lab reports, is required.

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Biology I (H) 1 Credit Grade 9 Honors Biology is a rigorous year-long laboratory course for freshman students. Honors Biology covers topics typically covered in a high school biology course and prepares students for AP Biology. Students study the structures, functions, and process of living organisms and their interactions with the environment.

Major themes include cell structure and specialization, energy and chemistry of life, genetics and evolution, diversity of life, and plant systems. Students learn complex biological concepts through interactive lectures and application, and knowledge is assessed through quizzes, labs, tests, and projects. The curriculum integrates writing skills, critical-thinking skills, laboratory skills, and dissections. In addition the course work will emphasize microscopy, calculating data, graphing, and essay exam questions.

Chemistry I 1 Credit Grade 10 This cours utilizes problem-solving skills as well as laboratory explorations and mathematical reasoning to examine the basics of atomic theory, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, gas laws, and colligative properties. Prerequisites for this course include Algebra I and Biology I, and concurrent enrollment in or completion of Algebra II is also required.

Chemistry I (H) 1 Credit Grade 10 This cours focuses on mastery of concepts, mathematical skills, laboratory reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Rigorous algebra is used frequently to analyze chemical concepts. Topics to be covered in this course include nomenclature, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, gas laws, atomic theory, and solution chemistry.

Prerequisites for this course include successful completion of Algebra I and Biology I, and concurrent enrollment or completion of Algebra II is highly recommended.

AP Biology 1 Credit Grades 11&12 AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course for students who have successfully completed high school courses in biology and chemistry. AP Biology is equivalent to a two-semester college introductory biology course for biology majors. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquirybased investigations as they explore: evolution, cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. This course requires that 25% of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices.

The course is based on four big ideas, which encompass core scientific principles, theories, and processes that cut across traditional boundaries and provide a broad way of thinking about living organisms and biological systems. The following are big ideas: 1. Evolution - The process of evolution explains the diversity and unity of life.

2. Energetics - Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, reproduce, and maintain dynamic homeostasis.

3. Information Storage and Transmission - Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to life processes.

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4. Systems Interactions - Biological systems interact, and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties.

Prerequisites for this course are Honors Biology I and Honors Chemistry I. AP Chemistry 1 Credit Grades 11&12 As a continuation of the Chemistry I Honors class, this course examines the equilibrium condition, including basic equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, solubility equilibrium, coordination chemistry, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics. Other topics that are studied include electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry, organic chemistry, and descriptive chemistry. Students will be required to use mathematical reasoning skills, laboratory reasoning, and problem-solving techniques to work problems involving very rigorous algebra computations centered around chemical concepts. Prerequisites for this course are successful completion of Chemistry I Honors and concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus. Upon completion of this course, students are prepared to take the AP Chemistry exam.

Advanced Chemistry Topics 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course expands and deepens information learned in Chemistry I. It is a lab-based class that examines foundational concepts such as gas laws, thermodynamics, the atomic model, bonding, kinetics, and equilibrium. The course contributes to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. The prerequisite for this course is completion of Chemistry I or Chemistry I (H).

Anatomy & Physiology 1 Credit Grades 11&12 This course is a yearlong in-depth study of human anatomy and physiology. The areas covered include medical terminology, basic chemistry, cell and tissue structure, and the systems of the human body.

Numerous applications and everyday examples will show how the human responds to disease, injuries, as well as what conditions help to optimize health. Dissections of various body parts (using mammalian animal specimens) will be used to show how anatomy relates to physiology.

Physics I 1 Credit Grades 11&12 Physics I is a college preparatory course designed to provide an algebra-based introduction to physics, with a focus on classical Newtonian mechanics, work and energy, momentum, waves, and electricity. The course also provides significant laboratory experience aimed to highlight the connection between physics principles and everyday life. Prior completion of Algebra II is a prerequisite for this course.

Physics I (H) 1 Credit Grades 11&12 Physics Honors I is a rigorous, algebra-based, college-preparatory physics class designed for strong students who have a desire to continue in science or engineering in college or continue on to AP Physics while at FRA. The course focuses on Newtonian mechanics, work and energy, momentum, rotational motion, and waves.

The course also provides a significant laboratory component aimed to develop critical thinking analytical 20

skills while deepening students’ understanding of physics concepts. Strong performance and completion in Algebra II is a prerequisite for this course.

AP Physics I 1 Credit Grades 11&12 This course conforms to the College Board topics for the AP Physics 1 Examination. AP Physics 1 is equivalent to a first-semester college course and laboratory in algebra-based physics. The course is designed to use six big ideas in physics – systems, fields, force interactions, change, conservation, and waves - as a vehicle to develop eight core science practices. The content of this course trains students to think like physicists while also improving science literacy and critical thinking skills. This course focuses on both linear and rotational Newtonian mechanics (motion and forces) but also includes topics such as work and energy, DC circuits, and waves. The course requires a substantial lab component.

Introduction to Robotics ½ Credit Grades 10-12 This STEM course will consist of two parts. In part one, students will utilize the VEX robotics platform and will be introduced to the basic principles of robotics and coding. In part two, students will be introduced to more advanced computer coding and will utilize the open-source Arduino robotics platform. Upon completion, students will have a deeper understanding of the principles of robotics as well as how to design, build, and control various robots.

Introduction to Engineering ½ Credit Grades 10-12 Engineers seek to better the world by developing creative solutions to design problems through the improvement or creation of products or systems that serve society. This semester long course will introduce students to the field of engineering through the Engineering Design Process. The course will focus on the development of problem solving and critical thinking skills through case studies and hands-on, projectbased coursework. Through the exploration of each step of the design process, students will also learn about important challenges faced by and crucial skills required of engineers including, but not limited to, cultural sensitivity, ethics, and engineering drawing. The second half of the course will allow students to work through the full design process from problem statement to final product, culminating in an oral presentation and demonstration of each group’s product.

Science & Technology ½ Credit Grades 11&12 This is a one semester course designed to give the student a hands-on approach to science and engineering.

This course will feature many hands-on challenges for the student as well as interactive discussions centered on class content.

The goal of this course, time permitting, is to cover the following four broad areas: 1. Module I: Molecular Biology & Medicine 2. Module II: Green technologies of today and tomorrow 3. Module III: Student-driven applied science and engineering projects 4. Module IV: Careers in Science and Technology (time permitting) 21

Environmental Science ½ Credit Grade 12 This laboratory science examines the composition of ecosystems and the impacts of human activity. Topics covered include matter and energy, sustainable agriculture, freshwater quality and cycling, waste disposal, alternative energy sources, conservation, and environmental legislation. Labs are performed throughout the course including off-campus field trips to Radnor Lake and Ellington Agricultural Center. The program is designed to foster student environmental awareness and recognition of the importance of sustainability.

Biotechnology 1 Credit Grades 11&12 Biotechnology is a semester science elective course designed to give students a comprehensive introduction to the scientific concepts and laboratory research techniques currently used in the field of biotechnology.

Students will explore and evaluate career opportunities in the field of biotechnology through laboratory experiments, class discussions, research projects, guest speakers, and workplace visits. The knowledge and skills gained in this course will provide students with a broad understanding of biotechnology and the impact it has on society. This course is available for students who have successfully completed high school courses in biology and chemistry.

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SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT A fundamental task for any social studies class is to search for the character of “why.” It is a study of changes, reactions, and developments throughout culture, people, events, and even ideas. In social studies, the discipline of history remains crucial to understanding a proper world view.

Students at FRA are required to complete three units of social studies for graduation. They will study Ancient History in order to recognize the connections between cultures and people long ago and their own society today. In World History, the students will learn how events and ideology have changed the world radically over the past 10,000 years. In American History students study how the United States of America developed from their foundations and how those initial ideas still hold today. Teachers recommend an “A” average in previous social studies courses and scores above the required percentile on standardized tests for all honors and advanced placement classes.

Extensive reading of both primary and secondary sources, as well as expository writing, is integral for all social studies classes. Note-taking and organizational skills are also emphasized. Tablet PCs will be used to accelerate the research process and improve writing and material comprehension.

Elective courses vary in length (1-2 semesters) depending on specific course content. Essay skills are emphasized. AP courses allow for intensive coverage of the main topics and additional analysis, writing, and comprehension.

Beginning in the 2018-19 school year, FRA students will be required to only complete mandatory studies in World History and United States History. Students will then need to choose from a wide variety of electives to complete their last full unit of study. The new sequence for social studies will be – Freshmen - World History Sophomores - U.S. History Juniors & Seniors - Two one-semester electives This will allow students to select interesting and engaging electives that suit their interests and academic needs as part of their graduation requirement. It will also allow for greater flexibility in scheduling electives across all curricular areas in the FRA academic program. As part of this update the Social Studies Department, will introduce AP Human Geography into the curriculum. This class will be offered to select freshman students. In addition to AP Human Geography, there will also be a freshman Honor’s World History course for advanced students. This update will apply to all rising freshmen and sophomores. Rising juniors will still need to complete U.S. History next year.

If you have questions or would like more information about this exciting change, please contact Department Chair Jon Wilson.

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Social Studies (3 credits required) All students are required to accrue three total social studies credits in their four years, and beginning in 2018, students will be required to only complete mandatory studies in World History and U.S. History. They will then need to choose from a wide variety of electives to complete their last full unit of study.

Course Options: Social Studies Survey Courses All students must complete at least one full credit of World History, and one full credit of U.S. History in their freshman and sophomore years. These courses are designed to give students an overview of historical events and themes in both World and American history, as well as to establish the foundation of skills for advanced coursework in social studies in the junior and senior years.

World History I: Ancient (9) Honors World History I: Ancient (9) U.S. History: 1877 – Present (10) Social Studies AP Courses Advanced Placement courses in social studies are offered in grades 9-12. The goal of AP courses in the social studies department is to provide a rigorous course of study for students seeking to engage in college-level coursework, with many entry points along the way to allow maximum student access to Advanced Placement courses.

AP Human Geography (9-12) AP World History: Modern (10-12) AP U.S. History (11&12) AP European History (11&12) Advanced Social Studies Electives Students need to fulfill at least one full credit of advanced social studies electives between their junior and senior years. Advanced social studies electives are academically rigorous courses that allow students to go deeper into specific topics than a standard survey course allows. Students will employ critical thinking, writing, and research skills to delve into advanced topics in American history, world history, and other social sciences.

Advanced American Studies American Government (11&12) Sociology: Survey of American Social Issues (11&12) African American History (11&12) Advanced World Studies Conflict in the Middle East: A History of the Palestinian – Israeli Conflict (11&12) Ancient Mediterranean History, Literature, and Art (11&12) The Holocaust: Its Meanings & Implications (11&12) Advanced Social Studies Economics (11&12) Psychology (11&12) 24

World History I: Ancient 1 Credit Grade 9 This course is an introductory ancient world history course. Students cultivate their understanding of world history from c. 10,000 BCE to 1200 CE through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.

World History I: Ancient (H) 1 Credit Grade 9 This course is an advanced introductory ancient world history course. Students cultivate their understanding of world history from c. 10,000 BCE to 1200 CE through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.

AP World History: Modern 1 Credit Grade 10 This course is an introductory college-level modern world history course. Students cultivate their understanding of world history from c. 1200 CE to the present through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.

U.S. History: 1877 - Present 1 Credit Grade 10 This yearlong survey of American History explores the Foundations of America from the Revolution through the Constitutional Period. Following that, the course examines the rebirth of the United States after the Civil War through America as a world power in the 21st century. Emphasis is placed on the political, social, and economic events and key players that have shaped our nation’s history. Topics include the importance of America’s founding documents, the evolution of the American Dream, innovation and enterprise, conflict and consensus, individual liberties and civil rights, and foreign policy in both the 20th and 21st Centuries.

Reading and analyzing both primary and secondary sources is an integral part of learning and thinking critically about past events.

AP U.S. History 1 Credit Grade 11 This yearlong survey class includes the major ideological, political, economic, and social events, as well as key players. There are nine historical periods, beginning with the colonization efforts of the New World and continuing through the early 21st Century. Reading and analyzing primary and secondary sources are an integral part of the class. There is an emphasis on historical skills: contextualization, causation, comparison, continuity and change over time. Students will spend the year learning, thinking, and writing critically about issues, successes and conflicts essential to an historical understanding of the United States. Additionally, each student will take the AP U.S. History Exam. There is an expectation of attendance at weekly tutorial 25

sessions and on average 2-3 hours of homework a week.

AP Human Geography 1 Credit Grades 9–12 AP Human Geography is an introduction to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students will study the methods and tools geographers use in their science, apply spatial concepts and engage in landscape analysis examining human social organization and its environmental consequences. Students will apply their background in World History, Introductory Geography, non-fiction reading, writing skills and critical thinking to the interesting and rigorous course content. Summer work is required in preparation for success in this AP course. Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to interpret maps and analyze geospatial data, define regions and evaluate the regionalization process, and characterize and analyze changing interconnections among locations.

AP European History 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 In the yearlong AP European History course, students survey the history of Europe from the Renaissance to the present, with an emphasis on the thematic developments of Western Civilization. The class examines social, political, economic, religious, and cultural movements that dramatically impacted history.

Major areas of study include the Renaissance and Reformation, the topics of the Enlightenment, the revolutionary movements of the 19th Century, the Industrial Revolution, 20th-Century conflict, and social reform. Emphasis will be placed on primary and scholarly sources equivalent to those gained in a collegelevel introductory course. Students are expected to use outside sources and the class to increase learning comprehension.

American Government ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This semester-long course will be a survey on several important aspects of the U.S. federal system, including U.S. government and constitutional history, national and state operations, politics, and the nature of the American democracy. Each section is designed to enlighten the student on the workings of the United States federal system and the role of the citizen in the foundation and operation of the government. Attention will also be given to the history of politics and politicians and the impact important political events have had on the country. The class will include in-depth discussion of current events as well as a term paper at the end of the semester.

Economics ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This semester-long course will focus on fundamental economic principles students will need to know as they advance to college-level economics classes. The class will focus on both micro and macroeconomics and will include ongoing instruction in personal finance. Students will be introduced to the Foundations of Financial Peace program created by Dave Ramsey and will learn the importance of avoiding debt and managing money. Each area of study is designed to assist the student in understanding basic mathematic principles of economics and the larger impact that money and the economy has on society overall. The main goal is to help the student understand and recognize trends in economics and be able to analyze data to better understand the new complicated global economy.

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U.S. History: 1820–1900 ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This semester course will cover United States history from 1860–1877, and, because the Civil War is the central event in American history, the causes and consequences will be stressed as well. Students will examine scholarly literature on the subject from varying viewpoints and discuss their own ideological understanding of the war. Topics include the Compromise of 1820 and 1854, the election of 1860, Fort Sumter, Emancipation Proclamation, the war itself, and the Reconstruction that followed. Great detail will be given to the battles, military leaders, and politicians who helped define this moment in history. Students will also be expected to write a research paper and get the opportunity to visit Civil War sites throughout middle Tennessee.

Psychology ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior and the mental processes. The scope of psychology is broad, ranging from the scientific activity of neurons and hormones, to the maze-running abilities of lab rats, to the effects of emotions on how we think and act towards others, to the influence of social contexts and cultures on our own behavior. This course will provide students with a broad introduction to the vast and exciting field. It will cover psychology’s basic subject matter across a variety of topics (i.e. development, learning, memory, abnormal behavior, and social influence), history of different psychologists’ approaches to collecting and evaluating evidence about behavior, as well as how psychological knowledge can be applied to understanding – and improving – everyday life.

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The Holocaust: Meanings & Implications ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course examines the systematic destruction of European Jewry and other groups during World War II, its background, and its aftermath. It addresses the attempts by victims, bystanders, perpetrators, and their descendants – and we are all their descendants – to create meaningful narratives about an event that appears to lack discernible meaning. To that end, it focuses on historical accounts, case studies, memoirs, fiction, and theology and such issues as history, memory, witness, conscience, language, evil, and others that they raise.

Conflict in the Middle East: A History of the Palestinian - Israeli Conflict ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 In the first part of this course students will examine the history of the encounter and conflict between Jews and Arabs in and around Palestine/Israel from the late 19th century through modernity. The second, and, arguably, most important part of the course will have students remember the humanity inherent within the historical and present conflict. Both Palestinian and Israeli authors will be juxtaposed against one another, allowing students to ruminate upon the lived experience of each party involved in the Conflict.

Ancient Mediterranean History, Literature, and Art ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 A survey of visual art and text that reflect religious beliefs and practices from the first century CE through the early Medieval Era, including monuments form Greco-Roman cults, early Christianity, Rabbinical Judaism, and Islam. Students will examine visual art and material artifacts in light of textual evidence for religious movements during these transitional and formational centuries.

Introduction to Sociology: Survey of American Social Issues ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course introduces the fundamental elements of sociology and applies them through an examination of modern social issues (i.e. healthcare, education, gun control, race relations, immigration, the environment, and civil rights). Students will learn the theoretical paradigms that define types and stages of social movements and will explore how social problems are addressed by means of research, media, journalism, leadership, violence/non-violent means, social norms, and personal biases/world view.

African American History ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 African American History is a semester-long course examining the rich contributions of African Americans in the history of the United States of America. This course is designed to expand on the traditional US History course by giving a comprehensive look at the historical account of Americans who have championed the cause of liberty and equality for all. For this reason, students must be currently enrolled in or have taken U.S. History or AP U.S. History as a prerequisite. The focus of the class will be on understanding the racialization of America, the significant contributions of African Americans in U.S. History, and how both race and the struggle for equality has significantly impacted the course of American history. It will be a class with a strong emphasis on the work that has been done in the past for equality, the leadership that exists today, and the hope of a racially reconciled America of the future. At the end of the class, students should be able to better appreciate the contributions of African Americans in the history of America as well as have an understanding of how the complexities of race have shaped and impacted American culture.

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WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT Students are required to complete two years of the same world language in grades 9-12 for graduation.

Students who have demonstrated their ability with an average of “A or high B” are encouraged to take the third, fourth, or fifth year of a language; however, a teacher recommendation is required.

A student earning a final grade of 85 or above in grade 8 world language may choose to remain in the same language (level II) or switch to level I of another language.

A student earning a final grade of 84 or below in grade 8 world language will be carefully screened by the world language faculty to determine readiness for level II. • Students in this category may progress to level II only with the recommendation of FRA faculty and administration.

• Students who are not recommended for level II will be required to choose a different language or repeat level I, based on the recommendation of the world language faculty and the administration.

World Language (2 credits required) In French and Spanish, students develop abilities to listen, speak, read, and write in the world language, gaining proficiency throughout the course of study. The main objective is oral and written communication.

Advanced courses (level III and beyond) are taught entirely in the world language. Cultural aspects of Francophone and Hispanic civilizations are woven into the curriculum. Latin and classical courses offer a rigorous study of grammar, vocabulary, and reading of the great classical works. In addition, students learn about the culture of ancient civilizations as well as the connections to the modern world and modern languages.

Upper level world language courses offer college-level exposure, especially in the four AP courses offered. A number of hosting and travel opportunities are sponsored by the world language department, which foster an authentic experience not possible in the classroom.

Course Options: French I (8–12) French II (9–12) French III or French III (H) (10–12) AP French Language & Culture (11 & 12) French Film, Music, & Literature* (11 & 12) Spanish I (8–12) Spanish II (9–12) Spanish III or Spanish III (H) (10–12) AP Spanish Language (11 & 12) AP Spanish Literature & Culture (11 & 12) Contemporary Spanish Language & Music* (12) Spanish Culture Through Film* (12) Latin I (8–12) Latin II (9–12) Latin III (H) (10–12) Latin IV/V (H) (11 & 12) AP Latin: Vergil (11 & 12) Classical Mythology* (9–12) Global Language Studies** (11 & 12) *One-semester course ** ½ credit as an elective. Does not replace the two full credits of French, Spanish, or Latin. May be taken for two semesters.

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French I 1 Credit Grades 9–12 French I is an introduction to the French language and Francophone culture. Communication in the target language is emphasized. Novice high proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational modes is the goal for this course. Through the study of other cultures, students will gain a greater degree of intercultural proficiency and global awareness.

French II 1 Credit Grades 9–12 French II is a continuation of French I, expanding proficiency to the intermediate range in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication. The study of Francophone culture continues.

French III 1 Credit Grades 10–12 This course seeks to expand communicative proficiency even further, to intermediate high and beyond if possible. Students will refine listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, and will use French not as the subject of their studies, but as the language in which those studies are being carried out. Studies deepen their understanding of their own culture and others.

French III (H) 1 Credit Grades 10–12 In addition to the regular French III curriculum, students will read and write extensively in preparation for AP French Language and Culture. Students will pursue self-directed projects that allow them to explore topics and questions of interest in the French-speaking world.

AP French Language & Culture 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course is an advanced study of language and culture of the Francophone world with concentration on perfecting interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication. Fluency and accuracy in French are developed within and across a wide variety of contexts. The course is conducted entirely in French.

Course themes include global challenges, science and technology, contemporary life, personal and public identities, families and communities, and beauty and aesthetics.

French Film, Music, & Literature ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course will continue to develop proficiency in French through an examination of the thematic units, as seen through the lens of contemporary film, contemporary music, and selected literature. Students enrolling in the course will help set the themes prior to the semester, and will also help drive the content. The course is suitable for pre-AP, post-AP, or as an elective capstone course beyond French III or French III (H). May be taken in the fall, spring, or both.

Spanish I 1 Credit Grades 8–12 Spanish I is an introduction to the Spanish language and the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries;. communication in the target language is emphasized. Novice high proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, 30

and presentational modes is the goal for this course. Through the study of other cultures, students will gain a greater degree of intercultural proficiency and global awareness.

Spanish II 1 Credit Grades 9–12 Spanish II is a continuation of Spanish I, expanding proficiency to the intermediate range in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication. The study of cultures of Spanish-speaking countries continues..

Spanish III 1 Credit Grades 10–12 This course seeks to expand communicative proficiency even further, to intermediate high and beyond, if possible. Students will refine listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, and will use Spanish not as the subject of their studies, but as the language in which those studies are being carried out. Studies deepen their understanding of their own culture and others.

Spanish III (H) 1 Credit Grades 10–12 In addition to the regular Spanish III curriculum, students will read and write extensively in preparation for AP Spanish Language & Culture. Students will be introduced to a broad literature base that allows them to explore topics and questions of interest in the Spanish-speaking world.

AP Spanish Language 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course is an advanced study of language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world with concentration on perfecting interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication. Fluency and accuracy in Spanish are developed within and across a wide variety of contexts. The course is conducted entirely in Spanish. Course themes include the arts, history, current events, literature, culture, and sports. Students will be exposed to a wide variety of authentic resources from native sources.

AP Spanish Literature & Culture 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course is a study of major literary themes and genres of Peninsular Spanish, Latin American, and U.S. Hispanic literature with readings of major authors from the Middle Ages to contemporary times such as Cervantes, Dario, Jorge Luis Borges, Isabel Allende, and Gabriel García Márquez. Cultural competence, linguistic proficiency, and literary analysis will be the emphasis of this course which is conducted entirely in Spanish.

Contemporary Spanish Language & Music ½ Credit Grade 12 This course uses Spanish music to increase communicative competence in the Spanish language. Students will study popular cultural trends and concepts mainly related to Spanish youth. Course is conducted entirely in Spanish.

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Spanish Culture Through Film ½ Credit Grade 12 Students in this course watch Spanish movies and documentaries to learn culture, colloquial vocabulary, customs, and literature. Students will increase communicative competence and will explore popular cultural trends from different Spanish-speaking countries. Films and documentaries that will be viewed for this course are from Mexico, Spain, Argentina, Costa Rica, and other Spanish-speaking countries. Course is conducted entirely in Spanish.

Latin I 1 Credit Grades 9–12 Latin I is an introduction to the language, culture, history, and mythology of the Roman people. This course will emphasize Latin grammar (and thus English grammar) and literature from the very first day while also introducing the student to the derivation of modern English from Latin.

Latin II 1 Credit Grades 9–12 Latin II continues the emphasis of Latin I in the study of the language, culture, history, and mythology of the Roman people, increasing the amount of ancient literature read and increasing the complexity of the grammar studied. By the end of the year, students will be starting to go beyond the textbook and into the realm of the real texts, preparing for Latin III.

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Latin III (H) 1 Credit Grades 10–12 Myths, Magic, and Mos Maiorum. In this course, students will read selections from a variety of Roman authors. Grammar and vocabulary are presented as a means to the goal of reading authentic Latin each day.

Cicero’s politically-charged rhetoric, Ovid’s epic poetry, and a number of comic, mythological, and historical sources are among what students will read. Literary discourse, criticism, analysis, and interpretation are practiced as a way of communing with the ancients and in order to prepare students for the AP curriculum.

Latin IV/V (H) 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This is an intensive survey of Latin literature, emphasizing vocabulary, grammatical comprehension, literary criticism, and the historical and political significance of Latin writings. Students will read everything from Plautus’s third century BC comedies, to Horace’s first century BC Odes, to the Vulgate Bible of the fourth century AD. AP Latin Vergil 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This is an intensive study of Vergil’s epic poem, The Aeneid, and of Caesar’s Gallic War. The course emphasizes vocabulary, grammatical comprehension, literary criticism, and the historical and political significance of the late first century BC and the rise of Augustus.

Classical Mythology ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Classical Mythology serves to give the students a background into many of the stories from ancient Greece and Rome, which have continued to influence modern literature, culture, and the art of all periods. Students will learn how the myths are not only entertaining, but also illustrate many themes which are as applicable now as they were in ancient times.

Global Language Studies ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 After a brief intro to world language families, language evolution, linguistics, and writing systems, students will begin a guided, independent study to acquire a third language – nearly any world language of their choosing. Students will collaborate with native speakers within their community to gain language skills and cultural awareness. Any student interested in this class needs to speak with the instructor in person and may need an application. Prerequisites for this course are two years of French, Spanish, or Latin.

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RELIGIOUS STUDIES DEPARTMENT The Religious Studies curriculum is elemental to the FRA academic program, and all courses are taught from a Christian worldview. Students must complete one unit (two semesters) of Religious Studies in order to graduate.

Course Options: Old Testament Survey* (9–12) New Testament Survey* (9–12) The Life of Christ* (9–12) World Religions* (9–12) Christian Leadership* (9–12) Faith & Film* (11 & 12) *One-semester course Old Testament Survey ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This course seeks to understand the purpose and complete picture of the Old Testament. We want to understand the special relationship that God established with the world, humanity, and the nation of Israel in particular. This course is taught as the basis for all of life as well as the foreshadowing of the coming of Jesus in the New Testament. This course is fall semester only.

New Testament Survey ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This course is taught for students to see the fulfillment of God’s design for mankind. Where we get glimpses of what is to come by studying the Old Testament, we are able to see the full picture in the New Testament.

God’s ultimate design of the redemption of mankind comes to fruition through the life of Jesus as detailed in the gospels as well as the fleshing out of the impact of his life as expressed in the rest of the New Testament.

This course is spring semester only.

The Life of Christ ½ Credit Grades 9-12 This course is taught almost as a history class about the actual life of Jesus on the Earth 2,000 years ago. Most of the material drawn for the class is taken from the Gospels of the New Testament with special emphasis on the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

World Religions ½ Credit Grades 9-12 This course is an investigation into the world’s most prominent and accepted religions. Both monotheistic and polytheistic religions are studied with emphasis on the cultures and practices of these religions as world views. Taught by a Christian teacher and in a Christian environment, we seek to understand and appreciate the beliefs and practices of the major religions of the world.

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Christian Leadership ½ Credit Grades 9-12 Christian Leadership is a semester elective course designed with a three-fold approach to Christian Leadership – Head, Heart, and Hands.

• Head – Academic knowledge of what it means to be a Christian leader • Heart – Developing and growing Christian leadership traits and abilities • Hands – Living out Christian Leadership The purpose of this course is not just to teach the students about Christian leaders and leadership attributes, but to help spark transformation in each student over the course of the semester that will continue beyond the classroom.

Faith & Film ½ Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course is designed for students to look for spiritual significance through the medium of film. Key elements of the class are the power of story in culture, the idea of Christ figures in movies, and our own interpretation and exploration of the spiritual and often religious themes of the films studied.

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FINE & PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT Arts (1 credit required) The Fine & Performing Arts department provides a wealth of opportunities for student participation and performance. Course options include drama, art, pottery, and clay design. Performance opportunities include instrumental and vocal ensembles and participation in solo and ensemble competitions at both the regional and state levels. Fine arts classes develop and nurture creative thinking skills. Arts courses provide balance to academic focus and encourage lifelong appreciation of the arts.

All students are required to complete one unit of fine or performing arts.

Course Options: Art I, II, or III* (9–12) AP Studio Art: Drawing (10–12) Ceramics I or II* (9–12) AP Studio Art: 3D Design (11 & 12) Dramatic Arts I or II* (9–12) Theater Tech* (9–12) Jazz Ensemble (9–12) Introduction to Band (9–12) Introduction to Guitar* (9–12) Concert Choir (9–12) Vocal Ensemble (9–12) *One-semester course Art I: Drawing ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Art I is for students who are interested in building on their current skills and knowledge from middle school art or other art classes. Students will concentrate on refining drawing skills and techniques as they deepen their understanding of compositional principles and learn to “see like an artist.” Media used in this class will consist primarily of pencil and charcoal.

Art II: Color Theory ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This course will develop skills learned in Art I as students work in a variety of color media, including colored pencils, markers, chalk and oil pastels, acrylic paint, and oil paint. Students will learn how to blend colors to create depth and interest in their art work. Art I is a prerequisite for this course.

Art III: Painting ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Painting affords serious art students the opportunity to work in acrylic and oil paint media as they follow the development of 20th-century art history. Students will study the painting styles and major artists of the modernist movement, then create art that demonstrates knowledge of the movement as well as skills developed in Art I and II. This course will prepare students for AP Art. Art I and II are a prerequisite for this course.

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AP Studio Art: Drawing 1 Credit Grades 10–12 AP Art provides the serious art student the opportunity for in-depth work in a variety of drawing and painting media. The class works toward the creation of a portfolio for consideration for college credit.

Students must be highly motivated and be able to put in extra time outside of class to meet all deadlines established by the instructor and the AP review board. Students will be expected to do homework assignments in this class. Students must have taken Art I, II, and III, and recommendation from the art instructor is required for enrollment.

Ceramics I ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This class is centered around the study of clay sculpture. Students will learn methods of working in clay, such as pinch and slab construction, as well as how to apply glazes and to fire clay objects and will receive basic instruction on the potter’s wheel.

Ceramics II ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This is a course for students who have completed Ceramics I and are recommended for advanced study in ceramics. Students learn to mix and formulate their own glazes, to operate and fire electric and Raku kilns, and to work with advanced problems in hand-building and wheel-throwing.

AP Studio Art: 3D Design 1 Credit Grades 11 & 12 3D Design involves purposeful decision-making about using the elements and principles of art in an integrative way. Students are asked to demonstrate their understanding of design principles as they relate to the integration of depth and space, volume, and surface. Students will demonstrate the mastery of 3D design through sculpture, architectural modeling, medal work, ceramics, glass work, and 3D fabric/fiber arts. To earn college credit, students must submit and have approved an appropriate and comprehensive 3D portfolio.

Dramatic Arts I ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This course places emphasis on the basic skills that are necessary to ensure success in the art of theater. The course includes a history of theater, a continual study of theater vocabulary and terminology, and the various elements involved in producing a play. The essential purpose of such a course is to introduce and reinforce new theatre techniques, aspects, and skills which the student may take with him/her if the decision is made to pursue dramatic arts in the future. The final assessment for this class is a teacher-directed, small scale production that could be attended by an audience.

Dramatic Arts II ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This class places emphasis on the skills that are necessary to ensure success in the art of theater acting. The course includes a continual study of theater terminology, beginner, and advanced improvisation, diction, projection, stage movement/presence, character analysis, audition proficiency, character analysis, scene study, and scene directing. The essential purpose of such a course is to introduce and reinforce new theater techniques, aspects, and skills which the student may take with him/her if the decision is made to pursue dramatic arts in the future. This course has a prerequisite of Dramatics Arts I or instructor approval.

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Theater Tech ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This course covers the various physical properties of technical theater production. Lighting, sound, and set design and construction will all be addressed. The class will be designing and constructing sets for school performances as well as individual lighting projects. Students will learn equipment operation, general maintenance, sound technique, and visual design.

Jazz Ensemble 1 Credit Grades 9–12 The primary goal of this course is to provide opportunities for music students to study jazz and other styles of music in an instrumental performing ensemble. The fundamentals of music performance such as sightreading, articulation, intonation, dynamics, and musicality are practiced daily. Individual creativity and improvisation are encouraged, as well as a deeper understanding and appreciation for the aesthetic qualities of music. Based on auditions and part balance, students will be placed in jazz ensemble.

Introduction to Band 1 Credit Grades 9–12 This class is offered to any student who would like to learn how to play an instrument with the goal of participating in the FRA advanced instrumental ensembles. The instruments are flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, bass, and percussion. Tone production, instrument technique, music reading, and overall musicianship skills will be learned. The students will practice with the aid of “SmartMusic” music software.

A band method book is also required. The group will have one performance each semester. This is a twosemester course.

Introduction to Guitar ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This one-year course is designed for students with no previous guitar experience. Students with some guitar experience with a desire to learn to read music will benefit as well. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar at a beginning level and will learn many of the different styles, skills, and techniques required to become a successful guitarist. Areas of concentration include correct posture, note reading, aural skills, flat-picking, singing songs, rhythmic patterns, chord study, finger-picking styles, musical forms, songwriting, improvisation, and performing experiences.

Vocal Ensemble/Concert Choir 1 Credit Grades 9–12 There are two choirs offered in the vocal music department which perform for school functions, community service/promotional events, as well as choral adjudications and competitions. Students will study score and sight-reading, part-singing, harmonization, and vocal technique. Based on auditions and balance within the groups, as well as individual interests, students may be placed in either Vocal Ensemble or Concert Choir/ Voice Class Students also have opportunities for individual competition in regional honors choirs, solo and ensemble festivals and mid-state/all-state auditions.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT All students are required to successfully complete one unit for graduation.

Physical Education (1 credit required) Course Options: Wellness* (9-12) Performance Fitness* (9-12) Dance* (9-12) *One-semester course Wellness ½ Credit Grades 9-12 This course is designed to motivate and enable students to improve their lifelong wellness by teaching them the concepts, knowledge, skills, and behaviors that lead to a healthy fitness level and regular participation in physical activity. The goals of this course are achieved through teaching components of fitness, training principles, nutrition, exercise fads and fallacies, strength training, various cardiovascular activities, CPR training, yoga, and Pilates.

Performance Fitness ½ Credit Grades 9-12 This course is designed to introduce students to task-specific performance fitness while increasing their levels of motor literacy. Students who exhibit a high level of participation consistently will acquire the necessary initial technique platform of muscular strength and endurance, joint mobility, body composition, linear speed mechanics, agility, and performance discipline.

Dance ½ Credit Grades 9-12 The objective of the upper school dance course is to expose the students to a variety of dance techniques in a structured dance class. These techniques include; Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary Jazz/Lyrical, Modern, Musical Theater-style Jzzz and Hip Hop.

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TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT Technology practice and theory is considered an integral part of the learning process at FRA. Technology (1/2 credit required) Students use laptop PCs to explore various computer/technology applications including: Microsoft Office Suite; Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign; online presentation software; and web design software. Along with the practical applications of these software, students also discuss ethical and safety concerns living in a digital world. Technology students are also exposed to 3D printers, the laser cutter/engraver, and other equipment in the Innovation Lab. Completion of one class from the Technology catalogue is required for graduation. In addition to the tech courses listed below, the following classes also count for tech credit: Engineering, Science and Technology, Robotics, Broadcast Journalism I & III. Course Options: (one semester each): Technology: Gaming & Simulation* (9–12) Digital Publications: Yearbook (9–12) Digital Media* (10–12) Innovations (9–12) Graphic Design* (9–12) Technology & Design Thinking* (9–12) AP Computer Science Principles (10–12) Technology Internship* (non-credit) *One-semester course Technology: Gaming & Simulation ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Students will learn the foundation of computer programming in this class. Introductory topics include gaming industry history, game development processes, game genres, storyboarding, game environment, character design, interface design, game play, AI, the psychology of game design, and professionalism.

Students will develop various games using various game design applications.

Digital Publications: Yearbook 1 Credit Grades 9–12 Digital Publications will be a yearlong class within the Upper School Technology Department. The class will focus on producing FRA’s national award-winning annual. A maximum of 10 students will be allowed on staff each year through an application process.

Digital Media ½ Credit Grades 10–12 Digital Media explores multiple forms of online media in the 21st Century – how we consume and create media as well as how we can determine what is fact from fiction from various media sources. Students will learn how to conduct interviews as well as write, edit, photograph, manipulate, and produce pieces for a media website. Sharing different points of view will be a main theme. Students will also discuss and debate the 1st Amendment, and current legal case studies affecting students’ rights in this digital age. Programs students will use include: Weebly, Adobe Photoshop, Audacity, as well as video editing software of choice.

Students will also explore new media platforms that have the potential to disrupt how we consume and 40

create media, namely through Virtual Reality. Students will maintain a blog for documenting weekly updates and reflecting on their work. Emphasis will be placed on written, audio, visual, and video media.

Innovations 1 Credit Grades 10–12 (by application only) Innovations is a yearlong technology elective devoted to design thinking and experiential learning. From start to finish, students take the lead in this predominantly project-based, passion-driven course. Students design their project(s), decide how success will be measured, seek outside mentors, and devise how to implement their plans. Innovations combines media technology skills with the meaningful exploration of community and global issues, and entrepreneurialism. Students will gain valuable experience in various forms of multimedia content production, innovative applications and presentational platforms as they explore what it means to be an innovator, leader, and entrepreneur.

Graphic Design ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Graphic Design is a one-semester Tech course focused on learning the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content within a 2D form. Software the students will use include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign.

Technology & Design Thinking ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Students will learn the DEEPdt (Discover, Empathize, Experiment, Produce) design thinking process through collaborative projects dealing with issues students face in Nashville and at FRA. Students will also work with one local non-profit organization to practice the DEEPdt process. Students would also spend dedicated time in the Innovations Lab learning to use the 3D printer, laser cutter, etc.

AP Computer Science Principles 1 Credit Grades 10–12 Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles encourages the application of creative processes while developing artifacts to solve problems. The course focuses on learning to create computational artifacts. Students enrolled in the course learn the role and impact of technology and programming in society. Students also develop an appreciation of programming and technology as a way to personally significant artifacts and an understanding of programming and technology as a way to create solutions to computational problems. In order to achieve AP credit for this course, students will be required to submit through-course assessments (artifacts) and complete end-of-course AP exam by the College Board.

Technology Internship Non-credit Grades 10–12 Students will gain hands-on experience while working at the FRA helpdesk. Students will work with FRA technology staff to gain experience repairing computers, working on technology projects, completing repair tickets and providing excellent customer support. Students may substitute a study hall in order to enroll in the internship program.

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ACADEMIC ELECTIVES Academic electives offered at FRA cover a variety of topics and life skills. These courses require studies beyond the classroom and may be used to complete the academic elective requirement for graduation.

Course Options: Public Speaking* (9–12) Broadcast Journalism* (9–12) Broadcast Journalism II* (11-12) Sports Business* (11 & 12) Criminology* (11-12) AP Capstone: Seminar* (11) AP Capstone: Research* (12) *One-semester course Public Speaking ½ Credit Grades 9–12 This course teaches the use of verbal and nonverbal communication to organize and deliver effective oral presentations. Emphasis is on research, preparation, delivery, and evaluation of informative, persuasive, and special occasion public speaking. Upon completion, students will be able to prepare and deliver wellorganized speeches and participate in group discussion with appropriate audiovisual support. Students will also demonstrate the speaking, listening, and interpersonal skills necessary to be effective communicators in academic settings and in the community.

Broadcast Journalism ½ Credit Grades 9–12 Broadcast Journalism is an introductory course designed to acquaint students with the fundamentals of broadcast production through a theory-based, hands-on approach, which includes writing, producing, on-air camera techniques, and computer editing. Students will receive basic training in videography techniques using digital technology to create various broadcasts for TV and the Internet (Podcasts). The class will focus on writing and reporting well-balanced, comprehensive, and visually compelling stories. Students will research, report, write, shoot, and edit stories. In addition, students will explore the history of radio and television and examine the responsibilities and ethics of broadcast journalists.

Broadcast Journalism II 1/2 Credit Grades 9–12 Broadcast Journalism II is a semester-long academic elective for students in grades 9-12. This is a second level course designed to challenge students whom already are equipped with the fundamentals of broadcast journalism. Students enrolled in this course will apply and use their journalistic skills for a variety of purposes. This course will have two objectives. The first is to develop the skills necessary to run a news broadcast and will cover topics such as interviewing, videography, and photography. The second is to use editing software to create creative videos with a variety of topics, including a PSA and short films. Students will have the opportunity to present their work to the student body and compete in national competitions.

Broadcast Journalism I is a prerequisite for this course

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Sports Business 1/2 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course will introduce students to the business of sports and its development into a $70-billion industry.

Topics include the history and growth of sports in America, understanding revenue streams, the importance of external communication (marketing, social media, public relations), local case studies in Nashville, and examining career opportunities in the field. This course will include a mixture of lectures, group projects, case studies, and guest speakers. Specifically, the projects and case studies will focus on conflict resolution, negotiation, interpersonal communication, and ultimately, public speaking. By utilizing the professional and collegiate teams in the area, students will have the ability to hear from, and ultimately present solutions to, local leaders in sports business.

Criminology 1/2 Credit Grades 11 & 12 This course is designed to give the students an in-depth look into the criminal justice system, to include a history of early police techniques developed by Sir Robert Peel to modern police techniques, such as the latest technology employed by police departments. Furthermore, students will be challenged to examine our current legal system and how court decisions have impacted and changed police procedures. Specific areas of interest will include DNA and fingerprint analysis and overall crime scene investigations. The course will conclude with a mock trial where all students will participate.

AP Capstone: Seminar 1 Credit Grade 11 The AP Seminar course will equip students with the power to explore academic and real-world issues from multiple perspectives. Through a variety of materials – from articles and research studies to foundational and philosophical texts – students will be challenged to explore complex questions; understand and evaluate opposing viewpoints; interpret and synthesize information; and develop, communicate, and defend evidence-based arguments. Samples of course themes that may be covered in AP Seminar include education, innovation, sustainability, and technology. Students are assessed through both an individual project and a team project completed during the year and a year-end written exam. AP Seminar is open to recommended juniors, and it is particularly encouraged for students simultaneously enrolled in AP English Language & Composition; however, seniors may take AP Seminar as well. Students must be recommended for AP Seminar based upon strong grades in English and History along with self-motivation and a strong work ethic.

AP Capstone: Research 1 Credit Grade 12 AP Research allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest.

Through this exploration, students design, plan, and conduct a year-long investigation to address a research question. In the AP Research course, students further develop the skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense. AP Seminar is a prerequisite for this course, and students must be recommended by the AP Seminar teacher.

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HONORS & AP COURSES FRA offers Honors courses in all academic areas. AP courses are offered in English Language and Composition, English Literature and Composition, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics C, World History, U.S. History, European History, Latin Vergil, French Language, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, AP Capstone, Studio Art: Drawing, and Studio Art: 3D Design.

FRA’s criteria for enrollment in Honors or AP courses are: 1. The student must be recommended by the previous-level teacher.

2. The student must have current standardized test scores above a required percentile in relevant quantitative and/or verbal areas.

3. The student should have an “A” average in previous course work in the particular subject area.

Occasionally, “high B” students will be considered on a space-available basis.

4. The student and parent(s) must acknowledge in writing the additional expectations associated with Honors and AP courses.

CALCULATION OF GPA Calculation of overall grade-point averages is the responsibility of the upper school administration. This information is used on transcripts and for reporting academic performance to colleges or for scholarship or awards consideration. Quality points are assigned based upon FRA’s alphabetical grade scale (page 5). An additional 0.5 quality point each semester of an honors course and 1.0 quality point each semester of an AP course will be added to participating students’ GPAs. GPA will be calculated at the end of each semester for grades 9-12. Grades earned for fall and spring semesters are the only grades used in determining GPA.

CLASS RANK As a matter of policy, FRA does not provide information regarding an individual student’s class rank.

Approximate class standing will be discernible through examination of the class profile in conjunction with reported GPA. In an effort to provide our students every advantage in the college admissions process, we will recognize valedictorian and salutatorian as well as those students whose academic numeric averages place them among the top 10 members of their class. FRA does not report class rank.

SCHEDULING Returning students will pre-register in February each year. Students will meet individually with their advisors and grade chairs to develop and refine a four-year graduation plan. There will be many others who can assist in this process including the academic coordinator, head of upper school, or college counselors.

All pre-registration for returning students will be completed online via Renweb. Students may make written requests for registration changes until July 1. After July 1, no schedule changes will be made until after the beginning of school. Students may make written requests for registration changes until July 1. After July 1, no schedule changes will be made until after the beginning of school.

Every effort is made to accommodate student requests for courses. Seniors are given consideration over students in grades 9-11. Academic course requirements always take precedence over electives, fine and performing arts, and enrichments in the scheduling process. The goal of registration at FRA is to allow students the ability to appropriately challenge themselves inside the FRA curriculum in order to build a 44

strong and diverse transcript. In order to allow our students flexibility in scheduling FRA will offer summer courses in the areas of wellness, technology, and religion

CREDIT POLICY The following is our failure/summer school policy: Fall Semester Spring Semester Credit Summer School Pass Pass 1 None Required Fail Pass ½ 1st Semester Only Pass Fail ½ 2nd Semester Only Fail Fail 0 Both Semesters *A passing grade at FRA means to earn a grade of 70 or higher.

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PERFORMING ARTS OPPORTUNITIES Dramatic Production Spring Evening with the Arts Winter Musical Production Fall Instrumental Music Performance and Competitions Cocoa & Carols Christmas Concert Electronic Music Ensemble Periodic Performances

Vocal Music Ensemble Performance and Competitions Blue Thunder Drumline

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STUDENT ACTIVITIES & ORGANIZATIONS Student Council Year-round Comprised of elected student leaders Academic Honor Council Year-round Students nominated and elected by class National Honor Society Year-round Specific induction criteria Instrumental Music Year-round Open to all students to audition Vocal Music Year-round Open to all students to audition Newspaper Staff Year-round Members chosen in fall Literary Magazine Year-round All students may contribute Robotics Year-round Open to all students FCA Year-round Open to all students Quill & Scroll Year-round Open to select students in publications Mu Alpha Theta Year-round Selected math students Alpha/Omega Year-round Open to all students Interact Club Year-round Open to all students Spiritual Life Committee Year-round Open to all students Debate Year-round Open to all students Model United Nations Year-round Open to all students International Club Year-round Open to all students Best Buddies Year-round Open to all students Science Olympiad Winter Students qualify through science class SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Fall FRAir Class Retreats Homecoming Decorating Contests Homecoming Dance Class Service Projects Winter Dance Senior Day May Day Junior-Senior Prom Prom Fashion Show Battle of the Bands Alpha/Omega Events PERFORMING ARTS OPPORTUNITIES Musical Production Fall Evening with the Arts Winter Dramatic Production Spring Cocoa & Carols Christmas Concert Electronic Music Ensemble Periodic Performances Instrumental Music Performance and Competitions Vocal Music Ensemble Performance and Competitions Blue Thunder Drumline

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SPIRITUAL LIFE By mission FRA is a school that implements all programs in an inclusive Christian environment. Students gather each day for a daily devotion offered by a member of the student body or faculty. FRA supports a Spiritual Life Committee, has chaplains for each class, participates in service days, and celebrates an annual Spiritual Emphasis Week. To supplement this part of the mission, the upper school partners with the Center for Philanthropic Studies to provide service opportunities and education. In addition, each FRA student must complete a full credit of religious studies to graduate. FRA is a non-denominational school that welcomes families of all faiths.

ATHLETICS Boys Sports Girls Sports Fall: Football Volleyball

Cross Country Cross Country Golf Golf Soccer Cheerleading

Winter: Basketball Basketball

Wrestling Cheerleading Bowling Bowling *Swimming *Swimming *Hockey

Spring: Baseball Softball

Tennis Tennis Track Track Soccer Lacrosse

FRA offers all of the varsity sports currently sanctioned by the TSSAA. In addition, students may elect to participate in the *non-TSSAA sports of swimming and hockey.

ATHLETIC FACILITIES FRA’s athletic facilities include: •

Four gymnasiums

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Football stadium

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Baseball stadium

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Soccer stadium

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Softball field

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Tennis courts

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Fully-equipped weight room

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Track and field with turf infield 48

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ALPHA & OMEGA All FRA upper school students are divided into two groups: Alpha and Omega. These groups compete in academic and athletic competitions throughout the year, as well as other fun events, promoting school spirit and healthy competition.

INTERIM During the four days before spring break, FRA provides unique experiential learning opportunities for upper school students. Each faculty member sponsors a class, trip, internship “job shadow,” or service project, and in addition, Interim offers overseas trips, mission trips, and community service. The wide selection of experiential and service learning opportunities allows our students to broaden their understanding of the world around them and explore vocational or philanthropic goals. The CPS works closely with the upper school to develop service-based education and opportunities for all FRA students. Interim is an integral part of the educational experience at FRA, and all students are expected to participate. Interim will be graded on a pass/fail basis and included on all transcripts.

KEY FACTS Located on a 57-acre campus in Nashville, Tennessee, FRA enrolls approximately 890 students in prekindergarten through grade 12. FRA’s upper school includes approximately 318 students in grades 9-12.

Admission to FRA is selective and based on the student’s ability to succeed in a college preparatory environment.

• FRA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern • Association of Independent Schools • All FRA students in grades 9-12 use tablet PCs in order to enrich their learning experiences and to better prepare them for collegiate life and professions.

• All FRA students in grades 9-12 must complete a minimum of 20 hours of community service for graduation.

• FRA matriculates 100 percent of our students to college each year. The graduating class of 2017 earned over $5 million in scholarships.

• FRA has a 12:1 student/faculty ratio and an average class size of 15.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES TURNER FELLOWSHIP

This summer program offers rising seniors, chosen by committee application and interview, the opportunity to serve at non-profit organizations in the Nashville community. Participating agencies have included The Margaret Maddox Family YMCA, The Salvation Army, The Martha O’Bryan Center, and St. Luke’s Community Center.

THE CENTER FOR PHILANTHROPIC STUDIES

The Center for Philanthropic Studies provides programming in community service, service learning, and philanthropic education for all FRA students. Experiential learning activities, student-led initiatives, Service Saturdays, and an introduction to the non-profit sector enrich academics and cultural and spiritual life.

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CAMPUS FACILITIES WEICKER CENTER FOR STUDENT LIFE FRA’s new Weicker Center for Student Life features a collegiate-style dining hall with state-of-the-art kitchen and servery, four dynamic classrooms, intentional student commons spaces for students to collaborate outside of the classroom, cafe and spirit store, a Heart to Heart classroom, specifically designed for students in that program, and new ahtletics and wellness spaces.

The Weicker Center also houses the Office of Admiission, Office of Security and Safety, and offices for the director of diversity, inclusion, and community, director of spiritual life, and director of the Center for Philanthropic Studies.

SCARLETT FAMILY CHAPEL

The newly-renovated Scarlett Family Chapel provides a place for the entire FRA community to come together for chapels, convocations, and other community events. With seating for 900, the chapel is used for daily upper school convocations, weekly middle school chapels, and all-school gatherings such as Spiritual Emphasis Week and Veterans Day Assembly.

HANDS-ON SCIENCE LABORATORIES Innovative academic spaces like a DNA Lab and Innovation Lab allow students to hone their team-building, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills in dynamic spaces as they become critical thinkers and leaders in pursuit of excellence.

THE L.M. CROCKETT LIBRARY FRA’s middle and upper school library has 25,000+ holdings of books, magazines, audio books, DVDs, and videos. It features an online card catalog system, nine databases, and Internet search capability with thousands of sources for those who log onto the library website. The library has a copier, scanner, and both black and white and color printers for student and teacher use.

There are 44 comfortable reading chairs and three study rooms which accommodate up to four students each for studying and collaborating on projects. The Rodewald Room under the cupola is available for conferences and luncheons.

SEABURY FAMILY CONFERENCE CENTER This state-of- the-art conference center features audio visual presentation equipment and conference seating for 100.

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER FRA’s Fine and Performing Arts Center features beautiful facilities, including an outdoor amphitheater, a 700seat theater with professional sound and lighting, and separate rooms and studios for visual and performing arts, band, dance, drama, and voice.

FRA students have many opportunities to express their talents through fine and performing arts, including two major drama productions each year – a fall musical and spring drama. FRA produces both Christmas and spring choral and band concerts, Cocoa and Carols, and Evening with the Arts – all of which showcase student talent.

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Franklin Road Academy 4700 Franklin Pike Nashville, TN 37220