2025-2026 Program of Studies Guide

2025-2026

Program of Studies Guide

Dr. Vittoria Pacifico, President

Dr. James Flynn, Principal

March 2025

Dear NDA Students and Parents,

At the Academy of Notre Dame, we believe that course selection in high school is a collaboration between students, faculty and school counselors. We strive to ensure that all students are taking classes that are both appropriately leveled, challenging, and will fulfill graduation requirements. The Program of Studies Guide for 2025-2026 provides information for Upper School academic offerings to guide students on both requirements and electives.

As you begin the course selection process, be sure to look carefully at core requirements and prerequisites for any College Prep (CP), Honors or AP courses. It is important to note that most AP and some Honors courses require work over the summer.

Final decisions about qualifying for Honor and AP courses depend upon grades by the end of the third quarter and recommendations by current teachers.

In addition to core classes, NDA offers elective courses in-person and virtually through Virtual High School (VHS). Electives offer students a wonderful opportunity to expand their knowledge and explore topics of interest more indepthly. Student counselors are available to discuss any questions and concerns with students and their parents/guardians.

I encourage you to challenge yourself academically as you prepare for your college and career journey.

Sincerely,

Dr. James Flynn Principal

Graduation Requirements

To qualify for an Academy of Notre Dame high school diploma, each student must earn a minimum of 25 credits in the following disciplines:

4 Credits of English

4 Credits of Mathematics

4 Credits of Theology

3 Credits of Laboratory Sciences*

3 Credits of Social Sciences

2 Credits of either French or Spanish*

1 Credit of Introductory STEAM Rotation

.75 Freshman, Sophomore, Junior Seminars

.5 Physical Education

The balance of the required credits is chosen from elective courses.

*Most students will graduate with four or more lab sciences and four years of immersion French or Spanish language.

Daily Schedule

Classes at the Academy meet on a modified block schedule. Students take six to seven classes each day for 45 or 90 minutes. Students will have an Advisory block at the end of the day that can be used to participate in an enrichment activity or as a study hall.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

REQUIRED COURSES

COMPUTER SCIENCE

COMPUTER SCIENCE ELECTIVES

645 Computer Science I: Coding Our Future

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Semester • .5 Credit

Explorations in Computer Science is designed to introduce students to what Computer Science is and how it can be applied to all other subjects through engaging and accessible topics such as human-computer interaction, computational thinking, algorithms, data analysis, and the societal impact of computing. The course will also include basic programming experience in Python, as well as beginning to explore HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

646 Computer Science II: Applications and Design

Grade: 10, 11, 12

• Semester • .5 Credit

Prerequisite: Computer Science I, Department Recommendation Required

This is an introductory course in computer programming. This course is intended to develop sound programming skills. Object oriented programming will be emphasized. Programs will demonstrate applications in mathematics, business, science, simulation, natural language processing, and games. There will be weekly programming assignments. This course will also include a more in-depth look into programming concepts using Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and an exploration of photo/video editing with such programs as Photoshop, Illustrator, and DaVinci Resolve.

650 Advanced Placement Computer Science A

Taking the Advanced Placement

Computer Science

A exam in May is a requisite in this course. Taking the Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles exam in May is a requisite in this course.

Grade: 11 & 12

• Full Year • 1 credit

Prerequisite: Computer Science I or equivalent entrance exam. Department Recommendation Required.

This course emphasizes programming design, algorithms, and code logic. Topics covered include design, coding, documentation, computational thinking practices, language features, data structures, and control structures, all in the use of the Java programming language. Advanced topics will also be discussed, such as classes, ArrayList, and manipulating elements in two dimensional array objects.

651 Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles

Grade 11 & 12 • Full Year • 1 credit

Prerequisite: Computer Science I/II or Departmental Approval Required

AP Computer Science Principles is an introductory college-level computing course that introduces students to a series of broad examples of the field of computer science. Students learn to design and evaluate solutions and to apply computer science to solve problems through the development of algorithms and programs. They incorporate abstraction into programs and use data to discover new knowledge. Students also explain how computing innovations and computing systems work, and collaborate on solving computing problems with a lens to what is technologically ethical.

COMPUTER SCIENCES

VHS LEARNING OPTION

The Academy offers additional opportunities for learning through VHS Learning. These online courses allow motivated students to investigate possible interests and take courses not offered at Notre Dame. A list of over 200 course offerings can be found at https://my.vhslearning.org/ There is an application process for Virtual High School and course requests must meet any stated prerequisites and approved by the school counseling department.

Space is limited. Further criteria for VHS courses as well as the process for registration may be found in the Student Handbook. Please see your school counselor with questions.

ENGLISH REQUIRED COURSES

112 Exploring Literature and Foundations in Writing

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Exploring Literature and Foundations in Writing class provides an introduction to discussing and writing about literature. Students will explore and analyze various genres, including poetry, short stories, mythology, dramas and novels, while developing skills for recognizing and analyzing both fiction and nonfiction literature. Along with intensive training in standard grammar and mechanics, students learn to use several methods of composition including expository, descriptive, persuasive and narrative. A research paper project will be assigned to allow students to demonstrate that they are able to synthesize the skills and perspectives they have been practicing all year. Students will also learn effective listening and speaking skills in order to improve a student’s communication and presentation skills.

111 Exploring Literature and Foundations in Writing Honors

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The Literary Experience and Creative Writing class develops composition skills and expands reading skills. Students will be asked to identify the author, poet or playwright, and to study his or her life in order to understand the human experience connection. Students review the principles of grammar and mechanics with special emphasis on structure, transitions, unity and clarity, as well as beginning to make use of more sophisticated rhetorical and stylistic tools. Students refine their literary skills as they study vocabulary and evaluate literary nuances that differentiate the genres of poetry, drama and narrative. A research paper project will be assigned to demonstrate the ability to synthesize the skills and perspectives studied. Students will also learn effective listening and speaking skills in order to improve a student’s communication and presentation skills.

122 World Literature and Writing Composition

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

In this course, students will be asked to think critically and comparatively about two of literature’s most enduring questions: What is universal in the human experience across time and space, and what is culturally specific? By reading ancient Athenian tragedy, early modern Japanese short stories, Chilean verse, and the Nigerian postcolonial novel, students will engage with the rich diversity of human literary expression. Grammar lessons build on the previous year’s topics, and regular vocabulary work stresses the varied, fascinating sources of English’s rich trove of words. Students will have the chance to write in styles they may not have encountered extensively before, including magical realism, satire, and East Asian comic drama.

121 World Literature and Writing Composition Honors

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

In this course, students will explore and analyze a variety of poems, short stories, nonfiction, dramas, sacred texts and essays from Africa, Ancient Greece and Rome, Southwest and South Central Asia, East Asia and the Pacific, Europe, and both early and modern Americas. Students will continue to explore various works for both their technical and artistic value. Students will be asked to identify the author,

poet or playwright, and to study his or her life in order to understand the human global experience connection and identify a universal truth to support a thesis. Students will continue to identify and apply a wide selection of literary terms that will be introduced, defined and analyzed. Students will continue to study techniques to strengthen reading comprehension and improve their level of vocabulary. Students will review and practice proper grammar and mechanics and punctuation. The students will have assignments that are both creative and expository in nature. Students will also learn effective listening and speaking skills in order to improve a student’s communication and presentation skills.

132 American Literature

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

In this historical survey of American literary expressiveness, we begin with Anne Bradstreet’s Puritan verse and finish in the company of contemporary masters of the novel such as Toni Morrison. In their encounters with the various eras and movements of our nation’s cultural life in sequence, students will experience the wide sweep and lasting importance of American fiction, essays, and poetry. Class members will write extensive critical essays in which they trace themes such as individualism vs. communitarianism, wilderness vs. civilization, and religiosity vs. secularism, and they will seek connections between the questions and preoccupations of diverse American writers and our modern concerns and aspirations.

131 American Literature/Critical Reading Honors

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Honors American literature reads a similar roster of major American authors to the curriculum featured in the College Preparatory course. Additional, more challenging supplementary readings provide a deeper and more complex picture of some of the liveliest and most important debates in American literature. The chief difference between Honors and College Preparatory American Literature lies in a more rigorous and ambitious schedule of writing assignments: Honors students will address the questions of identity, justice, and transcendence that lie at the heart of our natural literature in frequent synthetic essays and other written responses spanning a wide range of genres.

133 AP English Language and Composition

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

In many respects, Advanced Placement English Language and Composition follows much the same reading sequence of enduring American classics as the two American Literature courses, and in order to prepare students for the AP exam in the spring, this course heavily emphasizes American nonfiction and rhetorical prose. In addition to practicing strategies for both the essay and the multiple choice sections of the exam, students will explore the fascinating world of rhetoric and its various devices from the inside as they draft not merely analyses of literature, but also Horatian and Juvenalian satires, memoirs, editorials, and even political speeches. In the words of the College Board, “AP students are not expected or asked to subscribe to any one specific set of cultural or Taking the Advanced Placement English Language and Composition exam in May is a requisite in this course.

political values, but are expected to have the maturity to analyze perspectives different from their own and to question the meaning, purpose or effect of such content within the literary work as a whole” (CED 117). Accordingly, we will range freely across a wide variety of rhetorical approaches and situations, and students should expect to encounter authors and points of view that will challenge their assumptions. Successful completion of summer work is required for this course.

142 Traditions in British Literature and Composition

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The Traditions in British Literature course is an overview of British literature from early Anglo-Saxon to the twentieth century. Course study will include a variety of genres—epic poems, plays, poetry, novels, historical documents, and speeches—all presented in a thematic pattern. This course is designed to prepare the student for the reading, writing and research demands they will experience in their college work. Students continue to advance their writing and speaking with the continued practice of various modes of composition as well as a variety of individual and group presentations.

141 Traditions in British Literature and Advanced Composition Honors

Grade 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The Traditions in British Literature Honors course traces English Literature from its Anglo-Saxon roots through modernity and also introduces students to the myriad cultural and philosophical ideas that accompany the evolution of English literature. This course is designed to prepare the student for the reading, writing and research demands they will experience in their college work. Literature is designed to emphasize independent thought and critical thinking. Students will experiment with different types of writing, including literary analysis, persuasive writing, and research-based writing. There are also visual presentation projects incorporated into the class to teach students how to create an effective presentation.

140 AP English Literature and Composition

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The AP English Literature and Composition course is designed and taught thematically with an emphasis on core readings along with modern and contemporary selections that illuminate and expand upon a variety of themes. This advanced course will engage students in careful reading and analysis of a challenging set of literary works from a range of genres including the novel, short story, poetry, and drama. Students are expected to be active readers as they analyze and interpret textual detail, establish connections among their observations, and draw logical inferences leading to interpretive conclusions concerning the big questions in life. This class closely follows the requirements described in the AP (CED), including the fundamentals of literary analysis and composition.

Taking the Advanced

Placement English Language and Composition exam in May is a requisite in this course.

Students will encounter both vigorous discussions and an ambitious writing component emphasizing expository, analytical, and argumentative writing about literature. These approaches provide students with an

academic experience equivalent to that of a college-level literature course. According to the College Board, “AP students are not expected or asked to subscribe to any one specific set of cultural or political values, but are expected to have the maturity to analyze perspectives different from their own and to question the meaning, purpose or effect of such content within the literary work as a whole” (CED 117). Readings or discussions in class concerning controversial topics will be sensitively handled and restricted to appropriate academic discussions.

150 Creative Writing

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

In this course, students will explore the entire process of creative writing. The students will begin with an introduction of the creative writing process with the focus on specific literary elements such as setting, character, plot, point of view, and style. Students will read, critique, and compose original poetry, essays, short fiction, and creative non-fiction. Writing workshop opportunities will be offered to practice and refine their own skills and voice. Students will work collaboratively throughout the course, both offering each other constructive feedback and working together on projects. Students will develop a portfolio of written work in a variety of genres, lengths, and styles.

REQUIRED COURSES

FINE ARTS - MUSIC

610 Foundations of Music

Grade 9

As part of the one credit Freshman Introductory STEAM rotation, students will recognize the evolution of Western music through class discussion, aural examples and interactive assignments. From the Medieval period to American blues and pop of the 20th century, students will begin to see music as a mirror reflecting the life and times of the people creating it. Basic music theory will be introduced as students develop the skills to notate or record their musical ideas. Using music technology, specifically Chrome Music Lab and Spotify’s Soundtrap software, students will recreate music in the style of each period covered in the class. As a final project, students will create their own multi-layered composition in a style of their choice incorporating elements of melody, harmony, rhythm and texture covered in the class.

731 Music Theory & Composition

Grade 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

In Music Theory students will study the fundamentals of music including rhythmic and pitch notation, diatonic harmony and major and minor scales. Through aural listening exercises and interactive assignments, students will develop the tools to create, arrange and compose music with an emphasis on rhythm, melody, harmony and form. Utilizing Spotify’s Soundtrap software, students will discover the techniques behind sound and multi-track recording to enhance their compositions.

741 Piano - Beginner

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course focuses on developing students’ basic piano playing skills (posture, hand and finger placement, articulation and phrasing). Students learn to read music notation and use basic music terminology. They also become familiar with elements of music theory (e.g. meter signatures and major scales) and create simple melodies in major keys. Students have the opportunity to learn piano pieces from a wide variety of music styles and perform them in class and at school events.

742 Piano - Intermediate I

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The Piano Intermediate I course focuses on further developing students’ piano playing skills. Besides learning to play various music styles, students improve their technique through the regular study of piano exercises and major scales, as well as a variety of intermediate level pieces. Students of this level study concepts of music theory in more depth, compose simple melodies in minor keys, and are introduced to music software. Piano Intermediate I students prepare a selection of pieces for performance in class and school events.

743 Piano - Intermediate II

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The Piano Intermediate II course further explores the intermediate repertoire of all music periods. Piano Intermediate II students practice longer and more advanced intermediate level pieces, and they advance their technique through the practice of piano studies.

744 Piano - Honors

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Students must have permission to take this course. This course explores piano music of advanced intermediate level from all music periods. Piano Honors students practice a selection of works that require more advanced technique and interpretation than the Intermediate repertoire. Students also explore the different piano forms and analyze pieces using theory terminology. A requirement for receiving honors credit is an original composition to be performed at fine arts night.

751 Guitar 1

Grade 10, 11, 12 • Semester • .5 Credit

Guitar 1 is a one-semester course covering the basics of the instrument and an application of essential music fundamentals. Students will learn to play guitar by ear and from music notation while studying various musical styles and introductory music theory. Strumming rhythms and finger picking will be introduced as a means of accompaniment and pentatonic scales will be taught as a precursor to improvisation.

760 Music technology

Grade: 10, 11, 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This hands-on course is designed to allow students to explore music creation and music production. Students will be encouraged to express their creativity through the use of music notation software (Noteflight) and music production software (Soundtrap). Students will develop the capability to work with pre-recorded loops, multi track sessions and recording, and editing audio. There is no prerequisite, just a willingness to create, capture and develop musical ideas.

REQUIRED COURSES

FINE ARTS - VISUAL

610 Foundations in Visual Art

Grade: 9

As part of the one credit Freshman Introductory STEAM rotation, this course provides students with the opportunity to understand their natural potential to be creative. Emphasis is placed on gaining an appreciation for creativity in its many forms through the use of collaborative and individual hands-on projects. Students will learn about a variety of 2-dimensional and 3 dimensional art techniques and processes with a focus placed on understanding the Elements & Principles of Art and how we can actively use them to enhance our work. . This course will also introduce the concepts of art aesthetics, criticism, and art history and acts as the base upon which all other studio classes are built.

Elective Art Courses

Studio II, III and all Honors Level need teacher approval/portfolio review if they wish to change the normal sequence of Studio classes.

705 Studio Arts: 2D Design

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Students in this course will establish and refine techniques to create a range of 2-Dimensional (2D) artworks in multiple mediums. We will focus on drawing, painting, collage, pen/ink, charcoal, and printmaking. With a strong emphasis on observational work and an introduction to historical/ contemporary artists.Students are guided to expand their understanding of art on the global stage. We will tackle common problems of technique and composition and explore the nuances of content and personal expression.Finally, students will use the art criticism process to evaluate, explain, and measure artistic growth

715 Studio Arts: 3D Sculpture & Design

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Studio 2D

This course focuses on student concepts of three-dimensional forms and ideas. Students explore the basic elements and principles of art, “in-the-round,” through mixed media, wire, clay, cardboard, and plaster construction & modeling techniques. We strive to build an informed visual vocabulary to develop personal expression both in individual and group based projects. Students are challenged to demonstrate their understanding of course content through critiques, projects, paper assignments, mixed media investigations, and techniques involving three-dimensional constructions.

720 Studio Arts: Intro. to Portfolio Design

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Studio 3D

This course is for the student wishing to pursue art school or the satisfaction of having a curated body of work. On completion of a summer assignment; intermediate to advanced level art students will work independently in a variety of techniques/mediums - Emphasis is placed on concept development, indepth investigation, and critical analysis. Projects will alternate between direct instruction during technical studies and independently. Focus areas may include but are not limited to; gesture, observation, range of expression, mixed-media assemblage, fashion, sculpture, and landscape/portrait. On completion of the course students will have a college ready process portfolio and a body of work ready for submission to both portfolio workshops and program applications.

740 Honors Art Portfolio

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Studio Arts: Intro to Portfolio Design

This honors level intensive course; for students who have demonstrated a high standard of artistic skill and motivation, is focused on further developing conceptual creativity, self-discipline, expression, and the skills acquired in the previous portfolio class. Students in Honors Art will develop a framework of themes derived from peer/teacher discourse and will explore 1-4 of these throughout the course of the year. Semester 1: focuses on developing these themes and monthly technical explorations of artists/ mediums. Semester 2: focuses on generating a series of portfolio ready honors level submissions based in a concentration area of the students choice.

REQUIRED COURSES

M ATHEMATICS

All math classes require a graphing calculator beginning freshman year. The Math Department strongly recommends Texas Instruments’ TI-84 (any version will do). Note: the TI-86 is not recommended. Any other brand of graphing calculator will serve; however, many are not as user-friendly.

212 Algebra I

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

A strong foundation in Algebra I is critical for success in high school math and science. The course begins by reviewing some topics from middle school Algebra, emphasizing systematic technique and applying these concepts and skills to more complex and real world problems. Students will solve equations (linear and quadratic) and inequalities, and perform polynomial operations, including factoring. You will be introduced to function notation and solving systems of linear equations algebraically and by graphing as well as translations of various functions and how to graph them. You will use hands-on applications and labs to demonstrate real world analysis. Calculators will be used as a tool once concepts are mastered, and computer lab sessions integrate algebra with technology. You will work on a cumulative interactive online notebook covering major topics for the year which will serve as a resource for future courses.

211 Algebra I Honors

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course covers the topics described for the college preparatory Algebra I (212) course and goes more in-depth and moves at a faster pace. Coursework also includes a greater emphasis on word problems connecting algebra to the real world. Desmos interactive activities are used to enhance algebraic concepts.

222 Geometry

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra I

This course covers the facts, concepts, and processes of Euclidean plane and coordinate geometry. You will improve your thinking skills using deductive and inductive reasoning, and apply a variety of strategies to solve geometry problems. You will develop the ability to write basic formal two-column proofs for various applications and are trained in formal deductive logic, a critical thinking skill applicable across other subjects and everyday life. You will also apply coordinate geometry concepts from algebra. Algebraic concepts are reviewed and applied throughout the course. Right triangle trigonometry, geometric probability and statistics are introduced. Tinkercad and Geogebra interactive activities are used to enhance geometric concepts.

221 Geometry Honors

Grade: 9, 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra I Honors (or Department approval)

This course covers the facts, concepts, and processes of Euclidean plane and coordinate geometry, and goes more in-depth and moves at a faster pace than the CP course. You will improve your thinking skills using deductive and inductive reasoning, and apply a variety of strategies to solve geometry problems. You will develop the ability to write formal two-column proofs for various applications and are trained in

formal deductive logic, a critical thinking skill applicable across other subjects and everyday life.You will also tie in coordinate geometry concepts from algebra. Fluency in Algebra I is expected. Right triangle trigonometry, geometric probability and statistics are introduced. Interactive notebooks are used to enhance student learning of major concepts.

232 Algebra II

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Geometry

Algebra II builds on the skills and concepts of Algebra I. This course continues to examine number systems, and emphasizes properties to solve equations and inequalities, and diverse word problem applications. Various techniques are taught for solving linear systems in one and two variables, including graphing. Rational expressions, imaginary numbers and quadratic equations are introduced. Fluency in Algebra I and recall of geometry is expected. Problem-solving techniques and real world problems are embedded throughout the course. You will use draw it, solve it, write it steps to solve linear word problems.

231 Algebra II Honors

Grade: 10, 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Geometry Honors (or Department approval)

This fast-paced course is for students who have demonstrated in their high school coursework a high aptitude in math and expect to take rigorous math courses in college. This course stresses both the theory and structure of Algebra. The course extends the topics from Algebra I and uses these to build on others. Emphasis is placed on linear equations and inequalities, systems of equations and inequalities, absolute value, quadratic functions and relations, polynomial functions, inverses, radical functions and relations, exponential and logarithmic functions and relations,rational functions and relations, and conic sections. Problem-solving techniques and real world problems are embedded throughout the course. Mastery of concepts from Algebra I is expected.

236 Pre-Calculus

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Department approval and at least 73 average in prior math classes.

This course is designed to prepare you for a future course in Calculus by building on and strengthening concepts of Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry. Functions are studied in detail, including composition and inverses. Other topics include the algebra of exponential and logarithmic functions, techniques of graphing and analyzing polynomial functions. Approximately one-third of the course focuses on trigonometry and its applications. Critical thinking skills are used to tie these concepts to real-world applications. At the end of each unit, you will complete an interactive project that ties a major concept learned to a career or field of study using the specific concept.

235 Pre-Calculus Honors

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: 80 average or better in Honors Geometry and Honors Algebra II or Honors Algebra I/II. It is not possible to move into this course from Algebra II CP.

This rigorous course is for students who have demonstrated in their high school coursework a high aptitude in math and who desire a solid preparation for college math. All the necessary topics of a precalculus course will be developed. This course integrates geometric and algebraic concepts, unifying the fundamentals of high school math while introducing concepts of higher math as extensions of familiar ideas. The fundamentals and applications of trigonometry will be covered, as well as methods of graphing because of their importance and relevance in preparing students for calculus. Higher-order critical thinking is needed to be able to tie these concepts to real-world applications. At the end of each unit, you will complete an interactive project that ties a major concept learned to a career or field of study using the specific concept.

242 Calculus

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre - Calculus or Honors Pre-Calculus

This introductory Calculus course is for the student who wishes to learn the fundamental techniques and concepts of calculus in preparation for a college Calculus course. To ensure successful mastery of this material, a thorough review of key Pre-Calculus topics will be provided as needed. Topics covered will include the key concepts of limits, continuity, the derivative, techniques and applications of differentiation, definite and indefinite integrals, and techniques and applications of integration. Students work on a cumulative interactive online notebook covering major topics for the year which will serve as a resource for future courses.

240 Calculus Honors

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Pre-Calculus

This introductory Calculus course is for the advanced student who wishes to learn the fundamental techniques and concepts of calculus in preparation for a college Calculus course. To ensure successful mastery of this material, a thorough review of key Pre-Calculus topics will be provided as needed. Topics covered will include the key concepts of limits, continuity, the derivative, techniques, and applications of differentiation, definite and indefinite integrals, and techniques and applications of integration. You will work on a cumulative interactive online notebook covering major topics for the year which will serve as a resource for future courses. The interactive notebook includes definitions, examples, and podcasts. Review games are played for a fun way to review major concepts.

241 AP Calculus

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: 87 average or better in Honors Pre-Calculus and department approval.

AP Calculus is a college level course for the advanced student who wishes to prepare to obtain credit and/or advanced placement in college. Topics are covered in greater depth and with far greater rigor than in Honors Calculus. Both differential and integral calculus will be covered. Topics match the College Board Calculus AB syllabus, including functions, limits, derivatives, definite and indefinite integrals, and applications. Matching cards to enhance the understanding of concepts are used as a review. The AP College Board Classroom is used to help you enhance your understanding of concepts being tested on the exam.

250 Probability and Statistics

Grade: 11 & 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Taking the Advanced Placement Calculus exam in May is a requisite in this course.

This is an introductory full-year course that involves the study of chance occurrences (probability) and numerical data (statistics). Beginning with an introduction to the vocabulary behind statistics, students will learn how to collect and analyze data, and use those analyses to predict future outcomes of events. Topics include: measures of central tendency, variability and position, categorical and bivariate data analysis, probability and its uses, and the normal curve and its applications.

245 Financial Math

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II

This course is designed to go through the everyday mathematics of finance and budgets. Real world topics will include income, taxes, renting/leasing an apartment, purchasing a home, financing a car, health and automobile insurance, retirement, fixed and variable costs of a home/apartment, and savings programs. All of these topics will be presented in a hands-on budget simulation as well as through a long-term stock market project.

REQUIRED COURSES

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & WELLNESS

810 Physical Education

Grade: 9 • .5 Credit

It is designed to give students an opportunity to participate in a variety of physical activities and sports. Improving physical skills, sportsmanship and cooperation are stressed. Both individual and team sports and activities are offered. The overall physical and emotional benefits of participating in lifelong physical activities is emphasized.

Wellness Seminars

Grade: 9, 10, 11 • Full Year • .25 Credit

Grade 12 • 1st Semester • Required •.No Credit

820 Freshman Seminar

Grade 9 Full Year • .25 Credit

This seminar seeks to support and reinforce skills being taught in the classroom : Transition to High School, study skills, time management, listening, organization, advocating and note taking. Students will be introduced to Naviance - NDAs college and career website - through a curriculum of career exploration as well as resume building, strengths explorer, learning style, personality assessments and resume building. In addition, this seminar introduces social-emotional learning designed to provide students the relevant life skills for success in and out of the classroom.

821 Sophomore Seminar

Grade 10 • Full Year • .25 Credit

Seminar students continue to work on Naviance with careers and interest exploration building on freshman year assessments. Student will begin to explore colleges, take the Pre-ACT test and and review results and test preparation strategies as well as continued resume building. Students will continue with social-emotional learning lessons designed to provide students the relevant life skills for success in and out of the classroom.

822 Junior Seminar

Grade 11 • Full Year • .25 Credit

This seminar focuses on preparing students for the upcoming college process and will continue to explore social and emotional learning designed to provide students the relevant life skills for success in and out of the classroom. Students will take the PSAT this year and work on test prep for the SAT/ACT, resume building, the Common application, essay writing as well as college admissions.

828 Senior College Seminar

This bi-weekly 1st semester meeting supports seniors with Naviance use and college applications. Students will explore college fit, financial aid and scholarship information through the Naviance curriculum. Students will also continue with social-emotional learning curriculum. This course is required for all seniors.

REQUIRED COURSES

SCIENCES

521 Biology Honors

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Honors Biology uses a multi-level approach to study the principles of life in an evolutionary context. The treatment of these principles is more in-depth than in BIOLOGY. Topics include biochemistry and metabolism, cell biology, enzymes and energy, molecular biology, cell cycles and reproduction, genetics, evolution, ecology, and multicellular life. Concepts are illustrated through the study of selected organisms and homeostasis. The relationship between structure and function in living systems is stressed throughout the course. Students will apply critical thinking & logical reasoning skills throughout the course. Laboratory study is an integral part of this course and requires the ability to plan, analyze, and execute experiments. Students are trained to deliver laboratory results in a scientific manner. Selfmotivation and a high level of personal responsibility are essential qualities of the honors level student.

522 Biology

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course uses a hands-on approach to explore the following principles of biology: biochemistry, cell biology, enzymes and energy, molecular biology, cell cycles and reproduction, genetics, evolution, ecology, and multicellular life. Concepts are illustrated through the study of selected organisms and homeostasis. The relationship between structure and function in living systems is stressed. Activities to practice critical thinking skills as well as discussion of current events and ethical issues related to biology are included. Scientific methods are introduced and practiced in the laboratory activities. Laboratory sessions align with lecture sessions to reinforce concepts studied.

531 Chemistry Honors

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

The honors course offers a more rigorous and mathematical introduction to chemistry than does the CP chemistry course. It is open to students with above-average mathematical ability and demonstrated ability in science. The same basic topics of CP Chemistry, plus kinetics involving rates of reaction, equilibria with Keq calculation and thermodynamics with calorimetry measurements are covered. Topics are researched in greater depth while laboratory work and application problems require more intuitive reasoning on the part of the students.

532 Chemistry

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of chemistry for the college-bound student as reflected in the Massachusetts High School Frameworks. Acquired skills will include: measurement in the lab with respect to significant figures, classification of matter via particle properties, chemical shorthand, the mole concept and stoichiometry, atomic structure utilizing spectrographic analysis via the flame test, the periodic table, states of matter emphasizing the six phase changes, gas laws with focus on the Ideal Gas Law, solutions with creating a solubility curve, acids bases with both indicator and pH monitoring titrations and chemical reactions with gravimetric and volumetric analysis.

540 Physics Honors

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Honors Chemistry

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of physics that moves at a faster pace and goes more in-depth than the CP course. Physics is the study of matter and energy and their relationship together. Topics include Newton’s Laws, force, power, energy, momentum, waves, gravity, light, sound and electricity. Students will be expected to perform advanced mathematical computations utilizing geometry, trigonometry and algebra. Laboratory experiments are performed throughout the course to reinforce concepts studied. Ability to work independently and in groups is crucial for success in this course.

541 Physics

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Chemistry

The main objective of this physics course is to provide students with a clear and logical presentation of some of the basic concepts and principles of physics. Physics is the study of matter and energy and their relationship together. Topics include Newton’s Laws, force, power, energy, momentum, waves, gravity, light, sound and electricity. Laboratory experiments are performed throughout the course to reinforce concepts studied. Basic mathematical skills, including geometry and trigonometry will be applied to the study of physics concepts.

542 Anatomy and Physiology Honors

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This fast-paced course is designed for students interested in health sciences or in biology as a science major. Course topics include biochemistry as it applies to human physiology, cell and tissue functions, and the systems of the human body. Course requirements include dissection of the fetal pig, clinical blood work analysis, oral presentations, and lab practicals. Anatomy studies are followed by physiology labs to provide an enriched picture of the body structure and function. Some examples of physiology experiments will include experiments involving the digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems.

543 Anatomy and Physiology

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course is designed for students interested in health sciences or in biology as a college major. The material presented is at a moderate pace appropriate for the CP student. Those students opting for CP credit will still do all the core subject material topics which include biochemistry as it applies to human physiology, cytology, histology, and the systems of the human body. The course will include dissection of a fetal pig. Students will take modified lab practicals. Anatomy studies are followed with physiology labs to provide an enriched picture of the body structure and function. Some examples of physiology experiments will include experiments involving the digestive, respiratory and circulatory systems.

SCIENCES

545 AP Biology

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Must have completed Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry, have Department approval and successfully complete summer prequalification material which will be assigned in May..

This course offers students a solid foundation in introductory college-level biology and is organized around the Big Ideas, enduring understandings, and science practices outlined by the College Board. Connections between the Big Ideas are stressed throughout the course. Students will be encouraged to look for patterns that help them to understand “the big picture” and to apply their understanding to interpret the experimental data and provide the solutions of the new problems. Students will be required to use technology along with mathematical and statistical analysis appropriately. Scientific reading and writing, critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills will be stressed both in class activities and in evaluations. Topics and contents, expectations, workloads, and assessments of this course are designed and developed following the guidelines from the College Board AP Bio curriculum. The AP Biology student should be highly motivated and able to learn independently.

546 AP Chemistry

Grade: 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Must have completed Honors: Biology, Chemistry and Algebra II, have Department approval and summer prequalification material which will be assigned in June and must be completed by the first day of classes.

Taking the Advanced Placement Biology exam in May is a requisite in this course.

Taking the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam in May is a requisite in this course.

The AP Chemistry course curriculum presents the student with nine major topics: Atomic Structure, Molecular and Ionic Compounds, Intermolecular Forces, Chemical Reactions, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Kinetics, Acids and Bases and Applications of Thermodynamics. Laboratory work will involve completing AP Chemistry experiments designed to implement and exercise acquired skills from the nine major topics and the seven science practices with the result of students thinking and acting like scientists .Experiments will involve spectrographic analysis, Beer’s Law, acid base titration, redox titration, gravimetric analysis, vacuum filtration, Keq calculation, Ksp calculation, mole ratios, rate constant calculation, heat of fusion calculation, and Hess’ Law.

547 Forensic Science

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry

This course will focus on the process of science -- making careful observations, performing detailed laboratory procedures, keeping accurate records, writing clear and concise reports, and explaining and defending your conclusions. Students will apply these skills as they learn to process a crime scene and analyze evidence. Types of evidence considered will include time of death, fingerprints, fiber and hair samples, drugs, blood, DNA, glass, bones and handwriting samples. An understanding of basic principles from the disciplines of biology, chemistry, and some elementary physics will provide the foundations for analyzing evidence. Scientific thinking and critical problem solving will be stressed in all aspects of the course.

549 Environmental Science

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Biology

This course studies the earth as an interconnected system including its place in the universe, its major systems, and the impact of human activity. It introduces concepts of astronomy and the earth’s origins, as well as the sun as the driving force of energy for all of the earth’s systems. Students begin to examine the ways that human activities cause feedback loops that create changes to other systems. Students understand the system interactions that control weather and climate, with a major emphasis on the mechanisms and implications of climate change. Major ideas discussed: the Big Bang, surface processes, natural resources, natural hazards, biodiversity, human impact on earth systems and global climate change. Students learn through laboratory experiments, hands-on projects, collaborative groups, project-based units, and the use of multimedia/technology.

610 STEM Foundations

Grade: 9

As part of the one credit Freshman Introductory STEAM rotation, this STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) course takes an introductory and interdisciplinary approach to learning designed to engage students in hands-on, real world, and relevant projects and activities. Students will do the work of scientists, mathematicians, engineers, programmers, computer scientists, and inventors. This future-focused learning course will have students collaborate, research, create, synthesize, think critically, and communicate effectively – all transferable skills that students will need to learn and execute to be adaptable in our rapidly changing world.

REQUIRED COURSES

SOCIAL STUDIES

311 Global History I

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course is a sweeping survey of World History from ancient times to the 1700’s. This course is designed to encourage student analysis of the patterns of history, as well as the cause and effects of historical events. Over the course of the year, students will learn to think critically about the story of the human race. Class will examine themes such as geography, religion, power dynamics, cultural exchange, the roles of women and politics. Students will study the development of governments, economies, laws and technology. In this course, students will begin a lifelong journey towards becoming autonomous thinkers about the world, its origins and its future. To reach this goal students will discuss current events and relate them to the themes and topics covered. Viewing the happenings of the world through a historical lens will help students better understand the issues in our world today, and how they can begin to tackle them. Through a comparison of themes, topics and current events students will grow as young historians. Students will deepen their abilities to think critically, develop arguments, analyze sources and solve problems. These skills are the foundations of global citizenship and with them students can help make the world a better place for all.

310 Global History I Honors

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course is a sweeping survey of World History from ancient times to the 1700’s. This course is more in depth and moves at a faster pace than Global History. It is designed to encourage student analysis of the patterns of history, as well as the cause and effects of historical events. Over the course of this year students will learn to think critically about the story of the human race. Throughout the course, students will examine themes such as geography, religion, power dynamics, cultural exchange, the roles of women and politics. Students will study the development of governments, economies, laws and technology. In this course, students will begin a lifelong journey towards becoming autonomous thinkers about the world, its origins and its future. Students will discuss current events and relate them to the themes and topics covered. Viewing the happenings of our world through a historical lens will help students better understand the issues in our world today, and how students can begin to tackle them. Through a comparison of themes, topics and current events students will grow as young historians. Students will deepen their abilities to think critically, develop arguments, analyze sources and solve problems. These skills are the foundations of global citizenship and can help make the world a better place for all.

322 Global History II

Grade: 10 • Semester • .5 Credit

Prerequisite: Grade 9 Global History

This course is a continuation of Global History I’s survey of World History and continues from 1700 to the start of the Cold War, designed to synthesize student analysis of the patterns of history, with the cause and effects of historical events. Throughout the course, students will build on the skills developed during World History I to think critically about the story of the human race. Students will examine themes such as imperialism, war, power dynamics, revolution, the roles of women, race and globalization. We will

SOCIAL STUDIES

study the modern development of governments, economies, laws and technology. In this course, students will utilize the skills gained from World History I and combine them to develop complex, evidence-based arguments about the world, its origins and its future. Students will discuss current events, historical context and various mediums of source material and relate them to the themes and topics covered.

323 Global History II Honors

Grade: 10 • Semester • .5 Credit

Prerequisite: Grade 9 Global History Honors and Teacher recommendation

This course is a continuation of Global History I’s survey of World History and continues from 1700 to the start of the Cold War. It is designed to synthesize student analysis of the patterns of history, with the cause and effects of historical events. Throughout the course, students will build on the skills developed during World History I to think critically about the story of the human race. Students will examine themes such as imperialism, war, power dynamics, revolution, the roles of women, race and globalization. We will study the modern development of governments, economies, laws and technology. In this course, students will utilize the skills gained from World History I and combine them to develop complex, evidence-based arguments about the world, its origins and its future. Students will discuss current events, historical context and various mediums of source material and relate them to the themes and topics covered. The Honors course moves at a faster pace and has more in depth content.

324 United States History I

Grade: 10 • Semester • .5 Credit

This course introduces students to American History beginning with the Road to the Revolution 1763 through the period of Reconstruction. This course takes students on a compelling journey through early American history, exploring the pivotal events and influential figures that shaped our nation. Students will investigate the complex factors that led American colonists to declare independence from Great Britain, analyze the challenges faced during the formation of a new democratic republic, and examine the critical issues that ultimately led to the Civil War. Throughout this course, students will develop historical thinking skills through primary source analysis, engage in historical debates, complete research projects, and write analytical essays. Key topics include colonial society, the American Revolution, Constitutional Convention, Westward Expansion, Industrial Revolution, and the Impact of Slavery. Students will demonstrate their understanding through various assessments including document-based questions, presentations, and a final research paper focusing on a significant person or event from this time period. By the end of this course, students will have a deep understanding of how the United States evolved from British colonies to a divided nation, and the lasting impact these early years had on American society.

325 United States History I Honors

Grade 10 • Semester • .5 Credit

Prerequisite: Global History II Honors

This course introduces students to American History beginning with the Road to the Revolution 1763 through the period of Reconstruction. This course takes students on a compelling journey through early American history, exploring the pivotal events and influential figures that shaped our nation. Students

will investigate the complex factors that led American colonists to declare independence from Great Britain, analyze the challenges faced during the formation of a new democratic republic, and examine the critical issues that ultimately led to the Civil War. Throughout this course, students will develop historical thinking skills through primary source analysis, engage in historical debates, complete research projects, and write analytical essays. Key topics include colonial society, the American Revolution, Constitutional Convention, Westward Expansion, Industrial Revolution, and the Impact of Slavery. Students will demonstrate their understanding through various assessments including document-based questions, presentations, and a final research paper focusing on a significant person or event from this time period. By the end of this course, students will have a deep understanding of how the United States evolved from British colonies to a divided nation, and the lasting impact these early years had on American society. The Honors course moves at a faster pace and has more in depth content.

332 United States History II

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This course is a continuation of US History I providing an overview of American History from the Industrial Revolution to the Twenty-first Century. Using the Socratic method, students will discuss and debate the social, political, cultural and economic developments with special attention on the people and events that affected the lives of ordinary Americans. This course will also emphasize influential presidents, their impact on American development and their legacy in the United States. In addition, it will give attention to the social history of the time and its impact on the nation. It will also give voice, when appropriate, to groups who have been underrepresented in the past, as stated in the mission. This course will also focus on certain trends in America history by connecting them with current issues and influential people of today. Assignments will include one research paper each quarter, weekly research homework, chapter quizzes and tests.

331 United States History II Honors

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: US History I Honors or Teacher recommendation

This course is a continuation of US History I Honors providing an overview of American History from the Industrial Revolution to the Twenty-first Century. It provides an overview of American History from the American Revolution to the late Twentieth Century. Using the Socratic method, students will discuss and debate the social, political, cultural and economic developments with special attention on the people and events that affected the lives of ordinary Americans. This course will also emphasize influential presidents, their impact on American development and their legacy in the United States. In addition, it will give attention to the social history of the time and its impact on the nation. It will also give voice, when appropriate to groups who have been underrepresented in the past, as stated in the mission. This course will also focus on certain trends in American history by connecting them with current issues and influential people of today. Students are expected to read from their textbook every night and be prepared to discuss the reading. Assignments will include one research paper each quarter, document analysis, chapter quizzes and tests. By the end of this course students will be able to explain and analyze American history with a critical eye and a skeptical approach to history with a critical eye and a skeptical approach to history. The Honors course moves at a faster pace and has more in depth content.

330 AP US History

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Global History II Honors and Teacher Recommendation

SOCIAL STUDIES

Taking the Advanced Placement US History exam in May is a requisite in this course.

This course is for the exceptional student who loves to read and write history and wishes to engage in college level work aimed at taking the AP Examination offered by the College Board in May. This course provides an overview of American History from the Pre-Columbian era to the late Twentieth Century. Using the Socratic method, students will discuss and debate the social, political, cultural and economic developments in America while synthesizing the information into logical comprehensive arguments regarding those issues. It is designed to provide students with the analytical and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the contradictions, movements and influential people in American history. Assignments will include analyzing and synthesizing primary source documents into comprehensive five paragraph essays (DBQ’s). In addition, students will have chapter quizzes, tests, document analysis and weekly short writing assignments. In preparation for this course, extensive summer reading and writing is required.

340 AP United States Government

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

This course is for the exceptional student who is interested in studying American government and politics in depth while developing their own ideology and positions on the major issues of the day. Using the Socratic method, students will discuss and debate the complex issues surrounding American government and politics. The course will focus on the philosophies behind the US Constitution, the three branches of government, federalism, checks and balances, the electoral process, interest groups as well as civil rights and liberties. Students will develop critical writing and reading skills, particularly counter argument writing, interpret charts and graphs, identify relevant information, recognize bias in all media reporting and political speeches, and develop criteria for evaluating a various array of information. It is designed to provide students with the analytical and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with problems facing our American Republic. The major focus of the course, except for preparing for the AP exam in May, is to have a complete understanding of the US Constitution. In preparation for this course, extensive summer reading and writing is required.

341 Psychology

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Semester • .5 Credit

Psychology is the study of the mind; examining how we think, react, and live in the world. It asks important questions about thought process and human behavior. The principles and history of psychology are introduced. Methods of research and dominant trends, group guidance in current areas of behavior, relationships,

Taking the Advanced Placement United States Government exam in May is a requisite in this course.

Taking the Advanced Placement Psychology exam in May is a requisite in this course.

personal development, decision making, and value-appreciation are considered. This course includes the study of motivation theory, learning theory, and developmental psychology.

344 AP Psychology

Grade: 11 and 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Requirements: B or better in previous year’s English and History courses

AP Psychology is an introductory college-level psychology course. Students cultivate their understanding of the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes through inquiry-based investigations as they explore concepts like the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology.

342 Sociology

Grade: 10, 11, 12 • Semester • .5 Credit

The study of human societies and social behavior are examined through culture, stratification systems and societal institutions. This course is designed to aid students in understanding today’s dynamic and rapidly changing world. This course will present the complexity of social life with its interconnections between social events and conditions. It includes a study of major social institutions, socialization, social stratification, and the manner in which people interact with and make sense of these social forces. Students will from time to time assume the role of the psychologist/sociology. Students will from time to time, work with real-life applications in both areas.

348 American Civics

Grade: 10-12 • Semester • 1/2 Credit

This course examines American Government and timely domestic and foreign policy issues confronting Americans from a modern historical perspective. The class is activity based, involving reading, research, discussion and presentations. Throughout the course students will need to choose sides on various topics, try to convince others to their way of thinking, learn to deconstruct the opposing argument, and recognize the bias within all arguments.

349 Current, Economic, and Global Issues

Grade: 10-12 • Semester • 1/2 Credit

Requirements: Involvement in a class led Model UN, up to date on current issues that face the United States and the rest of the World.

In this course students will explore the complex interplay between contemporary events, economic factors, and global dynamics that shape our world today. Through a critical examination of various countries, learners will analyze how political decisions, economic policies, and social movements affect both local and international landscapes. By investigating real-world case studies, students will gain insight into how issues such as trade, climate change, and international relations influence not only individual nations but also the global community as a whole. This course aims to empower students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to understand the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that arise in an interconnected world, laying a foundation for informed citizenship and future leadership.

SOCIAL STUDIES

343 AP European History

Full Year • 1 credit

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

This course is for the motivated student who loves to engage critically with our world, explore unique and dynamic source material and discuss the themes that formulated the world as we know it today. The work covered in this course is tailored for students planning to take the AP Examination in May. The course is a detailed survey of European history beginning with the late Middle Ages through the current day. This course explores European history, while avoiding a Eurocentric lens. It is designed to provide students with the analytical and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in European history. The course requires strong skills in source analysis, rapid and enduring critical thinking skills and a passion for big picture thinking. Students will be asked to read, write and converse at an AP level, meaning reading quizzes, document based questions and various projects synthesizing the historical skills built during Upper School humanities courses. This course is designed to inspire students to see and engage with the world around them in ways not typically offered in other Upper School

Taking the Advanced Placement European History exam in May is a requisite in this course.

REQUIRED COURSES

THEOLOGY

010 Sacred Scriptures and Traditions

Grade: 9 • Full year • 1 Credit

This course provides an insightful exploration of the Old and New Testaments with an additional focus on the Paschal Mystery. Students will delve into the study of key and impactful Biblical figures and the significance they have to Judeo-Christian beliefs. Additional examination will involve exploration of the Paschal Mystery within the Biblical narratives alongside themes of sacrifice, redemption, and commitment. Further theological reflections on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ will also be present within this course. Through in-depth analysis of key passages and theological concepts, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the central tenets of contemporary Christian faith as well as the evolution of Christian beliefs over time.

022 Facing History and Ourselves® Course

Grade: 10 • Semester • .5 Credits

Facing History and Ourselves®, is devoted to teaching about the dangers of indifference and the values of civility. We first engage in lessons about human behavior including individual and group behaviors. By studying the historical development of the Holocaust, students make the essential connection between history and the moral choices they confront in their own lives. As students engage in critical thinking, they develop a vocabulary of decision making and justice as aids to their reasoning, and they see critical connections between past and present. This course challenges students to move from thought to judgment and, ultimately, to participation.

021 Christian Lifestyles

Grade: 10 • Semester • .5 Credit

This course begins with Mitch Albom’s memoir, “Tuesdays with Morrie”. Although the writer and protagonist are not Christian, the book sets the tone of the course as a reading that traces the contemplations and insights about life from a dying man. The topics covered in this book include death, fear, aging, greed, marriage, family, forgiveness, society and the meaning of life. Inspired by the Academy of Notre Dame’s mission to educate the whole person for life, students will discuss and reflect on how these topics intersect with and can be integrated into their own lives.

031 World Religions

Grade: 11 • Full year • 1 Credit

This course introduces students to the basic dimensions of the world’s major religions. The intention is to develop a deeper understanding of the world’s religions and how each religion answers life’s major questions. The course will engage students in investigations into why religion is a thread throughout cultures and how those cultures interact with each other based on their faith The Church encourages such exploration as noted by Pope John Paul II: “With the world’s religions we share a common respect for and obedience to conscience, which teaches all of us to seek the truth, to love and serve all individuals and peoples, and therefore to make peace among individuals and nations.”

040 Ethics

Grade: 12 • Semester • .5 Credit

This theology course examines the foundations of ethical decision-making, guiding students to reflect on moral principles in their daily lives. Through the works of philosophers, theologians, Saint Julie, and the Church, students will explore topics such as conscience, morality, virtue, justice, and the concept of the good life. Using Richard Kyte’s four-way method—truth, consequences, fairness, and character—students will develop critical thinking skills to analyze contemporary social issues. Emphasizing the pursuit of a virtuous life both individually and collectively, this course prepares students for deeper engagement in their Social Justice studies.

041 Social Justice

Grade: 12 • Semester • .5 Credit

This theology course, rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, emphasizes ethical action and thoughtful reflection on contemporary social issues. Students will explore the seven themes of Catholic Social Teaching and analyze the Church’s responses through encyclicals, literature, and media. They will also study individuals who embody Gospel values, such as Sister Dorothy Stang, a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur who devoted her life to advocating for peace, justice, and care for creation. Through discussions, projects, and reflections, students will develop skills and cultivate values central to a Notre Dame education, empowering them to lead purposeful lives and inspire meaningful social change.

REQUIRED COURSES

WORLD LANGUAGES

The World Language Department believes in the immersion method and therefore all French and Spanish classes are conducted in the target language.

Students will explore French and Spanish culture by singing, baking, arts and crafts, movies, television and documentaries. They will also be exposed to French and Spanish culture outside the classroom through cultural outings such as bakeries and restaurant visits, concerts, museum visits and other places of merit.

World Language Program Highlights

The entire World Language Department will celebrate Mardi Gras by wearing masks and costumes, baking and eating crepes and other Mardi Gras culinary specialties. The French students will parade for the entire school. International week, sponsored by the World Language Department, is held each spring. The entire school comes together to celebrate our rich diversity of cultures in our school. Students share their heritage through a talent show and food.

411 French Language and Culture II Honors

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This French course is for the intermediate student who has had a consistent exposure to the French language and its culture in their previous middle and/or elementary years. Students at this level come with basic conversational, reading, writing and listening skills in topics such as greetings, school life, family members, pastimes and sports. In addition, the expectation is that students will be comfortable and participate in this full immersion class. Students also come with some knowledge of French speaking culture. They will expand their knowledge with new projects in which they will be comfortable doing research about the French speaking world.

412 French Language and Culture II

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This French course is for the beginning student as well as for the student with some previous exposure to foreign language in elementary school. It is designed so that students will use the language in simple structures from the first day. Communication is stressed along with the use of complete sentence structures. Listening, reading and writing skills in the target language will also be developed. Information on French culture is an integral part of each chapter. At the end of the third quarter, students will be evaluated for placement into either the college preparatory or honors level of the second year of study. NDA is committed to total immersion in the World Language classroom. The second semester of the first year will be conducted in French as much as possible. Examples of cultural engagement in the classroom include singing, baking, movies, television and documentaries. Students are also exposed to French culture outside the classroom through cultural outings such as concerts.

430 French Language and Culture III Honors

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French II Honors

This is a challenging course for the advanced student who is enthusiastic about the study of French. Development of the four language skills continues. Students will read Le Petit Prince. As a final project, they write a children’s book on a theme from the novel and illustrate it. Oral presentations on topics of interest are also an integral part of the curriculum, especially during the second semester. This is a total immersion course. All instruction will be in French, and students are expected to speak French at all times while in the classroom. Examples of cultural engagement in the classroom include singing, baking, movies, television and documentaries. Students are also exposed to French culture outside the classroom through cultural outings such as bakery visits.

431 French Language and Culture III

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French II

Development of the four language skills continues. Students will read Le Petit Prince by Saint-Exupéry. As a final project, students write a children’s book on a theme from the novel and illustrate it. Oral presentations on topics of interest are also an integral part of the curriculum, especially during the second semester. This is a total immersion course. All instruction will be in French, and students are expected to speak French at all times while in the classroom. Examples of cultural engagement in the classroom include singing, baking, movies, television and documentaries. Students are also exposed to French culture outside the classroom through cultural outings such as bakery visits.

468 French Language and Culture IV Honors

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French III Honors

At this level, students will acquire a degree of independence that will allow them to construct arguments to defend their opinion, explain their viewpoint and negotiate. They will improve their degree of fluency and spontaneity in regular interactions and will be capable of correcting their own mistakes.

This is an advanced French course. Students will read “Huis Clos” by Jean-Paul Sartre and some poetry written by prominent Francophone poets. Students will analyze and discuss cultural themes and make connections to other literature works and their own experiences. There will be limited review of grammar. The course is taught in French. Students are expected to communicate at all times in French during class.

470 French Language and Culture IV

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French III

Students will acquire a certain degree of independence that will allow them to construct arguments to defend their opinion, explain their viewpoint and negotiate. Students will read short novels and poetry

written by prominent Francophone writers and poets. Students will analyze and discuss cultural themes and make connections to other literature works and their own experiences. There will be a review of grammar. The course is taught in French. Students are expected to communicate at all times in French during class. Cultural field trips and interdisciplinary projects with the art department are a part of the curriculum.

455 French V CP

Grade Level: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French IV CP or above

This course continues to enhance the students’ four language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. These skills will be reinforced by introducing authentic literary texts, watching films, studying advanced grammar, writing essays, and making oral presentations. Students will analyze and discuss different themes and cultural aspects in the readings as well as make cultural connections with their own communities. All instruction will be in French. Students are expected to speak French at all times while in the classroom.

451 French V Honors

Grade Level: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French IV CP or above

This course is equivalent to a college level introductory literature course. Students will continue the four language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students will analyze and discuss different themes and cultural aspects in the readings as well as make cultural connections with their own communities. Students may explore short stories, novels, plays, excerpts and poetry from France and other French-speaking cultures. They will also be introduced to French philosophers such as Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Jean-Paul Sartre. All instruction will be in French. Students are expected to speak and write in French at all times while in the classroom.

452 AP French Language and Culture

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: French IV Honors

Students who take Advanced Placement French Language and Culture and pass the exam with a 3 or higher will have mastered skills equivalent to those of a 5th or 6th semester college student in French Language. In this course students will show mastery of all aspects of fluency including presentational and personal speaking and writing, as well as listening and reading skills from a multitude of French language sources. Students will continue to develop critical thinking skills and cultural awareness on a variety of topics including science and technology, aesthetics and beauty, and contemporary issues. Students will be prepared to sit for the French Language and Culture Advanced Placement exam in May. Cultural field trips and interdisciplinary projects with the art department are a part of the curriculum.

Taking the Advanced Placement exam in May is a requisite in this course.

413 Spanish Language and Culture II Honors

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This Spanish course is for the intermediate student who has had a consistent exposure to the Spanish language and its culture in her/his previous middle and/or elementary years. Students at this level come with basic conversational, reading, writing, and listening skills in topics such as greetings, school life, family members, pastimes, and sports. In addition, the expectation is that students will be comfortable speaking in the target language and participate in this full immersion class. NDA is committed to total immersion in the World Language classroom. Students also come with some knowledge of the Spanish speaking culture. Students expand their cultural knowledge with new projects in which they will be comfortable doing research about the Spanish speaking world. In the classroom, students will engage with cultural videos, authentic TV clips, and short films. Additional cultural engagement in the classroom includes hands-on holiday crafts at Christmas, making sugar skulls for the Day of the Dead in October and November and exploring Easter traditions throughout Latin America and Spain. Students are also exposed to Latin American and Peninsular music and art outside the classroom through museum visits and cultural outings.

414 Spanish Language and Culture II

Grade: 9 • Full Year • 1 Credit

This Spanish course is for the beginner student as well as for the student with some previous exposure to the Spanish language in elementary/ middle school. It teaches the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. This course is designed so that students will use Spanish from the very first day. The study of Hispanic cultures begins at this level. At the end of the third quarter, students will be evaluated for placement into either the college preparatory or honors level for the following year. NDA is committed to total immersion in the World Language classroom. In the classroom, students will engage with cultural videos, authentic TV clips, and short films. Additional cultural engagement in the classroom includes hands-on holiday crafts at Christmas, making sugar skulls for the Day of the Dead in October and November and exploring Easter traditions throughout Latin America and Spain. Students are also exposed to Latin American and Peninsular music and art outside the classroom through museum visits and cultural outings.

423 Spanish Language and Culture III Honors

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish II Honors

This class continues the development of the five language skills: reading, writing, speaking, grammar and listening comprehension. Advanced grammar concepts and vocabulary will be implemented to all the skills. This is a total immersion course. All instruction will be in Spanish, and students are expected to always speak Spanish while in the classroom. Students will learn more about the Hispanic cultures through an innovative video program which provides authentic contemporary short films by Hispanic filmmakers. Additional cultural engagement in the classroom includes hands-on holiday crafts at Christmas, making sugar skulls for the Day of the Dead and exploring Easter traditions. Students are also

exposed to Latin American and Peninsular music and art outside the classroom through museum visits and cultural outings.

424 Spanish Language and Culture III

Grade: 10 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish II

The language skills begun in 9th grade Spanish are further developed through the introduction of more advanced grammar and vocabulary. Speaking patterns of greater difficulty are required along with more challenging reading, writing and listening comprehension. The study of Hispanic cultures continues. This is a total immersion course. All instruction will be in Spanish, and students are expected to speak Spanish at all times while in the classroom. Examples of cultural engagement in the classroom include hands on holiday crafts for Christmas, the Day of the Dead and Easter. Students are also exposed to Latin American and Peninsular music and art outside the classroom through museum visits and cultural outings.

433 Spanish Language and Culture IV Honors

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish III Honors

Spanish IV Honors is a challenging course for the advanced student who is enthusiastic about the study of Spanish. Development of the four language skills continues. All grammar concepts are covered in this course. Oral and written communication is stressed. Students are required to write compositions and do research in the target language. Students’ understanding of Hispanic literature and cultures continues to be enriched. This is a total immersion course. All instruction will be in Spanish and students are expected to speak Spanish at all times while in the classroom. All cultural exposure from 9th and 10th grade continues with a more in depth look at music, art and literature. Students are exposed to Latin American, Chicano and Peninsular authors such as Horacio Quiroga, Julio Cortázar, Gabriel García Márquez, Miguel de Cervantes, Emilia Pardo Bazan, and Sandra Cisneros. Cultural field trips and interdisciplinary projects with the art department are a part of the curriculum.

434 Spanish Language and Culture IV

Grade: 11 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish III

Spanish IV is a continuation of Spanish III. Development of the five language skills is continued with a greater stress on more complex reading and writing. Students will be given written and oral tasks to complete with each chapter. The study of Hispanic cultures continues. This is a total immersion course. All instruction will be in Spanish, and students are expected to speak Spanish at all times while in the classroom. All cultural exposure from 9th and 10th grade continues with a more in depth look at music, art and literature. Students are exposed to Latin American, Chicano and Peninsular authors such as Horacio Quiroga, Julio Cortázar, Gabriel García Márquez, Miguel de Cervantes, Emilia Pardo Bazan, and Sandra Cisneros. Cultural field trips and interdisciplinary projects with the art department are a part of the curriculum.

Taking the Advanced Placement exam in May is a requisite in this course.

450 AP Spanish Language and Culture

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish IV Honors

Students who take Advanced Placement Spanish Language and Culture and pass the exam with a 3 or higher will have mastered skills equivalent to those of a 5th or 6th semester college student in Spanish Language. In this course students will show mastery of all aspects of fluency including presentational and personal speaking and writing, as well as listening and reading skills from a multitude of Hispanic language sources. Students will continue to develop critical thinking skills and cultural awareness on a variety of topics including science and technology, aesthetics and beauty, and contemporary issues. Students will be prepared to sit for the Spanish Language and Culture Advanced Placement exam in May. Cultural experiences in the classroom include guided visits to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, local restaurant outings, cooking classes at school, hands on holiday crafts, authentic target language film and documentary analysis and a limited exposure of Latin American and Peninsular literature.

453 Spanish and Latin American Literature and Culture Honors

Grade: 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish IV CP or above

This class is equivalent to a college level introductory Spanish literature course. Students will continue the following language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Grammar is no longer taught at this level but it is reinforced by analytical writing. Skills will be reinforced by introducing authentic literary texts, watching films and documentaries, writing essays, and making oral presentations. Students will analyze and discuss different themes and cultural aspects in the readings as well as make cultural connections with their communities. Students may explore the following genres: short stories, novels, plays, essays, and poetry. Literary texts may expand from pre-colonial conquest to the 21st century representing Spain, Latin America, and the U.S. All instruction will be in Spanish. Students are expected to speak and write in Spanish at all times while in the classroom.

454 Spanish V CP

Grade 12 • Full Year • 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Spanish IV CP or above

This course continues to enhance the students’ four language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking. These skills will be reinforced by introducing authentic literary texts, watching films, studying advanced grammar, writing essays, and making oral presentations. Students will analyze and discuss different themes and cultural aspects in the readings as well as make cultural connections with their own communities. All instruction will be in Spanish. Students are expected to speak Spanish at all times while in the classroom.