Fitness
All students take a Fitness course each semester that meets 3-4 times per week for 45 minutes during the school
English
day. This course consists of a fitness program tailored to the individual fitness needs of each student. Students are
Students read and scrutinize texts, write the expository essay with clarity,
challenged to improve flexibility, strength endurance, cardiovascular endurance, and overall body composition through
coherence, and power, and engage in round-table Harkness discussions. Correct
an individualized fitness program. Each student’s program involves elements of weight training, aerobic training,
writing principles, mechanics, usage, and revising and editing skills are reinforced
plyometrics, and agility, and is designed and overseen by a professional fitness instructor with the proper background
in all courses. Electives allow students to explore a rich variety of genres, writing
and expertise.
styles, and stories that explore identity, humanity, and essential questions transcending time and place.
Service Learning
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
projects as students conduct service work of up to 30 hours over the course of each school year in the local community.
World Studies - Writing, Thinking, Learning
American Studies American Studies Honors
GRADE 12: Students design their own service projects by researching social issues, developing contacts with persons
GRADES 11 & 12 - ELECTIVES
GRADES 9-11: The Service Learning Program includes up to 30 minutes/week to discuss and research topics and plan
involved in the local community, and completing their service learning via a presentation at our annual Social Issues
AP Literature African-American Literature Argument Writing and Persuasion Creative Writing Machines, Minds, and Morality Poetry
Conference in April. Students may choose to go beyond this requirement toward earning the distinction of Service Scholar, by completing a research essay and reflection essay, additional service hours, and a presentation.
Reading and Writing Humor Shakespeare The Good Life War Literature Women’s Literature
Capstone Scholars
The Capstone Scholars Program offers students in Grade 12 an opportunity to engage in an extensive exploration of an academic passion that lies above and beyond courses normally offered at the High School. Capstone candidates should demonstrate excellence in the areas of their proposed projects, a general proficiency across all other areas, and a
ENSWORTH
history of responsibility with recent instructors. To participate in the Capstone Program, a Grade 11 student investigates,
Success is achieved by mastering a set of sequential, math literacy skills beginning
proposes, and gains approval from the HS Curriculum Committee for a specific project to be completed in Grade 12. The Capstone Program includes formal presentations by all participants at a designated event in May.
with Algebra I. The Core Skills are the focus of every course alongside appropriate
HIGH SCHOOL
technology in problem-solving situations. As students enter and progress
Curriculum Guide
at different levels, placement and subsequent progression into appropriate
Typical Student Schedule
courses are critical and monitored by the department. Students are required to demonstrate proficiency through Algebra II while also pursuing further courses per
ENGLISH
HISTORY
LANGUAGE
ARTS
MATH
SCIENCE
FITNESS
SEMINAR
Four years of English are required
A combination of two years of study and completion of American Studies are required
A combination of two years of study and completion through Level 3 are required
Two years of arts are required; students must complete a Level 2 course in one discipline and can receive credit for ensembles
A combination of three years of study and completion of Algebra II are required
A combination of two years of study and completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are required
Required of every student, every semester. The program is tailored to individual needs and requires approximately three hours each week.
Required of all students in Grade 10. Mental, physical, and emotional health are explored through novels, open discussion, papers, research projects, and tests.
Four semesters of additional History, Language, and / or Arts courses are required to satisfy the Humanities Distribution Requirement.
Math
Four semesters of additional Math and/or Science courses are required to satisfy the Natural Sciences Distribution Requirement.
college entry requirements. In addition, students in Grade 9 take Computational Thinking, a one-semester course for developing skills in algorithmic thinking, the fundamentals of coding, an introduction to information technology systems, data analysis and artificial intelligence, and a consideration of ethics in computing.
SEQUENCE OF COURSES Algebra I Honors
Integrated Honors
Algebra II Honors
Pre-Calculus Honors
AP Calculus BC
Algebra I
Integrated
Algebra II
Pre-Calculus
AP Calculus AB
College Algebra & Trig
Distribution Requirements reflect coursework that is above and beyond the minimum Exposure and Proficiencies in a subject. They allow students to demonstrate achievement in a balanced course of study that is also tailored to their interests and abilities.
HS Curriculum Guide_Folded_2026B.indd 1
Advanced Math
www.ENSWORTH.com
ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES: Computer
Science, Discrete Mathematics, Statistics, AP Computer Science A
Semester Electives
Semester Electives
AP Statistics
8/12/26 1:26 PM
History & Social Studies
World Language
History courses encourage students to ask questions, explore answers, and formulate theories in an environment
The primary goal of the curriculum is the acquisition of essential communication skills in a target language. This
promoting open-mindedness and diversity of thought. Students become accomplished in deductive and inductive
is achieved through a sequentially structured presentation of grammar taught in conjunction with multiple
thought, research, writing, and reading. Electives allow students to become specialists in concentrated areas and
opportunities for practice in the areas of aural comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. A secondary goal is the
further develop research and analytical thinking skills.
cultivation of an appreciation for and understanding of other cultures, traditions, and languages. The World Languages Department offers courses in Chinese, French, Latin and Spanish beginning at the introductory level and continuing
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
World Studies
American Studies / American Studies Honors
through Advanced Placement.
GRADES 11 & 12 - ELECTIVES AP / Advanced Topics in US Government AP Art History AP Comparative Politics AP Economics AP European History AP Human Geography
Ancient Civilization: From Myth to Empire Civil Rights Movement Contemporary Issues Economics Legal Studies Nashville: A Local History
Psychology Vietnam War World Religions World War II: A Global Perspective
CHINESE
FRENCH
LATIN
SPANISH
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors Level 4 / Level 4 Honors Conversation & Culture AP Language & Culture
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors Level 4: Conversation & Culture AP Language Advanced Topics
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors AP Latin Literature & Culture
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors AP Language AP Literature Conversation & Culture
Science
Visual and Performing Arts
Science examines the three major disciplines within a two-year program in Grades 9-10, culminating with project-
Arts courses are designed to challenge and encourage students at all levels of experience in both performing and
based teaching modules in Integrated Science that emphasize connections among biology, chemistry, and physics.
visual arts. Courses consist of academic electives in dance, music, theater, and visual arts, and explore the theoretical,
Essential concepts are expanded upon while students become proficient in scientific literacy. Electives allow students
analytical, critical, or historical studies in the arts and the development of specific skills within each respective
to pursue various interests and build upon their abilities. Students may also choose to participate on the Ensworth
discipline.
Robotics Team, a yearlong extracurricular program, with exciting engineering challenges presented in the form of a competitive game. Students build innovative robots and compete year-round in the VEX Robotics Competition.
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
Biology / Biology Honors Chemistry / Chemistry Honors
Physics / Physics Honors Integrated Science / Integrated Science Honors
DANCE
MUSIC
THEATER
VISUAL ARTS
Dance for Athletes 1 Dance for Athletes 2 Dance 4L Dance by Design Music Video Dance 1 Music Video Dance 2 Performance & Partnering
Music 1: Intro to Musicology Music 2: Between the Notes Music 3: Composition Forum Music 4: Audio Engineering Acoustic Guitar 1, 2, 3 AP Music Theory
Acting 1: Naturalism Acting 2: Beyond Naturalism Acting 3: Performance Theater Acting 4: Shakespeare & Heightened Texts
Ceramics 1, 2, 3 Photography 1, 2, 3, 4 Studio Art 1, 2, 3, 4 Sculpture 1, 2 Film Studio AP Art History AP Studio Art
GRADES 11 & 12 - ELECTIVES BIOLOGY
PHYSICS AND ENGINEERING
CHEMISTRY
Ecology: Secrets of the Forest Human Biology AP Biology AP Environmental Science
3D Design Technology Materials Engineering Engineering Technology AP Physics 1 AP Physics C: Mechanics
Crime Scene Science Storm Science AP Chemistry
Ensworth Mission Statement Ensworth is a kindergarten through twelfth grade, coeducational independent school. The School promotes academic excellence and inspires students to be intellectually curious, to use their talents to the fullest, to be people of integrity, and to be contributors to society.
ENSEMBLES Performing arts ensembles are year-long, extracurricular learning experiences with a focus on skill development in which students perform together as a group. Ensembles perform several times during the year and are intended for students who are willing to represent Ensworth in a variety of public settings. Auditions are required for all ensembles and are open to all students regardless of prior experience. Dance Company Chamber Orchestra Chamber Singers Encore Jazz Band Rock Band
Seminar
Seminar, a required semester course in Grade 10, is a unique component of the academic curriculum as it prepares students for life beyond the classroom while teaching the Core Skills. Seminar introduces Harkness methodology through pertinent developmental and social issues. The hope is to equip adolescents with greater self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and ample resources for optimal mental, emotional, and physical health through the exploration of topics including but not limited to social adjustment, community, leadership, relationships, peer pressure, social media, wellness, and diversity.
HS Curriculum Guide_Folded_2026B.indd 2
8/12/26 1:26 PM
History & Social Studies
World Language
History courses encourage students to ask questions, explore answers, and formulate theories in an environment
The primary goal of the curriculum is the acquisition of essential communication skills in a target language. This
promoting open-mindedness and diversity of thought. Students become accomplished in deductive and inductive
is achieved through a sequentially structured presentation of grammar taught in conjunction with multiple
thought, research, writing, and reading. Electives allow students to become specialists in concentrated areas and
opportunities for practice in the areas of aural comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. A secondary goal is the
further develop research and analytical thinking skills.
cultivation of an appreciation for and understanding of other cultures, traditions, and languages. The World Languages Department offers courses in Chinese, French, Latin and Spanish beginning at the introductory level and continuing
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
World Studies
American Studies / American Studies Honors
through Advanced Placement.
GRADES 11 & 12 - ELECTIVES AP / Advanced Topics in US Government AP Art History AP Comparative Politics AP Economics AP European History AP Human Geography
Ancient Civilization: From Myth to Empire Civil Rights Movement Contemporary Issues Economics Legal Studies Nashville: A Local History
Psychology Vietnam War World Religions World War II: A Global Perspective
CHINESE
FRENCH
LATIN
SPANISH
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors Level 4 / Level 4 Honors Conversation & Culture AP Language & Culture
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors Level 4: Conversation & Culture AP Language Advanced Topics
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors AP Latin Literature & Culture
Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 / Level 3 Honors AP Language AP Literature Conversation & Culture
Science
Visual and Performing Arts
Science examines the three major disciplines within a two-year program in Grades 9-10, culminating with project-
Arts courses are designed to challenge and encourage students at all levels of experience in both performing and
based teaching modules in Integrated Science that emphasize connections among biology, chemistry, and physics.
visual arts. Courses consist of academic electives in dance, music, theater, and visual arts, and explore the theoretical,
Essential concepts are expanded upon while students become proficient in scientific literacy. Electives allow students
analytical, critical, or historical studies in the arts and the development of specific skills within each respective
to pursue various interests and build upon their abilities. Students may also choose to participate on the Ensworth
discipline.
Robotics Team, a yearlong extracurricular program, with exciting engineering challenges presented in the form of a competitive game. Students build innovative robots and compete year-round in the VEX Robotics Competition.
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
Biology / Biology Honors Chemistry / Chemistry Honors
Physics / Physics Honors Integrated Science / Integrated Science Honors
DANCE
MUSIC
THEATER
VISUAL ARTS
Dance for Athletes 1 Dance for Athletes 2 Dance 4L Dance by Design Music Video Dance 1 Music Video Dance 2 Performance & Partnering
Music 1: Intro to Musicology Music 2: Between the Notes Music 3: Composition Forum Music 4: Audio Engineering Acoustic Guitar 1, 2, 3 AP Music Theory
Acting 1: Naturalism Acting 2: Beyond Naturalism Acting 3: Performance Theater Acting 4: Shakespeare & Heightened Texts
Ceramics 1, 2, 3 Photography 1, 2, 3, 4 Studio Art 1, 2, 3, 4 Sculpture 1, 2 Film Studio AP Art History AP Studio Art
GRADES 11 & 12 - ELECTIVES BIOLOGY
PHYSICS AND ENGINEERING
CHEMISTRY
Ecology: Secrets of the Forest Human Biology AP Biology AP Environmental Science
3D Design Technology Materials Engineering Engineering Technology AP Physics 1 AP Physics C: Mechanics
Crime Scene Science Storm Science AP Chemistry
Ensworth Mission Statement Ensworth is a kindergarten through twelfth grade, coeducational independent school. The School promotes academic excellence and inspires students to be intellectually curious, to use their talents to the fullest, to be people of integrity, and to be contributors to society.
ENSEMBLES Performing arts ensembles are year-long, extracurricular learning experiences with a focus on skill development in which students perform together as a group. Ensembles perform several times during the year and are intended for students who are willing to represent Ensworth in a variety of public settings. Auditions are required for all ensembles and are open to all students regardless of prior experience. Dance Company Chamber Orchestra Chamber Singers Encore Jazz Band Rock Band
Seminar
Seminar, a required semester course in Grade 10, is a unique component of the academic curriculum as it prepares students for life beyond the classroom while teaching the Core Skills. Seminar introduces Harkness methodology through pertinent developmental and social issues. The hope is to equip adolescents with greater self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and ample resources for optimal mental, emotional, and physical health through the exploration of topics including but not limited to social adjustment, community, leadership, relationships, peer pressure, social media, wellness, and diversity.
HS Curriculum Guide_Folded_2026B.indd 2
8/12/26 1:26 PM
Fitness
All students take a Fitness course each semester that meets 3-4 times per week for 45 minutes during the school
English
day. This course consists of a fitness program tailored to the individual fitness needs of each student. Students are
Students read and scrutinize texts, write the expository essay with clarity,
challenged to improve flexibility, strength endurance, cardiovascular endurance, and overall body composition through
coherence, and power, and engage in round-table Harkness discussions. Correct
an individualized fitness program. Each student’s program involves elements of weight training, aerobic training,
writing principles, mechanics, usage, and revising and editing skills are reinforced
plyometrics, and agility, and is designed and overseen by a professional fitness instructor with the proper background
in all courses. Electives allow students to explore a rich variety of genres, writing
and expertise.
styles, and stories that explore identity, humanity, and essential questions transcending time and place.
Service Learning
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
projects as students conduct service work of up to 30 hours over the course of each school year in the local community.
World Studies - Writing, Thinking, Learning
American Studies American Studies Honors
GRADE 12: Students design their own service projects by researching social issues, developing contacts with persons
GRADES 11 & 12 - ELECTIVES
GRADES 9-11: The Service Learning Program includes up to 30 minutes/week to discuss and research topics and plan
involved in the local community, and completing their service learning via a presentation at our annual Social Issues
AP Literature African-American Literature Argument Writing and Persuasion Creative Writing Machines, Minds, and Morality Poetry
Conference in April. Students may choose to go beyond this requirement toward earning the distinction of Service Scholar, by completing a research essay and reflection essay, additional service hours, and a presentation.
Reading and Writing Humor Shakespeare The Good Life War Literature Women’s Literature
Capstone Scholars
The Capstone Scholars Program offers students in Grade 12 an opportunity to engage in an extensive exploration of an academic passion that lies above and beyond courses normally offered at the High School. Capstone candidates should demonstrate excellence in the areas of their proposed projects, a general proficiency across all other areas, and a
ENSWORTH
history of responsibility with recent instructors. To participate in the Capstone Program, a Grade 11 student investigates,
Success is achieved by mastering a set of sequential, math literacy skills beginning
proposes, and gains approval from the HS Curriculum Committee for a specific project to be completed in Grade 12. The Capstone Program includes formal presentations by all participants at a designated event in May.
with Algebra I. The Core Skills are the focus of every course alongside appropriate
HIGH SCHOOL
technology in problem-solving situations. As students enter and progress
Curriculum Guide
at different levels, placement and subsequent progression into appropriate
Typical Student Schedule
courses are critical and monitored by the department. Students are required to demonstrate proficiency through Algebra II while also pursuing further courses per
ENGLISH
HISTORY
LANGUAGE
ARTS
MATH
SCIENCE
FITNESS
SEMINAR
Four years of English are required
A combination of two years of study and completion of American Studies are required
A combination of two years of study and completion through Level 3 are required
Two years of arts are required; students must complete a Level 2 course in one discipline and can receive credit for ensembles
A combination of three years of study and completion of Algebra II are required
A combination of two years of study and completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are required
Required of every student, every semester. The program is tailored to individual needs and requires approximately three hours each week.
Required of all students in Grade 10. Mental, physical, and emotional health are explored through novels, open discussion, papers, research projects, and tests.
Four semesters of additional History, Language, and / or Arts courses are required to satisfy the Humanities Distribution Requirement.
Math
Four semesters of additional Math and/or Science courses are required to satisfy the Natural Sciences Distribution Requirement.
college entry requirements. In addition, students in Grade 9 take Computational Thinking, a one-semester course for developing skills in algorithmic thinking, the fundamentals of coding, an introduction to information technology systems, data analysis and artificial intelligence, and a consideration of ethics in computing.
SEQUENCE OF COURSES Algebra I Honors
Integrated Honors
Algebra II Honors
Pre-Calculus Honors
AP Calculus BC
Algebra I
Integrated
Algebra II
Pre-Calculus
AP Calculus AB
College Algebra & Trig
Distribution Requirements reflect coursework that is above and beyond the minimum Exposure and Proficiencies in a subject. They allow students to demonstrate achievement in a balanced course of study that is also tailored to their interests and abilities.
HS Curriculum Guide_Folded_2026B.indd 1
Advanced Math
www.ENSWORTH.com
ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES: Computer
Science, Discrete Mathematics, Statistics, AP Computer Science A
Semester Electives
Semester Electives
AP Statistics
8/12/26 1:26 PM