CENTER FOR ECONOMICS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP & FINANCE

The Center for Economics, Entrepreneurship & Finance (CEEF) provides engaging classes for students, providing the opportunity to learn real world, critical thinking and business skills; while creating a foundation for introductory and advanced studies of economic, finance or entrepreneurial endeavors in the future. Students taking WMA's finance courses will learn key financial concepts and the language of financial literacy. Entrepreneurship courses teach students how to think, plan and act like entrepreneurs, both in profit and nonprofit organizations. Economic students will enhance their understanding of current economic events by exploring markets, common measurements, macroeconomic and microeconomic principles and models, and learn to manipulate and interpret quantitative data and graphs representing economic situations. CEEF students utilize the state-of-the-art Mark R. Shenkman Trading Center, as well as WMA's computer lab to embark on active research and prepare PowerPoint slides, videos and oral presentations. WMA's showcase facility houses 16 computer stations with monitor displays, two 70" LCD monitors, LED dynamic stock ticker, video conferencing capabilities as well as a subscription to AAII (American Association of Individual Investors), the WSJ and Bloomberg Businessweek.

Grade 9 Options

Intro to Economics

Financial Planning

Entrepreneurship

Economics

Grade 10 Options

Intro to Economics

Financial Planning

Entrepreneurship

Global Entrepreneurship

Social Entrepreneurship

INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory, Grade 9 or above

In this introductory course, students develop a basic understanding of select economic principles and models, and critical thinking skills that will allow them to be more informed and engage in discussions about current economic events in the media. Students are provided thought provoking questions about the economy and they choose what topics will be covered in the class. Topics could include: government debt, global trade, GDP, minimum wage, economics and the environment, social security, taxes, inflation, supply and demand, how people make decisions, interest rates, fiscal policy, free vs. regulated markets, labor markets, economic incentives, behavioral economics, etc. Students also have the choice of how to be assessed in each unit covered. One assessment must be a traditional test, but after that assessments could include: podcast, a 3D medium like a trifold poster or diorama, PowerPoint presentation, student designed lesson, iMovie, oral presentation like a TED Talk, hypertext essay, or a 2D medium like a painting, drawing or a PowerPoint poster.

AP MACROECONOMICS - The Global Economy

Level: Advanced Placement.

Prerequisite: Instructor permission

The purpose of the AP course in macroeconomics is to provide students with a learning experience equivalent to a typical college introductory macroeconomic course and prepare them for the AP exam in the spring. Students will be taught economic principles that apply to an

Grade 11 Options

All previous options plus:

Portfolio Management

Stock Market Analysis

Honors Behavioral Finance

AP Macroeconomics

Grade 12 & PG Options

All previous options plus: AP Microeconomics - online economic system as a whole. Emphasis is placed on the study of national income, price determination, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth and international economics. Through lectures, class discussions, class activities and homework assignments, students define terms, calculate and interpret tabular data, conduct graphical analysis, analyze hypothetical scenarios and develop skills in explanatory diagrams and technical writing. The course utilizes the text Krugman’s Macroeconomics for the AP Course 4E in addition to supplementary reading and listening material. The AP Exam is mandatory. Exam fee is charged

AP MICROECONOMICS Online *Fees Apply

Level: Grades 11 and above, Advanced Placement

Prerequisite: AP Macroeconomics, Departmental permission The AP Exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged.

Please visit the One Schoolhouse website for complete course description: https://www.oneschoolhouse.org/school-information.html

Students enrolling in Online Courses will need to adhere to the One Schoolhouse academic schedule. Work will be expected during WMA vacation periods. Failure to do so could result in course failure

Entrepreneurship

ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate, Grade 9 or above

Students prepare to become responsible, enterprising entrepreneurs or entrepreneurial thinkers who contribute to economic development and sustainable communities. The curriculum follows the framework of the National Standards for Entrepreneurship Education. Students will use strategies for idea generation and assessment of feasibility of ideas; learn to understand basic free market economy and the entrepreneur's role in the economy; expand their awareness of social responsibility and the entrepreneur's contribution to society; demonstrate an understanding of financial management and basic accounting principles; and understand steps essential in business startup. Students will read related literature, including case studies, and create new model ventures with a focus on opportunity recognition, resource management and team building.

GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate, Grade 10 or above

Prerequisite: Entrepreneurship preferred

This course presents the opportunities and challenges of global entrepreneurship in the context of a world that is rapidly changing in both economic and cultural ways. Through a series of exercises, students will improve their critical reading, researching, writing, note taking, outlining and verbal skills. Class discussions, student presentations and written formats will all be part of the process. The overall goal of the class is to develop global thinkers who exhibit an expanded awareness of global opportunities. Upon completion, students should understand and appreciate the importance of global citizenship and global competence; be able to analyze and describe individual cultural norms and expectations; exhibit broadened sensitivity to the challenges of living in cross cultural and cross-national environments; and understand similarities and differences of entrepreneurship in developed, emerging and transitional economies.

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Advanced, Grade 10 or above

Prerequisite: Entrepreneurship or Global Entrepreneurship

How do we create innovative and effective solutions to social problems around the world? This course was designed for individuals who want to identify and bring about transformative societal change. Using the Declaration of Human Rights as the basis of study, students will investigate social issues of their choosing, based on the Articles from this document created for the United Nations in 1948 and still respected today. At the conclusion of the course, students will understand and appreciate the importance of social entrepreneurship in today’s world; have broadened individual sensitivity to the challenges of living in a world beset with social problems; be able to analyze and describe individual actions that might be taken to impact social issues; and develop the skills required to work collaboratively on a solution.

Finance

FINANCIAL PLANNING (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory, Grade 9 or above

This trimester course focuses on providing students with basic personal finance skills. Students will study the following topics: money management decision-making; borrowing and debt; earning and careers; investing; paying for college; and insurance. Within these topics, students will learn how to create budgets to meet financial goals, use credit and debt responsibly, build wealth by investing, and understand the products offered by financial service firms. The course concludes with a case study where students apply their knowledge to real world situations such as preparing a financial plan for a professional athlete to manage wealth, or a family to understand the cost of attending a private or public college.

PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT (1 credit)

Level: Intermediate, Grade 10 or above

Prerequisite: Financial Planning or departmental permission

This trimester course provides an overview of how an individual would build a portfolio over time and manage a portfolio based on the fundamental principles of portfolio management. Emphasis will be placed on techniques to develop a portfolio, researching mutual funds and stocks, and the evaluation of portfolio performance. Topics will include portfolio diversification, investment analysis, risk, financial literacy and asset allocation. Projects include researching a mutual fund company and preparing a personal investment plan.

STOCK MARKET ANALYSIS (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate, Grade 10 or above

Prerequisite: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management or department permission

This trimester course provides advanced study of the stock market and interpreting financial statements in order to select stocks for a portfolio. Students will learn the application of fundamental analysis in selecting stocks that match risk tolerance and investment time horizons. Long-term stock investment analysis and trading strategies will be examined in relation to portfolio theory and cycles in the stock market.

HONORS BEHAVIORAL FINANCE (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate, Grade 11 or above

Prerequisite: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management or department permission

Honors Behavioral Finance is a deep examination of how psychology informs the art and science of investment management. The course examines cognitive and emotional biases that influence our investment decisions and investor behavior. Students will explore their own behavior investment type (BIT) and concrete solutions to biases associated with their investment type in order to refine their investment decision-making processes to construct more appropriate risk/reward portfolios.

THE BUSINESS OF SPORTS (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate, Grade 11 or above

(Priority to Grade 12 and PGs)

Students enrolled in the Business of Sports will analyze and critique four major components of the sports business industry: Domestic and international professional franchises, global/American corporate influence, amateur sports (NCAA/Olympic) and the

World Languages

media. The course will provide a unique perspective on the business world, while using examples and content drawn from the world of sports. The course will culminate in a student project/presentation, requiring students to synthesize and apply information explored during class and supplemented with the student’s own research. Students will read and write reflections on articles from The Sports Business Journal and benefit from a series of guest speakers from the ranks of industry professionals, as the schedule allows.

STUDENT INVESTMENT

SEMINAR (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate, Grade 11 or above

Prerequisite: Stock Market Analysis, AP Economics or department permission

This is an evening class (6:30 - 8 p m ) on Thursday

Are you interested in being part of a student-centered investment team that will be accentuated by the proposition of trading stocks with real money and real risk? Working as a team to select a specific stock among the 11 stock sectors is a central component of this credit class that will teach students the skills involved in trading stocks using a fundamental analysis approach to investing. The culminating experience is an end-of-trimester presentation to an Investment Advisory Panel of trustees and school administrators. Trade recommendations and investment rationale will be presented and defended at the end of the trimester.

Learning a foreign language is an inherently global experience, therefore it forms an essential part of our curriculum. Through language, students appreciate ideas, art and cultural differences, and discover that culture is globally contextual. Moreover, learning a language encourages students to engage in public speaking and to share ideas collaboratively. The result is a curriculum that nurtures global citizens and leaders. The World Languages Department offers instruction in three modern languages, Spanish, French and Chinese, and one classic language, Latin. The four components of language instruction – reading, writing, speaking and listening – form the core of the language courses. Students are challenged to engage in these activities on a regular basis. Furthermore, through language, students are exposed to diverse perspectives on art, history, current events and culture. Language study is enhanced by the use of technology such as educational apps, authentic video and audio media, language podcasts and interactive educational websites. Departmental permission is a prerequisite for all language courses beyond the first year of study.

Grade 9 Options

Chinese - Beginning I online

French, Latin, or Spanish 1

Chinese - Beginning II online

French, Latin or Spanish 2

Honors French 3

Honors Spanish 3

Grade

10 Options

All previous options plus:

Honors Latin 3

Spanish 3/Honors Spanish 3

French 4/Honors French 4

Spanish 4/Honors Spanish 4

Grade

11 Options

All previous options plus:

Chinese - Interm. I & II online

Honors Latin 4

Honors French 5

AP French

AP Spanish

Grade

12 & PG Options

All previous options plus:

Chinese – Advanced online

AP Chinese Lang. & Culture online

Post AP French

AP Latin

Advanced studies in Spanish

Chinese

Please visit the One Schoolhouse website for complete course descriptions for the Chinese courses listed below: https://www.oneschoolhouse.org/school-information.html

CHINESE – BEGINNING I Online *Fees Apply

Level: Beginner

CHINESE – BEGINNING II Online *Fees Apply

Level: Advanced Beginner

CHINESE – INTERMEDIATE I Online *Fees Apply

Level: Intermediate

CHINESE – INTERMEDIATE II Online *Fees Apply

Level: Advanced Intermediate

CHINESE – ADVANCED I Online *Fees Apply

Level: Advanced

AP CHINESE LANGUAGE & CULTURE

Online *Fees Apply

Level: Advanced Placement

The AP Exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged.

Students enrolling in Online Courses will need to adhere to the One Schoolhouse academic schedule. Work will be expected during WMA vacation periods. Failure to do so could result in course failure

French

FRENCH 1

Level: Novice Low to Mid

Beginning students study language that can be used in everyday conversation. The course is taught using a communicative approach. Students begin to communicate in the target language through interpersonal speaking and writing, presentational speaking and writing, interpretive reading and listening. Students communicate about such topics as greetings, telling time, school subjects, foods, shopping, weather, holidays, family and friends and leisure activities. This class is conducted in French as much as possible and an emphasis is placed on becoming a competent communicator. Students expand their understanding of culture by studying about the countries of the Francophone world.

French 2

Level: Novice Mid to Novice High

Prerequisite: Final grade of C or better in French I; passing the French I final exam; and teacher recommendation

This course fosters students’ knowledge of the cultural variety of the modern Francophone world through readings, projects, film and other authentic material. While delving into the Francophone culture, students work on acquiring the four language skills. Increased importance is placed on improving verbal skills and listening comprehension skills. Through different games and activities, students learn a lot of practical vocabulary and gain a solid foundation in the understanding of sentence structure and tenses.

HONORS FRENCH 3: Francophone Cultures

Level: Intermediate Low to Mid

Prerequisite: Final grade of B- or better in French 2; passing the French 2 final exam; and teacher recommendation

The emphasis at this level is on learning many aspects of the culture through written stories, songs, videos and other authentic material. Current events are a large part of this course, especially news about climate change. Students gain vocabulary, understanding and using grammar in context. They practice speaking about past, present and future events. Through listening comprehension, writing and speaking practice, students become good communicators who have an understanding of other cultures.

HONORS FRENCH 4: Global Challenges

Level: Intermediate Mid to High

Prerequisite: Final grade of B- or better in Honors French 3; passing the Honors French 3 final exam; teacher recommendation

This course considers a number of current global challenges in the Francophone world related to topics such as identity, politics, France’s colonial history, the environment, health and nutrition. Students work on improving their presentational skills after doing research on societal topics. Debates, discussions and projects are used to strengthen students’ command of the language. Historical and current events are a big part of this course. Francophone literature and movies are also great tools that are used at this level.

Honors French 5

Level: Advanced Low

Prerequisite: Final grade of B or better in Honors French 4; passing the Honors French 4 final exam; teacher recommendation

Students continue to develop proficiency at the advanced level in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing within the context of the contemporary Francophone world and its culture. Through enriching vocabulary, increasing usage of advanced grammatical concepts, listening comprehension practice and the study of Francophone literature and films, students gain knowledge of the cultural variety of the modern Francophone world while developing facility in spoken and written French.

Ap French

Level: Advanced Placement

Prerequisite: Final grade of A- or better in Honors French 4; passing the Honors French 4 final exam; teacher recommendation

Students continue to develop proficiency in speaking and writing French as well as analyzing cultures of French-speaking countries Open to those students with sufficient language skills and the intellectual maturity and motivation to undertake a college-level language program. The course focus is on spoken and written discussion of ideas, as well as on everyday communicative competence, while exploring the history and cultural diversity of the Francophone world. Students work to achieve a high degree of fluency in French. The AP Exam is mandatory. An AP Exam fee is charged.

Post Ap French

Level: Post AP

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

This class is designed for students who have completed AP French and wish to continue their study of French culture and society. The themes covered include literature, history, popular culture and current events. Students make presentations on topics such as French history or French literature and they continue to practice writing, listening and speaking French.

Latin

Latin 1

Level: Beginner

This course aims to help the student attain a comprehension of the Latin language through practice in reading it. Using the Cambridge Latin Course Unit 1, students learn about Roman life by reading stories and dialogues pertaining to Roman life in the city of Pompeii in the 1st century C.E. and develop an understanding of Roman culture and civilization, especially during the 1st century C.E. Students earning a C or better may continue to Latin 2.

Latin 2

Level: Advanced Beginner

Prerequisite: Final grade of C or higher in Latin 1; passing the Latin 1 final exam; and teacher recommendation

Students continue their study of the Latin language, with an emphasis on grammar, vocabulary and syntax. The aim of the course continues to be the development of the student's ability to read Latin. The Cambridge Latin Course Units 2 and 3 are used for this purpose. Students continue to explore Roman culture and civilization by reading stories about life in Roman Britain and Roman Egypt.

Honors Latin 3

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Final grade of B- or higher in Latin 2; passing the final Latin 2 exam; and teacher recommendation

Students continue their journey through the Cambridge Latin Course by finishing Unit 3. In this course, students will develop their ability to read more complex Latin passages. They also continue their study of Roman civilization by exploring the monuments and topography of ancient Rome and the early history of the Empir

Honors Latin 4

Level: Advanced Low

Prerequisite: Final grade of B- or higher in Honors Latin 3; passing the Honors Latin 3 exam; teacher recommendation

Students conclude their journey through the Cambridge Latin Course by reading the Latin stories in Unit 4. In this course, students will make the transition from reading the adapted Latin of the Cambridge Latin Course story line to reading original Latin. Students will read selections from Martial, Ovid, Catullus, Virgil, Horace, Pliny and Livy.

Advanced Latin

Level: Advanced High

Prerequisite: Final grade of B or higher in Honors Latin 4; passing the Honors Latin 4 exam; teacher recommendation This course is offered to students who have successfully completed Honors Latin 4 and who do not want to take Advanced Placement Latin. In this course, students will read a selection of Latin prose and poetry. Poetry will include selections from Ovid, Catullus, Horace and Virgil. Prose selections will be from Pliny, Livy, Caesar and Cicero. Through these reading selections, students will continue to appreciate the global nature of the Roman experience. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening the student's ability to read Latin.

Ap Latin

Level: Advanced Placement.

Prerequisite: Final grade of A- or higher in Honors Latin 4; passing the Honors Latin 4 exam; teacher recommendation

The main objective of this course is to prepare students for success on the AP Latin exam. In order to achieve this objective, the students will be guided in developing the ability to literally translate into English all of the passages of Virgil's Aeneid and Caesar's De Bello Gallico, which are required by the College Board for the AP Latin program. The students will read the entire Aeneid in English as well as Books 1, 6 and 7 in English from the De Bello Gallico The AP Exam is mandatory. Exam fee charged

Spanish

SPANISH 1

Level: Novice Low to Mid

Students in this beginner class study language that can be used in everyday conversation. The course is taught using a communicative approach. Students begin to communicate in the target language through interpersonal speaking and writing; presentational speaking and writing; and interpretive reading and listening. This class is conducted in Spanish as much as possible, and an emphasis is placed on becoming a competent communicator. Students expand their understanding of culture by studying about the countries of the Hispanic world. Vocabulary will focus on greetings, time, school, leisure activities, shopping, family, clothing, weather, simple foods found in restaurants and markets, and holidays.

SPANISH 2

Level: Novice Mid to High

Prerequisite: Final grade of C or higher in Spanish I; passing the Spanish I final exam; and teacher recommendation

This class continues to emphasize and build the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students learn to express more complex thoughts using a variety of verb tenses, including an introduction to the present subjunctive, while building vocabulary and developing their writing skills. Classes are conducted in Spanish; however, English is occasionally used to explain difficult grammar and certain material. Students are required to use the target language as they develop all of their skills while they explore Hispanic culture through readings in the textbook complemented by videos of native speakers. Students are encouraged to conduct simple exchanges with native speakers in the community. Classwork varies to include listening activities and lessons in the digital text.

Spanish 3

Level: Intermediate Low

Prerequisite: Final grade of B- or better in Spanish 2; passing the Spanish 2 final exam; and teacher recommendation

Spanish 3 begins with a thorough review of the grammatical concepts covered in the first two levels. Students continue to expand their vocabulary while building all language skills. At this level, students will study and practice the present subjunctive in more depth. The class is conducted mostly in Spanish; therefore, students at this level should be comfortable using the target language to speak and should be able to write using coherent and connected sentences. Classwork and homework include reading and listening activities and lessons in the digital text as students expand their knowledge of the language and Hispanic cultures.

Honors Spanish 3

Level: Intermediate Low to Mid

Prerequisite: Final grade of A- or better in Spanish 2; passing the Spanish 2 final exam; and teacher recommendation

At the Honors level, students refine their competence in the four skills needed to learn a world language and begin interpretation of literary texts. Increased emphasis is placed on students’ writing, speaking and listening comprehension. The students analyze short stories and poems. An honors level course demands a great deal of personal responsibility and determination as students are expected to review basic materials outside the classroom so that class discussions can focus on cultural topics and current events. The class is conducted in Spanish.

Spanish 4

Level: Intermediate Mid

Prerequisite: Final grade of B- or better in Spanish 3; passing the Spanish 3 final exam; and teacher recommendation

Spanish 4, conducted entirely in Spanish, is a course for those wishing to continue Spanish studies at a higher level. Through a variety of authentic materials, students will examine, discuss and present on varied topics, such as current events and issues concerning the Spanish-speaking world, to improve their speaking and writing skills. A strong emphasis is placed on speaking both daily in class and in regular presentations and projects. The use of technology, film and additional materials enhance the content of the course.

HONORS SPANISH 4

Level: Intermediate Mid to High

Prerequisite: Final grade of A- or better in Spanish 3H; passing the Spanish 3H final exam; teacher recommendation Honors Spanish 4, taught entirely in Spanish, is designed to further hone students' competence in all modes of expression and to deepen students’ understanding of the culture of the Spanish-speaking world through film, music, short stories, poetry and drama. Students increase their understanding of formal and informal speech, improve their spoken fluency by expressing their ideas and values and advance their writing ability through frequent compositions based on film, readings, and class discussions. The course seeks refinement in interpersonal, interpretive and presentational communication.

AP SPANISH: Language and Culture

Level: Advanced Placement

Prerequisite: Final grade of A- or better in Honors Spanish 4; passing the final exam; and teacher recommendation

AP Spanish Language polishes students' communicative skills, moving them to a higher level of proficiency in their speaking, listening, writing and reading of Spanish. A broad range of authentic materials from textbooks, newspapers, the web, film, television and the local community serves as the basis for discussion and investigation of diverse cultural and linguistic themes. The class is conducted exclusively in Spanish, and students are expected to participate actively. Evaluation is based on a variety of assessments including essays,

FINE & PERFORMING ARTS

journals, oral quizzes, projects and presentations. The AP Exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged.

Advanced Studies In Spanish

Level: Post AP

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

This class is designed for students who have completed AP Spanish and wish to continue their study of Spanish culture and society. The themes covered include literature, popular culture, politics and government. Students blend in-depth independent research projects of their design with continued practice in writing, listening and speaking Spanish.

Creative problem solving and new avenues of self-expression are at the core of Wilbraham & Monson Academy’s Fine & Performing Arts (FPA) program. We offer a full range of learning in theater, music and the visual arts, including digital media, which benefits the entry-level student as well as the advanced artist or performer seeking a higher-level experience. We strive to teach students the skills and thought processes that ensure a deeper understanding of both their immediate and global cultural environments. The faculty members in the FPA Department offer in-depth studies of current practices within their respective disciplines. The department encourages personal growth and the pursuit of both individual and collaborative excellence. Therefore, the process is equally as important as the final product. To help achieve this end, courses are tiered allowing students to build both their confidence and their skill level. All of the instructors in the department are working professionals, actively engaged in their art. We believe students are better prepared for the challenges of the 21st century by understanding and engaging in the complex and diverse human expression inherent in these disciplines. Note: Materials fees may be charged for these courses.

Visual Arts

STUDIO ART (1 credit) Trimester

Prerequisite to other visual art courses

Level: Introductory

Students in this course gain an understanding of the fundamentals of painting, drawing and principles of design through studio practice. The course addresses aesthetics, criticism and art history. Students will be assessed on sketchbook assignments, major projects and class participation. This course has a materials cost.

DRAWING (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

This course is especially designed to improve drawing skills as well as the ability to visually represent an idea. Throughout the course, students will explore a variety of drawing media. Using various means of representation, abstract and realistic, students will develop a personal style that they will use to interpret their life in a visual way. Assignments will include practicing drawing skills on their own and researching imagery that will be used in class projects. This course has a materials cost.

PAINTING (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

Students explore the use of paints and color for selfexpression and to gain an understanding and appreciation for paint as a medium personally and historically. They will learn basic color theory by doing simple painting studies and progressing to more complex/abstract paintings. Art history is discussed, as well as various techniques of painting. Students are assessed on effort, creativity and the productive use of time to fully explore the medium, as well as the quality of the work produced. This course has a materials cost.

PAINTING II (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Advanced

Prerequisite: Studio Art and Painting

To further explore the use of paint, students build on knowledge and experience to create paintings with much deeper and personal meaning – to understand art is a form of self-expression. The focus is on the review of color theory and development of a personal voice through a series of projects. The course encourages students to develop self-expression and appreciation of paint as a personal and historic medium. This course has a materials cost.

SCULPTURE (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

Through studio practice and research, students are exposed to a variety of approaches and considerations in order to arrive at a completed piece of work. By direct experience, students learn to problem solve material and aesthetic concerns, understand and apply 3-dimensional concepts in a variety of challenges, resulting in a portfolio of work. This course is encouraged for students who wish to pursue AP Studio - 3D Design. This course has a materials cost.

CERAMICS (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

This course is an introduction to ceramic construction and glaze techniques. Students will explore various visual problems and ways to solve them with a creative solution. Projects will begin with a brief history and examples that develop into the creation of the project. Research of images and historical ceramic pieces will serve as visual and functional inspiration for projects. Work will be collectively viewed, discussed and graded using a rubric. Weekly participation grades will reflect a student’s effort, productivity, conduct, attitude and cleanup habits. This course has a materials cost.

CERAMICS II (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Advanced

Prerequisite: Studio Art, Ceramics

This is the second course in the ceramic series. After students learn the basics of constructing and glazing in Ceramics, they are ready to start exploring the possibilities clay has to offer. Projects will consist of unique assembling and glazing techniques, wheel throwing, slip casting and mold making. Students will research outside of class to gain inspiration and understanding of creative methods employed by historic and contemporary master ceramicists. This course has a materials cost.

DARKROOM PHOTOGRAPHY I (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

Students learn the fundamentals of traditional darkroom photography through work with the SLR camera and in the darkroom, gaining experience in how an image is formed and printed. Students will also develop awareness of composition, subject matter and lighting. Daily effort, projects and a willingness to explore the medium are important to success in this course. This course has a materials cost.

DARKROOM PHOTOGRAPHY II (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Advanced

Prerequisite: Studio Art, Darkroom Photography I

Students will build upon existing knowledge, continue to develop skill in the darkroom and increase technical understanding with various cameras while striving to deepen creativity. While working in the darkroom to demonstrate basics and refine printing, students will also apply their knowledge of composition, subject matter and lighting. Students will produce a portfolio of work. This course has a materials cost.

DIGITAL MEDIA AND VIDEO (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory

This course exposes students to the fundamentals of video programming. Students will explore technical, aesthetic and ethical considerations with a view to video production. They will learn to create programming, such as news, arts and social commentary, through various approaches to digital media. The importance of understanding point of view is critical to a more thorough comprehension of our media-saturated lives. With information and ideas being increasingly spread by video content media, students should have a foundation in this important visual language.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

This course will help students to understand and apply the creative processes involved in creating imagery for web or print, while considering the visual impact of the internet on our lives. Through various projects, students will learn Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom basics to manipulate and manage files in computer labs. Each student will produce a digital portfolio that combines photography with design basics. Weekly preparation and participation are important. This course has a materials cost.

FASHION: DESIGN STUDIO (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent

This course will give students a foundation in figure drawing through various methods. Students will learn and practice basic fashion illustration techniques using various media. The creation of original ideas will be explored through various methods and prompts in order to generate new ideas. Students will use these new ideas to design clothing or a “collection” to be presented at the end of the course. This course has a materials cost.

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the many aspects of 3D Design. From plaster casts to recyclable materials, we learn how to use materials in order to make our vision clear and accessible. Problem solving is a critical part of this course. Students are expected to experiment and follow through with ideas. Research on designers and sculptors shared through student presentation and response informs and inspires the class. The work culminates in a group exhibit in the gallery. This course has a materials cost. The AP Exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee charged.

ADVANCED STUDIES IN ART Full year

Level: Advanced, Department permission required

This course offers post-AP art students an opportunity to continue to study and build their portfolio for application to a college art program. The program is built as an independent study, in coordination with the AP Studio art instructor, allowing the student to work in the medium of their choice to build the best portfolio to showcase their skills. Space is extremely limited and students must have completed the AP Studio courses prior to consideration for this option. This course has a materials cost.

FASHION: PRODUCTION STUDIO Trimester

Level: Intermediate

Prerequisite: Studio Art, Fashion: Design Studio

This course will give students a foundation in garment construction, sewing techniques, fabric and fiber qualities and the use of a sewing machine. Students will have the opportunity to prepare and produce sewn garments from their own designs. This course has a materials cost.

AP STUDIO – 2D DESIGN Full year

Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 and above

Prerequisite: Studio Art, at least one additional art course, departmental permission pending student portfolio review

Through the completion of a range of assignments, students develop individual themes and approaches to a variety of two-dimensional media. With a focus on the elements and principles of art and design, students also develop objectivity, personal critiques and an understanding of the historical and global impact on the arts. The course will prepare advanced art students for the AP Exam and the creation of a portfolio for application to study art in college. This course has a materials cost. The AP Exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee charged.

AP STUDIO - 3D DESIGN Full year

Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 and above

Prerequisite: Studio Art, at least one additional art course, departmental permission pending student portfolio review. Students are highly encouraged to take AP Studio - 2D Design prior to AP Studio 3D

Performing Arts

INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory

As a set of staged practices rich with social context, the theater has sought to document, engage and affect communities. This course introduces and explores theater from page to stage as a live performing art. Topics include theatre as an art form, dramatic structure, theatrical representation and the crafts of theater artists, such as directors, designers, playwrights and actors. We will also engage with live performances and video archives of past performances to deepen understanding and comprehension.

BEGINNING GUITAR (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory

The purpose of this course is to bring out the guitar player in each student. Through traditional guitar notation, students will learn how to read and play music in first position. They will also learn the ever-important chords that a guitar player uses to accompany a singer, play in a band or make other forms of popular music. Students will also become familiar, through research, with the foremost composers of classical and jazz guitar, as well as the great innovators of today’s electric guitar. Students will learn to play classical music in an ensemble and will also be given the opportunity to learn their favorite songs.

GUITAR 2 (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Advanced Introductory

Guitar 2 is for the guitar player who has some basic experience. This course will build upon the foundation of Beginning Guitar and take those skills to the next level. Through daily practice, students will gain experience with power chords; fingerstyle guitar; syncopations, dotted rhythms and triplets; Carter-style solos; bass runs; pentatonic scales; improvising; tablature; riffs and examples; and notes in first and second position. Students will also learn about important and historical guitar players and their style of playing.

DIGITAL MUSIC (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory

Digital Music is an introduction to MIDI sequencing and audio recording. This is a hands-on class designed to give the student a thorough understanding of digital music and MIDI interface. This course will introduce the concepts of creating digital audio and MIDI sequencing through the use of software applications. Students will also learn mixing, EQ methodology and mastering as well as production and engineering tactics. The term will culminate in a finished recording designed entirely by the student.

PERCUSSION (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory

Percussion class is open to all who want to explore the world of melody, harmony and rhythm through the use of percussion instruments that are both pitched and non-pitched. It offers the student the ability to learn and develop the art of instrumental music while promoting the enjoyment and appreciation of a variety of music genres through rehearsals and performance. The class will explore various styles such as: Marching, Classical, Latin and Rock, with the possibility of working together to create an original percussion piece.

20TH CENTURY MUSIC (1 credit) Trimester

Level: Introductory

The music of the 20th century is as diverse as the people who have helped to create it. Students will explore the multitude of musical styles and iterations that developed in the United States. Through physical and online text, video and audio, students will be exposed to and identify famous/important composers, musicians and singers, styles, genres, time periods and instrumentation. In identifying songs, students will be able to break down the artist, song structure and any political/social impact the song has.

CHORUS

(1 credit) Full year

Level: Advanced choral

Prerequisite: Audition

This course features a rehearsal-based class style with periodic discussion and viewing of relevant documentaries. Students will strengthen vocal and ensemble abilities; increase understanding of the challenges of performing music from different traditions; acquire greater understanding of similarities and differences between traditions; and consider how the performance of global music has the ability to foster greater communication within the worldwide community. This is a yearlong course with repertoire pulled from three distinct global music traditions, the regions of which will be selected at the start of each school year.

JAZZ MUSIC ENSEMBLE (Titan Jazz) Full year

Level: Intermediate to Advanced Prerequisite: Audition and instructor evaluation required

This class will explore a jazz repertoire, including the various styles of jazz swing, jazz-rock, Latin jazz and original compositions by the director and student. Students gain practical listening experience by staying in tune with the group in scale warmups, rehearsals and concerts, and thus becoming a team player. The goals of the course are to increase the students’ knowledge and ability in the performance of jazz music; to increase each individual’s understanding of their instrument and how it relates to others in a large band setting; to help perpetuate the concept of a rehearsal jazz band; and to prepare a concert exciting to both the musicians and the audience. The ensemble will perform public and private functions during the year.

CHAMBER ENSEMBLE Full year

Level: Intermediate to Advanced Prerequisites: Audition or departmental permission

This yearlong class enables students to improve technical abilities on solo instruments and facilitates play in chamber and advanced ensemble groups. The emphasis is on advanced solo and ensemble technique as well as audition repertoire through participation in auditions and public performances.

AP MUSIC THEORY Full year Online *Fees Apply

Level: Advanced Placement

Please visit the One Schoolhouse website for complete course description: https://www.oneschoolhouse.org/school-information.html

Students enrolling in Online Courses will need to adhere to the One Schoolhouse academic schedule. Work will be expected during WMA vacation periods. Failure to do so could result in course failure.

Additional Courses

FIRST YEAR FOUNDATIONS (0.5 credit) Fall Trimester

Level: Grade 9, required

The intention of First Year Foundations is to provide just that, the basis or groundwork for success at Wilbraham & Monson Academy. In doing so, we will work to develop our sense of community, focusing throughout on our core values: “Live Clean. Work Hard. Speak True. Play Fair.” We will begin by identifying the personal qualities that set us apart from others, as well as those shared traits that have brought us all to our school. In this way, we will build our Grade 9 community, establishing a strong sense of belonging through activities centered around team-building, mindfulness and gratitude. Developing a comprehensive understanding of how our school works, from technology to infrastructure, will ensure future success. Additionally, students will examine the development of the teenage brain and the role of executive functioning, alongside study skills and strategies that will be incorporated into multiple learning opportunities throughout the WMA experience. Learners will become well-versed in all student supports across campus, from the Academy's nursing staff to the counseling office to the writing center and math tutors, and the value and use of office hours built into the school day. In alignment with our health curriculum, students will venture into the topics of relationships, gender roles and expectations, understanding of boundaries and consent, and intercourse and contraception. In cooperation with our health program, students will further develop their understanding of drugs and addiction. Each of these topics is cyclical, as Academy students receive health education throughout middle school and upper school, and we recognize the importance of continuing conversations and opening dialogue, in an effort to establish trust and teach the science behind such critical topics. Finally, we will reflect on our experience together, crafting letters to our future selves - organized around our topics of study - to be returned to us during our senior year. We are sure to marvel at our expectations and experiences!

HEALTH 10 (.25 credit) Trimester

Grade 10, required beginning Class of 2026

This course is designed to enhance personal health and wellness through the discussion of mental health, positive psychology, sexual education and personal identity. The focus of this course is the development of identity, personal values and a goal-oriented mindset. Students will meet once per week over the course of one trimester. Students are graded on in-class assignments.

HEALTH 11 (.25 credit) Trimester

Grade 11, required through Class of 2025

This course is designed to enhance personal health and wellness through the discussion of mental health, positive psychology, sexual education and personal identity. The focus of this course is the development of identity, personal values and a goal-oriented mindset. Students will meet once per week over the course of one trimester. Students are graded on in-class assignments.

JUNIOR HEALTH SEMINAR No Credit, Trimester

Level: Grade 11, required beginning Class of 2026

Students will engage in the health and wellness curriculum through seminar-style lectures by guest speakers. The seminars will cover three topics: distracted driving, substance use and abuse and nutrition. Guest speakers who are experts in the field will engage with and educate our students. This is not a scheduled class.