Grades 9, 10:

Foundations

Prerequisite: None
Grade: Students are required to take this course for 1 term in 9, 10

Grades 11, 12:

Interdisciplinary Studies

Prerequisite: None
Grade: Students are required to take the course for 1 term in 11, 12

Drama and Theater Studies

This course provides opportunities for students to explore dramatic forms and techniques as well as the history and theory behind the world of theater. The course will employ material from a wide range of sources and cultures. Students will use the elements of drama to examine situations and issues that are relevant to their lives. Students will create, perform, discuss, and analyze drama, and then reflect on the experiences to develop an understanding of themselves, the art form, and the world around them. Students will engage with and evaluate the social and cultural forces that have shaped and are shaped by the world of drama and theater.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Drama and Theater Studies II

This course provides opportunities for students to explore dramatic forms, conventions, and techniques. Students will explore a variety of dramatic sources from various cultures and representing a range of genres. Students will use the elements of drama in creating and communicating through dramatic works. Students will assume responsibility for decisions made in the creative and collaborative processes and will reflect on their experiences.

Prerequisite: Drama and Theater Studies I
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Shakespeare Performance

In Shakespeare Performance students will analyze, critique, learn Shakespearean texts in pursuit of staging and performing a full Shakespeare play at the end of the term. After choosing a play, students will be their own actors, directors, managers, designers, and any other role necessary in the Shakespearean fashion.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Music I

This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience and is aimed at developing technique, sensitivity, and imagination. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop an understanding of the conventions and elements of music and of safe practices related to music, and will develop a variety of skills transferable to other areas of their life.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10

Music II

This course emphasizes the creation and performance of music at a level consistent with previous experience. Students will develop musical literacy skills by using the creative and critical analysis processes in composition, performance, and a range of reflective and analytical activities. Students will develop their understanding of musical conventions, practices, and terminology and apply the elements of music in a range of activities. They will also explore the function of music in society with reference to the self, communities, and cultures.

Prerequisite: Music I
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Music III

This course provides students with opportunities to develop their musical literacy through the creation, appreciation, analysis, and performance of music, including traditional, commercial, and art music. Students will apply the creative process when performing appropriate technical exercises and repertoire and will employ the critical analysis processes when reflecting on, responding to, and analyzing live and recorded performances. Students will consider the function of music in society and the impact of music on individuals and communities. They will explore how to apply skills developed in music to their life and careers.

Prerequisite: Music II
Grade: 11, 12

Visual Arts I

This course is exploratory in nature, offering an overview of visual arts as a foundation for further study. Students will become familiar with the elements and principles of design and the expressive qualities of various materials by using a range of media, processes, techniques, and styles. Students will use the creative and critical analysis processes and will interpret art within a personal, contemporary, and historical context.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10

Visual Arts II

This course enables students to develop their skills in producing and presenting art by introducing them to new ideas, materials, and processes for artistic exploration and experimentation. Students will apply the elements and principles of design when exploring the creative process. Students will use the critical analysis process to reflect on and interpret art within a personal, contemporary, and historical context.

Prerequisite: Visual Arts I
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Visual Arts III

This course enables students to further develop their knowledge and skills in visual arts. Students will use the creative process to explore a wide range of themes through studio work that may include drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking, as well as the creation of collage, multimedia works, and works using emerging technologies. Students will use the critical analysis process when evaluating their own work and the work of others. The course may be delivered as a comprehensive program or through a program focused on a particular art form (e.g., photography, video, computer graphics, information design).

Prerequisite: Visual Arts II
Grade: 11, 12

Visual Arts – Photography I

This course enables students to further develop their knowledge and skills in visual arts. Students will use the creative process to explore a wide range of themes through studio work that may include drawing, painting, sculpting, and printmaking, as well as the creation of collage, multimedia works, and works using emerging technologies. Students will use the critical analysis process when evaluating their own work and the work of others. The course may be delivered as a comprehensive program or through a program focused on a particular art form (e.g., photography, video, computer graphics, information design). This course will focus on photography.

Prerequisite: Visual Arts I
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Visual Arts – Photography II

This course focuses on enabling students to refine their use of the creative process when creating and presenting two- and three-dimensional art works using a variety of traditional and emerging media and technologies. Students will use the critical analysis process to deconstruct art works and explore connections between art and society. The studio program enables students to explore a range of materials, processes, and techniques that can be applied in their own art production. Students will also make connections between various works of art in personal, contemporary, historical, and cultural contexts. This course will focus on photography.

Prerequisite: Photography I
Grade: 11, 12

Computer Science I

This course introduces students to computer programming. Students will plan and write simple computer programs by applying fundamental programming concepts, and learn to create clear and maintainable internal documentation. They will also learn to manage a computer by studying hardware configurations, software selection, operating system functions, networking, and safe computing practices. Students will also investigate the social impact of computer technologies, and develop an understanding of environmental and ethical issues related to the use of computers.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Computer Science II

Students will design software independently and as part of a team, using industry-standard programming tools and applying the software development life-cycle model. They will also write and use subprograms within computer programs. Students will develop creative solutions for various types of problems as their understanding of the computing environment grows. They will also explore environmental and ergonomic issues, emerging research in computer science, and global career trends in computer-related fields.

Prerequisite: Computer Science I
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Computer Science III

This course enables students to further develop knowledge and skills in computer science. Students will use modular design principles to create complex and fully documented programs, according to industry standards. Student teams will manage a large software development project, from planning through to project review. Students will also analyze algorithms for effectiveness. They will investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.

Prerequisite: Computer Science II
Grade: 11, 12
 

English 9

This course is designed to develop the oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that students need for success in their secondary school academic programs and in their daily lives. Students will analyze literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on the use of strategies that contribute to effective communication.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: Required 9

English 10

This course is designed to extend the range of oral communication, reading, writing, and media literacy skills that students need for success in their secondary school academic programs and in their daily lives. Students will analyze literary texts from contemporary and historical periods, interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on the selective use of strategies that contribute to effective communication.

Prerequisite: English 9
Grade: Required 10

English 11

This course emphasizes the development of literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyze challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures, as well as a range of informational and graphic texts, and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using language with precision and clarity and incorporating stylistic devices appropriately and effectively.

Prerequisite: English 10
Grade: Required 11

English 12

This course emphasizes the consolidation of the literacy, communication, and critical and creative thinking skills necessary for success in academic and daily life. Students will analyze a range of challenging literary texts from various periods, countries, and cultures; interpret and evaluate informational and graphic texts; and create oral, written, and media texts in a variety of forms. An important focus will be on using academic language coherently and confidently, selecting the reading strategies best suited to particular texts and particular purposes for reading, and developing greater control in writing.

Prerequisite: English 11
Grade: Required 12

Public Speaking and Presentation

This course emphasizes the knowledge and skills required to plan and make effective presentations and to speak effectively in both formal and informal contexts, using such forms as reports, speeches, debates, panel discussions, storytelling, recitations, interviews, and multimedia presentations. Students will research and analyze the content and characteristics of convincing speeches and the techniques of effective speakers; design and rehearse presentations for a variety of purposes and audiences; select and use visual and technological aids to enhance their message; and assess the effectiveness of their own and others’ presentations.

Prerequisite: English 9
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Studies in Literature

This course is for students with a special interest in literature and literary criticism. The course may focus on themes, genres, time periods, or countries. Students will analyze a range of forms and stylistic elements of literary texts and respond personally, critically, and creatively to them. They will also assess critical interpretations, write analytical essays, and complete an independent study project.

Prerequisite: English9
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

The Writer’s Craft

This course emphasizes knowledge and skills related to the craft of writing. Students will analyze models of effective writing; use a workshop approach to produce a range of works; identify and use techniques required for specialized forms of writing; and identify effective ways to improve the quality of their writing. They will also complete a major paper as part of a creative or analytical independent study project and investigate opportunities for publication and for writing careers.

Prerequisite: English 9
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Algebra I

This course focuses on linear and non-linear functions. It includes mathematical concepts for working with rational numbers, various expressions, analyzing and solving linear equations & inequalities, data analysis, probability, statistics, and polynomials. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9

Geometry

This course explores the concepts of Euclidean geometry including definitions, postulates, and theorems.  Areas of study include angles, parallel lines, congruent and similar triangles, rectilinear figures, polygons, circles and arc, proofs and the Pythagorean Theorem.  

Prerequisite: Algebra I
Grade: 9, 10, 11

Algebra II

This course enables students to broaden their understanding of relationships and extend their problem-solving and algebraic skills through investigation, the effective use of technology, and abstract reasoning. Students will explore quadratic relations and their applications; solve and apply linear systems. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.

Prerequisite: Algebra I
Grade: 9, 10, 11

Precalculus

This course introduces the mathematical concept of the function by extending students’ experiences with linear and quadratic relations. Students will investigate properties of discrete and continuous functions, including trigonometric and exponential functions; represent functions numerically, algebraically, and graphically; solve problems involving applications of functions; and develop facility in simplifying polynomial and rational expressions. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.

Prerequisite: Algebra II, Geometry
Grade: 11, 12 or permission of instructor

Functions and Applications

This course introduces basic features of the function by extending students’ experiences with quadratic relations. It focuses on quadratic, trigonometric, and exponential functions and their use in modeling real-world situations. Students will represent functions numerically, graphically, and algebraically; simplify expressions; solve equations; and solve problems relating to financial and trigonometric applications. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.

Prerequisite: Algebra II, Geometry
Grade: 11, 12

Calculus

This course builds on students’ previous understanding of rates of change and derivatives, and extends their experience to develop the concepts of integration and the antiderivative. Students will further explore the ideas of functions’ limits and of continuity, investigating the Intermediate and Extreme Value Theorems. Students will compute and apply derivatives and second derivatives to various contexts. Integration will be introduced through the model of a limit of Reimann sums. Students will expand this area of Mathematics to focus on definite integrals and antiderivatives and will consider their applications.

Prerequisite: Functions
Grade: 11, 12

Advanced Calculus

This course provides students with the opportunity to further develop their understanding of derivatives and integrals. Students will expand their comprehension of the concepts of calculus and vectors by considering derivatives of planar curves given in parametric, polar and vector form. Students will investigate the use of Euler’s Method and of L’Hopital’s Rule and determine appropriate situations for their application. Students will expand their understanding of integrals and will be introduced to improper integrals, using them to model physical, biological and economic situations. Taylor Series and Maclaurin Series will be introduced as tools for approximating functions.

Prerequisite: Calculus and Vectors
Grade: 12

Statistics

This course broadens students’ understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing information. Students will apply methods for organizing large amounts of information; solve problems involving counting techniques, probability, and statistics; and carry out a culminating project that integrates the expectations of the course.

Prerequisite: Functions or Functions & Applications
Grade: 11, 12

French I

This course provides opportunities for students to communicate and interact in French with increasing independence, with a focus on familiar topics related to their daily lives. Students will continue to develop language knowledge and skills by using language-learning strategies introduced in the elementary Core French program, and will apply creative and critical thinking skills in various ways. They will also enhance their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and will develop the skills necessary to become life-long language learners.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

French II

This course provides opportunities for students to communicate in French about personally relevant, familiar, and academic topics in real-life situations with increasing independence. Students will exchange information, ideas, and opinions with others in guided and increasingly spontaneous spoken interactions. Students will continue to develop their language knowledge and skills through the selective use of strategies that contribute to effective communication. They will also increase their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities, and will continue to develop the skills necessary to become life-long language learners.

Prerequisite: French I
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

French III

This course offers students extended opportunities to speak and interact in real-life situations in French with greater independence. Students will develop their creative and critical thinking skills through responding to and exploring a variety of oral and written texts. They will continue to broaden their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities and to develop the skills necessary for life-long language learning.

Prerequisite: French II
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

French IV

This course provides extensive opportunities for students to speak and interact in French independently. Students will apply language-learning strategies in a wide variety of real-life situations, and will continue to develop their creative and critical thinking skills through responding to and interacting with a variety of oral and written texts. Students will also continue to enrich their understanding and appreciation of diverse French-speaking communities and to develop the skills necessary for life-long language learning.

Prerequisite: French III
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Spanish I

This course introduces students to the Spanish language elements they will need to begin to communicate with native speakers. Students will participate in practical activities in which they can apply their knowledge and skills, and will begin to explore careers that require knowledge of the Spanish language. They will explore aspects of the culture of countries where Spanish is spoken, including social customs, music, and food, by participating in cultural events and activities involving both print and computer technology.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Spanish II

This course provides opportunities for students to communicate in Spanish about personally relevant, familiar, and academic topics in real-life situations with increasing independence. Students will exchange information, ideas, and opinions with others in guided and increasingly spontaneous spoken interactions. Students will develop their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through the selective use of strategies that contribute to effective communication. They will also increase their understanding and appreciation of diverse Spanish-speaking communities, and will develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.

Prerequisite: Spanish I
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Spanish III

This course offers students extended opportunities to speak and interact in real-life situations in Spanish with greater independence. Students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as their creative and critical thinking skills, through responding to and exploring a variety of oral and written texts. They will also broaden their understanding and appreciation of diverse Spanish-speaking communities, and will develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.

Prerequisite: Spanish II
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Spanish IV

This course provides extensive opportunities for students to speak and interact in Spanish independently. Students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, apply language learning strategies in a wide variety of real-life situations, and develop their creative and critical thinking skills through responding to and interacting with a variety of oral and written texts. They will also enrich their understanding and appreciation of diverse Spanish-speaking communities, and will develop skills necessary for lifelong language learning.

Prerequisite: Spanish III
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Integrated Science I

This course enables students to develop their understanding of basic concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and to relate science to technology, society, and the environment. Throughout the course, students will develop their skills in the processes of scientific investigation. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific theories and conduct investigations related to sustainable ecosystems; atomic and molecular structures and the properties of elements and compounds; the study of the universe and its properties and components; and the principles of electricity.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10

Integrated Science II

This course enables students to enhance their understanding of the concepts in biology, chemistry, earth and space science, and physics, and of the interrelationships between science, technology, society and the environment. Students are also given opportunities to further develop their scientific investigation skills. Students will plan and conduct investigations and develop their understanding of scientific theories related to the connections between cells and systems in animals and plants; chemical reactions, with a particular focus on acid-base reactions; forces that affect climate and climate change; and the interaction of light and matter.

Prerequisite: Integrated Science I
Grade: 11, 12

Biology

This course furthers students’ understanding of the processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biodiversity; evolution; genetic processes; the structure and function of animals; and the anatomy, growth, and function of plants. The course focuses on the theoretical aspects of the topics under study, and helps students refine skills related to scientific investigation.

Prerequisite: Integrated Science
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Advanced Biology

This course provides students with the opportunity for in-depth study of the concepts and processes that occur in biological systems. Students will study theory and conduct investigations in the areas of biochemistry, metabolic processes, molecular genetics, homeostasis, and population dynamics. Emphasis will be placed on the achievement of detailed knowledge and the refinement of skills needed for further study in various branches of the life sciences and related fields.

Prerequisite: Biology
Grade: 11, 12

Chemistry

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of the properties of chemicals and chemical bonds; chemical reactions and quantitative relationships in those reactions; solutions and solubility; and atmospheric chemistry and the behavior of gases. Students will further develop their analytical skills and investigate the qualitative and quantitative properties of matter, as well as the impact of some common chemical reactions on society and the environment.

Prerequisite: Integrated Science II
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Advanced Chemistry

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of chemistry through the study of organic chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, energy changes and rates of reaction, equilibrium in chemical systems, and electrochemistry. Students will further develop their problem-solving and investigation skills as they investigate chemical processes, and will refine their ability to communicate scientific information. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of chemistry in everyday life and on evaluating the impact of chemical technology on the environment.

Prerequisite: Chemistry
Grade: 11, 12

Physics

This course develops students’ understanding of the basic concepts of physics. Students will explore kinematics, with an emphasis on linear motion; different kinds of forces; energy transformations; the properties of mechanical waves and sound; and electricity and magnetism. They will enhance their scientific investigation skills as they test laws of physics. In addition, they will analyze the interrelationships between physics and technology, and consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.

Prerequisite: Integrated Science II
Grade: 10, 11, 12

Advanced Physics

This course enables students to deepen their understanding of physics concepts and theories. Students will continue their exploration of energy transformations and the forces that affect motion, and will investigate electrical, gravitational, and magnetic fields and electromagnetic radiation. Students will also explore the wave nature of light, quantum mechanics, and special relativity. They will further develop their scientific investigation skills, learning, for example, how to analyze, qualitatively and quantitatively, data relating to a variety of physics concepts and principles. Students will also consider the impact of technological applications of physics on society and the environment.

Prerequisite: Physics
Grade: 11, 12

Environmental Science

This course provides students with the fundamental knowledge of and skills relating to environmental science that will help them succeed in life after secondary school. Students will explore a range of topics, including the role of science in addressing contemporary environmental challenges; the impact of the environment on human health; sustainable agriculture and forestry; the reduction and management of waste; and the conservation of energy. Students will increase their scientific and environmental literacy and examine the interrelationships between science, the environment, and society in a variety of areas.

Prerequisite: Integrated Science II
Grade: 11, 12

World History to 1500 CE

This course explores the history of various societies around the world, from earliest times to around 1500 CE. Students will examine life in and the legacy of various ancient and pre-modern societies throughout the world, including those in, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Students will extend their ability to apply the concepts of historical thinking and the historical inquiry process, including the interpretation and analysis of evidence, when investigating social, political, and economic structures and historical forces at work in various societies and in different historical eras.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: Required 9

Introduction to Urban Planning

This course will focus on advocacy, community coalition building, awareness, environmental justice, and issues that are plaguing inner-city communities, urban areas, and new development projects. The Urban Planning class will focus on urban design, local and regional site planning, transportation, land use, sustainability, and environmental justice using the District of Columbia as the center focus. Students will visit local development sites, explore transportation modes, engage with guest speakers, and be actively engaged in designing site plans. This class will combine a mix of architecture, art, drawing, urban planning, film screenings, discussion, field trips, and group projects. Assessments will consist of reflection papers and essays, in-class projects centered around architecture and urban design, a midterm design project, and a final group design project. During the course of the class, students will take on the role of urban planners, designs, architects, and policy makers and will evaluate local planning methods and proposed development projects and compare to international examples.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

World History since 1500 CE

Students will explore social, economic, and political changes, the historical roots of contemporary issues, and the role of conflict and cooperation in global interrelationships. They will extend their ability to apply the concepts of historical thinking and the historical inquiry process, including the interpretation and analysis of evidence, as they investigate key issues and assess societal progress or decline in world history.

Prerequisite: World History to 1500 CE
Grade: Required 10

United States History

This course traces the social, economic, and political development of the United States from colonial times to the present. Students will explore the historical context of key developments that shaped the United States, its identity and culture, and its role in the global community. They will extend their ability to apply the concepts of historical thinking and the historical inquiry process, including the interpretation and analysis of evidence, when investigating forces in American history.

Prerequisite: World History since 1500 CE
Grade:

Philosophy, Politics & Economics

This course is based on the Oxford University program model and benefits from the generous in-kind support and resources provided by members of local, national, and global external organizations throughout the Washington, DC area including: Atlantic Council; Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness; and Street Sense. Students will start by exploring a unifying issue (Homelessness) and expand their exploration to other issues (including Justice; Property; and Voting) from a range of perspectives using Philosophy, Politics, and Economics as areas of focus. Students will engage in experiential exploration of how individual and public philosophy, politics, and economics influence issues encountered in daily life.

Prerequisite: World History to 1500 CE
Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12

Analyzing Current Economic Issues

This course examines current national and global economic trends and policies from diverse perspectives. Students will explore the impact of choices that individuals and institutions, including governments, make in responding to local, national, and global economic issues such as globalization and global economic inequalities, trade agreements, national debt, taxation, social spending, and consumer debt. Students will apply the concepts of economic thinking and the economic inquiry process, including economic models, to investigate, and develop informed opinions about, current economic issues and to help them make reasoned economic decisions.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 12

Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology

This course provides students with opportunities to think critically about theories, questions, and issues related to anthropology, psychology, and sociology. Students will develop an understanding of the approaches and research methods used by social scientists. They will be given opportunities to explore theories from a variety of perspectives, to conduct social science, and to become familiar with current thinking on a range of issues within the three disciplines.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 11, 12

Challenge and Change in Society

This course focuses on the use of social science theories, perspectives, and methodologies to investigate and explain shifts in knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behavior and their impact on society. Students will critically analyze how and why cultural, social, and behavioral patterns change over time. They will explore the ideas of social theorists and use those ideas to analyze causes of and responses to challenges such as technological change, deviance, and global inequalities. Students will explore ways in which social science research methods can be used to study social change.

Prerequisite: Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology
Grade: 12

Entrepreneurship: The Venture

This course focuses on ways in which entrepreneurs recognize opportunities, generate ideas, and organize resources to plan successful ventures that enable them to achieve their goals. Students will create a venture plan for a school-based or student-run business. Through hands-on experiences, students will have opportunities to develop the values, traits, and skills most often associated with successful entrepreneurs.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 11, 12

Equity and Social Justice: From Theory to Practice

This course enables students to develop an understanding of the theoretical, social, and historical underpinnings of various equity and social justice issues and to analyze strategies for bringing about positive social change. Students will learn about historical and contemporary equity and social justice issues in the U.S, and globally. They will explore power relations and the impact of a variety of factors on equity and social justice. Students will develop and apply research skills and will design and implement a social action initiative relating to an equity or social justice issue.

Prerequisite: U.S. History
Grade: 12

Food and Culture

This course focuses on guidelines for making nutritious food choices. Students will investigate factors that influence food choices, including beliefs, attitudes, current trends, traditional eating patterns, food-marketing strategies, and individual needs. Students will also explore the environmental impact of a variety of food choices at the local and global level. The course provides students with opportunities to develop food-preparation skills and introduces them to the use of social science research methods in the area of food and nutrition.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 11, 12

Gender Studies

This course enables students to explore the social construction of gender. Students will learn about the dynamic nature of gender roles and norms; sexism and power relations; and the impact of representations of women and men in the media, popular culture, and the arts. Students will analyze a range of gender equity issues, including gender-based violence and workplace equity, in both U.S. and global contexts. Students will develop and apply research skills and will design and implement a social action initiative relating to gender equity.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 12

History of Law

This course explores U.S. and international law, with a focus on legal issues that are relevant to the lives of people in the U.S. Students will gain an understanding of rights and freedoms in the U.S., our legal system, and family, contract, employment, tort, and criminal law. Students will use case studies and apply the concepts of legal thinking and the legal inquiry process to develop legal reasoning skills and to formulate and communicate informed interpretations of legal issues, and they will develop the ability to advocate for new laws.

Prerequisite: U.S. History
Grade: 12

Philosophy: The Big Questions

This course encourages exploration of philosophy’s big questions, such as: What is a meaningful life? What separates right from wrong? What constitutes knowledge? What makes something beautiful? What is a just society? Students will develop critical thinking and philosophical reasoning skills as they identify and analyze the responses of philosophers to the big questions and formulate their own response to them. Students will explore the relevance of philosophical questions to society and to their everyday life. They will develop research and inquiry skills as they investigate various topics in philosophy.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 11, 12

Philosophy: Questions and Theories

This course enables students to acquire an understanding of the nature of philosophy and philosophical reasoning skills and to develop and apply their knowledge and skills while exploring specialized branches of philosophy (the course will cover at least three of the following branches: metaphysics, ethics, epistemology, philosophy of science, social and political philosophy, aesthetics). Students will develop critical thinking and philosophical reasoning skills as they formulate and evaluate arguments related to a variety of philosophical questions and theories. They will also develop research and inquiry skills related to the study and practice of philosophy.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 12

World Cultures

This course examines the nature of culture; how cultural identities are acquired, maintained, and transformed; and theories used to analyze cultures. Students will explore world cultures, with an emphasis on the analysis of religious and spiritual beliefs, art forms, and philosophy. They will study the contributions and influence of a range of cultural groups and will critically analyze issues facing ethno-cultural groups within the U.S. and around the world. Students will develop and apply research skills and will design and implement a social action initiative relating to cultural diversity.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 11, 12

World Religions and Belief Traditions: Perspectives, Issues, and Challenges

This course provides students with opportunities to explore various world religions and belief traditions. Students will develop knowledge of the terms and concepts relevant to this area of study, will examine the ways in which religions and belief traditions meet various human needs, and will learn about the relationship between belief and action. They will examine sacred writings and teachings, consider how concepts of time and place influence different religions and belief traditions, and develop research and inquiry skills related to the study of human expressions of belief.

Prerequisite: None
Grade: 11, 12

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