Episcopal School of Acadiana
Upper School
Course of Study
2014-2015
Upper School Course of Study
Table of Contents
Graduation Requirements
TOPS Core Curriculum - Class of 2014 through 2017
TOPS Core Curriculum - Class of 2018 and beyond
Traditional Course of Study
Personal 4-Year Plan Worksheet
Awarding of Credit
Grading System
Computing Grade Point Average
Academic Recognitions
National Honor Society
Headmaster’s List
Honor Roll
Senior Spring
Progress towards Diploma
Academic Probation
Athletic Eligibility
Course Selection Process
English Courses
Mathematics Courses
History Courses
Science Courses
World Language Courses
French
Spanish
Computer Science Courses
Speech & Communication
Health & Physical Education Courses
Visual Arts Courses
Performing Arts Courses
Theatre
Music
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5
6
7
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10
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Contacts
Mr. North, Head of Upper School
Mr. Chrysler, Academic Dean/College Counselor
Mrs. Chappuis, Counselor
Mr. Bourgeois, Athletic Director
anorth@esacadiana.com
schrysler@esacadiana.com
chappuis@esacadiana.com
mbourgeois@esacadiana.com
Upper School Course of Study
Upper School Course of Study and Planning Guide
Each ESA student should select a program of study that is both challenging and rewarding. While
requirements for graduation will determine much of the course of study, there are options for each student to
consider in planning his or her four year experience.
As students plan for the upcoming school year, they should review their present transcripts, paying particular
attention to graduation requirements. Students and parents may see a student’s progress towards meeting ESA
diploma requirements as well as a current transcript through NetClassroom via the <student name>’s Grades
menu. Students should consider their academic and co-curricular interests as well as college and future plans in
choosing their courses. Extracurricular activities should be chosen carefully to achieve a balance between
academics and extras. It is a common and recommended practice that students above the ninth grade to have
one unencumbered period during the day (i.e. a “free” period).
Each spring students will make course selections for the following year and should keep in mind the following:
● Seek the counsel of their faculty advisor, individual teachers, Academic Dean, College Counselor, or
Head of Upper School as to what courses and levels are most appropriate.
● All requests for honors level or Advanced Placement courses must be approved by a student’s current
teacher in that discipline. Please carefully consider the College Counseling Note below when
considering making a request for accelerated courses.
● Ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade students are required to be enrolled in at least 6 courses per semester.
● Twelfth grade students are required to be enrolled in at least 5 courses per semester.
● LHSAA rules require the following for academic eligibility:
Fall semester - Pass 6 units the previous academic year with a C average
Spring semester - Pass 6 subjects in the fall semester (no grade stipulation); a senior who has
accumulated 20 or more units may take five subjects/units for the fall semester and must pass all
five.
Questions regarding specific eligibility requirements should be addressed to the Athletic Director.
College Counseling Note
Throughout Upper School, the general rule of thumb is to pursue the five major subject areas—English, math,
history, science, and world languages—for as long as possible and to the highest level successfully attainable.
It is detrimental, however, to “over challenge” yourself. Taking an honors or AP course, struggling, and
earning a low grade is not helpful either to a student’s learning or the student’s chances of admission to
colleges.
Colleges want students to take the toughest course that they can handle and in which they can do well.
Students do themselves a great disservice by accelerating or taking honors and/or AP courses when it is
inappropriate to do so.
1
Upper School Course of Study
Academics
Grades 9-12
Graduation Requirements
To comply with the Core 4 Curriculum adopted by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education in the
Fall of 2008, Episcopal School of Acadiana requires that a student earns a minimum of 24 units or credits to
receive a diploma. Of these 24 units, 21 units are in specifically required courses and 3 may be in courses
of a student’s choice while adhering to the required distribution of units among the disciplines.
Discipline
Required Units Required Courses
English
4.0 units
English I, II, III, and IV in sequential order
Mathematics
4.0 units
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus
History
4.0 units
World History, Western Civilization,
U.S. History, Civics
Science
4.0 units
Physics I (required of ninth graders at ESA),
Biology, Chemistry, 1 additional unit in a science
course of choice
World Language
3.0 units
3 units in one language
Health & Physical Education
2.0 units
Health & Physical Education I & II
Visual and/or Performing Arts
1.5 units
Additional Units in course of
choice
1.5 units
Notes on Required Units:
● Eighth Grade Algebra I - Successful completion of this course, at the recommendation of the Mathematics Department,
fulfills 1 required unit of mathematics for graduation
Middle School World Languages - Successful completion of the Middle School World Language sequence, at the
recommendation of the World Language Department, fulfills 1 required unit of world language for graduation
equivalent to French I or Spanish I.
● Eighth Grade Computer Science I - Successful completion fulfills 0.5 required unit for graduation
 Western Civilization may be substituted with AP European History
 U.S. History may be substituted with AP U.S. History
 Civics may be substituted with AP U.S. Government & Politics/AP Microeconomics
 Enrollment in Health & Physical Education is required of all 9th and 10th grade students
● Units earned in any course beyond those fulfilling a discipline’s graduation requirement can count as an elective unit.
2
Upper School Course of Study
Notes:
3
Upper School Course of Study
TOPS Core Curriculum
For Opportunity, Performance, and Honors Awards
For High School graduates of 2014 - 2017
Units
Courses1
ENGLISH = 4 Units
4 units
English I, II, III, & IV
MATH = 4 Units
1 unit
Algebra I, or Integrated Mathematics I, or Applied Algebra I
or Algebra I—Parts 1 & 2 (two units)
or Applied Mathematics I & II (two units)
or Applied Algebra 1A and 1B (two units)
1 unit
Algebra II or Integrated Mathematics II
2 units
Geometry, Applied Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Advanced Math - Pre-Calculus,
Calculus, AP Calculus AB, Advanced Math - Functions and Statistics, Probability
and Statistics, Discrete Mathematics, Applied Mathematics III, Integrated
Mathematics III, or Algebra III
SCIENCE = 4 Units
1 unit
Biology I or II
1 unit
Chemistry I or II, or Chemistry Com
2 units
Earth Science, Physical Science, Environmental Science, Integrated Science,
Biology II, Chemistry II, Physics, Physics II, Physics for Technology I or II, AP
Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism, AP Physics C: Mechanics, or Anatomy and
Physiology or both Agriscience I & II (both for 1 unit)
SOCIAL STUDIES = 4 Units
1 unit
American History
1 unit
Civics and Free Enterprise (1 unit combined), Civics (1 year), or
AP Government and Politics: United States
2 units
World History, Western Civilization, World Geography, European History or
History of Religion
FOREIGN LANGUAGE = 2 Units
2 units
Foreign Language (2 units in the same language)
FINE ARTS = 1 Unit
1 unit
Fine Arts Survey
or 1 unit of a performance course in music, or dance, or theatre
or 1 unit of studio art
or 1 unit of visual art
or both Speech III & IV (both for 1 unit)
TOTAL = 19 Units
1
Advanced Placement (AP) courses with the same name as a course listed in the TOPS Core Curriculum may be substituted.
(800) 259-5626, Ext. 1012
custserv@osfa.la.gov www.osfa.la.gov
P.O. Box 91202
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9202
This core curriculum is accurate as of the date of publication and includes courses
listed in TOPS statute and those determined to be equivalent by the La. Board of
Regents and BESE. Updated : 08/23/2011
4
Upper School Course of Study
TOPS Core Curriculum
For Opportunity, Performance, and Honors Awards
For High School graduates of 2018 and thereafter
Units
Courses
ENGLISH = 4 Units
1 unit
English I
1 unit
English II
1 unit
English III or AP English Language & Composition
1 unit
English IV or AP English Literature & Composition
MATH = 4 Units
1 unit
Algebra I
1 unit
Geometry
1 unit
Algebra II
1 unit
Algebra III; Advanced Math - Functions and Statistics, Advanced Math - Pre-Calculus,
or Pre-Calculus; Calculus or AP Calculus AB; AP Calculus BC; Probability and
Statistics or AP Statistics
SCIENCE = 4 Units
1 unit
Biology I or II
1 unit
Chemistry I or II, or Chemistry Com
2 units
Earth Science; Environmental Science; Physical Science; Agriscience I & II (1 unit
combined), Chemistry II, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, Physics I, AP
Physics I, AP Physics II, AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism, AP Physics C:
Mechanics, Biology II, or AP Biology
SOCIAL STUDIES = 4 Units
1 unit
U.S. History or AP U.S. History
½ unit
Government, AP Government & Politics: Comparative, or AP Government & Politics:
United States
½ units
Economics, AP Macroeconomics, or AP Microeconomics
(One unit of Civics may be substituted for the two ½ Units above)
2 units
Western Civilization, European History, or AP European History; World Geography or
AP Human Geography; World History or AP World History; History of Religion
FOREIGN LANGUAGE = 2 Units
2 units
Foreign Language (2 units in the same language)
FINE ARTS = 1 Unit
1 unit
Fine Arts Survey
or 1 unit of a performance course in music, or dance, or theatre
or 1 unit of studio art
or 1 unit of visual art
or both Speech III & IV (both for 1 unit)
TOTAL = 19 Units
(800) 259-5626, Ext. 1012
custserv@osfa.la.gov www.osfa.la.gov
P.O. Box 91202
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9202
This core curriculum is accurate as of the date of publication and includes courses
listed in TOPS statute and those determined to be equivalent by the La. Board of
Regents and BESE. Updated : 08/23/2011
5
6
Algebra II or
Pre-Calculus
Pre-Calc or
Calculus or
AP Calculus or
AP Statistics
4 credits of math 4 credits of history
English III or
AP English
Composition
English IV or
AP English
Literature
4 credits of
English
11
12
Civics or
AP US Gov’t &
Politics/AP Econ
U.S. History
1 credit = 1 year
4 credits of science
Biology II or
Chemistry II or
Physics II or Enviro
Science
Chemistry
Biology
Physics I
SCIENCE
3 credits of the
same language
AP Language
Year IV
Year III
Year II
Year I
WORLD
LANGUAGES
2 credits of health
& phys. ed.
Health & Phys.
Ed. II
Health & Phys.
Ed. I
PHYSICAL
EDUCATION
1.5 credits in the
arts
Art Course of
Choice ‡
Art Course of
Choice ‡
Art Course of
Choice ‡
Art Course of
Choice ‡
Design
Foundations or
Music I or
Theatre I‡
ARTS
Students are required to earn a minimum of 24 credits to earn an ESA diploma. The additional 1.5 credit not specified above are to be filled with
courses of choice.
This is a traditional course of study; many alternatives courses of study exist that include honors sections, Advanced Placement courses, and/or
subject acceleration
‡ = One semester (1/2 year) course
Geometry or
Algebra II
English II
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Western
Civilization
Algebra I or
Geometry
World History
HISTORY
English I
Algebra I
MATH
9
8
ENGLISH
Traditional Course of Study toward an ESA Diploma
7
Total graduation
credits for the year
Arts
Health & PE
World
Language
Science
History
Math
English
8
9
10
My Planned Course of Study
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12
Upper School Course of Study
Awarding of Credit
● To receive credit in a course, a student must earn a final grade of at least D-; however, ESA reserves the
right to require that any student earning a final grade of D+, D, or D- have tutorial summer work.
● Failing a course for the year in the Upper School will result in the student having to make up the work for
the year (as directed by the teacher, department chair, and Head of Upper School) or repeat the course.
Any course taken at another academic institution must be pre-approved by the Head of Upper School if
ESA credit is desired.
● Seniors must pass all courses scheduled in the senior year and may not fail the second semester of a year-
long course to graduate.
● Summer Program Credit All summer programs taken as a credit course must be pre-approved by the Head
of the Upper School and the appropriate department chair prior to the student's enrollment in the
program. Grades earned at institutions other than ESA are not included in a student’s ESA GPA, though
will be listed on the transcript noting the appropriate awarded credit if proper documentation is received by
ESA at the conclusion of the program.
● Transfer of Credits When a student who has already earned credits towards a diploma at another school
enrolls at ESA, ESA will evaluate the credits awarded and apply them to the appropriate ESA graduation
requirements.
Grading System
ESA uses a standard letter scale (A,B,C, D, and F) with pluses and minuses.
A (90-100)
B (80-89)
Indicates superior achievement and outstanding performance in all aspects of a course
Very good to excellent achievement
C (70-79)
Satisfactory completion of course requirements
D (60-69)
Course requirements completed at minimal level for awarding of credit
Unsatisfactory performance with no credit awarded
F (≤ 59)
Computing Grade Point Average
ESA computes grade point averages using only grades earned at ESA. In computing GPA, ESA adds 0.67
quality points to grade points earned in Advanced Placement courses and 0.33 to grade points earned in
Honors courses. These additional points do not change the grade earned in a course but give it an additional
weight when GPA is calculated. The following formula should be used when determining quality points
awarded: Quality points awarded for course = (Grade in course + Weight) x Number of credits earned. No
weight will be given to a grade of F.
ESA calculates a GPA including pluses and minuses. Letter grades correspond to the following numerical
values and grade point equivalent on a student's transcript.
A+ = 4.33
A = 4.00
A- = 3.67
B+ = 3.33
B = 3.00
B- = 2.67
C+ = 2.33
C = 2.00
C- = 1.67
F = 0.0
8
D+ = 1.33
D = 1.00
D- = 0.67
Upper School Course of Study
Academic Recognitions
Academic Ranking
ESA does not academically rank students.
National Honor Society
The Aréte Chapter of the National Honor Society was chartered in 1981. The National Honor Society
recognizes and fosters academic achievement, character, service and leadership in secondary school
students. Students who have achieved an ESA GPA of 3.50 or better and are second semester sophomores are
eligible for membership. New members are selected from this group by the Faculty Selection Committee with
input from the entire faculty based on exemplified excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service,
and character. A student’s discipline and honor history will be considered when determining membership to
NHS. An NHS member who transfers to ESA and brings a letter from the principal or chapter adviser to the
new school adviser shall be accepted automatically as a member ESA’s chapter. Transfer members must meet
the ESA’s standards within one semester in order to retain membership.
Headmaster’s List
To receive Headmaster’s List recognition, a student must earn at least 3.67 ESA grade point average and
receive no grade below a B-. This recognition is calculated at the conclusion of each quarter, each semester,
and the year.
Honor Roll
A student will receive Honor Roll recognition provided he or she earns no grade below a B-. This recognition
is calculated at the conclusion of each quarter, each semester, and the year.
Senior Spring Semester
Spring Semester Exam Exemption
Senior Spring Exam Exemption is a way for the school to recognize and encourage academic achievement as
seniors come to the end of their time in high school. Exam Exemption is a privilege that is earned by meeting
obligations and working hard. The exemption applies only to course exams; it does not pertain to final
projects, papers, Advanced Placement Exams, or other assessments. Exemption is determined on a course by
course basis.
For seniors who have a B (83) average or higher for the spring semester on the last day of classes for seniors,
it is the student’s choice whether or not to take the course’s spring exam. However, teachers are welcome to
offer guidance if the teacher feels it would be advantageous for the student to take the exam.
Seniors’ Last Day of Classes
The seniors’ last full day of classes will typically be the Friday directly prior the date of the first Advanced
Placement Exam administered on the ESA campus. A senior enrolled in Advanced Placement classes must be
aware that teachers of those courses may request seniors to attend additional classes and/or review sessions up
to the date of that class’ Advanced Placement exam.
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Upper School Course of Study
Progress Towards Diploma
Episcopal School of Acadiana expects each of its students to make positive academic progress towards
meeting diploma requirements each marking period. At the conclusion of each semester, each student’s grades
and comments will be reviewed by the Academic Dean to assess overall progress. Should a student not be
making positive progress, the following procedures have been established to help the family and the school
evaluate if ESA is the most appropriate academic placement for the student.
Academic Probation
A student will be placed on Academic Probation if he or she receives the following or any combination of the
following:
1. three semester grades of C- or below in any courses,
2. two semester grades of D+, D, or D- or below in any course,
3. a semester grade of F in any course.
Academic Probation is a signal to the student and the family that the student must focus on his or her academic
preparation and commitment. A student placed on Academic Probation will have a meeting with his or her
parent(s), member(s) of the Upper School administration, the student’s advisor, and necessary teachers as soon
as the meeting can be scheduled. At this meeting, teachers will outline their expectations and offer strategies
to help the student improve academic performance. Avenues of additional academic support will also be
discussed and possibly recommended to form a plan for improvement. One result of the meeting will be a
specific list of improvements the student needs to demonstrate to be removed from Academic Probation.
These improvements may include but are not limited to: specific grades and/or GPA earned for next semester,
participation in extra help sessions, tutoring, and homework completion expectations. At the conclusion of the
next semester, the student’s grades and comments will be reviewed by the Upper School administration to
determine if improvement has been made. If the student has not improved sufficiently, the student may be
asked to withdraw from ESA.
Athletic Eligibility
LHSAA rules require the following for academic eligibility:
Fall semester - Pass 6 units the previous academic year with a C average
Spring semester - Pass 6 subjects in the fall semester (no grade stipulation); a senior who has
accumulated 20 or more units may take five subjects/units for the fall semester and must pass all
five.
Questions regarding specific eligibility requirements should be addressed to the Athletic Director.
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Upper School Course of Study
Course Selection Process
Grades 9-12
Parent Approval
During second semester, each student will select courses for the following year. Parents should discuss course
choices with their child, confirm that the requests continue to appropriately progress the student through the
curriculum and towards an ESA diploma, and finally sign the form indicating their approval for the student’s
course selection. Course requests cannot be accepted without a parent’s signature.
Minimum/Maximum Course Load & Selection of Courses
Students in the ninth, tenth, and eleventh grades are required to schedule a minimum of six courses each
semester. Twelfth grade students are required to schedule a minimum of five courses per semester. Students
planning to compete on an interscholastic team should know current LHSAA eligibility requirements to be
sure LHSAA rules are met.
LHSAA rules require the following for academic eligibility:
Fall semester - Pass 6 units the previous academic year with a C average
Spring semester - Pass 6 subjects in the fall semester (no grade stipulation); a senior who has
accumulated 20 or more units may take five subjects/units for the fall semester and must pass all
five.
Unencumbered Periods
Students are not required to have a scheduled class every period of the day. Having an unencumbered period
for a semester or for the year affords students the opportunity to learn how to use free time to complete work,
review for an upcoming class, meet with a teacher for out-of-class assistance, or begin homework.
Permission for Honors and Advanced Placement Courses
Students wanting to schedule an honors or Advanced Placement course needs approval from his or her
current teacher in that discipline. All families should carefully read and consider the College Counseling Note
on page 1 of this guide prior to requesting accelerated courses.
Special Note Regarding Advanced Placement Courses
Advanced Placement courses are college-level courses purposefully designed to culminate with a standardized
exam. A student’s performance on this exam may enable them to earn college credit as well as advanced
standing. Students should expect a college-level workload in an AP course as well an increased number of
writing assignments—both timed and out of class. Teachers of Advanced Placement classes may require
additional summer reading to prepare for the course, assignments over scheduled school vacations, and hold
additional review sessions outside of scheduled class. Students choosing to enroll in an Advanced Placement
course are expected to meet these obligations. Seniors should be aware that their obligation to an Advanced
Placement course will extend beyond their last day of classes.
(continued on next page)
11
Upper School Course of Study
 To schedule an AP course a student must have approval from with the appropriate faculty member.
 Present cost of each AP test taken is $87 and will be billed through the ESA monthly billing system.
 It is the expectation of ESA that a student enrolled in an Advanced Placement course will take the AP
exam in May. Should a student not take the exam, the AP designation will be removed from the course
and replaced with an Honors designation, the final grade weighted accordingly in the GPA, and
colleges notified of the change in course of study as required.
Submitting Course Requests
Students will enter their course requests into NetClassroom with their faculty advisor. Once completed, the
advisor will collect the signed forms and return them to the Academic Dean for use during the scheduling
process.
Scheduling Process
Scheduling of courses is done on a priority basis by descending grade level with seniors having first priority.
A student’s need to take a course to fulfill a mandatory course requirement for a diploma will supersede
seniority.
Change of Schedule
All changes to a student’s course schedule must be approved by the Upper School Academic Dean, the Head
of Upper School and a parent. The student should obtain a Change of Schedule form from the Academic Dean
only after fully discussing the proposed change with his or her teacher and parents. No schedule change will
take effect until the completed form with all signatures has been returned to the Academic Dean and approved
by the Head of Upper School.
The Drop period concludes five days after first quarter interims are posted to NetClassroom for full-year
courses and five days after third quarter interims are posted to NetClassroom for courses that begin in the
spring semester
Dropping or withdrawing from a course after this period will result in the course being listed on the student’s
transcript with a grade notation of WP (withdraw passing) or WF (withdraw failing) as determined by the
student’s cumulative achievement in the course as of the date of withdraw.
Independent Study
Students who have demonstrated academic distinction in a given discipline may propose an Independent Study
within the field. The purpose of independent study is to give students the opportunity to work on a well
defined research project or to pursue in detail special topics of interest in the discipline under the guidance of a
faculty mentor. Independent Study is study that supplements ESA’s regular curriculum and is not used as
replacement for a course or credit required to earn an ESA diploma. An Independent Study does not count
towards a student’s minimum course load.
Independent Study Proposal forms are available from the Academic Dean and must be completed well prior to
the beginning of the term for which the independent study is proposed.
12
Upper School Course of Study
English
Graduation requirement: English I, English II, English III, and English IV taken in sequential
order
Department Philosophy:
The motto of the Episcopal School of Acadiana is “Excellence from Within.” We believe that excellence has
two components: intellectual and ethical. Intellectual excellence is impossible without the ability to formulate
ideas in a clear and logical manner. Students gain this ability through extensive reading and writing. We try to
foster ethical excellence by exposing our students to the thoughts and judgments of both characters and
authors. Reading, writing and discussions challenge students to formulate judgments based on strong,
consistent ethical values. We believe that through reading thoughtfully chosen works and discussing and
writing about these works, our students will become better people, growing in their appreciation of
individuality, community, and intellectual freedom.
Note: Because ESA English teachers select their own readings within the defined scope of the course
description, books read in English classes can vary slightly from teacher to teacher and from year to year.
009 English I: Foundations of World Literature Credit: 1
English I focuses on the study of the Old Testament and of mythology, with an emphasis on the Greeks.
Readings in the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible include much of the Penteteuch as well as Joshua,
Ruth, Daniel, and Jonah. Readings in mythology include The Metamorphoses by Ovid and The Odyssey by
Homer. Students also read the Babylonian epic, The Epic of Gilgamesh, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream by
Shakespeare. Class discussion and writing assignments help students draw connections between selected texts
and the history, literature, philosophy, and culture of Western civilization. Students will continue the efforts
begun in Middle School to master a wide-ranging vocabulary. Grammar, rhetoric and composition lessons
ensure that students completing the ninth grade possess the ability to produce academic writing that
demonstrates not only standard English grammar and mechanics, but also the sensitive use of a wide range of
sentence constructions.
009H English I Honors: Foundations of World Literature Credit: 1
While the base objectives and content is the same as English I, the depth, breadth, and expectations increase in
English I Honors. Students who choose to take English I Honors will read at least four additional books,
approved by the instructor, pertaining to the curriculum and write critical essays connecting their reading to the
course of study. Students will also complete one creative project connected to the study of mythology.
Furthermore, English I Honors students will write more fully developed essays and answer more demanding
questions on English I tests and exams. Both critical essay assignments and additional exam questions will
prepare students for the demands posed by later AP English courses.
010 English II: World Literature
Credit: 1
The sophomore class in World Literature builds on the foundations of classical epic, myth, legend, and sacred
literature established in the freshman year, while simultaneously providing an underpinning for the
concentrated study of English literature in the junior and senior year. Beginning with Sophocles’ tragedies,
Aristotle’s Poetics and Plato, readings will range far and wide. Students study the elegiac Old English poem,
Beowulf, and the sonnets of Petrarch. Selections encompass Voltaire and Kafka through contemporary authors
Khaled Hosseini and Marjane Satrapi. Examining major literary movements and emphasizing critical thinking
skills and cultural literacy, the English II course of study continues to develop the English I course emphasis
on vocabulary, grammar, rhetoric and composition as students progress in their mastery of mature academic
writing.
13
Upper School Course of Study
010H English II Honors: World Literature
Credit: 1
The core content and objectives of English II are complemented with additional literature, intensive writing
and editing, and increased expectations in English II Honors. Students in honors sections of English II will
read one extra major work per semester that pertains to the course material; for this piece of literature, honor
students complete either a critical essay, a presentation, or a creative project. Honors classes also spend more
time working with analytic methods of writing about literature in preparation for later AP English courses. In
addition, all Honors II students are required to submit a teacher-approved original work to the Bennington
Young Writers Competition.
011 English III: Survey of American Literature Credit: 1
This junior-level course introduces students to American literature, beginning with the works of the early
settlers and continuing through works published in this century. A companion to the junior-level American
history course, Survey of American Literature exposes students to the major American literary movements and
asks students to explore the relation between text and historical and cultural context. Students will
demonstrate their understanding of the material through class discussion and journal entries as well as
examinations and frequent expository and critical writing assignments. Literary selections will vary from
year to year, but they will represent major canonical texts as well as works designed to support the
department’s goal of promoting intellectual and ethical excellence.
011AP AP English Language & Composition
Credit: 1
The AP English Language and Composition course is designed to help students become skilled readers of
rhetoric and skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. The AP English Language course provides
students with opportunities to write about a variety of subjects and to demonstrate an awareness of audience
and purpose in the context of their readings. But the overarching objective is to enable students to write
effectively and confidently in their college courses across the curriculum and in their professional and personal
lives.
The reading list for AP English Language & Composition will include many of the works listed in the course
description for the English III course, but instruction will emphasize non-fiction and the rhetorical contexts of
literature and literary movements. Students will read a number of books and articles explicitly about the art of
non-fiction writing such as William Zinsser’s classic On Writing Well and Sam Leith’s recent exploration of
rhetoric, Words like Loaded Pistols. Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced Placement
exam in the spring.
012 English IV: Survey of British Literature
Credit: 1
This senior-level course surveys the British literary tradition and aims to provide a thorough grounding in the
foundational genres, themes, and personalities of British literature. Picking up where Beowulf left off, we will
examine the roots of English literature in Britain and follow literary achievements onward to Postmodernism,
the Theater of the Absurd, and Magical Realism. Towards the end of the class, we consider the emergence of
neoformalism and experimental digital genres. Literary selections will vary from year to year but may include
Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels, Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein
and representative sampling of the classic works of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries such as Conrad’s
Heart of Darkness, Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World and Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot. Students
will demonstrate their understanding of the material through class discussion and journal entries as well as
examinations and frequent expository and critical writing assignments.
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Upper School Course of Study
012AP AP English Literature & Composition
Credit: 1
The AP English Literature and Composition course engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis
of imaginative literature. The reading list includes many of the works listed in the English IV course description. Through the close reading of selected texts, students deepen their understanding of the ways writers use
language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. Students will consider a work's structure,
style, and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone.
Writing to understand these works will involve writing response and reaction papers, free writing, and keeping
a journal. Writing to explain these works involves analysis and interpretation, and will include writing brief,
focused analyses on aspects of language and structure. Writing to evaluate a literary work involves making and
explaining judgments about its artistry and exploring its underlying social and cultural values through analysis,
interpretation, and argument. Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in
the spring. English Electives
The following courses are offered on a rotating basis and each is not taught every year. Please refer to the
Course Offerings for the year of registration to see available courses that year.
057 The New Testament
Credit: 0.5
We will use the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, which is the same translation that ESA uses in the
freshman year The course will focus on the four Gospels, some of the writings of St. Paul, and the Book of
Revelation. If we have time we will look at some poetry, songs, and film related to the basic material as well
as some of the dialogs of Plato.
It is important for me to state that we will study this section of the Bible from a literary and historical viewpoint, concentrating on the stories, the meanings of the parables, the relation of the gospels to each other, the
history of the times, and so forth. So the course is not taught from the standpoint of faith since I am neither
qualified nor comfortable doing so. I do, however, believe that the Bible is the most important religious,
philosophical, and literary document in the Western canon.
058 ESA Writing Studio: Writing Tutor Course Credit: 0.5
This course is focused on training you to be an outstanding peer tutor, but through your tutoring experience,
you will evolve as a writer as well. As you learn how to help others with their writing, you will find a variety
of ways to improve your own writing. This course focuses on the various stages of the writing process. We
will discuss everything from brainstorming to edit and all the things that comes in between. To prepare you to
work with your peers on all types of writing assignments, we will spend time reading academic articles discussing the writing process, tutoring strategies, teaching techniques, and writing center theory. We will also
spend time using these ideas in your own writing processes. You will learn how to tutor by tutoring each other
and using the writing process to refine your own work.
15
Upper School Course of Study
Mathematics
Graduation requirement, grades 9-12: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus
*Credit is awarded to 8th grade students who successfully complete Algebra I.
Department Philosophy:
The conviction of the Mathematics Department is that one learns mathematics best through understanding and
practice. There must be a proper balance between theory, practice and application. The student must be
actively involved in learning. An environment that allows the student maximum participation in discovery is
essential. It is important that the student be significantly challenged according to his intellectual ability and
maturity. Graphing calculators and computers are learning tools used throughout the mathematics curriculum.
110 Algebra I
Credit: 1
The Algebra I curriculum places an emphasis on conceptual understanding and algebra as a means of
representation as a tool for problem solving. Manipulative skills, while essential, are a means, not an end.
Topics in Algebra I include linear equations and inequalities; systems of open sentences; absolute value
equations and inequalities; quadratic equations; linear, quadratic and exponential functions; polynomials and
rational expressions; irrational numbers and radicals.
111 Geometry
Credit: 1
This course covers essential topics in Euclidian geometry including parallel lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, the
Pythagorean Theorem, similarity and congruence, transformations, constructions, area, and volume. Special
attention is given to developing inductive problem solving strategies including constructing computer models.
Additional topics may include fractals, non-Euclidean geometry, logic, set theory.
111H Geometry Honors
Credit: 1
This course covers essential topics in Euclidean geometry including parallel lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, the
Pythagorean Theorem, similarity and congruence, transformations, constructions, area, and volume. Special
attention is given to developing inductive problem solving strategies including constructing computer models.
Emphasis is placed on deductive explanations of geometric properties. Additional topics may include fractals,
non-Euclidean geometry, logic, set theory, and graph theory.
112 Algebra II
Credit: 1
This course promotes mathematical modeling of real world situations using polynomial, rational, exponential,
and logarithmic functions. Additional topics include statistics, probability, conics, matrices, and complex
numbers.
112H Algebra II Honors
Credit: 1
This course promotes mathematical modeling of real world situations using polynomial, rational, exponential,
and logarithmic functions. Additional topics also include statistics, probability, binomial theorem, conics,
complex numbers, sequences, series, and matrices.
120 Pre-Calculus
Credit: 1
This course builds on the concepts of functions introduced in Algebra II. Concepts covered include
polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions with applications, sequences and
series, probability and data analysis, and parametric functions.
16
Upper School Course of Study
120H Pre-Calculus Honors
Credit: 1
This course builds on the concepts covered in Algebra II Honors. Concepts covered include polynomial,
rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometry functions and their graphs, parametric and polar equations
and graphs, matrices and systems of equations and inequalities, sequences and series, probability and statistics,
vectors, mathematical induction, and limits with an introduction to Calculus.
121H Calculus Honors
Credit: 1
This course is an introduction to beginning topics in Calculus. Concepts covered include limits and continuity,
derivatives with applications, integration with applications, and calculus of transcendental functions with
applications.
122 AP Calculus AB
Credit: 1
This course covers beginning topics in Calculus. Concepts covered include limits and continuity, derivatives
with applications, Riemann sums, integrations with application, calculus of transcendental functions with
applications, and differential equations including slope fields. This course is designed to prepare students for
the Advanced Placement Calculus AB exam. Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced
Placement exam in the spring.
123 AP Calculus BC
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Calculus AB
This course builds on the topics covered in Calculus AB. Concepts covered include: differential equations
including slope fields and Euler’s Method; analysis of planar curves given in parametric form, polar form, and
vector form, including velocity and acceleration vectors; numerical solutions of differential equations;
convergence of improper integrals and infinite series; applications of integrals; integration by parts and simple
partial fractions; and representations of functions as power series. This course is designed to prepare students
for the Advanced Placement Calculus BC exam. Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced
Placement exam in the spring.
124 AP Statistics
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Algebra II
This course serves as an introduction to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing
conclusions from data. There are four broad conceptual themes:
 Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns
 Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study
 Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation
 Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses
Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in the spring.
17
Upper School Course of Study
History
Graduation requirement:
World History, Western Civilization, U.S. History, Government & Economics (Civics)
Department Philosophy:
The History Department at ESA wishes to prepare its students to become adults with a profound understanding
of their society and their own place in it while also providing as broad a historical perspective as possible.
This is best achieved by teaching students to view society as a whole by understanding how human beliefs and
activities are interrelated. Students will focus on the relationships between events, causes, and field of activity,
rather than seeing them as independent of each other. These relationships are taught by specific examples,
cases, and situations from the past. The goal in teaching history is not for them to merely learn events from the
past, but to also develop the critical and analytical thinking skills that will allow them to succeed at the next
level of their education.
211 World History
Credit: 1
This course begins with prehistoric and early civilizations and societies including: Egypt, the Americas, India,
Africa, China, and Mesopotamia. We progress in the Fall through the rise of early empires in China, India, the
Middle East, and the Mediterranean, concentrating on the interactions between them and with other groups.
We end the Fall semester with the collapse of these empires in the first centuries of the Common Era. In the
second semester, we follow the rise of new empires in Asia and the New World. We also witness the spread of
the world's major religions, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. We then move into the era of
human history when these various cultures and societies come into permanent contact. The last quarter of the
class covers the rise of industrialism in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and closes with a look at the
problems and possibilities presented by the modern world of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.
213 Western Civilization
Credit: 1
This course begins with prehistoric societies and covers Mesopotamia, Egyptian, Classical Byzantine, Islamic
and Medieval civilizations in the fall semester. In the spring we cover European history from 1500 to present
and the European impact on the non-western world in Japan, China, India, and sub-Saharan Africa. The post
World War II era focuses on social and cultural issues common to contemporary developed countries. This
Western Civilization course places heavy emphasis on thinking critically, abstractly, and analytically. These
skills are developed through essay writing and a research paper. Near the end of the year we hold a medieval
banquet celebrating the civilization of that period through historical role playing.
213 AP European History
Credit: 1
AP European History will cover European history from the Renaissance to present. One of the major goals of
the course is to prepare students for the AP test in the spring. This course will emphasize many of the same
skills taught in Western Civilization and looks to build critical thinking and analysis. These skills are
practiced through reading assignments, essays, document based questions and exams that are modeled after the
AP exam. Students will be required to take the AP exam administered in May.
18
Upper School Course of Study
214 U.S. History
Credit: 1
This course continues the abstract, broad, yet holistic approach established in the previous two years. It relies,
when possible, on the foundations in government, economics, and politics taught in the ninth and tenth grades,
so that the emphasis can be on social and cultural issues. Issues discussed include the rights of the individuals,
the formation and subsequent role of government, cultural and technological developments, economic
regulations and foreign policy. This course also examines the ubiquitous, yet intangible American character.
U.S. History requires a research paper.
215 AP U.S. History
Credit: 1
AP U.S. History includes the regular U.S. History course content, including the analytical research paper, but
has an additional textbook and several additional reports, outlines, and test practice sessions. Students will be
required to take the AP exam administered in May.
216 Civics
Credit: 1
Civics is a course designed to introduce students to U.S. Government, Constitutional Law, and the rights and
responsibilities of U.S. citizens. This course involves the story of the United States Constitution and its
amendments, as well as the structure of the U.S. government. Students will analyze different ways in which
citizens interact with government, including important roles that interest groups, mass media, political parties,
and public opinion play in determining American political policy. Research skills and analytical writing will
be emphasized, using a variety of primary and secondary sources. Political philosophy, economics, and civic
values will be focuses of this class, allowing students to understand how decisions are made in the US by
leaders who represent their interests. Course topics will also be applied to current events.
216AP AP U.S. Government & Politics/AP Microeconomics
Credit: 1.0
This year-long course is two stand alone one-semester Advanced Placement courses taught consecutively to
fulfill the Louisiana state graduation requirement in Civics and meet the current legislated course
requirements for TOPS.
This semester of the course is a survey of American politics. It discusses political philosophies supporting the
American political system, American political institutions (official and unofficial), and some prominent
controversies (current and historical) in American political life. We will explore how individuals behave and
participate in government, how political parties, interest groups and the media interact with government, how
government formulates and implements public policy, and the historical development of both civil rights and
liberties. Throughout this entire process, this course hopes to answer the following fundamental questions:
What role should government play in our lives? Who (or what) is actually exercising power? To what extent
is this power being exercised?
The purpose of the AP course in microeconomics is to give students a thorough understanding of the principles
of economics that apply to the functions of individual decision makers, both consumers and producers, within
the economic system. It places primary emphasis on the nature and functions of product markets and includes
the study of factor markets and of the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the
economy.
Students taking 216AP must take both the AP exams in U.S. Government & Politics AND Microeconomics
administered in May.
19
Upper School Course of Study
Science
Graduation requirement: Physics I (if attending 9th grade at ESA), Biology, Chemistry,
and 1 additional science credit
Department Philosophy:
In the science courses at ESA, science is taught not only as a body of useful knowledge, but also as a method
by which we find answers. Students learn science most effectively through discovery-based lessons in which
they interact with each other and with teachers to solve problems and to answer questions. Teachers at ESA
use the Socratic method in laboratory experiences, field exercises, and in class to encourage student interest
and participation. By engaging students one-on-one and in small groups, teachers can address each student's
ideas and questions. This method of teaching not only encourages each student to be actively involved in his
or her education, but it also fosters academic self-confidence and maturity.
311 Physics I
Credit: 1
Emphasis in Physics I is on lab techniques, mathematical skills, and problem solving in science. This
inquiry-centered course stresses specific lab skills needed for quantitative laboratory work in physics. Proper
use of common lab instruments and equipment, accuracy and precision in measurement, graphing and data
analysis are some of the basic skills that are important in the course. Topics and concepts include atomic
structure, energy and thermodynamics, motion, kinematics, Newton’s laws, and electricity and magnetism. In
our approach to instruction, we strive to foster initiative and responsibility that lead to the academic maturity
necessary for success in secondary and post-secondary science study.
312 Biology
Credit: 1
This class emphasizes the structure and function of biological molecules, cells, organisms and ecosystems.
We also study energy in living systems, heredity, genetics, reproduction and the characteristics common to all
living organisms. All of these topics are studied in the context of evolution - physiological and
anatomical response to environmental changes over long periods of time. Laboratory techniques in
microscope use, dissection, biochemistry, molecular biology as well as the skill of observation, record keeping
and deductions are emphasized.
313 Chemistry
Credit: 1
This course is designed to teach the student basic inorganic chemistry. It is taught through the use of class
discussion, demonstration, and laboratory investigation. Topics covered include the handling of
measurements, calculation, and conversions; the historical and modern views of the structure and composition
of atoms, molecules, and formula units; the basic properties of elements as expressed by the periodic chart; the
basic properties of compounds, chemical nomenclature and chemical formulas, compound, solution, and
reaction stoichiometry; and an introduction to acid/base chemistry.
313H Chemistry Honors
Credit: 1
This honors level course covers the same topics as the regular level course, but takes a wider and deeper look
at each topic. It also places greater emphasis on cause and effect relationships and the
interconnectedness of the various topics.
316H Chemistry II Honors
Credit: 1
During the first semester this honors level course continues the study of inorganic chemistry started in
Chemistry I. Topics covered include advanced Acid/Base chemistry, chemical thermodynamics, chemical
kinetics, nuclear chemistry, and electrical chemistry. The second semester of this course will be devoted to an
introduction of organic chemistry.
20
Upper School Course of Study
314 Physics II
Credit: 1
Topics covered in this course include kinematics, Newton’s laws, conservation of energy, conservation of
momentum, electricity, and magnetism. The course utilizes an inquiry-based approach to discover the
mathematical relationships between physical quantities. Laboratory exercises emphasize the mathematical
modeling of real physical systems so that both qualitative and quantitative predictions can be made.
314AP AP Physics C: Mechanics
Credit: 1
Pre-/Co-requisite: AP Calculus AB
AP Physics C: Mechanics is comparable to a typical first-semester physics college course for science and engineering majors. It covers the following content areas: kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion; work and energy; linear momentum; rotational motion; oscillations; and gravity.
Both conceptual understanding and quantitative problem-solving (using calculus techniques) are emphasized
in each content area. This course also contains a significant amount of quantitative laboratory work using digital measurement devices. Students will be required to take the AP exam administered in May.
315H Biology II Honors Human Anatomy and Physiology Credit: 1
The relationship of cells to tissues (Histology) and nine major anatomical systems of the human body are the
main topics of study. Study begins with a general examination of tissues in each organ system; each system is
then studied in turn using a college level textbook, outside reading from semi-technical journals, and guest
speakers. Although the main theme of cell and tissue structure and function is emphasized throughout the
course, Human Anatomy and Physiology is a course that describes how the systems of the human body
function individually and how each integrates with other systems to form a complete human organism.
320 Environmental Science
Credit: 1
Pre-/Co-requisite: Chemistry
*Not offered every year
This is a second year biology class that requires chemistry as a prerequisite or co-requisite. In this class
students investigate different aquatic environments in southwest Louisiana including freshwater (ponds,
bayous, swamps), brackish (estuarine) and saltwater (marsh, mangrove, reef) habitats. This is a project-based
class and students should be prepared to be outside collecting, classifying and taking notes for much of the
class. They will become familiar with the organisms and organism interactions that make up each community
through observation, experimentation and collection. For the habitats that we study, each student will prepare
a “key” to the habitats; the key will include the main members of each of the kingdoms and the role of
significant abiotic factors in each ecosystem. There will be several field trips to different habitats throughout
the year and that may involve weekends. Labs will consist of microbiology, microcosm studies of ecological
interactions, identification and classification, setting up and maintaining aquaria.
330 AP Biology
Credit: 1
*Not offered every year
Major topics in this course include cell respiration, photosynthesis, the cell cycle, genetic expression, and
population genetics in the first semester; evolution and natural selection, basic bacteriology, plant anatomy and
physiology, and a survey of the plant and animal phyla are studied in the second semester. The course is
laboratory centered and the class follows a discussion-lecture format. Problem-solving, outside readings,
individual projects, as well as open-ended lab work are central to the emphasis of self-directed study. Students
will be required to take the AP exam administered in May.
21
Upper School Course of Study
World Languages
Graduation requirement: 3 credits in one language
Department Philosophy:
The World Language Department at ESA is structured around the intensive study of French or Spanish.
Instruction within the department includes not only the usual skills of reading, writing, and listening, but
introduces an entirely new way of speaking. Proper use of intonation, appropriate facial expressions, and
gestures inherent to native speakers are emphasized along with the obvious use of new sets of vocabulary and
grammatical structures.
Instruction is through the immersion method; no English is spoken in the class after the first few weeks. The
ultimate goal of the study of world language at ESA is to demonstrate that a world language can become a
natural means of communication and an integral part of life.
*One high school credit is awarded with the successful completion of the middle school French sequence
and the approval of the French faculty.
*One high school credit is awarded with the successful completion of the middle school Spanish sequence
the approval of the Spanish faculty.
French
410 French I
Credit: 1
This class is designed for beginning French students. By the end of the first year, students will be able to
demonstrate some mastery of the basic structures of the language. Using the present tense, students will be
able to converse on everyday topics, as well as to read and write on an elementary level. As students progress,
the class will be taught mainly in French.
411 French II
Credit: 1
This course is a continuation of French I. More complex language structures are introduced such as subordinate clauses, the distinction between imparfait and passé composé, the futur and the conditional. Reading and
writing skills are further developed through the study of culture and language documents. The students are
expected to transfer the acquired written concepts to oral activities such as role play, presentations and discussions. French II is the foundation for French III. Students with good comprehension and acquisition of the
French II curriculum are well prepared for French III.
411H French II Honors
Credit: 1
French II Honors covers the same basic elements as French II, with a broader interest in reading materials introducing more complex cultural, lexical and literary materials. Group and individual projects, additional
reading material and self-motivation are essential to this course.
412 French III
Credit: 1
This course is an in-depth study involving the five basic skills: speaking, writing, reading, listening, and culture. In this course, writing skills that will be needed for the study of literature in French IV and V are solidified. In this course, students work on speaking skills, especially informal conversation. Students practice
speaking in small groups and to a larger audience. Texts drawn from literature and contemporary culture
22
Upper School Course of Study
provide the opportunity to continue the development of reading skills. Writing skills, from informal notes and
lists to formal academic writing, are developed as students write longer pieces. Extensive use of the past
tenses (passé compose and imparfait), the future and conditional tenses, and subjunctive will be practiced. Audio and visual materials from a variety of sources will engage students in listening and speaking about the
world of French-speaking cultures around the world.
412H French III Honors
Credit: 1
This course follows the same curriculum as the French III class with greater focus on the development of more
complicated grammar and vocabulary skills. This class requires substantially more outside of class work than
the regular class.
413H French IV Honors
Credit: 1
In this course, the focus is on reading and oral comprehension, culture, writing skills and oral fluency. Through
in-class discussions and debates, students develop and improve their listening comprehension and conversational skills. The grammar text emphasizes various methods and styles pertaining to the expression of opinions, views and sentiments. Magazine articles, and excerpts from literature provide exposure to French current
events and French culture. Students will need the approval of their French teacher or the Department Head to
enroll in this class.
French IV continues working on the four language learning skills. It reviews old and acquires new information
about the structure of the language (grammar/verbs) as a means to become better speakers and writers of
French. Readings include short stories, newspaper and online articles as well as cultural/historical information
with an emphasis on the Middle Ages up through the twentieth century. This will assist students to develop
better reading skills and will promote discussions as well as creative writing pieces. Topical vocabulary units
will serve as a vehicle to offer better speaking and listening opportunities. Conversations provide occasions for
developing fluency in a comfortable setting while speaking about personal experiences, opinions, and interests.
Audio recordings, internet access and French films give students an opportunity to hear a variety of native
speakers and create original writing pieces related to the material. The class is conducted in French and students are expected to use French at all time during class. This course serves as preparation for the AP course.
415 AP French Language
Credit: 1
*Not Offered Every Year
This course is designed to sharpen skills tested on the Advanced Placement French Language examination.
Reading, writing, listening, and speaking are all tested on the examination, which is given in May; therefore,
the focus of the course is the development of different aspects of these skills. Students write journals, then essays, progressing to essays written in class in less than 45 minutes. This approach is also used for question
recordings and story recordings, grammar exercises, and other activities. The use of such varied approaches
reinforces the skills necessary for performance on the AP examination. Students will be required to take the
AP exam administered in May.
23
Upper School Course of Study
Spanish
460 Spanish I
Credit: 1
This class is designed for beginning Spanish students. By the end of the first year, students will be able to
demonstrate some mastery of the basic structure of the language. Using present tense, students will be able to
converse on everyday topics, as well as to read and write on an elementary level. As students progress, the
class will be taught mainly in Spanish.
461 Spanish II
Credit: 1
This course is the continuation of Spanish I. More complex language structures are introduced such as the
future and conditional tenses, compound verbs, as well as various pronouns. Reading and writing skills are
developed through the study of culture and language documents. The students are expected to transfer the
acquired written notions to oral activities such as role play, presentations, and discussions. Spanish II is the
basis for Spanish III. Students with a good understanding and acquisition of the Spanish II curriculum are well
prepared for succeeding in Spanish III.
461H Spanish II Honors
Credit: 1
Spanish II Honors covers the same basic elements as Spanish II, with a broader interest in reading materials
introducing more complex cultural, lexical, and literary materials. Group and individual projects, additional
reading material and self-motivation are essential to this course.
462 Spanish III
Credit: 1
The purpose of this class is to emphasize the ability to express opinions and feelings. Extensive use of the past
tenses (preterit and imperfect), the future and conditional tenses, and the subjunctive mood will be practiced.
While providing a language review from the first two years of Spanish, students will explore cultural
uniqueness of social customs, geographic locations, and historical events.
462H Spanish III Honors
Credit: 1
This course follows the same curriculum as the Spanish III class with greater focus on the development of
more complicated grammar and vocabulary skills. This class requires substantially more outside of class work
than the regular class.
463 Spanish IV Honors
Credit: 1
The purpose of this class is for students to understand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety
of topics. There will be an emphasis on reading and writing through the use of various Hispanic literary pieces. Students will demonstrate an awareness of the interrelatedness of the language, the culture, and the people.
Evaluations will be based on reading comprehension, projects, and oral presentations as well as application of
grammar and vocabulary. This course serves as a preparation for the AP course.
24
Upper School Course of Study
464AP AP Spanish Language
Credit: 1
*Not Offered Every Year
AP Spanish Language course is comparable to an advanced level (5th- and 6th-semester or the equivalent)
college Spanish language course. Emphasizing the use of Spanish for active communication, it encompasses
aural/oral skills, reading comprehension, grammar, and composition.
The course objectives are to help you:
● understand Spanish spoken by native speakers at a natural pace, with a variety of regional
pronunciations, in both informal (interpersonal) and formal (presentational) contexts;
● develop an active vocabulary sufficient for reading newspaper and magazine articles,
contemporary literature, and other non-technical writings (websites, letters and emails,
advertisements, signs and instructions) in Spanish without dependence on a dictionary;
● express yourself by describing, narrating, inquiring, and developing arguments in Spanish, both
orally and in writing, with reasonable fluency, using different strategies for different audiences
and communicative contexts.
In this course, special emphasis is placed on the use of authentic source materials and the integration of
language skills. Therefore, you should receive extensive training in combining listening, reading, and speaking
(or listening, reading, and writing) skills in order to demonstrate understanding of authentic Spanish-language
source materials. Students will be required to take the AP exam administered in May.
25
Upper School Course of Study
Computer Science
The following courses are offered on a rotating basis and each is not taught every year. Please refer to the
Course Offering for the year of registration to see available courses that year.
613 Computer Science II - Java
Credit: 0.5
This course is a one-semester introduction to the Java programming language. Students will learn the basics of
Java by writing and debugging computer programs. The skills covered will include using variables to store
data, writing algorithms that manipulate data, and storing and retrieving data in files. Additionally, students
will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of object-oriented programming, a type of programming that is
popular with many modern computer languages.
690 AP Computer Science A
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: CSII - Java
*Not Offered Every Year
AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a typical first-semester college level course in Computer Science. In
this course, students will learn to solve a variety of problems using the Java programming language. The focus
of the course is on writing efficient algorithms, designing effective data structures, and debugging code.
Students will be required to take the AP exam administered in May.
Speech & Communication
800 Public Speaking
Credit: 0.5
Students will learn the art of speech writing and delivery through performance-based activities. Techniques of
organizing information, active listening skills, and the art of effective delivery are emphasized. Through
methods of research, critical thinking, and persuasive reasoning, students learn to recognize fact from
opinion and/or propaganda. Units include informative speeches, persuasive speeches, debate, group
discussions and media formats. The student demonstrates his acquisition of each task through oral delivery.
26
Upper School Course of Study
Health & Physical Education
Graduation requirement; Health & Phys. Ed. I & II
510 Health & Physical Education I
Credit: 1
Required in 9th Grade
Health and Physical Education is required of all 9th grade students. The fitness components of the course
includes both team and individual sports as well as weights and conditioning. The health segment includes
units on drinking and drug abuse, eating and nutritional health, and interpersonal communication.
520 Health & Physical Education II
Credit: 1
This course concentrates on lifetime fitness using weights, stretching and conditioning tools for a healthy
lifestyle. Students should schedule this course to complete the second unit of required Physical Education.
521 Physical Education III
Credit: 0.5 or 1.0
522 Physical Education IV
Credit: 0.5 or 1.0
These courses are offered to students who have already completed the Health & Physical Education
graduation requirement and would like to continue physical activity under the direct supervision of a coach.
These courses may be taken for 1 semester for 0.5 credit or the full year for 1.0 credit.
27
Upper School Course of Study
Visual Arts
Graduation requirement: 1.5 credits in the visual and/or performing arts.
Department Philosophy:
The ESA visual arts program provides a learning environment that stimulates and maximizes the creative and
artistic potential of each student. The learning experience emphasizes creative problem solving and critical
thinking which develops self-expression. The completed works often require and involve teamwork,
cooperation, and trust in others. Through artistic expression, the students see the world from a greater
perspective. They are provided with a variety of media to express and to connect with feelings, to express the
joy and the beauty found in their world.
Departmental Scheduling Notes:
 Design Foundations (formerly Beginning Drawing) must be completed before a student may take any
other courses in the visual arts.
 Visual arts courses are available to students in any grade after the student has successfully completed
Design Foundations (formerly Beginning Drawing).
 Lab fees are used to help defray the cost of materials and supplies.
Design Foundations
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $50
*Prerequisite for all other visual art courses.
This course is designed to offer students a foundation in the visual arts. During the semester students will
explore a variety of media to create works in 2D and 3D. By tailoring projects to the understanding and
manipulation of the elements and principles of design, the goal is that students exit the class fluent in the
language of visual arts. Students will develop their ability to critically analyze, discuss and evaluate work
made by themselves and others. Design Foundations will also offer students some insight into the skills,
knowledge and technical applications necessary for the upper level Art courses offered at ESA.
Drawing I
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $35
Prerequisite: Beginning Drawing or Design Foundations
Drawing I is a natural extension of the Design Foundations course, applying the elements and principles of
design in observational drawing and two-dimensional image making. This course introduces many
traditional drawing media including graphite, pastel, and charcoal, but also explores other techniques and
materials such as Xerox transfers, printmaking, collage, and others. Much of our work will be concerned with
composition and color theory, as this course is intended to prepare students for the Painting class.
Drawing II
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $35
Prerequisite: Advanced Drawing I or Drawing I
This is a continuation of Drawing I. New materials and techniques will be introduced with consideration to
students’ skill levels and areas of interest. We will outline a course of study based on exploring contemporary
artists’ approaches to drawing and the students’ emerging personal thematic concepts. Students will be
expected to create a body of work reflecting these explorations.
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Upper School Course of Study
914 Drawing Independent Study
Lab Fee Lab Fee will be determined by student’s proposal
Prerequisite: Completion of Drawing II and instructor’s approval.
915 The Expressive Figure
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $35
Figure drawing is equal parts observation and expression. The Expressive Figure delves into representations of
the human form in that uniquely human endeavor, art. By learning to “read” figures presented to us by artists
we will identify that which makes a figure expressive and investigate ways to enhance the expressive qualities
of the figure. This class is a combination of survey and studio work. We will look at figurative work from
ancient Greece all the way up to examples from living artists. This will serve as a foundation for our studio
work, which focuses on observational drawing skills, expression through exaggeration, distortion, or
technique, and appropriation of imagery and attribution of new meaning. Our explorations will take us through
a variety of media, both two- and three-dimensional (drawing, painting, pen and ink, plaster, fiber, wire, found
images, found objects) according to student skill and preference.
930 Ceramics I
Credit: 0.5
Lab fee $75
Prerequisite: Beginning Drawing or Design Foundations
Ceramics I is an introduction to hand building with clay. Students will investigate the basic techniques of
pinching, slabbing and coiling to create both functional and sculptural forms. This course is designed to give
a technical foundation for further exploration as well as an appreciation and understanding of the media as a
means of communication and expression.
931 Ceramics II
Credit: 0.5
Lab fee $75
Prerequisite: Ceramics I
Ceramics II is a continuation and expansion of Ceramics I. Students will investigate making and orchestrating
clay objects with special attention to theme or context to support meaning. Students will work with the teacher
to choose and develop their own context or theme. Students will be encouraged to employ the hand building
techniques learned in Ceramics I as they learn new ways of applying and employing those techniques.
934 Ceramics Independent Study
Lab Fee Lab Fee will be determined by student’s proposal
Prerequisite: Completion of Ceramics II and instructor’s approval.
935 Pottery I
Credit: 0.5
Lab fee $75
Prerequisite: Beginning Drawing or Design Foundations
Pottery I is an introduction to creating clay vessels on a potter’s wheel. Emphasis in this beginning course is on
developing the skill to produce wheel thrown vessels with appropriate ratios between weight, diameter and
height. Finishing techniques such as trimming and glazing are introduced and practiced in addition to
attachment techniques for handles and decorative elements. Intelligent, quality design will be stressed
throughout the course particularly as students develop skills in throwing and glazing. This course meets
afternoons after 3:25.
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Upper School Course of Study
936 Pottery II
Credit: 0.5
Lab fee: $75
Prerequisite: Pottery I
Pottery II is a continuation and expansion of Pottery I. Students will be encouraged to use larger, heavier
amounts of clay to continue development of technical skill and refinement of form. Critical analysis of skill
and visual expression will be an ongoing practice for Pottery II students, emphasizing the application and
manipulation of the elements and principles of design. Creating and recreating exact dimensions for lidded
jars, nesting bowls and sets will be introduced and practiced while continuing to practice techniques and
processes from Pottery I. This course meets afternoons after 3:25.
937 Pottery III
Credit: 0.5
Lab fee: $75
Prerequisite: Pottery II
Pottery III is a continuation and expansion of Pottery II with an emphasis on students beginning to develop a
personal visual expression through their pottery making. Combining vessel forms into teapots, and other
composite vessels will be introduced. Development of a personal expression through glazing will be
encouraged as well. Students will be challenged to define function and form becoming familiar with the
quality and craftsmanship of cutting edge contemporary potter/artists. This course meets afternoons after 3:25.
938 Advanced Pottery
Credit: 0.5
Lab fee: $75
Prerequisite: Pottery III
Advanced Pottery affords students with intermediate to advanced skills a studio environment to experiment
and explore pottery techniques specifically to develop a personally meaningful expression. Students are
encouraged to create in series for an in depth learning experience with the expectation of pursuing an idea till
invention and innovation are flowing and visually evident in the production of their forms. This course meets
afternoons after 3:25.
920 Painting I
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $35
Prerequisite: Beginning Drawing or Design Foundations. Recommended: Drawing I
Painting I is an exploration of color and light through traditional painting subjects such as still life, landscape,
and portraiture. Students will learn to manipulate the opacity, luster, and viscosity of paint to achieve their
desired results. Indirect and direct painting approaches will be introduced. Students will gain a refined ability
to understand and use color. We look at the work of important painters to gain insight into their methods.
921 Painting II
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $35
Prerequisite: Painting I
This is a continuation of Painting I. The student and teacher will work together to set goals and outline a
course of study. The work of well known 19th and 20th century painters and their personal vision will be
explored. Students are encouraged to work primarily from direct observation and frequent discussions of work
in progress will help students define and refine their unique vision.
924 Painting Independent Study
Lab Fee Lab Fee will be determined by student’s proposal
Prerequisite: Completion of Painting II and instructor’s approval.
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Upper School Course of Study
950 Photography I
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $75
Prerequisite: Beginning Drawing or Design Foundations
This is a wet-lab darkroom course for all students interested in learning the fundamentals of black and white
photography. Students learn about the formation of an image and the technical knowledge that is involved in
producing an image. All students will learn the functions of a manually operated 35 mm camera, the
development and processing of black and white film, and the techniques of darkroom printing.
951 Photography II
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $75
Prerequisite: Photography I
This is a continuation of Photography I. The student and teacher will work together to set goals and outline a
course of study. Students will dive deeper into the technical applications of darkroom printing with guidance
from the instructor. In addition to wet lab photography, students begin to investigate with digital photography
by keeping a digital photo blog as a daily sketchbook.
955 Photography Independent Study
Lab Fee Lab Fee will be determined by student’s proposal
Prerequisite: Completion of Photography II and instructor’s approval.
945 3D Mixed Media I
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $75
Prerequisite: Beginning Drawing or Design Foundations
3D Mixed Media is just that: a mixture of learning experiences, processes, media and techniques resulting in a
sculptural, three dimensional expression. Casting, re-purposing, constructing, enameling, fold forming,
de-constructing, installing, and the list goes on, are in the reservoir of “ings” a particular class may be
introduced to and practice. Metals, plaster, wood, paper, felt, found objects, etc. are the materials one may find
in a mixed media expression. Invention and innovation will be encouraged as well as acquiring a good
foundation in the use and maintenance of tools and materials.
946 3D Mixed Media II
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $75
Prerequisite: Sculpture I or 3D Mixed Media I
947 3D Mixed Media Independent Study
Lab Fee will be determined by student’s proposal
Prerequisite: Completion of 3D Mixed Media II and instructor’s approval.
975 Digital Design
Credit: 0.5
Lab Fee $35
Prerequisites: Design Foundations and Computer Science I
This course is designed to teach students the basic skills in digital construction. Using digital photographs,
graphic imagery, time-based media and web design, students will be engaged with technology in many of its
capacities to create and execute products. Students will learn the fundamental techniques of creating and
manipulating digital source material (i.e. scanned imagery, graphics, photos, text, sound, video etc.), as well as
properly resolve and implement a product’s output (printing, websites, virtual galleries, etc.).
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Upper School Course of Study
Performing Arts
Theatre
Graduation requirement: 1.5 credits in the visual and/or performing arts.
Department Philosophy:
The ESA Performing Arts Department seeks to identify and cultivate talent and to instill a life-long appreciation for the performing arts by giving students the knowledge and skills they need to achieve their artistic goals
through a variety of performance opportunities.
 Theatre I must be completed before a student may take advanced courses in theatre.
980 Theatre I
Credit: 0.5
Theatre I builds upon the fundamentals and opportunities introduced in the 7th grade class and serves as a
formal introduction to theatre. Class also involves the following components: more building upon basic
terminology and creative skills, a more sophisticated look into playwrights and scene work, a study of the
history of theatre in various cultures, and an introduction to Shakespeare from a theatrical standpoint. The
semester culminates in a small, public performance. Theatre I cannot be taken more than once.
981 Theatre II
Credit: 0.5
Theatre II focuses on a full-length play production, including set design, costumes, props, lighting, and crew
work along with increased challenges in acting. In conjunction with the play’s performance, the class
includes extra creative projects that explore other facets of acting, film analysis, scene/script/monologue
work, reading important plays, classic and contemporary, and examining their worth.
982 Advanced Theatre
Credit: 0.5
Advanced Theatre focuses on a full-length play production, including set design, costumes, props, lighting,
and crew work along with increased challenges in acting. In conjunction with the play’s performance, the class
includes extra creative projects that explore other facets of acting, film analysis, scene/script/monologue
work, reading important plays, classic and contemporary, and examining their worth. Advanced Theatre can be
taken as many times as the student's schedule allows.
983 Independent Study Theatre
Credit: 0.5
Independent study for those seriously interested in theatrical pursuits available as coordinated by teacher,
student, and Academic Dean.
The theatre department seeks to cultivate and strengthen dramatic talent through extra-curricular activities,
such as a student's participation in the spring musical, attendance at plays and musicals in the Acadiana
community and beyond, and any audition opportunity that presents itself to the ESA student.
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Upper School Course of Study
Performing Arts
Music
920 Chorus
Credit: 0.5
The Upper School chorus class is designed to teach students about sight-singing, music theory, history and
proper performance technique emphasizing the skills of reading music. Students will be able to take this
course for multiple semesters and build their singing skills over time in order to perform at different choral
festivals and competitions representing ESA’s performing arts on the local, regional and even national stage.
My hope is to build a choral program that will grow from year to year and enable our students to perform and
compete within the surrounding community and beyond.
996 Band
Credit: 0.5
Band is an ensemble class which covers elements of both theory and performance. The styles of music
performed in the class evolve from semester to semester depending on the interests of the students. Both the
instructor and students have input as to what the ensemble will perform, and chordal theory and rhythms are
taught through the structure of the repertoire. There will be a performance at the end of each semester. As a
prerequisite for the course, some form of musical training is necessary and students need to supply their own
instrument.
Note regarding private instrument instruction:
It is possible to earn performing arts credit at ESA through private piano lessons or studio string lessons. In
order for the credit to be awarded, proper paper work must be filed with and the course approved by the
Louisiana Department of Education. Private music instructors should have the required forms and assist
families with their filing.
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