ENGLISH
ENGLISH I
English I includes a review and study of grammar and spelling and an introduction to formal and creative writing technique. Assigned
outside reading and free choice selections are required. Some of the assigned reading includes: Romeo & Juliet, The Narrative of the Life of
Frederick Douglass, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, To Kill a Mockingbird, Mythology, and The Odyssey.
Focus: Class discussions, oral presentations, objective tests and essay tests are used to help with comprehension and analysis of literature.
Opportunities for creative writing are included, but the focus is expository paragraphs and essays. English I also emphasizes vocabulary,
critical thinking and study skills.
ENGLISH I H
This course covers the same content as English I but with much greater depth. Additional reading and writing is required and the course
proceeds at a faster pace. English I Honors includes a review and study of grammar and spelling and an introduction to formal and creative
writing technique. Assigned outside reading and free choice selections are required. Some of the assigned reading includes: Ethan Frome,
Romeo & Juliet, The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, To Kill a Mockingbird, Mythology, and The Odyssey.
Focus: Class discussions, oral presentations, objective tests and essay tests are used to help with comprehension and analysis of literature.
Opportunities for creative writing are included, but the focus is expository paragraphs and essays. Vocabulary, critical thinking and study
skills are also emphasized.
Prerequisites: Recommendation
ENGLISH II
Through the reading of American literature from various time periods, places and points of view, students will explore and analyze how
literature reflects or comments on American values and the “American” identity. Students will learn to identify literary techniques and major
movements in American literature, and will produce a research paper on an issue of contemporary American culture. Texts include The
Catcher in the Rye, The House on Mango Street, The Crucible, A Lesson Before Dying, The Great Gatsby, A Raisin in the Sun and Montana 1948.
Focus: The major focus is on close reading and writing in a variety of genres, including literary analyses, opinion and reflective essays, creative
pieces and the research paper. Active class discussions, Socratic seminars and group projects are frequent and encourage students to put forth their
own ideas and develop thinking, listening and speaking skills. Vocabulary instruction prepares students for the SAT and regular grammar/usage
review strengthens students’ writing.
Prerequisites: English I
ENGLISH II H
Includes all the material in English II but in greater depth. Additional reading is required and writing assignments are more extensive.
Students read American literature of different genres and from different time periods, places and points of view to analyze how literature
reflects or comments upon American values or the idea of an “American” identity. Focus is on close reading and active class discussion.
Students learn to identify literary techniques and major American literary movements, and will produce a research paper on an issue in
contemporary American culture. There will be weekly vocabulary instruction and review of grammar and usage to improve writing skills.
Texts include The Catcher in the Rye, When I Was Puerto Rican, The Crucible, Huckleberry Finn, The Great Gatsby, The Color Purple, Jasmine and
The Poisonwood Bible.
Focus: The major focus is on close reading and writing in a variety of genres, including literary analyses, opinion and reflective essays, creative
pieces and research papers. Active class discussions, Socratic seminars and group projects are frequent and encourage students to put forth
their own ideas and develop thinking, listening and speaking skills. Vocabulary instruction will prepare students for the SAT, and regular
grammar/usage review will strengthen students’ writing.
Prerequisites: 88 average and teacher recommendation
ENGLISH III
English III presents a survey course of British Literature with an in-depth study of masters of drama, essay, novel, short story and poetry.
Outside reading includes eight or more British titles such as Beowulf, Jane Eyre, Frankenstein, Lord of the Flies, and Animal Farm.
Focus: In addition to a continued study of vocabulary and standard written English, students in English III develop and hone their critical
writing and thinking skills by creating a portfolio of expository, analytical, and research-based essays.
Prerequisites: English I & II
ENGLISH III H
This course includes material covered in English III but with greater depth. Additional reading and writing is required. English III Honors
presents a survey course of British Literature with an in-depth study of masters of drama, essay, novel, short story and poetry. Outside
reading includes eight or more British titles such as Beowulf, Jane Eyre, Frankenstein, Lord of the Flies, and Animal Farm.
Focus: In addition to a continued study of vocabulary and standard written English, students in English III develop and hone their critical
writing and thinking skills by creating a portfolio of expository, analytical, and research-based essays.
Prerequisites: 88 average and teacher recommendation
AP ENGLISH
Language and Composition
Students read and carefully analyze a broad and challenging range of prose selections to develop their awareness of how language works.
Through close reading and frequent writing, students develop their ability to work with language and text with a greater awareness of
purpose and strategy. While the reading assignments feature expository, analytical, and argumentative essays from a variety of authors and
historical contexts, students also examine and respond to British literature in line with the English III curriculum.
Focus: Students will gain a strong understanding of rhetorical strategies in writing and will prepare for the standardized AP testing.
Prerequisites: English II Honors, teacher recommendation and 90 average
ENGLISH IV
English IV prepares the student for college English. English IV’s survey course deals with World Literature. Students focus on expository
writing and analytically critiquing poetry, short stories and novels. Major works include Hamlet, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Tortilla
Curtain, Atonement and Snowflower and The Secret Fan.
Focus: Attention is given to the development of voice in writing, grammar, vocabulary and spelling. A research paper is required.
Prerequisites: English I, II & III
ENGLISH IV H
This course includes material covered in English IV with additional outside reading, more in-depth discussions and extensive writing
required. English IV Honors prepares the student for college English. English IV Honors survey course deals with World Literature. Students
focus on expository writing and analytically critiquing poetry, short stories and novels. Major works include Hamlet, Snowflower and The
Secret Fan, Beloved, Cat’s Eye, The Stone Diaries and Othello.
Focus: Attention is given to the development of voice in writing; grammar, vocabulary and spelling.
A research paper is required.
Prerequisites: English III Honors with teacher recommendation. 88 average required
AP ENGLISH
English IV Advanced Placement students prepare for a rigorous program of analytical writing and reading widely; the course is the
equivalent of an introductory college literature course. Works studied include a variety of short stories, essays, and novels including such
works as Beloved, The Sound and the Fury, Hamlet, Crime and Punishment, Their Eyes Were Watching God, The Stranger and
Anna Karenina.
Focus: Analyzing literature at this level must be recommended by the English III Honors teacher and students must agree to standardized AP
testing upon completion of course.
Prerequisites: English III Honors, teacher recommendation
FINE ARTS
Art I
In this introductory course, basic knowledge of the concepts of art – the elements of design and the principles of composition are taught
through the making of two and three-dimensional projects using various materials, tools and techniques (production). Simultaneously,
examples of artists’ works and discoveries, styles and periods, are discussed, referred to and compared (history and appreciation). Art
criticism, the ability to make intelligent, literate statements and choices about works of art, is introduced, as well as aesthetics, the beauty
experienced in an art object.
Focus: The goal of this course is to develop an understanding of the components of art (production, history and appreciation, criticism, and
aesthetics), and to apply that understanding so as to create successful works of art and articulate discussion.
ART II
Art II is an advanced art class for second-year students wishing a more in-depth study of materials, tools, techniques and visual language rules.
Focus: More complex concepts are undertaken with idea and presentation, content and context, playing a greater role. From preliminary
sketch to clean execution, creative problem solving is encouraged.
Prerequisites: Art I
STUDIO ART
Studio Art is an advanced art class for third-year students. It builds upon the experience and skills gained in Art II to explore more complex
approaches to theme, style, tools and techniques.
Focus: Career options and portfolio development are seriously discussed.
Prerequisites: Art II
GRAPHIC DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY
This semester course focuses on various photographic and design approaches that will provide the foundation for the layout of the Mercian
Yearbook. In addition, students experience the basic tools for future graphic design possibilities – from print to Internet projects.
Focus: Strongly recommended for students interested in developing the Yearbook.
CLAY WORKS & SCULPTURE
This semester course presents a concentration on three-dimensional works using clay and other simple sculptural materials.
Focus: Students will focus on wheel-thrown and hand-built approaches for clay, including kiln firing and glazing techniques.
CREATIVE WRITING
Creative Writing is an elective designed for students who enjoy writing and wish to further explore various literary genres, as well as to
experiment with their ability to put a pen to paper. This course is intended to help each student discover her own natural writing potential,
find her own writing voice, and investigate the “essentials” of strong writing. During the year students will be exposed to a multitude of
topics and prompts (images, setting, character development, etc.), as well as to the four major literary genres – fiction, essay/memoir, poetry
and drama. Students will write original pieces daily, illustrate the writing process through revision, participate in peer edits and
constructively respond to the writing of others. Students are expected to be motivated readers, writers, thinkers and sharers.
Prerequisites: Priority given to upperclasswomen
CHORUS
Various historical and/or styles of music will be explored. Students perform at two public concerts, Christmas and Spring, along with having the
opportunity to audition for District and All-State chorus and Solo & Ensemble festival.
Focus: Students will further the development of their musical skills, such as rhythm, harmony, theory, sight and rote singing, interpretation and
specific vocal skills such as breath support, posture, diction, tone production and performance skills/etiquette.
ENSEMBLE
Ensemble focuses on the development of individual and collective band instrument skills for the purposes of musicianship and public performance.
Standard music reading skills are emphasized along with continued development of tone, technique, expression, intonation and music theory.
Focus: Members will perform public concerts and also have the opportunity to audition for District and All-State Band and Solo/Ensemble
festivals. Outside practice of school is expected and private lessons are highly encouraged.
Prerequisites: At least one year of playing a band instrument or presently taking lessons
DANCE
Semester I teaches basic dance technique and introduces different disciplines, including: Jazz, Broadway, Tap, and Hip-Hop. Semester II presents a
continuation of the techniques of Dance I. Different kinds of dance will be further developed and perfected. Students are required to participate in a
production at the end of the semester and will be involved in individual and small group choreography.
THEATERWORKS
Theaterworks combines the study of the theater arts with their practical application – a show. Students will learn acting, dance, vocal
training, scene design, costuming, lighting, sound, theatrical makeup, props and financial management while they collaborate to produce a
small touring production to area schools. Additionally, students are expected to attend three productions on their own time – professional,
community and school.
Prerequisites: Senior preference
LANGUAGES
FRENCH I
Students aim to attain proficiency in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing within a minimum period of time. During the year,
students work on special reports of selected literary works, e.g. Joan of Arc, Cyrano de Bergerac, and supplementary resources to reinforce
grammatical concepts.
Focus: To present the language within the context of the contemporary French speaking world and
its culture.
FRENCH II
This course is a continuation of French I and the four basic skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking. The course will have a special
emphasis on verbs, a study of more complex sentences, and oral work advancing to conversational practice. In the course of the year
students prepare reports on the works of Alexandre Dumas’ Count of Monte Cristo, and The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy.
Focus: More frequent writing assignments to encourage students to use vocabulary and grammatical structures and express their thoughts.
Pre-requisites: French I, placement exam, or teacher recommendation
FRENCH III H
French III Honors is a more complex and extensive continuation of the four skills with a greater emphasis on reading and writing. Specific
concentration on some selective literary works will be included such as Le Petit Prince and The Man in the Iron Mask.
Focus: Supplementary materials from Amsco, “Reprise,”and “French III Years,” introducing the subjunctive and literary past tenses.
Prerequisites: French II Honors or teacher recommendation
FRENCH IV H
French IV H is offered to seniors and juniors having completed the previous year’s skills (French I, French II and French III Honors) stressing
oral and written mastery of the French language. Grammar is also integrated throughout the year. Students are also presented an
appreciation of French culture through projects on literary works: LaBelle et la Bete, Les Miserables, and Au revoir les Enfants.
Focus: The focus is on the introduction to the formal study of French literature, short stories, poems, composition and excerpts from novels with an
in-depth study of a particular type of analyse de texte.
Prerequisites: French III or teacher recommendation
LATIN I
While learning to read stories in Latin and compose their own acta diurna (“daily news”), students gain techniques for studying grammar
and vocabulary that will enhance both their English usage and their ability to acquire world languages. Oral and written work reinforce
knowledge of (1) noun and adjective cases and (2) verb forms based on the present stem.
Focus: This is a reading-based course. The readings in the text, based on the childhood of poet Quintus Horatius Flaccus (“Horace”), provide
a cultural and historical context for the study of Latin.
LATIN II
Students integrate familiar expressions and grammar with verb forms based on the perfect active and passive stems. We continue to use
exercises from Lingua Latina I, a text introduced in Latin I. Recreating inscriptions, artifacts and artwork from the early Roman Empire are
among the activities that enable students to visualize life in ancient Rome.
Focus: Building English word power by using Latin roots, prefixes and suffixes continues to be a major course objective. Intermediate Latin
fosters such critical thinking skills as analyzing information, drawing conclusions and forming inferences.
Prerequisites: Latin I, placement exam or teacher recommendation
LATIN III / IV H - POETRY
Reading and reciting Latin poetry requires learning the meters of Latin sacred and secular verse. The rhythms and rhymes of our texts
enable us to trace the evolution of Latin pronunciation. The change in world view from pagan times to the Christian era is a major
consideration of our study.
Focus: Students examine the influence of Latin poets on masterpieces of later Western literature. There is less emphasis on grammatical
structures in this course offering than in the Latin III/IV prose course. Authors include: Plautus, Catullus, Vergil, Ovid, St. Jerome, Prudentius,
Ambrose, Jacopone da Todi, and Tomaso da Celano.
Prerequisites: Latin II or teacher recommendation
LATIN III / IV H - PROSE
The theme of this course is how monks preserved classical culture through reworking material from books and artwork in their possession.
Class activities include producing samples of calligraphy and illuminations inspired by the Book of Kells. Students review endings and
grammatical structures while gaining familiarity with the kind of information included in stories of travel and adventure.
Focus: Students compare the narrative technique of the author of the Voyage of St. Brendan to the tradition represented by Caesar, Pliny and
Tacitus. There is more emphasis on grammatical structures in this course offering than in the Latin III/IV poetry course.
Prerequisites: Latin II or teacher recommendation
SPANISH I
Spanish I introduces the student to basic foreign language structures, vocabulary and grammar, with a concentration on present tense verbs.
Focus: The four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing are emphasized. The student is also introduced to various aspects of Hispanic
culture including music, art, food, holidays and traditions.
SPANISH II
Students build upon the Spanish I receptive and productive skills while increasing vocabulary, grammar and verb tense usage.
Focus: Supplementary audiovisual and computer resources enhance comprehension and reinforce grammatical concepts. Routine current event
assignments keep the students aware of global Hispanic news. A research project and presentation of Hispanic culture is required.
Prerequisites: Spanish I, placement exam or teacher recommendation
SPANISH III H
Proficiency skills continue to be stressed and built upon Spanish I & II. All indicative verb tenses are reviewed and the subjunctive is
acquired. Vocabulary is expanded with a variety of practical applications. Increased use of the target language occurs for the receptive and
productive skills. This course moves at an accelerated pace with greater expectations of the students involved.
Focus: Routine current event assignments keep the students aware of global Hispanic news. Research projects and presentations of
Hispanic culture are required.
Pre-requisites: Spanish II or teacher recommendation
SPANISH IV H
Proficiency skills increase as work includes exposure to Spanish and Latin American literature, culture, and other various productions
(including music and film).
Focus: In depth class discussion and written analyses inspire greater acquisition and use of the Spanish language. Research projects and
presentations of Hispanic culture are required. Novels and literary collections are used, tailored to the specific class.
Prerequisites: Spanish III or teacher recommendation
MATHEMATICS
ALGEBRA I
This course begins our mathematical study. Topics covered will be the properties of real numbers, solving equations and inequalities,
polynomial and rational expressions, factoring, and functions.
Focus: A spiral method is used wherein concepts appear repeatedly, enabling students to learn, understand, grasp concepts and gain confidence.
ALGEBRA I H
This course is designed to develop basic algebraic skills, emphasizing equations and problem solving. Topics include linear functions,
operations with polynomials, and graphing in the coordinate plane. Applications and problem solving will be stressed.
Focus: The student will be fully prepared for the successful study of mathematics by developing a strong foundation.
Prerequisites: Recommendation
GEOMETRY
This course in Euclidean Geometry emphasizes deductive reasoning. Topics include parallel and perpendicular lines, proofs, triangles,
polygons, similarity, circles, area and volume. Ample time is taken to maintain algebra skills. A scientific calculator is used.
Focus: Problem solving, critical thinking and reasoning activities are stressed.
Prerequisites: Algebra I
GEOMETRY H
This course in Euclidean Geometry emphasizes real-world application in more depth and at an accelerated rate. Topics include parallel and
perpendicular lines, deductive reasoning, triangles, polygons, inequalities, similarity, right triangles, circles, areas and volumes. Coordinate
geometry and transformations, culminating projects and applications are used to apply learning.
Focus: Problem solving, critical thinking and reasoning activities are stressed.
Prerequisites: A in Algebra I
ALGEBRA II
A continuation of Algebra I with course focus on problem solving, critical thinking, and reasoning activities. Technology is used to connect
algebra to daily life.
Focus: This course works to provide a solid foundation for future work in math and science.
Prerequisites: Algebra I
ALGEBRA II H
This course lays the groundwork for more advanced mathematical study. Topics include functions – linear, quadratic, rational – inequalities,
systems of equations, and matrices. Trigonometric topics will be introduced to enhance students’ study from Geometry. SAT practice will be
included.
Focus: The focus of this course is to prepare students in the area of problem solving, functions and graphing.
Prerequisites: Algebra I
PRE-CALCULUS H
This course is a detailed study of functions and their graphs, including those that are linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential,
logarithmic and trigonometric. If time allows, elementary limits will be studied. A TI-83/84 graphing calculator is required.
Focus: To integrate the study of mathematics to other disciplines including science, social studies and business.
Prerequisites: B or better in Algebra II/FST
TRIGONOMETRY CP
Trigonometry is a semester course for seniors who would like to enhance their study of trigonometry that was introduced in geometry.
Focus: Topics to be discussed include angles, trigonometric ratios, graphs, identities, solving triangles and applications. A scientific
calculator will be needed (T1 83/84 recommended).
Prerequisites: Algebra II
FUNCTIONS / STATS / TRIG
FST is a semester course for seniors who are interested in an introduction to the important topics of statistics. The course will include data
collection and analysis, presentation of statistical information and probability theory. Other topics will be covered as time permits. This
course will move students away from monotonous computation to focus on the statistical thinking behind data gathering and interpretation.
This approach more accurately reflects the way working statisticians contribute to our understanding of the world. A scientific calculator
will be needed (T1 83/84 recommended).
Focus: The successful students will be more discerning consumers of statistics, learning how to look closely at what the numbers from
surveys, polls, and studies are really saying.
Prerequisites: Algebra II
CALCULUS H
This course covers the material in a first semester of college calculus. Limits, continuity of functions, derivatives and their applications are studied.
Work is presented in an orderly fashion with lots of examples and problem solving. The TI 83/84 graphing calculator will be used extensively.
Focus: To explore calculus through graphs, tables and analytically.
Prerequisites: Passing grade in Pre-Calculus H
AP CALCULUS AB
Following the guidelines of the College Board, this course provides the beginning student of calculus with pertinent definitions, principles and
theorems for the study of limits, derivatives, applications of derivatives, integration and applications of integration. The TI-83/84 graphing
calculator will be used extensively. The AP exam is taken in May. Students may earn USM credit through Project ASPIRE.
Focus: To explore calculus through the interpretation of graphs and tables, as well as analytically.
Prerequisites: 85 or better in Pre-Calculus H
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
SCRIPTURE AND WORSHIP
The aim of this course is to assist students in understanding the composition of the Bible as a book of literature and as a religious statement.
As students study Hebrew scriptures (Old Testament), they learn about the covenant God established with His people through the patriarchs
and prophets, a covenant that is fulfilled in God’s only begotten Son, Jesus the Christ. Students come to realize that the Bible is to be read and
regarded as a book of literature and valued as a testimony of faith. Particular emphasis is placed on the fact that the Bible is the living word of
God. As such, God speaks to us today through the words and actions of His chosen people. The symbols and principles of worship according to
the liturgical life cycle of the Catholic church are also a focus of study, as are the Sacraments. These seven Sacraments, instituted by Christ, are
dispensed to God’s people today through His ordained ministers. Diverse individuals come to realize that there can be unity in diversity as
prayer; sharing and scripture are integrated into the curriculum. As young women journey with each other throughout the year, they come to
appreciate a basic Biblical principle: each person is God’s child and therefore each person is created good.
Focus: Students will become acquainted with the structure of the Bible, the stories and people of Hebrew scriptures in particular. They will
discover what it means to be a member of a faith community through class presentations and interactions.
JESUS OF HISTORY
In this course students study the life, teachings and mission of Jesus and the impact He made on His followers as The Christ. This material is
the focus of the Christian Testament. The four Gospels, privileged sources for our knowledge of Jesus, are the focus of students’ study. Special
emphasis is placed upon the central significance of the Paschal Mystery for the Christian church’s evolving understanding of Jesus. Those
taking the course also glimpse into the political and religious world of Biblical times.
Focus: To increase one’s knowledge of Jesus and to study what it means to be His follower.
SOCIAL JUSTICE
Social justice and peace issues are explored within the context of the Judeo-Christian heritage and the teachings of the Catholic church. The course is
designed to explore issues that impact the global and local communities, the family and the individual. For purposes of gaining greater insight into
the causes and effects of injustices in our world, various methods of instruction are used: course textbook, audio-visual resources, guest speakers
and hands-on service.
Focus: To understand justice and peace issues so as to respond where there is need and as one is able to do so.
WORLD RELIGIONS
Students will become familiar with the basic tenets of non-Catholic churches and non-Christian religions, and they will study Vatican Council
II’s teachings on the relationship of the Catholic church to these other religions in our global world. The course will offer insight into
different cultures and people’s quest for understanding the mysteries of life and for the Sacred. It also provides students with the
opportunity to reflect upon revealed truths.
Focus: To study the historical and theological developments of several world religions.
SCIENCE
ENVIROMENTAL SCIENCE
This full-year course is designed to introduce students to the concepts of ecology, earth’s cycles, and the interactions between humans and
the environment. Other goals of the class include developing strong skills in problem solving, processing information through tables, charts
and graphs, using the metric system, computing math as it relates to science, and working in a laboratory setting.
Focus: The goal is to prepare students for other sciences by giving them a foundation in the skills and concepts that biology, chemistry and
physics will build upon.
HEALTH
This is a required semester course designed to educate the student to accept responsibility for her own health. The need to choose a healthy
lifestyle based on knowledge and understanding of health information is discussed as the course explores the many aspects of life that
directly impact one’s health. Decision-making and goal-setting skills, as well as effective communication skills, are integrated into the
content of the course. The course provides the student with information that can be used to identify potential risk factors for her health, as
well as being an advocate for herself.
Focus: The concentration will be on building skills that will lead to a healthy lifestyle.
BIOLOGY
This survey course includes comparative studies of living organisms and their interdependence and importance in the everyday world, as
well as principles of health. Emphasis is placed on the role of science in the personal and social dimensions of one’s life to help the student
gain confidence in her ability to make responsible decisions about social issues related to the natural world. This course is presented
through the use of readings, lectures, independent projects, and small group work and lab activities. Weekly lab investigations emphasize
inquiry into lecture material, while models, computer programs, and videos add opportunities for understanding the concepts presented.
Focus: Concentrations of study will include cell biology, genetics, evolution, microorganisms, plants, animals and ecology.
Prerequisites: Grade 10 or prior approval
BIOLOGY H
This course covers the same material as Biology but at an accelerated pace and in greater depth. Additional problem solving and critical
thinking activities are included, as well as more independent work, and non-traditional assessment methods.
Focus: Development of skills and the ability to work independently.
Prerequisites: 85 average in the first-year classes, application, recommendation of the English I and math teachers. A student must
maintain an 85 average to remain in the course
AP BIOLOGY
This course gives the motivated senior the opportunity to complete a full-year, college-level biology course while still in high school. Lab
work, including dissections, helps to apply the concepts presented in class. The intense demands for this course are balanced by the benefits
of having individual instructor attention during class and labs, and the potential to receive college credit, depending on the results of the AP
exam.
Focus: Ecology, molecular genetics, evolution, cell biology, energetics, reproduction and heredity, structure and function organisms.
Prerequisites: B average in biology and chemistry and teacher recommendation. Students are required to take the AP exam in May
CONCEPTUAL CHEMISTRY
Conceptual Chemistry, which emphasizes the chemistry of everyday life, will examine the composition, structure, and properties of
substances and the reactions that occur between them.
Focus: Topics will include atomic structure, compounds, reactions, gases, bonding, solutions, acids, bases, and nuclear chemistry. Handson activities will be done to support concepts being studied.
Prerequisites: Algebra I
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is a lab-based study of the structure and properties of matter. Major content areas include atomic structure, chemical bonds,
stoichiometry, acid-base theory, and oxidation-reduction reactions. The course is cumulative in nature as each new unit applies and
develops concepts from previous chapters. Lab work helps students apply concepts and develop skills in measurement, calculations and
analysis. Formal lab reports help students to organize and develop critical thinking and scientific writing skills.
Focus: Develop a working knowledge of chemistry that can be applied to future academic and life settings.
Prerequisites: Biology
CHEMISTRY H
Chemistry Honors is a lab-based study of the structure and properties of matter. The content is similar to CP Chemistry but includes more in-
depth study of chemical equilibrium, acid-base theory, oxidation-reduction reactions and an introduction to organic chemistry. This course
requires students to work more independently and at a faster pace. Lab work is an important part of the course, where students develop
skills in measurement, critical thinking, and technical writing. Students are also encouraged to develop skills in research and public
speaking.
Focus: Prepare students for future studies in science and engineering.
Prerequisites: Biology, math and English teacher recommendations
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
This course is designed to provide in-depth knowledge of the human body and the complex biochemical reactions necessary to maintain it in
a state of dynamic equilibrium. In order to gain a better understanding of the intricate anatomy of the body, the students have the
opportunity to perform detailed dissections. Contemporary issues in biology and medicine are integrated into the course of study.
Focus: Homeostasis, complementarity of structure and function, technical writing skills.
Prerequisites: This course is open to seniors only and requires completion of biology and chemistry
PHYSICS
A challenging, lab-based course designed to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of the physical world and how it works. Topics
covered include basic mechanics, energy, thermodynamics, waves, sound, light, electricity and magnetism. The course emphasizes
conceptual understanding of these topics, and includes algebra-based problem solving, analytical thinking, and graphical analysis. Lab
activities, computer simulations and projects are used to reinforce concepts, to provide hands-on application, and to enhance technical
writing skills.
Focus: Prepare students to take scientific-level physics courses in college.
Prerequisites: Algebra II/Trigonometry
PHYSICS H
Covers the same material as Physics CP, but requires students to work at an accelerated pace, and will go into greater depth. The course
emphasizes conceptual, as well as mathematical, understanding of topics, and includes algebra-based problem solving, advanced analytical
thinking, and graphical analysis. Lab activities, computer simulations and projects are used to reinforce concepts, to provide hands-on
application, and to enhance technical writing skills.
Focus: Develop an understanding and appreciation of the physical world. Prepare students for future study in science or engineering.
Prerequisites: Algebra II / Trig, Pre-Calculus or Calculus (concurrent)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The goals of the class are:
a) To develop healthy choices and decisions that will affect the student’s health.
b) To understand the rules and regulations of each activity and sport with emphasis on sportsmanship.
c) To develop the student physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
d) To involve the student in activities that will develop the components of fitness and lifetime activities.
Focus: This course focuses on lifetime, team, and individual sports/activities. Skills, safety and sportsmanship are emphasized during each
activity. Activities include water sports, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, badminton, speedball, softball, taebo, pickle ball, ultimate Frisbee, bocce ball, flag football, eclipse ball, global ball, and croquet.
SOCIAL STUDIES
WORLD HISTORY
Provides an understanding of cultures from the beginning of humanity. Follows the development of early cultures from farming settlements
to advanced civilizations. Traces how certain civilizations made contributions to others, which, in turn, handed them down to us (i.e. the
Alphabet—from the Phoenicians to the Greeks to the Romans to us).
Focus: There are many focuses throughout the course: the different lenses that historians use to understand history. One such lens is the impact
geography has on a people’s history. Other focuses include: interactions between civilizations, development of religion, development of law, how
rulers/governments and subjects relate, gender roles, etc.
Prerequisites: Open to all first year students and sophomores as a social studies elective
U.S. HISTORY
This course is a survey of the early development of the United States from the colonial period to the early portion of the 20th Century.
Principle themes include exploration and settlement of the New World, the separation of the colonies from Britain, the creation of the national
American government, the territorial expansion of the country, the divisions leading to the War Between the States, Reconstruction,
immigration, industrialization, and the emergence of the United States as a world power.
Focus: Emphasis is placed on the relationship of past trends and challenges to current political, social, and economic issues.
Prerequisites: Open to juniors for their American history requirement
U.S. HISTORY H
This course is an examination of social, cultural, political and economic developments in the United States from the country’s inception until
the early 1900s. The course includes interpretation of source documents. Research is stressed.
Focus: The interrelationship between themes in history will be emphasized. Connections between past events and trends and current issues
is an integral part of the course.
Prerequisites: To complete the American History requirement at this level, a grade of 85 or better in a previous history or social studies
course and/or teacher recommendation is required. A minimum grade of 85 is required throughout the year
AP U.S. HISTORY
This survey of United States history from prehistoric settlement to the 21st Century prepares students for college-level work by making
demands upon them equivalent to an introductory college course. Students are required to take the AP U.S. History exam provided by the
College Board Educational Testing Service.
Focus: Students will focus on the reading and analysis of primary source historical documents, music, and literature.
Prerequisites: This level requires departmental recommendation with a grade of 90 or better in previous history/social studies courses
WORLD REGIONAL
GEOGRAPHY
Geography is the study of our planet’s surface and the processes that shape it. A region is a unit of the earth’s surface that contains distinct
patterns of physical features or of human development. Rather than study individual countries in isolation, students will study countries in
regional relationships.
Focus: Emphasis is placed on map skills, regional cultures and customs, as well as the literature, music, art, and food of each particular region
studied.
Focus: Open to students in grades 10-12. Although not a pre-requisite, completion of World History is recommended.
SOCIOLOGY
Sociology, the systematic study of human society, teaches us that our social world guides our life choices.
Focus: Topics for discussion using the sociological perspective include: family and religion, the economy and government, education, health and
medicine, population and environment, and global social change.
WOMEN IN HISTORY
This course studies the accomplishments of women in American History from Native American cultures prior to European settlement
through the 21st Century.
Focus: Emphasis is placed on the reading and analysis of primary source documents – letters, diaries, journals, essays, and on literature dealing with
or written by American women.
Prerequisites: Open to all seniors
AP U.S. GOVERNMENT
The course is an in-depth college-level seminar on the structure and operations of government in the United States. The relationship among
the branches and levels of government in the American federal system will be explained. The class will provide a vehicle for preparation and
participation in the “We the People” program, a national competition on the content and application of the United States Constitution.
Students are required to take the AP American Government exam provided by the College Board Educational Testing Service.
Focus: Human dynamics in the creation and implementation of social and economic policy will be stressed.
Prerequisites: Departmental recommendation is required with a grade of 90 or better in a previous history/social studies course.
Senior elective
ECONOMICS H
The course is a survey of micro and macroeconomics. Topics include the basics of a market economy, statistics used for consumer decisionmaking, governmental fiscal and monetary policy and international trade. Students participate individually and in groups in an online stock
market simulation.
Focus: Emphasis is placed on the practical application of economic theory.
Prerequisites: A grade of 85 or better is required in a previous history/social studies course and/or teacher recommendation. A minimum
grade of 85 is required throughout the year. Senior elective
PSYCHOLOGY
Psychology is a science that seeks to answer all sorts of questions about us all: how we think, feel and act. This introductory course will
examine the developing person by allowing students to gain insight to, and appreciate the wonder of, important phenomena in their lives.
Focus: Students will focus on learning the basic vocabulary and principles of psychology.
Prerequisites: Open to all seniors
PSYCHOLOGY H
Psychology is a science that seeks to answer all sorts of questions about us all: how we think, feel and act. This introductory honors seminar course
will examine the developing person by allowing students to gain insight to, and appreciate the wonder of, important phenomena in their lives.
Students may choose to take the AP Psychology exam provided by the College Board Educational Testing Service.
Focus: Students will focus on critical thinking exercises, dealing with the basic principles and theories of psychology.
Prerequisites: A grade of 85 or better in a previous history/social studies course and/or teacher recommendation. A minimum grade of 85 is
required to remain in this course. Senior elective
TECHNOLOGY
ROBOTICS & PROGRAMMING
Using the VEX Robotics platform, this course will provide an introduction to both the mechanical designing and building of a functional robot
and programming using RobotC. Students will work both individually and as a team to design, build and program a basic multi-directional
rolling robot, a robot with a moving arm, and then a robot that completes particular tasks in a VEX-generated game challenge to be brought
to competition(s) in Maine. Along with basic mechanical and programming skills, students will develop their abilities to problem solve, to be
team players, to think critically and to work with technology. This is a hands-on class with a very high participation requirement.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
CAREER CHOICE
Throughout the year, prominent professional women are invited to share their career paths with interested sophomores. Speakers offer
insight into goal setting, career exploration and job opportunities, encouraging sophomores to begin thinking about their own career
aspirations.
CAREER STUDY WEEK
Career Study Week is a self-directed learning experience that gives juniors a chance to prepare for the world of work, grow in self-
knowledge and life decision-making skills. This project is the culmination of high school career education.
SENIOR SERVICE WEEK
Senior Service Week is a self-directed experience based on “... service to the Church and the worldwide human community.” Seniors make a
gift of their time and talents.
COLLEGE EARLY STUDY PROGRAM
Juniors and seniors in good academic standing may opt to take two college courses per year to earn both Carnegie and college credits at USM, UNE
and St. Joseph’s College. Students accumulate college credits and experience with college coursework and expectations in co-educational classrooms.
MOCK TRIAL TEAM
The Maine Center for Civic Education’s interscholastic competition supplies a hypothetical civil or criminal case each year, and our team
prepares the plaintiff’s and defendant’s cases, with students playing the roles of attorneys and witnesses. Competitions are presided over by
an actual state judge and scored by a panel of real attorneys. The team is open to all students with an interest in law, public speaking,
theatrics and the opportunity to interact with students (male and female) from other schools.
SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM
Participate in Public Forum and Lincoln Douglas-style interscholastic competitions from October through March. Research and persuasively
advocate both sides of monthly resolutions (controversial statements) designated by the National Forensic League. Become a member of the
National and Catholic Forensic Leagues, accumulate participation points and compete in tournaments. Students hone their public speaking
skills, learn to make coherent, compelling arguments, and interact with students (male and female) from other schools.