2025–26 COURSE LISTINGS

Courses are indicated as full-year courses when the credit rating indicates a value of 1.0, which is a standard, full-year class.

VISUAL ARTS AND DESIGN

Visual Art And Design Program Overview

Visual art and design courses are devoted to the recognition and development of each student’s creative potential. We see art as a means of exploring, discovering and expressing one’s unique and valuable vision of the world. Our visual arts courses do not merely emphasize skills; they ask students to examine meaning and intention in art-making. Design and engineering electives explore the bridge between the physical and digital worlds, teaching a range of skills from traditional woodworking techniques to 3D digital fabrication, product and architectural design, engineering, computer programming and robotics.

9th Grade Visual And Digital Arts Courses

Introduction to the Creative Process

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 9

Prerequisite: None

Students in this full-year studio learn to bring their unique ideas to life through visual art practice and close attention to the creative process. Engaged in thoughtful explorations of materials, tools and techniques in select digital and fine arts media, students understand that there are multiple ways to approach and realize an artwork. While purposefully researching art history strands and contemporary trends, students identify questions, sketch, experiment and create original works of art reflecting on and documenting their process throughout. Ninth-grade artists present finished work publicly and engage in critique to deepen their understanding of the artistic choices that they’re making and how these choices impact meaning. Students use Chelsea galleries as a regular resource and have the opportunity to meet with professional artists to learn about their creative practices. 

10th Grade Visual And Digital Arts Courses 

10th graders are offered the choice of different visual arts workshop modalities, each focusing on a digital or fine art process, to allow students to explore a particular passion for art-making and expand their visual communication skills. Any of the Visual and Digital Arts Workshops serve as prerequisites for higher-level art classes in 11th and 12th grades.

Visual Arts Workshop: Digital Art

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: None

Dive into the world of Digital Art, where technology and creativity collide!  This course will explore cutting-edge programs like Procreate, Photoshop, and InDesign while mixing digital and physical materials to push the limits of your imagination. From collage remixing and experimenting with pop culture-inspired printmaking to creating wild painting-photography-sculpture hybrids, you'll break artistic norms, develop your unique creative style, and explore how technology is redefining the future of art.

Visual Arts Workshop: Drawing and Painting 

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: None

The ability to draw and paint is a vital part to making images and creating intimate explanations of our world and our internal thoughts. Imagine capturing the textures and vibrancy of the world around you through an exploration of 2D materials and a mastery of traditional painting and drawing methods. In this students will explore various ways to translate how we see, think, and feel. Emphasis will be put on creative thinking and embracing the unexpected twists and turns of this artistic process. The class will also examine the work of contemporary visionaries while exploring the historical legacy of artists and the way their work has shaped us.

Visual Arts Workshop: Photography

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: None

Anyone can take a picture, but what makes a photograph truly meaningful? In this course, students will explore the art of photography—how images are created, composed, and transformed. Starting with the technical foundations of digital photography, including camera operation, composition, and editing, students will experiment with creative approaches to visual storytelling. The class will also examine the work of both historical and contemporary photographers, considering how photography has shaped our perception of the world.

Visual Arts Electives 

Advanced Art History: Revolutions in Modern Art

Credit: 1.0 

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

This elective takes students on an exciting exploration of major art movements from 1860 through the 20th century, focusing on how they started in Western Europe and later made their mark in the United States, especially in New York City. Students discover how movements like Impressionism, Cubism, Dadaism, and Surrealism revolutionized art, challenging what art could be and what it could express. From the impact of new technologies and political changes to the rise of mass production and pop culture, you’ll dive into themes like abstraction vs. figuration and identity in art. With visits to multiple museums baked into the curriculum, the class will experience these movements up close and in person. Along with engaging readings and films, you'll complete creative research projects and a final independent curatorial assignment where you design your own exhibition. This class will offer a fresh perspective on the art world and its vibrant history.

Ceramics Studio

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: None

This elective will provide a supportive studio environment for the exploration of all things clay! Students will practice diverse approaches to ceramics creating both utilitarian objects and sculptural forms. Techniques for hand-building and wheel throwing will be presented and content-based assignments allow for individual expression through creative problem-solving, as students aim to produce a body of work that reflects their unique interests by the end of the year. Additionally, students will consider the art of ceramics through both a historical and contemporary lens. Guest speakers and gallery hops will further fuel this studio.

Film Studio I and II

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None

In this elective, students dive deeply into the medium of film through hands-on practice and screenings of great films from around the globe. Students analyze both short and feature-length films to develop film vocabulary and then apply their takeaways to their own original film projects. Students work on all aspects of filmmaking including scriptwriting, pre-production, shooting, and editing in collaboration with their peers. This exploration is further enhanced by a rotation of professional filmmakers visiting the class who share expertise and experience as it relates to the stages and roles of production.  Students interested in taking this class for a second year should apply for Advanced Film Studio, or may choose to enroll in Film Studio II.

Advanced Film Studio

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 12 

Prerequisite: Film Studio I/II or permission of instructor

In this Advanced Film Elective, you’ll build on the production and analytical skills from Film Studio I, taking your filmmaking to the next level as you dig deeper into the creative and technical sides of production. Additional responsibilities include leading a class by developing a lesson on a specific aspect of filmmaking, and presenting on a film by analyzing it through film theory and historical context.  As an advanced student, you'll take on more responsibility, working alongside your peers to guide them through different stages of production.  From concept to final cut, you’ll be in the thick of the action, playing a key role in bringing projects to life.

Illustration

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: None

In this exciting elective, students will explore both traditional and digital drawing techniques, focusing on four areas: Fashion Illustration, Comics & Graphic Novels, Animation, and Experimental Drawing. Each term will dive into a new theme, with students learning from guest artists who bring real-world industry insights. The course will include fashion history, figure drawing, Project Runway-style challenges, character design, storyboarding, and digital painting through comics and animation. By the end of the course, students will have built a versatile portfolio and gained a deeper understanding of the creative process and industry opportunities

Advanced Studio Art I

Credit: 1.0 

Grade: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None

In this elective, students will strengthen and expand their creativity and curiosity. The first semester will feature exploratory assignments that encourage students to experiment with various materials, techniques, and ideas, deepening their understanding of their artistic interests. In the second semester, students will refine their artistic direction by selecting specific materials and honing their skills to create independently driven, meaningful work. This course welcomes students working in all media, including drawing, photography, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and digital art. Sharing work, visiting galleries, and researching artists will be integral to the class experience.

Advanced Studio Art II

Credit: 1.0 

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: Permission of instructor or the recommendation of current art teacher 

Culminating with a final exhibition, this studio creates the community, structure, and space for independently driven artists to pursue their work. Artists taking this class are expected to work in a dedicated and focused manner, embrace their creative process, and explore new materials and artistic strategies in order to bring personal interests to life through visual means. Group critiques, research in contemporary art, readings, and guest artists are elements of the course. This course is for students who have already taken Advanced Art I or have a strong recommendation from a current art teacher.

Watercolor: the History and Process

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: None

In this course, students will explore the evolution of watercolor from ancient techniques and traditions to modern masterpieces, and discover why it remains one of the most expressive and dynamic painting mediums today. Through numerous hands-on projects, students will experiment with washes, layering, and blending while responding to the styles of renowned watercolor artists from many times and places. This course is well suited for beginners and those who already love painting, and will help you develop your skills and find your own unique artistic voice.

Design and Engineering Course Offerings

Design and Engineering Workshop (Grades 9-10)

Design and Engineering Studio (Grades 11-12)

Advanced Design and Engineering Studio/Capstone (Grades 11-12)

Credit: 1.0

Grades: See above 

Prerequisite: None 

In these classes, students explore the mindsets, skillsets and toolsets embedded in Avenues' maker space, the iLab, to develop their creative process through the lens of a designer/engineer. Our inquiry will be driven by questions such as: “What is the role of the designer/engineer in society?”; “How have our technological innovations changed us and our world?; “How can we innovate in a sustainable way?”; “How can we find a problem worth solving?” Over the year, the class will engage in a series of projects that explore these questions and develop foundational skills in the following areas: Design thinking through a user-centered design process of discovering a need and designing and prototyping solutions. Design and fabrication through the use of digital and traditional tools and technologies such as computer-aided design (CAD), laser cutting and engraving, 3D printing, and woodworking. Students who have taken Design and Engineering Workshop in Grade 10 may take Advanced Design and Engineering Studio in Grade 11. Students who have taken Design and Engineering Studio or Advanced Studio in Grade 11 may take Advanced Design and Engineering Capstone in Grade 12.

Advanced Computer Science

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11-12

Prerequisite: Computer Science 1: Programming Foundations, or by permission of the instructor

How can AI help improve the quality and efficiency of computer scientists and engineers? What is the impact on our society and environment of the computational artifacts that we create? This course seeks to answer these questions, building on the fundamentals introduced in Programming Foundations. Students will engage in advanced computational topics such as machine learning, data science, evolutionary algorithms, object-oriented programming, electronics/robotics and more. They will exhibit mastery of these topics through a series of projects designed to solve real-world problems. They will also investigate and report on the impacts of computer science on society and the environment, and present their findings in formal presentations, debates, or by organizing guest lectures and panels.

Robotics: FIRST Tech Challenge

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11-12

Corequisite: Students must commit to attending a minimum of two 60-minute after-school sessions per week.

FIRST Tech Challenge is a competitive robotics program in which students learn to think and collaborate like engineers. Teams meet after school to design, build, and program robots to compete against other teams from across New York City throughout the year. Robots are built from robust, professional components and coded using Java-based programming. Students who register for the program for course credit are required to set, document, and meet personal goals in design, programming, and community outreach in addition to participating in team projects. The FIRST Tech Challenge robotics program is open to all students in grades 9-12 as a club.

PERFORMING ARTS 

Advanced Music

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9–12 

Admission is by audition only; a strong commitment is expected. 

Note: Acceptance into Advanced Music requires students to pass an audition. The audition process will assess overall musicality and musical literacy/theory knowledge (reading music, sight-reading, ear training, etc.). If rising 9th and 10th Graders do not demonstrate the expected level of musical literacy/theory knowledge sufficient to be accepted into Advanced Music, they can be accepted if they also choose to enroll in Vocal/Choral Music. Students will be notified during the audition process if this would be a co-requisite in each individual case.

Advanced Music is a unique opportunity for the most dedicated musicians to meet. The course presents all committed students in grades 9–12 with the opportunity to play and perform together. The class meets during Zero Block for an intense workout on repertoire, ranging from funk to pop to jazz from all eras. The ensemble becomes the representative school band and is the go-to unit for school functions, events, celebrations and parties. In addition, the band plays regularly at events outside of school.  The ensemble may also participate in local student jazz festivals.

Advanced Choir

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9–12 

Admission is by audition only; a strong commitment is expected. 

Note: Acceptance into Advanced Choir requires students to pass an audition. The audition process will assess overall musicality and musical literacy/theory knowledge (reading music, sight-reading, ear training, etc.). If rising 9th and 10th Graders do not demonstrate the expected level of musical literacy/theory knowledge sufficient to be accepted into Advanced Choir, they can be accepted if they also choose to enroll in Vocal/Choral Music. Students will be notified during the audition process if this would be a co-requisite in each individual case.

Advanced Choir is an Advanced music ensemble open to dedicated singers in grades 9-12. In this collaborative and creative course, singers strengthen their musicianship, refine vocal technique,  hone performing skills, and discuss arranging techniques. A wide range of repertoire will be sung, ranging from contemporary a cappella and pop music, to musical theater, traditional choral music, jazz, etc. Working collaboratively as a choir requires a commitment to learning parts, reading music notation, and strong aural skills. During class, singers will focus on developing various choral singing techniques like healthy tone production, blend and diction.

Introduction to the Creative Process: Music

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 9

Prerequisite: This course is open to students who demonstrate the ability to play an instrument. 

Students in this full-year seminar will learn to bring their unique ideas to life while brainstorming collectively with their peers through music in large and small ensemble settings. In dedicating their attention to the process, students will understand that knowing something well requires being able to articulate how a question is generated, researched, sketched, iterated and reflected upon. Students will effectively present and communicate their investigations as manifested through the medium of music while embracing a diverse range of technical and conceptual challenges. The course ultimately seeks to cultivate the skills and thinking necessary to realize a project from start to finish in a deep and meaningful way, while appreciating that the process is ultimately what defines the success of the final product. 

Vocal Workshop

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9–10 

Prerequisite: None 

This is an active and creative class for students who want to sing. Vocal students will explore a variety of styles, including popular music, musical theater, a cappella, jazz and rock. Students will sing together as a choir, in small groups, and solo. During class, singers will focus on developing various choral singing techniques like healthy tone production, blend and diction. This is a performance-based class. While there is no audition required, students must demonstrate a strong commitment to performing.

Grade 10 Instrumental Music Workshop

Credits: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: This course is open to students who can demonstrate the ability to play an instrument. 

This full-year seminar will focus on two main areas: the process of  group music making; and the development of literacy skills.  Students select the repertoire  and students drive the rehearsals all while acquiring the theoretical and practical tools of literacy.  The course will culminate in composition work in which students will put their developing  literacy skills to use.  Student groups from this class will  perform frequently and in various settings throughout the school year. 

Grade 11-12 Instrumental Music Workshop

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11–12

Prerequisite: Instrumental Music Workshop or permission from the instructor

This class meets in a workshop setting, providing musicians an environment in which to patiently develop technical mastery of their instruments through in-depth exploration of a wide variety of musical genres, including American R&B, Afropop, contemporary art music, indie rock, blues and jazz, in addition to music suggested by students themselves. The class focuses above all on nurturing the skills needed to play real music with real feeling. While the elements of musical literacy are addressed, equal attention is paid to performance variables that elude notation.

The ensemble is not limited to traditional symphonic band and string instruments but is open to all instruments including keyboards and guitars. (Keyboard players may use instruments provided by the school; guitarists should bring their own instruments to class.) Drummers are given the opportunity to work both on a full kit and with a variety of world percussion instruments. In addition, all ensemble members participate in African and Afro-Caribbean drumming as an integral part of the ensemble’s rhythmic development.

This elective features in-class demonstrations by guest artists and numerous opportunities for formal and informal ensemble performances throughout the semester.

HIGH-INTENSITY PRACTICE (HIP)

High-intensity practice (HIP) is a focused method of developing thinking skills related to executive function, which is often described as the "air traffic control system" of the brain. The premise of HIP is that frequent, intense practice of key thinking skills over a period of years—specifically, empathy, creativity, abstraction, metacognition, critical thinking, mental agility, and planning—can significantly improve the three executive functions: working memory, cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, and possibly even fluid intelligence. Executive function is strongly associated with long-term academic achievement across disciplines and success in life, more so than IQ. Secondary benefits of HIP are increased proficiency in the curricular domains used for practice, such as math and writing.

The long-term benefits of HIP continue to be the subject of ongoing research at Avenues, but a year-long study at Avenues in 2016-17 provided the first empirical evidence of strong, positive growth in thinking skills.

HIP Thinking Through Mastery

Credit: 0.5 

Grades: 9

Prerequisite: None 

In this introductory course for 9th graders, we bring two of Avenues’ signature learning experiences, High-Intensity Practice (HIP) and Mastery,  into one space in order to teach about the mindsets, thinking skills and tools required for success at Avenues. The experience begins with a HIP focus on flexible thinking skills.  Cultivating the highest level of cognitive skills—empathy, creativity, mental agility, critical thinking, extended concentration and stamina—through writing and math skills, we employ deliberate practice and targeted feedback on daily challenges to develop our students.  Over time, we begin to apply those skills into an area of interest or passion, taking our students from practice into their personal Mastery endeavors. 

Principles of HIP and Mastery is a proving ground for students who are interested in further upper-grade  Mastery experiences.  Students who show focus, determination and growth in this class will receive recommendations for J-Term Mastery and for the Mastery Learning System.  

HIP Thinking Through Coding

Credit: 0.5 

Grades: 9

Prerequisite: None 

HIP Thinking brings the concept of high-intensity practice together with engaging coding challenges in order to help students develop the cognitive flexibility that underlies advanced problem-solving, creativity and critical thinking. Lessons are built around focused and deliberate practice in foundational coding languages and aim to develop one or more aspects of the eight Avenues Thinking Elements: algorithms, empathy, creativity, critical thinking, metacognition, reasoning, mental agility, abstraction and planning. 

HIP Electives (10th Grade)

Computer Science Workshop

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 10

Prerequisite: None 

Computer algorithms intersect all aspects of life today, and so computer knowledge is more important now than it has ever been. In this course students will develop their programming skills through a workshop structure of projects, in-class feedback, and active problem solving. Students will learn how to work with conditionals, loops, classes, functions, types, arrays, and modules. Projects will vary in design, from the computational back end, to design-oriented front end, and even simple machine learning programs. There will be a special emphasis on the skills needed to be a flexible and effective programmer, including a variety of programming languages and modes, as well as student designed projects. This will be a technical course which is fit for any student who has an interest in programming, regardless of their existing programming knowledge. Overall, by the end of the course students will be prepared for whatever programming challenges they might encounter in the future, be it robotics, app design, machine learning, data analysis, or a later advanced computer science course.

This course features high-intensity practice in mathematics and writing.

The Art of Communication 

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 10

Prerequisite: None 

Your voice—on the page and in the room—has the power to inform, persuade, and inspire. In this course, we’ll combine storytelling and public speaking to help you communicate with confidence in real-world situations. Through high-energy practice, you’ll learn how to craft engaging narratives, sharpen your writing, and speak with clarity and presence. We’ll workshop personal essays, debate, perform original stories and poetry, and deliver speeches. By the end of the course, you’ll have key takeaways for your future, such as a polished personal statement for college and experience with mock interviews for jobs and internships. Whether you love writing and speaking or want to strengthen these skills, this class will give you the tools to tell your story and make your voice heard. 

This course features high-intensity practice in writing and public speaking. 

HUMANITIES ELECTIVES

Advanced Literature: Adaptation!

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: teacher recommendation

Hercules, Hamlet, The Hours, Homer’s Odyssey, Hamilton: what do these names share? They are all texts that have been adapted, or are adaptations of other media. In this class we will be exploring the tensions between original and remake, between done and re-done, between classic and modern. What does it mean to take a text and to make a movie out of it? What does it mean to take a graphic novel and to make a musical? Why are all theatrical performances called adaptations? Can an adaptation be better than the original? Can it add value to the original, or point out its flaws? Could an adaptation of a dead white man’s play by a modern woman poet redeem some of its misogyny? What does a blues song written in 1917 have to do with a love story set nearly 60 years later? What does it mean for an adaptation to be “successful”? 

In this class, you will be pushed not only to be close readers, but also comparative, nimble writers with an eye to synthesis. You will be asked to take a stake in big conversations about the value of literature and identity, and small conversations about the purpose of a single word in a play. You will come out a better writer, analyst, and cultural critic. In addition to being exposed to many new texts, movies, performances, discussions, and critical essays, you will come away from this class with an essay in which you outline your own theory about what makes a successful adaptation or a creative adaptation of your own.

Creative Writing

Credit 1.0

Grades 11-12

Prerequisite: None

In this course, students will regularly produce original creative writing and collectively provide feedback in a discussion-based environment. Students will learn how to effectively “workshop” creative writing, incorporate feedback on their original writing, and polish writing for contests and publications. 

Deep reading of creative writing in three key genres—fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction—will guide students to analyze literary tools and trends. Historical and contemporary innovations in each genre will be examined through key texts, including imagism in the poetry of Basho and Ezra Pound, minimalism in the fiction of Earnest Hemingway and Raymond Carver, intertextuality in the works of Jean Rhys and Madeline Miller, feminism and gender theory in the writings of Edwidge Danticat and Claudia Rankine, confessional poetics in the verse of Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton. Each stylistic device analyzed will be practiced through the vehicle of creative writing with the aim of expanding students’ toolbox for creative writing.

Advanced Gothic Literature

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: teacher recommendation

Ghosts, vampires, ghouls, a zombie with no conscience. What do all these things have in common? They’re all hallmarks of Gothic Literature! In this course, students will explore some of the most foundational texts of the genre, including heavyweights such as Shelley’s Frankenstein, Stoker’s Dracula, as well as a number of short stories and poems by Edgar Allan Poe. The primary focus of this course will be the analysis of literary techniques and style used by the authors, examining how these tales of horror and fright are actually often used to examine questions around the human condition. A warning comes with this course description, however! This class will not be for the faint of heart. Aside from the grim and macabre subject matter, these texts can also be dense and rife with antiquated language that will provide a challenge to even the most astute readers. Much like with the foreboding and decaying castles that so often serve as the backdrop for the novels we’ll be reading in this course–enter at your own risk.

Advanced History

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: 9th Grade English & World Course, and instructor approval 

Advanced History explores the past with an eye toward understanding the present.  In pursuit of nuanced understanding of the complexities of historical developments, students will develop the skills including analysis of primary sources, recognizing multiple perspectives, distinguishing between fact and interpretation and academic writing.

Advanced History: Post–Cold War Latin America

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: teacher recommendation

How have economic and social relations developed in Latin America since the early 90s until today? What has the region’s relationship to the United States been like during these last decades? Who have become the faces of contemporary Latin American music, business, and politics? In this course, we will explore these questions focusing on Venezuela, Argentina, Cuba, and Panama during these last decades. Through literature, cinema, and lived experiences of folks from these countries, we will learn the nuances behind the way Latin Americans view themselves and the historical experiments they have participated in. 

Advanced Humanities

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: 9th Grade English & World Course, and instructor approval

When you first hear the word “essay” you might think of a well-organized piece of expository writing; or you might think of writing that serves to inform, to dispense information. You might think of the kind of writing you’re often asked to produce in English class-introductions, thesis statements, supporting evidence. Though we’re certainly going to talk about arguments, evidence, and information this year, in this class we’re going to push beyond many conventional notions of what an essay looks like, of how it works sentence by sentence. We’re going to return the word “essay” to its roots-the English word “essay” comes from the French essayer: to try, to attempt. We’re going to embrace the difficulty, creativity and open-endedness bound up in the essay’s origin. We are going to welcome the challenges and frustrations of defining just what an essay is, and along the way, we’re going to read texts that encourage us to productively unlearn rigid ideas we might have about this troublesome form. Many of our readings, in fact, might not immediately conform to your idea of what an essay looks like: we will encounter poetry, journalism, fiction, film and music, and we will try to articulate why these seemingly non-essayistic forms feel like essayistic attempts at understanding, describing, and complicating the world and our representations of it. As we read and interpret course texts, we will experiment with different iterations of the essay from ourselves, producing original writing that is creative, passionate, and precise. Brian Dillon's Essayism and John D'Agata's Making of The American Essay will serve as our anchor texts; we will also engage with supplementary readings by a diverse array of canonical and contemporary writers from around the world.

Advanced Journalism

Advocacy, Knowledge, and Social Change

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: teacher recommendation

"The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them." — Ida B. Wells. 

When something happens in the world, how do we learn about it? Who controls the narrative? How do we know what "really" went down? Who gets to tell whose story? Whose account should we trust? Is it possible to write about what happens in the world in a way that is truly unbiased? And, should avoiding bias even be the objective?

This advanced course explores journalism as a force for advocacy, knowledge, and social change. Students will study journalistic principles and develop essential journalistic skills in ethics, investigation, inquiry, reporting, and writing, all in service of composing and publishing several articles throughout the year. Students will grow as writers through frequent workshops of their articles, while also weighing the principles of truth, accuracy, objectivity, impartiality, accountability, and fairness. Students will engage in the critical study of classic and contemporary works of journalism, exploring how publications act as public forums for expression and the free and open discussion of ideas.

Uniquely, student writing in this course is done with an eye toward publication, and the work students produce in this course is intended to be read by our upper grades community in The Highliner. Journalism students will regularly experience the thrill of seeing their names and articles in print.

Advanced Philosophy – What is Wisdom?

Credit 1.0

Grades 11-12

Prerequisite: None

For thousands of years, human beings have sought wisdom. What is it to be a wise person in day-to-day life? How should one treat one’s family members, one’s friends, and oneself? When is it important to be deferential and polite, and when is it more valuable to be assertive and disruptive? How should we deal with those we disagree with, as well as those who are selfish or even cruel? When is it better to act decisively and when is it best to wait and reflect? In this course, we will explore these questions by comparing and contrasting the moral/political visions of Athens and Sparta, Plato and Aristotle, Moses and St. Paul, Erasmus and Luther, Locke and Hobbes, Kant and Bentham, Rousseau and Hume, Robespierre and Burke, Mill and Marx, suffragists and anti-suffragists, Keynes and Hayek, Churchill and Stalin, MLK and Malcolm X, and Nozick and Rawls.

ENGLISH

In the humanities, students move between separate history and English classes, yet their studies originate from a single, integrated course. By reading historical texts in conjunction with literary texts, students come to appreciate why familiarity with history is indispensable to a full understanding of literature. 

English Core Courses

Global Humanities Foundations: English

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 9 

Prerequisite: None 

In the 9th grade, students study some of the foundations of civilization and literature. They examine the rise of ancient China, India, Islam and the eventual emergence of the West and learn about the interconnectedness of civilizations that make world history one history. In-depth studies hone in on the ways in which the world was globally connected and how different major civilizations evolved as global power brokers. By studying the inward turn of China, the traditions of India, the rise of Islam and ultimately the emergence of Europe from the “dark ages,” students confront the major historical notions of cause and effect, intercultural exchange and conflicting narratives. Stories from these places and time periods provide students with exciting opportunities to learn and practice foundational research techniques, analyze competing histories and amplify their own writing and reading skills and worldview through wrestling with these materials.

Students also study origin texts and complete a study in various literary genres from a global perspective. They learn how to give voice to their own stories as a means of developing the knowledge and confidence that they live lives worth the telling. Particular emphasis is placed on student-centered discussions and processes in completing all work. Students take time to reflect on and refine their writing and discussion skills as a means to identify ways in which they might communicate and work together with each other most productively.

Global Humanities Modernization: English

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10 

Prerequisite: English 9

In our increasingly globalized world—teeming with information, narratives, and perspectives—how does literature both shape and respond to the ideas of modernity and to innovative modes of storytelling? This is the central question 10th-grade English explores. Grounded in literary texts that portray the clashes and collaborations of a globalized society examined in 10th-grade World Course, English centers “the human narrative” in global-scale change. Students will make connections between historical periods and works of literature, consider authorial point of view in terms of both culture and aesthetics, and ground examination of complex themes in close reading of literary devices. Students will then apply their growing reading and analysis skills to class discussion and to crafting a variety of writing pieces across genres of analytic and creative writing. Over the course of 10th-grade English, students will elevate their writing style, learn and practice mechanics through writing-based projects, and draw nuanced connections between the literature of the past and the world of today.

American Literature: English 11

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11 

Prerequisite: English 10

What is unique about the great experiment called “America”? What might it mean to found a nation on ideals such as freedom, equality, opportunity and democracy? Do any of those ideals conflict with one another? To what extent has the nation lived up to its organizing ideals?

This interdisciplinary course in American studies draws upon insights and methodologies from the fields of American history and American literary studies. Students learn to think about America from two angles. First, to get the “facts” straight, we explore the untold and sometimes troubling aspects of America’s history. How has American society been shaped by a history that includes slavery, Indian removal and imperialism? We also explore how activities such as storytelling and mythmaking—that is, the production of cultural “fictions”—contribute to the shaping of national identity. Is it possible that a nation with such a violent past could also stand for a set of genuinely liberating ideals? What are the beliefs, practices and myths that have enabled America to cohere and perpetuate itself?

Students also learn to write clearly and effectively, with a sense of audience and purpose. They are encouraged to engage passionately in inquiry and argument construction in discussions and beyond. Students are expected to evaluate the written and oral arguments of others, paying equal attention to questions of fact and interpretation to begin reflecting on their own experiences, values and beliefs through the personal essay form.

World Literature: English 12

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: None

World Literature continues the development of students as readers, writers, speakers, and listeners by providing opportunities to refine the skills introduced and advanced in previous humanities courses. Our study will include a focus on various genres, especially as they inform and are informed by style, structure and meaning. Texts will continue to be drawn from those voices that encourage engagement with issues of race, class, gender and sexuality and will originate from global perspectives and traditions. Though this course will not be connected to a specific history course, interdisciplinary work will still comprise a significant portion of our studies. Writing assignments will allow students to exercise their creativity as well as their analytical skills and may range from poetry and short stories to personal and analytical essays.

MATHEMATICS 

Integrated Math (Grades 8-11)

All years of Integrated Math 1 through 4 (typically taken in grades 8-11, respectively) feature two parallel pathways: Integrated and STEM. 

The Integrated Math pathway aims to build strong problem solvers equipped with the skills to thrive in basic collegiate-level math courses such as calculus. Whereas the STEM integrated math program introduces students to new ideas through homework, this pathway introduces new ideas to students in class using various methods, including direct instruction, guided inquiry, collaborative problem-solving, and discussions. Homework focuses on building and practicing strong computational and algebraic skills. The course also aims to explicitly build study skills such as note-taking, studying using aids and managing coursework independently.

The STEM Math pathway prepares students with the mathematical and transferable problem-solving skills to thrive in the types of collaborative science, engineering, and mathematics teams found in research universities and professional settings. The discussion and inquiry-based approach to this course develops students who are comfortable exploring, discussing, and solving unfamiliar problems - skills that are transferable to other STEM fields. New ideas are introduced through homework, and students are encouraged to apply prior knowledge to develop partial solutions. In class, students present their work and collaboratively develop new understandings through discussion. Students who thrive in this course are typically more comfortable independently exploring new mathematical concepts and have a strong base of foundational mathematical skills and knowledge. Students interested in the STEM pathway must consult with their math teacher and dean, as enrollment requires both student interest and school recommendation.

The year-end learning outcomes of the Integrated and STEM classes are aligned at each grade level from 8th to 11th grades. This feature allows students to request to move between the two pathways at the beginning of 9th-11th grades, if they feel that based on their experience in one pathway, their goals and needs would be more effectively supported by the other pathway in the coming school year.

Students who complete either pathway will have the opportunity to pursue a variety of math courses in their senior year, including calculus-focused courses, discrete mathematics, data science, and statistics. Please note that some advanced-level courses in 12th grade require teacher recommendation, readiness assessments, and placement. 

For more information about the Integrated and STEM Pathways, we encourage you to read through this resource or watch this short video as a family, and discuss with your Dean.

Important Notes:

• As mentioned above, students in either pathway will learn the same content over the course of grades 8-11

• Studying Calculus in 12th grade is possible via either pathway

• Pursuing STEM-based majors in college is possible via either pathway

• Neither Integrated nor STEM math is considered an Advanced course

• The STEM pathway exclusively features pure math classes (i.e. the "M" in STEM); see Catalog descriptions of Integrated Math 1-4 for specific details regarding course content

Integrated Math 2

Credit: 1.0 

Grade: 9 

Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Math 1 or equivalent (Incoming students: Algebra 1)

This seminar-style integrated math class encourages students to become active participants in lively discussions in order to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical reasoning. Students focus on developing skills to write and communicate mathematics accurately, as well as acquiring a lifelong passion for enjoying the beauty and the creativity involved in mathematics. After a short review of basic methods of solving second-degree equations—such as quadratic formula, completing the square, solutions as roots and x-intercepts and axis of symmetry— quadratics are used to apply the Pythagorean theorem to distance in the plane and solving other geometric problems. Algebraic concepts are used to establish a basic understanding of the distance between two points on a coordinate plane, which then becomes synonymous with slope, triangles and vectors. Students also explore average rate of change, linear motion and the optimum path of travel through the use of vectors and parametric equations. Two-column or paragraph proof strategies, in-depth circle and right triangle trigonometry are used to investigate the logical structure of Euclidean geometry and to solve challenging problems. Topics in geometry include properties of parallel lines, triangles, quadrilaterals and polygons; congruence and similarity between geometric figures.

Integrated Math 3

Credit: 1.0 

Grade: 10 

Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Math 2 or equivalent

This seminar-style integrated math class encourages students to become active participants in lively discussions to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical reasoning. Students focus on developing skills to communicate mathematics accurately, as well as acquiring a lifelong passion to enjoy the beauty and the creativity involved in mathematics. Students in Integrated Math 3 class start the year with the continuation of explorations in similarity, circle properties, as well as problems in triangle trigonometry. Investigations into the application of fundamental geometry skills on various types of problems blend into the study of the volume of solids and graphical study of trigonometric functions and circular motion. Students work on volume and trigonometry over an extended time period, which allows them to fully grasp the details of these important concepts. Later in the year, students start exploring matrices, exponential functions, logarithms and real-life applications of those functions. Other topics include the counting problems that utilize permutations and combinations which lead to many topics in Probability.

Integrated Math 4

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11 

Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Math 3 or equivalent

This seminar-style integrated math class encourages students to become active participants in lively discussions to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical reasoning. Students focus on developing skills to communicate mathematics accurately, as well as acquiring a lifelong passion to enjoy the beauty and the creativity involved in mathematics. This typically 11th-grade math course starts the year with a continuation of explorations that combine many previous topics from IM2 and IM3 which allow students to synthesize problem-solving practices. Investigations into the application of fundamental geometry skills on various types of problems blend into the study of the inverse functions and periodicity. After more advanced probability problems lead to utilizing random walks to discover ideas about the binomial theorem and show connections to both Pascal’s triangle and combinations. Sequences and series have a major focus and the concept of the infinite becomes more apparent. This allows a natural transition into the concept of convergence of series and asymptotes of functions. Limits help get students conceptually prepared for the study of calculus.

Discrete Mathematics

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12

Prerequisite: Completion of Math 4 (Integrated or STEM)

With the growing amount of data collected from digital apps, social media, financial markets, and scientific research, understanding statistics is more important than ever. This course will help students develop problem-solving skills and apply statistical tools to real-world situations. Through hands-on activities and projects, students will gain a practical understanding of data analysis and its role in different fields such as science, business, and technology.

Applied Statistics introduces students to the fundamental concepts of statistical thinking. Students will first learn how to understand and interpret data, recognize patterns, and make informed conclusions. They will cover the basics of statistics to build a baseline understanding of statistical thinking. They will then explore how to collect, organize, and analyze data using various statistical methods.

Introduction to Calculus

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 4 and teacher recommendation

In order to give students a broader perspective on the toolkits required in college-level differential calculus courses, this senior-year math course focuses on advanced problems, trigonometric functions, with an emphasis on circular motion, exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, finite and infinite sequences and series, probability and combinatorics and their applications in real-life situations. Students also explore the idea of average and instantaneous rate of change using basic limits and concepts and techniques of differentiation.

Calculus

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 4 and teacher recommendation

This course is meant for students who are particularly motivated and interested in studying the mathematics of a rigorous Calculus course. This course starts the Avenues PBL Math Book IV which begins with a deep dive into new material like Polar Coordinates, periodicity of functions, asymptotic behavior of rational functions, complex numbers and infinite geometric series. Threaded in with all of this new material is a more rigorous view of instantaneous rate of change at a point in time and students become extremely familiar with this concept and start to see patterns in these rates. This begins the formal study of differential calculus which continues throughout the year, including early transcendentals. The derivative functions are then applied to such topics as differentiability, continuity, related rates, implicit differentiation, optimization and graphical analysis. Depending on time, slope fields, separable differential equations and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus are also discussed.

Advanced Calculus

Credit 1.0

Grade 12

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 4 and teacher recommendation

This calculus course seeks to challenge the most motivated mathematics students who may be interested in moving into STEM fields as they consider their future college studies. All topics of Differential and Integral Calculus are included. Continuing in the seminar-style of problem-based learning, this course is highly student-centered and demands a great deal of self-directed learning. In this text, problems include the study of Power Series, Taylor Series and MacLaurin Series and their connections to approximating polynomials and other functions. Also included is the concept of how the LaGrange Error Bound measures the level of proximity to the true function. Further study of infinite polynomial series and their tests of convergence. The Calculus of Parametric and Polar functions is also explored which brings a wonderful sense of closure to the integrated math series at Avenues.

Advanced Multivariable Calculus 

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 (only if prerequisites are met)

Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Avenues Upper Grades Avenues math curriculum, including an Avenues Calculus course, or the equivalent. 

Multivariable Calculus is offered as a college-level mathematics elective course available to students who have completed the full Avenues Upper Grades math curriculum. Placement in this course also requires a strong math teacher recommendation and instructor approval. The scope of this class expands traditional calculus concepts into the study of functions of two or more variables. This course will rely heavily on independent study, with robust instructor support through frequent feedback and regular office hours, as well as group discussions. Some of the main areas of focus will be Vectors and Matrices, Partial Derivatives, Double and Triple integrals. 

Statistics

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: None  

Statistics is the practice of collecting, analyzing, interpreting and presenting data. The content covered during this full-year course is equivalent to a one-semester, non-calculus-based introductory college course in Statistics. Topics include displaying and describing data, the normal curve, regression, probability, statistical inference, confidence intervals, and hypothesis tests with applications in the real world. Students will use these tools to analyze data sets using statistical software and to produce written and oral analyses of real data.

Data Science in the Modern Business World

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10

Prerequisite: None 

From the movie industry to sports teams, data plays a crucial role in how businesses make decisions. The course introduces students to the intersection between data science, economics, and business. Through research projects and working with real-world data sets, students will analyze how market indicators and consumer behaviors can impact economic patterns and business strategies. They will explore topics such as the concentration of economic power, labor markets, and environmental impacts and critically evaluate economic policies and business practices. Students will also develop foundational skills in statistical analysis, data visualization, and basic coding skills using Python or R. By the end of this course, students should also understand the social contest and responsibility of data-driven decision-making and foster critical thinking skills that are essential for navigating our data-driven society. 

Data Science For Social Impact

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Co-requisite or prerequisite: Integrated Math 4

“It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s hard to tell the truth without them.”

― Charles Wheelan, Naked Statistics: Stripping the Dread from the Data

From household statistics gathered in the U.S. Census to personal purchasing histories on Amazon; from Netflix recommendations to meteorological data on climate change; from election polling to social media feeds; data is ubiquitous in our everyday lives.  Often, popular media headlines related to privacy, security, and manipulation tend to draw our attention to the ethical and cultural implications associated with “the rise of big data,” all of which are valid and deserve our careful consideration.  Less prevalent in popular media, however, is acknowledgment of a large and thriving community of social scientists dedicated to using data for social good.  This course centers on the powerful and important work being done in this field, as well as the methods of inquiry that will enable students to conduct their own social science research to address global-scale problems.

Modeled after Raj Chetty’s (Harvard University) course, Using Big Data to Solve Economics and Social Problems, this class provides an introduction to modern research methods in the social sciences.  These research methods leverage the abundance of data to gain insight into the economic, political, and cultural systems that impact our lives. Specific content areas include the causes and consequences of rising inequality of opportunity, education, health, the environment, and criminal justice. The class does not require prior background knowledge in statistics or economics, but close inspection of advanced research methods will provide insight into the power of data to help understand complex systems and solve some of our most challenging societal problems.

MODERN LANGUAGES

Spanish

Spanish Language Program Overview

Students enrolled in Spanish will continue their development of the Avenues Language Scale communicative skills (oration, discussion, writing and reading) with an emphasis on performance tasks and oral production. Instruction is focused on outcomes designed for different proficiency levels as students demonstrate their mastery through performance-based and project-based activities. The course emphasizes the expansion of students’ language use in authentic and relatable themes as they develop a greater appreciation for and understanding of Spanish language and culture.

Spanish 1: Discovery

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: None 

This introductory thematic course prepares students to use greetings, tell time and discuss school subjects, foods, family and friends and leisure activities through the art of photography and images. The class is conducted in Spanish and aims to empower students to become competent communicators. Students are exposed to material that allows them to have a better understanding of the Hispanic culture by studying different aspects of all Hispanic countries. Vocabulary focuses on school, shopping, family, clothes, foods found in restaurants and markets, holidays and tourist activities. Students learn the grammatical structures to enable them to talk about everyday situations in the present as well as in the future. By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Low-Mid Novice” proficiency across all skill areas.

Spanish 2: Breakthrough

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: Spanish 1 or equivalent language proficiency

This course is a natural progression from Spanish 1, as students have to manipulate an increasingly larger amount of vocabulary and are also exposed to more advanced grammatical structures and authentic material. This course provides students with plenty of opportunities to become more proficient in the target language using all three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive and presentational).

Students deepen their understanding of how to communicate in the language and understand Hispanic culture at more complex levels. Learning the Spanish language and culture reinforces and expands their knowledge of other disciplines. Through a more advanced series of culture-based activities, students continue to develop an awareness of cultural commonality and diversity. By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Mid-High Novice” proficiency across all skill areas.

Spanish 3: Exploration

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-12 

Prerequisite: Spanish 2 or equivalent language proficiency

Students practice the four skills of writing, reading, speaking and listening in a more advanced setting to elicit the three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive and presentational). Students develop greater comfort and fluency in Spanish grammar and are able to communicate more complex ideas and narrate information using a different array of tenses. They practice difficult structures such as the use of object pronouns, subjunctive mood and adverbial conjunctions, as well as hypothetical and future structures. They develop their communication skills through both an expanded vocabulary and the use of idiomatic expressions. They hone their skills when they need to “talk around” unfamiliar vocabulary words, express opinions, support those opinions and engage in discussion and argument. By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Low to Mid Intermediate” on the Avenues Language Scale of proficiency across all skill areas. 

Spanish 4: Empowerment

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: Spanish 3 or equivalent language proficiency

This course focuses on the continued development of language competence in the target language and understanding of the culture(s) of the people who speak the language. Students will expand their skills by interacting with each other and making presentations in Spanish about topics of their choice, writing level-appropriate essays with effective grammar, listening to a variety of native speakers from different Spanish-speaking countries and reading texts about familiar and unfamiliar topics such as the environment, sports, politics, social issues and technology, between others. By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Mid to High Intermediate” on the Avenues Language Scale of proficiency across all skill areas.

Advanced Spanish New World: Latin America

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: Spanish 4 or equivalent language proficiency

The Advanced New World: Latin America course continues to enhance students’  level of Spanish proficiency across the three communicative modes—interpersonal, interpretive and presentational—and the five goal areas—communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. The role of our family, culture and community is essential to identifying ourselves as individuals, as these concepts intertwine so closely. Focused on learning about Latino communities in the United States and throughout Latin America, students will learn and develop an appreciation of the similarities and differences of other cultures as it is vital to their understanding of the power of community. As global citizens, students are encouraged to affect positive change in the world by connecting and discussing real-world problems and making our communities better from multiple perspectives. The objective of this course is to assist students in sustaining the level of “Intermediate High to Advanced” on the Avenues Language Scale in all areas of language skills.

Advanced Spanish: Literature and Arts

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Spanish 4 or equivalent language proficiency

The Advanced Spanish Literature and Arts course encompasses the in depth study of various language structures embedded in relevant literary, cultural and social topics. Culture, whether it is in the form of music, visual arts, performing arts or fashion, plays an important role in our daily life, as it is a part of our identity; and literature and art contributes to individual and collective expression and provides people with a sense of belonging. The objective of this course is to assist students in reaching and sustaining the level of “Intermediate High to Advanced” on the Avenues Language Scale in all areas of language skills.

Advanced Specialized Individual Pathways in Spanish

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Advanced Spanish or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

This student-driven course empowers students to design and execute an independent research project with real-world applications, all while advancing their Spanish language skills. With faculty mentorship, students explore specialized fields such as business, medicine, technology, history, culture, humanities, or politics, using Spanish as the primary language for research, communication, and collaboration. Research is enhanced through an internship or partnership with a Spanish-speaking organization, fostering language immersion in professional and community settings. Students will refine their critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional communication skills while producing a culminating project that demonstrates both academic depth and real-world impact—all in Spanish. Ideal for motivated students seeking hands-on experience, language fluency, and cross-cultural engagement.

Advanced Specialized Topics in Spanish

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Advanced Spanish or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

This dynamic, discussion-based course invites students to explore key literary, philosophical, and journalistic works from the Spanish-speaking world. Students will critically engage with texts that illuminate Latin American and Spanish identities, histories, and cultural movements while strengthening their Spanish language skills through reading, analysis, and creative expression. Through rigorous discussion, analytical writing, and creative projects, students will deepen their understanding of Spanish language literature and culture while refining their Spanish fluency in a meaningful and immersive way.

Possible Topics Include:

Writing & Philosophy: What defines Latin American identity? Through the works of philosophers, poets, political leaders, and storytellers, students will explore evolving literary trends, self-perception, and external representations of the Hispanic world. Creative writing exercises will mirror the styles of studied authors.

Cities in the Hispanic World: From 19th-century Madrid to modern-day Buenos Aires, this course examines how urban life has been depicted in Hispanic literature. Using an interdisciplinary lens, students will analyze themes of immigration, poverty, post-war reconstruction, and the literary imagination of cities such as Havana, Mexico City, and Santiago de Chile.

Journalism & Creative Writing: Many of Latin America’s greatest writers began as journalists. Students will study chronicles and reportage by renowned authors such as Gabriel García Márquez and José Martí, tracing pivotal moments in Hispanic history while honing their own skills in journalistic and creative writing.

Chinese

Chinese Language Program Overview

Students enrolled in Chinese continue to refine their communication skills in all four areas of the Avenues Language Scale: oration, discussion, writing and reading. Students demonstrate their Chinese proficiency across the three communicative modes—interpersonal, interpretive and presentational—and the five goal areas—communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. The course emphasizes the expansion of students’ language use in authentic and relatable themes as they develop a greater appreciation for and understanding of Chinese language and culture. 

Chinese 1: Discovery

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: None 

Chinese 1 is an introductory Upper Division course that aims to develop the student’s basic language skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students are introduced to the phonetic system of Pinyin and learn to read and write simplified Chinese characters, starting with strokes, stroke order and radicals. Using dialogues and simple descriptive/narrative texts, topics such as self-introduction, nationality, occupation, families, numbers, dates, times, meals, etc. are introduced to enable students to talk about themselves and their families and to tell dates, times and ages. They are also able to understand related short passages in reading and to write loosely connected sentences to form short paragraphs on these topics. By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Novice Low” proficiency across all skill areas. 

Chinese 2: Breakthrough

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: Chinese 1 or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

This course builds upon the fundamental skills mastered in Chinese 1 or an equivalent course. Students continue to use the phonetic system of Pinyin to assist their pronunciation and intonation, as well as to learn new characters and expressions. Daily exercises designed for recognizing and reproducing the individual sounds, tones, words and sentences are given in class to help the students sharpen their listening and speaking skills. Students continue to build their skills in recognizing and writing characters by hand while also being introduced to using a computer to express themselves through writing.

Topics centered around daily life—such as weather, dining out, travel, celebration, visiting a hospital, sports, etc.—are introduced in the form of dialogues and short essays to achieve the goals of learning patterns of expressions and overall linguistic competence. Through a series of culture-based activities, students explore current social and economic trends in China. By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Novice Mid” proficiency across all skill areas.

Chinese 3: Exploration

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: Chinese 2 or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

This course is designed primarily for students who have satisfactorily completed Chinese 2 or an equivalent course. It attempts to prepare students to demonstrate their Chinese language skills by exploring a variety of topics related to everyday life and personal interests—such as asking for directions, seeing a doctor, organizing a party and talking about sports and travel. We use the class texts, as well as a number of authentic sources such as advertisements, signs, posters and various forms of media.

By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Novice High to Low Intermediate” on the Avenues Language Scale of proficiency across all skill areas. They are expected to be able to identify and summarize the main ideas of short and simple texts on everyday life by reading, listening and making appropriate inferences and predictions. Students can present basic information on familiar topics using phrases or a series of simple sentences. In two-way interactions, such as conversing face-to-face or exchanging written correspondence, students are able to handle short social interactions in everyday situations on a variety of topics. 

Chinese 4: Empowerment

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-12 

Prerequisite: Chinese 3 or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

This course is designed primarily for students who have satisfactorily completed Chinese 3 or an equivalent course. It attempts to prepare students to demonstrate their Chinese language skills by exploring a variety of topics related to everyday life and personal interests and studies, including school and education, housing and shelters, food and health and friendship and work. They will use a variety of authentic materials such as advertisements, signs and posters, newspapers, media broadcasts, movies and television dramas, in addition to text.

By the end of the year, students are expected to reach and sustain the level of “Mid Intermediate” on the Avenues Language Scale of proficiency across all skill areas. They are expected to be able to identify and summarize both main ideas and important details in what they read and hear and to make appropriate inferences and predictions. Students can present information using a series of connected sentences in paragraph length. With two-way interactions, such as conversing face-to-face or exchanging written correspondence, students engage in a variety of activities in which an active negotiation of meaning is required. They can usually say what they want to say about themselves and their everyday life and make themselves understood to their audience. 

Advanced Chinese: History and Society

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-10

Prerequisite: Chinese 4 or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

The Advanced Chinese History and Society course continues to enhance students’  level of Chinese proficiency across the three communicative modes—interpersonal, interpretive and presentational—and the five goal areas—communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. The course focuses on the integration of authentic resources, including online print, audio, and audiovisual resources, as well as traditional print resources that include literature, essays, and magazine and newspaper articles, with the goal of providing a rich, diverse learning experience. The objective of this course is to assist students in reaching and sustaining the level of “Intermediate High to Advanced” on the Avenues Language Scale in all areas of language skills.

Advanced Chinese: Literature and Arts

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: Chinese 4 or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

The Advanced Chinese Literature and Arts course continues to enhance students’  level of Chinese proficiency across the three communicative modes—interpersonal, interpretive and presentational—and the five goal areas—communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. The course focuses on the integration of authentic resources, including online print, audio, and audiovisual resources, as well as traditional print resources that include literature, essays, and magazine and newspaper articles, with the goal of providing a rich, diverse learning experience. The objective of this course is to assist students in reaching and sustaining the level of “Intermediate High to Advanced” on the Avenues Language Scale in all areas of language skills.

Advanced Specialized Topics in Chinese

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 9-12

Prerequisite: Advanced Chinese or equivalent language proficiency and teacher recommendation

This dynamic, discussion-based course invites students to explore key literary, philosophical, and journalistic works from the Chinese-speaking world. Students will critically engage with texts that illuminate Chinese identities, histories, and cultural movements while strengthening their Chinese language skills through reading, analysis, and creative expression. Through rigorous discussion, analytical writing, and creative projects, students will deepen their understanding of Chinese language literature and culture while refining their Chinese fluency in a meaningful and immersive way.

Possible topics include:

Contemporary Literature and Cinema

This course examines the development of 20th-century Chinese cinema and literature, exploring their social, cultural, and historical impact while strengthening students’ Chinese language skills. Through films from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, students will analyze key cinematic movements, while literary studies will cover major authors, movements, and regional trends. Readings span four historical periods (1900-2000), with discussions, written work, and presentations conducted in Chinese. Emphasizing critical analysis and language development, the course enhances reading comprehension, analytical writing, and oral fluency, providing insight into how film and literature shape cultural identity, political change, and social transformation.

Eastern Philosophy

This course introduces the religious philosophies of East and South Asia, focusing on Hinduism, Buddhism, Daoism, and Shintoism. Students will engage with primary texts in translation, analyzing their significance and impact on culture, history, and society. Through discussions, written analysis, and experiential learning, all conducted in Chinese, students will enhance their language skills, expand vocabulary, improve reading comprehension, and develop oral fluency. This interdisciplinary approach deepens both linguistic competence and cultural understanding, offering insight into the evolution and influence of religious traditions.

Ancient China

This advanced Chinese course combines language learning with an in-depth study of Ancient China’s history, politics, and culture. Using authentic historical texts, classical literature, and discussions on key dynasties, students will examine the political systems that shaped China’s past. By analyzing the rise and fall of major dynasties, this course explores themes of leadership, legitimacy, and political stability, providing a deeper understanding of historical governance and its lasting impact.

International Relations & Economics Chinese

This course is designed to equip students with practical business communication skills in an interconnected global economy. Through interactive projects and real-world applications, students will develop the language proficiency, cultural awareness, and strategic thinking necessary for professional success across international markets. Emphasizing cross-cultural business etiquette, global economic trends, and international trade policies, the course explores key topics such as Mock Interviews, Entrepreneurship & Investment Pitch, Product Advertisement Creation, Social Media Marketing Campaigns, Business Deal Negotiation, and Influencer Marketing Collaboration. Additionally, students will analyze case studies on multinational corporations, emerging markets, and global supply chain management, gaining insights into how economic policies, trade agreements, and financial regulations impact businesses worldwide.

NATURAL SCIENCES

Grade 9-11 Core Science Classes

Integrated Science 1

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 9 

Prerequisite: None 

This course focuses on developing the ability to think and behave like scientists and engineers. By engaging in authentic scientific investigations and engineering design projects, students develop a deep understanding of big ideas like energy transfer and system dynamics that are applied in all fields of science and engineering work.

Ninth-grade science is broken down into three major units. In the first two terms, students investigate the nature of matter and materials by zooming in to explore the forces and energy transfers that govern everyday materials at molecular, atomic and subatomic scales. They also explore how those same forces and energy transfers govern the formation of the universe, galaxies, stars and planets. In the second half of the year, the course explores how engineers have applied scientific concepts to design our modern world. In Term 3, students use the cell phone as a case study to investigate how devices take advantage of various energy transformations to store, process and transfer information in the form of waves. Students then apply their understanding of forces and energy transfer to design and build a solution to a physical problem—such as a case to protect the cell phone.

Integrated Science 2

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10 

Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Science 1 

Tenth-grade science focuses on developing the ability to think and act like a scientist. Students develop a deep understanding of big ideas like the properties, structure and behavior of matter, as well as its interaction with energy. The primary means of investigation is through laboratory exploration, group discussion and readings. Students conduct inquiry and directed lab experiments that require application of concepts learned in class.

The first half of the school year investigates the nature of matter and materials by exploring the energy transfers that govern everyday materials at molecular, atomic and subatomic scales. The second half of the year focuses on the activities and systems of living and nonliving things in our environment by applying the properties, behavior and interactions of matter and energy.

Biochemistry

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11 

Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Science 2 

This course is a full-year, in-depth study of how chemistry drives biology. The core principles of science are used to promote deep understanding and appreciation of complexity, diversity and interconnectedness of life on earth.

The course focuses on the correlation between structure and function starting at molecular level and up to the level of organisms; the chemical principles that drive biology and enable cell metabolism, principles of classical and molecular genetics and evolutionary theory; energy transformations within living systems and interactions between organisms and their environment. The study of major discoveries in biology will facilitate the understanding of and provide insight into modern and future problems and solutions. The emphasis is placed on the modern biotechnological and technical advances as applicable to medicine, food production and human wellness. Students will be able to apply knowledge gained in this course to their everyday lives and use learned lessons to make informed choices as members of a global community.

Laboratory investigations and other experiential learning opportunities will help students acquire a deeper understanding of concepts while developing their analytical skills. Students will gain skills using laboratory apparatus and correct laboratory techniques and procedures. They will learn the uses of classical and contemporary equipment in a biological laboratory. Dissections of chosen organisms will be used to promote the understanding of organization and functions of living things. Students will design and carry out long and short-term investigations using principles of the scientific method and use proper formats for reporting their findings.

Natural Science Electives

Advanced BioDesign & Bioengineering

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: Completion of Biochemistry and teacher recommendation 

This advanced course explores the intersection of biology, design, and engineering to solve real-world challenges in medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science. Students will apply principles from biochemistry, genetics, physiology, and biomaterials alongside engineering methodologies such as biomaterial fabrication, bioinformatics, 3D modeling, and lab-based prototyping. Through hands-on lab work, design challenges, and innovation projects, students will engineer biological solutions for applications in healthcare, sustainability, and bioinformatics. Topics include CRISPR gene editing, AI-driven drug discovery, wearable biotechnology, biofuels, and environmental bioengineering.

A key component of the course is an individual design and research project, where students will identify a biological problem, conduct in-depth research, and develop an engineered solution. This project will require students to apply design-thinking principles to prototype their innovation, utilizing laboratory techniques, computational tools, or bioengineering methods. Students will also explore the entrepreneurial side of biotechnology by considering feasibility, scalability, and ethical implications of their designs, culminating in a final presentation of their research and proposed solutions.

Advanced Biology

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: Completion of Biochemistry and teacher recommendation  

With the discovery of the structure of DNA, the sequencing of the human genome and the advent of biotechnology, molecular biology increasingly affects our understanding of the underlying principles of biology. This course builds on previous knowledge to help foster a broad understanding of biological concepts. Major areas of study include the chemical basis of life, cells, reproduction, genetics and epigenetics. Major themes are the immune system, nervous system and the endocrine system of regulation approached in a manner that develops higher-level thinking skills while providing real-world implications and applications. Emphasis is placed on the analysis of data generated through biotechnology lab activities.

Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy & Physiology

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: Integrated Science 2

Have you ever wondered why the skeleton in whale fins and bird wings look like human arms but serve different purposes? Have you ever questioned why cows need more stomachs than we do and why alligators need to bask in the sun and we don’t? In this elective, you will explore the animal kingdom and learn about the anatomy and physiology of different vertebrates. What makes a vertebrate unique? What sets human beings apart from other vertebrates? What characteristics do we share with reptiles, amphibians, birds, and other mammals? Through hands-on laboratory activities, dissections, lectures, discussions, research, and modeling activities, students in this course will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of how magnificent biological systems and body structures are, human or otherwise. This course is also good for students interested in studying or exploring a career in medicine and allied fields.

Advanced Chemistry

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: Integrated Science 2 and instructor approval 

Advanced Chemistry expands upon the foundations of physical science developed in earlier science courses. The course is designed for students to attain a more in-depth understanding of the structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions and thermochemistry. The concept of the conservation of mass and energy is developed more quantitatively. Students apply their understanding of periodic trends to predict the products of a reaction. The nuances of the different types of reactions are explored through laboratory investigation.

Cosmology and Astronomy

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None 

This course in Cosmology will focus on the nature of the entire Cosmos placing emphasis on what we know as well as what we don't and, perhaps most importantly, how we know what we know. Topics include a survey of critical thinking skills (including logical fallacies and thinking flaws), the search for extraterrestrial life, astrophysics including special and general relativity, the nature of light, stellar evolution, the history of cosmology, the structure, origin and fate of the universe, and finally contemporary issues in cosmology and astrophysics. Emphasis is placed on leveraging previously encountered science concepts while adding missing puzzle pieces in order to build a framework that allows students to understand how the Cosmos can evolve from a very simple state 13.8 billion years ago to the highly ordered and complex. Quantitative reasoning skills will focus less on calculation and more on analysis and physical intuition as deeply as possible.

Advanced Organic Chemistry

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 12 

Prerequisite: Advanced Chemistry

Explore the challenging, fascinating, and intricate science that is the study of carbon-based molecules, known as organic chemistry. This course is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the principles that govern the molecules of life. Students will explore the structure, properties, and reactions of organic compounds, as well as their applications in pharmaceutical, medicinal, and materials science, all while gaining insight into the chemical processes that underlie the world we inhabit.

Advanced Physics

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10-12

Prerequisite: Integrated Science 1 and instructor approval  

Advanced Physics students build upon the foundations of physics from earlier science courses to delve more deeply into understanding mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves, and modern physics. Each term focuses on one main idea, including lab design and experimentation, as well as a more rigorous approach to using equations to model complex systems. We begin with a study of projectile motion and two and three-dimensional mechanics. In electricity and magnetism, we build on the understanding of these systems to study more complex circuit design and apply knowledge of induction to designing motors and other applications. Lastly, we take a full term to study introductory modern physics, including a study of the development of quantum mechanics as both a model and a way of thinking about the universe. 

Advanced Physics with Calculus

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 12 

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 4, and Advanced Physics, and instructor approval 

Co-requisite: students in Physics C must be enrolled in Calculus or Advanced Calculus

Physics C is a one-year, calculus-based, university-level physics course, especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in the physical sciences and/or engineering. The course combines a depth of knowledge in physics with significant and sustained attention to calculus and how it applies to the understanding of the workings of our physical universe. Students begin delving more deeply into topics explored in Advanced Physics (including laboratory skills) and expand this understanding followed by rotational kinematics and dynamics, harmonic motion as well as fluid statics and dynamics. During Semester 2, students begin to apply both differential and integral calculus to various canonical problems in physics. Theory and practice continue to merge as students encounter more substantial experimental investigations, resolving with an introduction to differential equations, slope fields, Taylor series approximations and multivariable calculus.

SENIOR SEMINAR 

Senior Seminar is a comprehensive module within the 12th-grade curriculum that delves deeply into the study of social sciences and humanities, with a particular focus on critically analyzing the rich tapestry of Chinese civilization. Beyond its academic content, the course is designed to equip students with essential skills vital for success at the college level. Central to our pedagogical approach are three core principles: Global Mindset, Perspectives, and Transferability.

Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse array of materials sourced from leading Sinologists within Western academia. These materials encompass classic literature, philosophical treatises, non-fiction works, historical primary sources, empirical research papers, journals, commentaries, and critiques. 

Moreover, the course places a strong emphasis on honing research skills through participatory activities such as presentation conferences and independent research projects. These activities mirror the academic environment prevalent in universities, preparing students for the rigors of higher education while fostering a spirit of intellectual inquiry and autonomy.

SOCIAL SCIENCES

Anthropology: The Rise of Humanity

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Since Charles Darwin first presented his theory of evolution, natural selection has been considered the only way that species evolve. Recent scientific literature, however, suggests that natural selection is only one of a number of evolutionary processes. The idea that it is not only “survival of the fittest” that determines how complexity and species emerge opens up questions about human evolution. We have long since discovered that not only did several species of humans roam the world at the same times as modern humans, but that those extinct human species were not some early version of Homo sapiens sapiens (the only extant species of the genus Homo). Putting together these two ideas—that evolutionary processes other than natural selection exist and that several different, now extinct, human species roamed the earth simultaneously—it is possible to call into question much of what we think we know about human evolution based on the fossil record. For the first part of the course, we will dig into evolutionary processes in general and human evolution in particular. Are there other ways of understanding the fossils of extinct human species? What are new fossil discoveries teaching us about who modern humans are, where they went, what they did, and why and how of all the human species that existed on earth modern humans are the only ones to survive?

The second part of the course will be focused on the concept of culture and, to quote Clifford Geertz, on what the concept of culture has meant to the concept of man. It seems clear that culture is integral to what makes humans human, and in fact that culture itself has led to the removal of many of the environmental pressures that lead to natural selection. Have humans excused themselves from the evolutionary process? Or has how evolution works on humans changed because of the importance of culture to human survival? There is an argument that modern humans evolved at a time of great, and rapid, climate change in Africa, and that humans evolved to deal not just with those specific changes but with the concept of change itself. What role might culture play in allowing this process to manifest? How does culture make us human in both a social sense and a cultural sense? Finally, we will investigate how culture structures the ways in which humans change and live in the present. We will use culture as a lens through which to investigate the construction of many of the social concepts that determine how we live - family, gender, race, sexuality, etc.. In particular, we will use the lessons of symbolic anthropology to examine how humans make meaning from and of their everyday lives and what role this meaning plays in constructing the world— including history and prehistory—as we understand it.

Consciousness, Ethics and the Search for Meaning

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None

We are living, conscious, intelligent, self-aware creatures sharing this strange reality in which we find ourselves embedded—chaos, order, life, death, crime, punishment, joy and suffering and the ongoing search for some means of reliable and meaningful navigation. We are all philosophers in a very real way as we try, together, to make sense of the countless questions we face regarding the nature of reality and how to conduct ourselves within it; individually, as a society, as a species, across time and space. Class begins by delving deeply into the nature of perception and the Hard Problem of Consciousness, bringing all the relevant science and philosophy to bear. The issue of Free Will is encountered quickly and dissected for all of its incomprehensible implications. Students find themselves searching for a sense of stability in the shifting landscape of ethical dilemmas. By employing Artificial Intelligence, tempting (but flawed) philosophical stances and appropriate thinking tools, the course resolves by squarely grappling with the fundamental questions of meaning for which we all—as individuals and as a species—so dearly yearn to uncover. 

Economic Thought & Public Policy

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 10

Prerequisite: None

How does a society allocate scarce resources, like desirable housing or jobs? In recent centuries, property and opportunity have been allocated through a market more and more often. So how should we navigate markets ourselves as we decide how to spend, and acquire, money? And should there be any limits to markets, decided on through the government policy? This discussion-based course will explore a diverse range of economic thought from its foundations as a branch of philosophy through the present day, enlivened with simulations and experiments. We’ll apply that thinking to debates about environmental regulation, health care, housing, and education, among other topics. This course will prepare students conceptually for more mathematically grounded study of economics in future years - and for active decision-making right now as a market participant.

International Relations and Globalization

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None

The products of international relations affect your daily life on a near-constant basis, from your imported avocados to the computer chips in your cell phone. When you get on an international flight to Europe or send a postcard back from South America, you are subject to a complex system of norms, agreements and treaties that govern the relationship not only between nations but their subjects as well. International relations is the study of these dynamics from a critical and empirical lens. Students in this course will examine the basic foundations of the international system including international law, economy and political science/philosophy via high level academic sources, as well as film and fiction. Students will also be expected to participate in simulations that help demonstrate firsthand the underpinnings of the international system. By the end of the year, you will be using what you learn in class to analyze current events in the real world and offer your own solutions. 

Advanced Macroeconomics

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Co-requisite or prerequisite: Integrated Math 4, and math instructor recommendation

Macroeconomics is the study of how entire economies grow, fluctuate, and respond to policy. This course will equip students with the theoretical and mathematical tools to analyze the forces that shape national and global economies, exploring key concepts including economic growth and technological progress; inflation and unemployment; fiscal and monetary policy; financial systems and crises; income distribution and economic inequality; international trade and global markets; and climate and sustainability. We will work through problem sets, experience simulations, and discuss case studies and real-world news. By the end of this course, you will be able to interpret economic data, assess policy trade-offs, and think critically about the challenges facing modern economies.

Advanced Microeconomics

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Co-requisite or prerequisite: Integrated Math 4, and math instructor recommendation

Economics is the study of how markets work to create value for us all. This course will get deeply and mathematically technical in parsing how markets function; exploring key concepts including opportunity cost and diminishing returns; division of labor and gains from trade; the law of supply and demand; elasticity; externalities; taxation and regulation; competitive and non-competitive markets, and labor markets. We will work through problem sets, experience simulations, and discuss case studies and real-world news. This course will equip you to make informed decisions for yourself as a customer, worker, and taxpayer, and will also give you a new set of tools to help you think as a policy analyst about our market society.

Philosophy of Economics

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None

At its core, economics is the study of how a society chooses to allocate limited resources. As a social science, these choices are inextricably tied to our fundamental beliefs about human nature and the manner in which we behave in our daily interactions. Beginning with a survey of economic theory ranging along the spectrum from pure Capitalism to Socialism, this is a discussion-based course designed to spark debate over the many relevant social, political, and economic topics that shape our everyday lives. The course will use economics, and the philosophical and psychological underpinnings of economic theory, as a lens through which to explore topics such as healthcare, labor laws, educational policy, environmental regulation, and social justice. Each of these topics has powerful ethical implications; this class will explore historical case studies as well as current events in which our morals and ethics either align or conflict with the economic principles upon which societies, through policies and economic structures, are built.

Advanced Political Science

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: None

“Man is a political animal.” Aristotle associates politics with the natural result of any congregation of humans. Yet how is it that humans have ended up with so many different systems of government and political structures? This class will introduce students to the core concept of systems, theories, philosophies that underlay modern political systems.

Topics covered in this course will include an exploration of political philosophy and theory leading into the origins of our current political structures, where students will study primary sources from Hobbes, Locke, Marx and other major political thinkers. Students will be introduced to the American system of government, its branches and responsibilities, as well as debate its intentions and realities as a means of exploring Civics, Political Systems, and the Political economy. We will pose questions like -what is the relationship between the Oval Office and the stock market? Students will explore the relationship between political decision making and the economy and vice versa. Finally, students will delve into political ethics, and the question of if societies can we govern with “survival of the fittest” or if they naturally want to support each other, and we are obligated to help others before we help ourselves. Throughout the year, students will grapple with the primary ethical debates surrounding collective decision making and society. 

Psychology 

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 11-12 

Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Science 2 

This course focuses on studying diverse perspectives in the field of psychology. The course begins with critiques of historical case studies, and extends to investigate how the brain functions and neural signals communicate in our bodies.  Major topics include neuroscience, human behavior,  sensation, perception, learning, and memory. Key projects include a personal sleep study, designing an experiment, and research methods. The course will include analyzing case studies, conducting labs and investigations, participating in lectures and class discussions.

Sociology

Credit: 1.0 

Grades: 10-12 

Prerequisite: None 

Why do people behave the way they do? What forces shape our thoughts and influence our decisions? How do race, culture, and class impact our personal experiences? And what role do these factors play in shaping the society we live in? Sociology is a course that explores these fundamental questions to deepen our understanding of human behavior and social structures. We will examine how individuals interact within various groups—whether in families, friendships, workplaces, or global systems—and how these relationships shape our identities and opportunities. Through the study of key sociological theories, we will analyze topics such as identity formation, power, inequality, and the dynamics of relationships. We will also tackle pressing social issues, including race, crime, and urban life. By the end of the course, you will gain a deeper understanding of how large-scale social forces influence individual psychology and everyday experiences.

WELLNESS AND MOVEMENT (WAM)

Wellness and Movement (WAM)

Credit: 1.0

Grades: 9-12 

Prerequisite: None 

WAM 9/10

In grades 9 and 10, students in the theory and practice of foundational wellness and movement content covering a variety of health topics, personal fitness, and skill-building. The goal is to prepare students for choice-driven WAM in grades 11 and 12, and to build skills and habits for lifelong active pursuits and commitment to personal well-being. Students will deep dive into different components of fitness and the physiology of the musculoskeletal system. Students will explore a wide range of movement and fitness options, including aerobic endurance activities, strength, flexibility and balance training, and will incorporate new and existing skills towards personal goals, and the development of healthy exercise habits. Students will also learn strategies for injury prevention, treatment and management. A skill acquisition unit will challenge students to demonstrate resilience and build empathy towards themselves and others.

Wellness discussions will focus on healthy decision-making in regards to mental health, stress management, nutrition, sleep, and drug and alcohol use. A sexual health unit will challenge students to analyze their own personal values to help build healthy and safe relationships, specifically focusing on communication, pleasure, contraception and protection, and consent.

WAM 11/12

All 11th and 12th-grade students will take a WAM course that features a mode of movement they select (see below). WAM11 and WAM12 also hold time for all students to engage in wellness discussions and projects focused on practical health topics. Wellness topics include mental health awareness, coping strategies, sexual health, relationship skills and healthy decision-making.

Students will select from the following WAM 11/12 courses:

Personal Fitness: Individually tailored guidance in weightlifting, circuit training, calisthenics, yoga, etc

Community WAM: Students will explore a variety of local fitness studios and activities including boxing, bouldering, spinning, Pilates and more.

Independent Movement:* Students are encouraged to pursue personal passions and healthy exercise habits outside of school. In order to register for Independent Movement, students must meet one of the following criteria

• Commitment to at least two JV or Varsity Avenues Athletics teams

• Participation in organized physical activity outside of school, averaging at least 120 minutes per week (club team, competitive gymnastics or dance, martial arts, personal performance training, etc.)

*If Independent WAM is selected as your first choice,  parent approval will be required prior to enrollment, and activity logs and/or reflections will  be part of WAM assessments. Independent WAM students will still attend Wellness classes once per 10 day cycle in a designated block, and must complete all Wellness coursework, but will not be required to participate in movement on campus. 

WORLD COURSE

World Course Overview

The World Course program in grades 9 and 10 is part of an intensive, interdisciplinary program linked to the Global Studies humanities program. In grades 11 and 12, students select from topic-specific World Course electives, while in 12th grade, the Senior Seminars round out the World Course pathway.

World Course electives for the 9th-grade focus on case studies in the contemporary world that reflect larger thematic issues about the choices different societies make about how they are structured and organized and what factors inform those decisions.

World Course electives in the 10th-grade focus on the key drivers and impacts of modernization as it continues to evolve in a variety of ways across the globe. Major focal points will be how inequality developed and is perpetuated, as well as whether some of the unforeseen side effects of the modern world can be successfully managed in the near future. 

Global Humanities Foundations: World Course

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 9 

Prerequisite: None 

World Course 9 provides students with an opportunity to understand and hone social science skills that will be crucial for them in high school, higher education, and life. Students will learn research skills that will not only help them create high-quality work in all of their classes but will also help them navigate issues of credibility and reliability in the rapidly expanding universe of our information age. Students will also learn how to closely analyze material through a critical lens and express their analysis in a variety of written structures.

Though the above skills will always be taught in World Course 9, the content they will be taught may change from year to year. This class aims to provide students with a deep understanding of the context surrounding issues and challenges that currently exist in our world. These challenges could range from military conflicts to clashes in world views, to the ramifications of different policies on a wide variety of topics. In each unit, students will study a relevant historical period or civilization with the intent to apply the lessons we have learned to create solutions for our world today. By seeing history not only as a tool for understanding the past but also as a tool for guiding the future, this class intends to help students become tomorrow’s change agents.

Global Humanities Modernization: World Course

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10 

Prerequisite: None 

World Course 10 examines the causes and effects of conflict in the modern world.

We do so through an examination of the Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution, imperialism, the global crises of the 20th century, the advent of totalitarianism, the Cold War, and the rise of decolonization movements around the world. Lingering over our investigation is an awareness that “progress” is a contested term. Students make connections between history and contemporary events as a means of exploring the cause and effect relationship between the past and the present—especially the influence of the past on international politics and conflict, social and economic stratification and the natural environment.

American Studies: World Course

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 11 

Prerequisite: None 

The American Dream is a concept that can be traced back to the earliest English settlers seeking economic opportunity and fleeing religious persecution. However, there is another side to that dream that needs to be addressed. The Native Americans were displaced from their land, the first enslaved Africans were brought to the colonies, and other groups were denied access to that dream. Often, one group's achievement of the American Dream was linked to another's servitude.

In attempting to present a more balanced and inclusive version of American History, this course will focus on the concept of the American Dream from a variety of angles. We will examine what the American Dream means and how it has meant different things to different groups at different times based on social, political, cultural, and economic conditions. Additionally, we will examine the ways in which historically oppressed groups have organized to increase their access to that dream. Finally, we will look at its modern conception and identify parallels to the current political landscape.

While covering this material, we will work on several important historical skills: causation, periodization, comparison, contextualization, argumentation, use of evidence, interpretation, and synthesis. We will work in concert with other disciplines, i.e., English, Art, and Science, to hone common skills and enhance our understanding of historical events. Additionally, we will analyze large numbers of primary documents to help us see America's past from the eyes and perspective of those who lived through it.