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This is an in-depth study where students will nurture/develop their vision, collaborate on group projects, and start forming their identity as a 3D artist. You will explore 3D design by refining your craftsmanship skills and learn how 3D works are produced. The teacher will guide your vision, but every student will be required to propose/conceptualize ideas for their designs. Goal setting is encouraged and quality work will be expected.

This is a studio format course. Non-participation and production will result in a failure.

Intermediate/Advanced Level Requirements: Art Foundations is a prerequisite for this course, so students should already have an understanding of Color Theory, the Elements of Art, Principles of Design, introduction to Art History and have intermediate/advanced drawing abilities that aid in sculptural design, problem solving, and conceptualization.

This course will support the development of TSAS's Division Champion Academic Bowl team by providing students with structured study and practice time. Students in this course will build their academic knowledge and sportsmanship by competing in mock matches. Students may be invited to compete in matches against other Tulsa area schools.

Instructor approval is required.

Acrylic paints were invented in the mid 20th century to provide an alternative to oil paints for the commercial art industry. These paints provided a greater range of color and faster drying times which in turn allowed artists to create paintings that were not possible with traditional paints. This class will be an introduction to basic acrylic painting techniques, and will include paint selection, color mixing, composition, brush work, mixed media, subject matter, acrylic mediums and more to introduce you to this highly versatile painting style. You will work on painting projects and sketchbook work daily to develop your own skills and creative style.

Designed for students with some existing experience and knowledge in taking, developing and printing photographs, this course aims to consolidate existing skills and develop new ones to enable students to make a coherent body of photographic works which consider audiences, genres and professional contexts. The course content will be driven by the interests of individual students, to broaden their practical understanding and skills in photography as an art mediumIn this class.

• You will learn a greater range of imagery, allowing each student to communicate and express themselves using visual language.
• You will grow your body of work into a cohesive portfolio.

Advanced Darkroom is an advanced photography course. Darkroom 101 is a prerequisite.

A SLR manual film camera is required. Limited school cameras are available for temporary check out. This course requires a $30 lab fee.

Designed for advanced students who are committed to developing a specific artistic ability. Examples: oil painting, acrylic painting, textiles, puppet making, figurative drawing, animal anatomy, sculpture, drawing, watercolor, etc. You get to choose what you would like to focus on and we will do a deep dive into exploring more possibilities. You are allowed to collaborate with multiple students on a project.

Requirements: Teacher approval and portfolio review required. Students provide their own materials. This is a studio format course, so you will need to be driven and self-motivated. The teacher will help guide you and introduce new ideas, but you should have a specific vision and understanding of what imagery or concepts you would like to create. Students are required to have an understanding of Color Theory, the Elements of Art, Principles of Design, introduction to Art History, and advanced drawing abilities (to aid in your conceptualization of projects). Non-participation and non-production will result in a failure of the course.

Algebra I focuses on building a strong foundation in algebraic concepts to prepare students for higher level math and real-world applications. The course focuses on teaching students to reason algebraically, understand patterns and relationships, and represent mathematical situations using symbols. Included in the course is an emphasis on foundational algebraic concepts like solving linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, graphing, functions, polynomials and factoring, exponents, radicals, applications, and problem-solving.

American Culture & Identity will use a range of texts to explore what it means to be “American.” The texts will include literature, television, film, pop-culture, art, poetry, architecture, advertisement, music, food, and fashion. The class will use the texts to examine American culture and answer several essential questions: What stories do we tell about ourselves? How do we determine our own identities? And how are our stories challenged and changed over time? How do we glean meaning from culture? This course is interdisciplinary and includes elements from history, political science, and literature. Students will participate in class discussions, conduct an independent research project on a topic related to the course, compare and analyze texts, and complete several writing assignments.

This course introduces the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and is designed for students who have little or no previous knowledge of ASL. Students will focus on learning the ASL alphabet, basic vocabulary, grammar structure, fingerspelling, commands, and ASL questions. Students will be given the opportunity to develop both receptive and expressive skills in order to hold a beginning-level conversation with deaf/hard-of-hearing native users of ASL. An awareness of the history and culture of deaf people, as well as information on deaf role models, are included in the course.

This course is designed for students to expand their understanding of the grammar and vocabulary of American Sign Language studied during the first level course. Students are given the opportunity to continue to develop both their receptive and expressive skills in order to communicate effectively with deaf individuals. An awareness of the history and culture of deaf people, opportunities to interact with the deaf community and information on deaf role models are included in the course. Students also study different sign language systems in existence.

In Ancient History and Mythology, students will be exposed to the classical world and its myths. They will gain an appreciation for past humanity by studying various ancient cultures from across the globe. The course will introduce students to the most famous myths, legends, and folktales of antiquity. The students will also explore the culture and language of these societies, and they will begin to understand the relationship between ancient and modern myths and why myths continue to speak to us today.

In this course, students will learn about the proper care and maintenance of farm animals such as chickens, goats, donkeys and honeybees. Students will become familiarized with animal biology, day-to-day care, nutrition, health, selective breeding, processing and successful management of domestic animals. Instruction will consist of discussion, lecture and hands-on activities, including three on-site farm labs.

This computer elective course is an introduction to the fundamental principles and techniques of animation in a digital format. Students will explore the history of animation & its impact on modern media, digital animation methods and styles, gaining a strong foundation in animation, theory and practice, and finishing the trimester with a final animation project.

Prerequisites include completion of Art Foundations and basic computer skills combined with an interest in art and storytelling.

The AP Biology course is a 3 trimester course designed by the College Board as a college level biology course. In this class, students will study the core scientific principles, theories, and processes that govern living organisms and biological systems. This course will prepare students for the AP Biology exam through lecture, writing, data analysis, and hands-on laboratory work to investigate natural phenomena.

- Open to seniors, juniors with teacher approval

This course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced coursework in chemistry. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations, as they explore topics such as: atomic structure, inter-molecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium.

LABORATORY REQUIREMENT This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time provides students with opportunities to engage in laboratory investigations. This includes a minimum of 16 hands-on labs, at least six of which are inquiry based.

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. With a unique focus on creative problem solving and real-world applications, AP Computer Science Principles prepares students for college and career. All students taking AP courses are encouraged to take the AP exam.

This course will teach computer fundamentals and programming logic to students by using Scratch and Python.

AP Lang is a three-session course that focuses on language as a persuasive tool and is designed to develop students’ ability to utilize and analyze rhetorical appeals, techniques, and devices in various media. While students will primarily read non-fiction texts, we will also include some fiction. An AP exam is offered at the end of the year, but is not required to participate in the course.

The AP Physics 1 Course has been designed by the College Board as a course equivalent to the algebra-based college-level physics class. At the end of the course, students will take the AP Physics 1 exam, which will test their knowledge of both the concepts taught in the classroom and their use of the correct formulas.

AP Statistics introduces students to the major tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students explore concepts including variation and distribution; patterns and uncertainty; and data-based predictions, decisions, and conclusions. This course will include high level analysis alongside projects that explore real world application.

Students should successfully complete Algebra 2, as well as a placement test, before entering AP Stat.

In this course students will learn the basics of Arctic science and study how the Arctic affects and is affected by climate change. Students will expand their knowledge in biology, chemistry, and physics to understand this extreme ecosystem and its importance in climate science. The course is heavily discussion based with supporting lectures and hands-on activities that use real Arctic data to gain a deeper understanding of the Arctic environment.

Art History offers a mix of art and history that’s more than just memorizing dates and names. Spanning cultures across all continents and from prehistoric to contemporary times, in this course you’ll explore the different social and cultural beliefs, political and economic systems, and scientific and technological advancements that have led to the creation of well-known sculptures, paintings, buildings, and many other types of art.

You will be:

• Evaluating works of art from different eras and cultures
• Seeing connections to artistic traditions, styles, or practices in a work of art
• Developing a theory about the meaning of a work of art and explaining and supporting your interpretation

This class is a lecture and research based art course.

Astronomy is the study of the universe outside of Earth. The Astronomy class will be broken up into the following sections: History of Astronomy, The Sun cycle, Our Solar System, and if there is time; Star cycles. We will look at the basics of how people started to study the night sky, what we know about our Sun, what we know about our solar system, and if possible, what we know about distant stars.

Biology is a laboratory science course in which students investigate living things and their interactions with biotic and abiotic factors around them. This course covers a wide range of topics including cells, cell transport and reproduction, genetics, DNA, evolution, and ecology. Students will increase their understanding of biological concepts, processes, and data analysis by participating in various labs and activities throughout the course.

The primary objective of this course is to show you that the things you do every day—whether reading, watching television, listening to music, drawing, arguing, or watching movies—can be applied to how you write. I’m just going to show you how. If you already know how, I’m going to show you how to do it better; if you already know how to do it perfectly, I’ll let you write our lesson plans.

This course is a basic ceramics class for both beginners and students with prior clay experience. We will explore all of the basic clay construction methods such as pinch pots, coil building, additive and subtractive, slab building (tiles and boxes) and basic wheel throwing and more. Students will learn a variety of clay construction skills and glazing techniques to create ceramic works of their own original design. Drawing skills are important in this course to conceptualize and plan pieces before construction. Classwork consists of clay projects and weekly sketchbook assignments.

Either Art Foundations, Drawing I or Drawing II are required prerequisites for this course, or by special permission of instructor.

Chemistry is a laboratory science course in which students will explore the composition of matter and the physical and chemical changes it undergoes. This course combines lecture and discussion to support a heavily laboratory focused curriculum, allowing students an active learning environment to explore basic and complex chemistry concepts.

In this chemistry supplement course, students who have completed Chemistry in the Community will apply the concepts learned in that course while diving deeper into more advanced topics and lab experiences. These concepts will complement the material taught in the two-trimester Chemistry course, offering an opportunity for students who have not taken that course to explore more in-depth topics before transitioning to college-level chemistry. You'll delve into subjects like chemical bonding, electron clouds, thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics, building on the foundation you've already established. This course serves as a bridge to college-level chemistry, providing hands-on lab work and enhancing problem-solving skills to prepare you for continued education.

In this citizen science course, you’ll discover how everyday people can make meaningful contributions to scientific research—no degree required! We’ll explore how to use tools like the SEEK app for identifying plants and animals and the Audubon bird song app to track bird populations. We'll explore how citizen science is providing enhanced data for real life science by exploring how this method of data collection is used currently, and you'll also learn hands-on techniques for water sampling, collecting live animals, and other methods to help monitor local ecosystems. By the end of the course, you’ll be equipped with the skills to contribute to real-world science and make a positive impact on the environment.

Community Engagement is a 1-session elective course that incorporates a student-driven community service project that has both learning and community action goals. This project is designed through collaboration among faculty, students, and community partners. This gives students experiential opportunities to learn in real world contexts and to develop skills of community engagement.

In this course, we will spend time reading about and discussing various themes and essential questions that relate to us as individuals. This class will help you sharpen your reading and writing skills as we dive in and examine literary works and texts. While studying long and short works of fiction and nonfiction, poetry, and drama, students will think and discuss critically while becoming familiar with literary elements and techniques. As a composition course, much of what we discuss and analyze will also lead to putting those thoughts and ideas on paper. Students will write creative pieces of fiction and poetry in addition to expository and argumentative papers using the writing process. These writings will show knowledge of standard grammar and usage as well as a sense of audience. Lastly, listening and speaking skills will also be developed throughout the course.

Do you have patience with computers?

Do you want to learn one of the most important future skills?

Have you ever wondered what is going on behind the scenes in your computer?

This class is for you! We will:

• Learn basic drawing skills with python turtle.
• Program our computers to make something we want.
• Program beautiful graphics and games!

In Conceptual Physics students investigate the interaction of matter and energy in a variety of methods, focusing on the concepts, rather than the math, involved with these interactions. The course begins with an introduction to the scientific method and Newtonian mechanics. It then follows with thermodynamics and proceeds to electromagnetism. At the end, the students have a choice of a variety of topics including modern physics, a more intense look at mechanics focusing on rotational motion, or optics.

Ever wondered about the truth behind famous conspiracy theories or unsolved historical mysteries? In this class, we’ll dive into some of history’s most intriguing and puzzling events, exploring the clues, theories, and hidden stories that have left people questioning what really happened. Get ready to challenge what you think you know about history!

This class is a survey of topics oftentimes not taken seriously by people in order to investigate and find out if, maybe, they are not actually “dumb” but important forms of culture.

Such topics include (but not limited to):

• professional wrestling
• memes and the internet
• comics and cartoons
• stand-up comedy
  

In this writing workshop, students have the chance to grow as readers and writers. Students explore the elements of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction in works that span a range of sub-genres. As writers, students create and share their own creative writing in a supportive environment. As readers, students respond to the work of their peers intelligently and constructively. Students learn strategies for publishing their work and organize and offer a reading of their work.

As the culmination of their language studies, students read challenging and diverse material and are also given freedom to choose their own topics of inquiry. Students will write essays and other short works, both fiction and non-fiction, for each section with the goal of creating arguments that synthesize their readings, discussions, and research and clarify their individual ideas about each theme/topic.

In Critical Reading, students study rhetoric (the art of persuasion). Students read material and identify how authors use rhetorical devices to move readers to think, feel, and act in certain ways. Students analyze literary devices in short stories, novels, and works of poetry and non-fiction. Students use their knowledge of literary and rhetorical devices to persuade readers as they craft their own original works of both creative and analytical writing. The course includes discussion, student-led research, and student presentations.

Critical Writing is a two-session 11th grade English course designed to help students understand practical approaches to critical analysis, research, and the application of those skills to reading and writing. Students will be engaging with two novels each trimester and will seek to show mastery of narrative, informative, and argumentative writing.

This is open to anyone who thinks they may be interested in running or wants to get in shape! No previous classes or experience necessary to join the team. Cross Country generally entails running longer distances but don't worry if you can't run that far yet - we'll work up to it! We compete as a 3A school against others in the region but competition is not a necessary aspect of the class - if you want to run just for you I'd be happy to have you in the class! We start practice as a team over the summer so if you're interested in joining please reach out to me as soon as possible! If you don't decide to join until school starts in August you are still welcome to join.

Darkroom 101 will introduce you to the art of film photography, darkroom processing, and photo printing. You'll learn everything from best practices and equipment usage to understanding the basic mechanics of fine art printing. We will cover the concepts of editing and composition. You will develop your film, create contact sheets, create your own prints and participate in group critiques. You’ll leave with an understanding of proper usage of equipment and chemistry. Along the way, you will develop your own personal style and visual narrative. The goal of the intro class is for you to feel comfortable and confident in the darkroom!

In this class:

• You will explore various photographic processes, discover different genres, and begin to understand basic film practices.
• You will be exposed to professional photographers.
• You will begin to learn photographic composition techniques and strengthen your visual literacy.

A 35mm SLR manual film camera is required. Limited school cameras are available for temporary check out. This course requires a $30 lab fee.

This class serves as the regular meeting time of TSAS's competitive Debate Team. Debaters develop skills such as writing and speaking persuasively, conducting quality research, time management, critical listening, and rapid note-taking. Debaters will often engage with real-world issues, current events, politics, economics, and philosophy. Participation in tournaments is required.

Students will engage with classic and contemporary moral dilemmas through the applications of philosophy and debate. This course offers an overview of fundamental ethical theories, allowing students to explore diverse interpretations and perspectives on current, real-world issues of right and wrong as well as use their knowledge of ethical theories to respectfully navigate a structured exchange of ideas. Writing and speaking persuasively, critical thinking, argumentation, rhetoric, and other mechanics of debate are key focuses of this course.

Tournament participation is required.

Democracy in Action is a one trimester elective that examines current and relevant political issues, with a focus on students finding and lending their voice to contribute to our nation’s democracy. While content is highly guided by student interests, issues might include healthcare, education, equality, military action, national debt, civil rights and more...

Design Algebra II is a math class taught in a non traditional way. Students are ready to learn through real life applications and projects: quadratic functions and applications; polynomial functions and applications; exponential and logarithmic functions and application, rational and radical functions; probability, data analysis and statistics; and sequences and series.

Digital Photography is a trimester introduction to the digital camera as an art-making tool designed for students at the beginning level. The course will use digital photography to help students learn and apply the basic elements of art and the principles of design. This course will also provide students with opportunities to extend their knowledge and skills in the field of photography and the use of Adobe Photoshop, Bridge, and Lightroom. Digital Photography will familiarize the student with digital photographic equipment, materials, methods, and processes. Visual problem solving skills are explored through the use of the computer as the main tool for creative expression and communication.

In this class:

• You will explore electronic imaging through the use of digital cameras and computers.
• You will be able to incorporate the elements of art and principles of design.
• You will be introduced to professional software including Adobe Photoshop, Bridge and Lightroom.

Digital Media is an advanced photography course. Darkroom 101 is a prerequisite.

A digital camera, thumbdrive and an appropriate media card are required. Limited school cameras are available for temporary check out. This course requires a $15 digital print fee.

In addition to the technical side of the craft (lights, sound, sets, costumes, etc.), students in this course will explore characters, realign their thought process to believably portray a range of emotions, objectives, conflict and resolutions through voice and movement. Students will also incorporate improvisational skills in scenes and theatre games. Finally, students will create scenes and perform, work scripts to bring the words to life, and believably become someone else!

In addition to the technical side of the craft (lights, sound, sets, costumes, etc.), students in this course will more deeply explore characters, realign their thought process to believably portray a range of emotions, objectives, conflict and resolutions through voice and movement. Students will also incorporate improvisational skills in scenes and theatre games. Finally, students will create scenes and perform, work scripts to bring the words to life, and believably become someone else!

This class is a beginning drawing class for those who have never drawn before and those who have a grasp of basic drawing techniques. We will begin with line and progress through shape, form, positive/negative space, value, composition and proportion through careful observation and drawing of still lifes, interiors, natural objects and figures.

This class is a continuation of Drawing I. We will continue our drawing studies using various methods, such as: life drawing, linear perspective, intuitive gesture, building forms, figure drawing, abstract composition, master copies, color and mixed media.

Intermediate/Advanced Level Requirements. Art Foundations is a prerequisite for this course, so students should already have an understanding of Color Theory, the Elements of Art, Principles of Design, introduction to Art History and have strong drawing abilities.

A high school reading elective course (no prerequisites required!) In this class, we will read dystopian novels together like The Giver, Uglies, Internment, Scythe, The Grace Year, and The Hunger Games. By using our own knowledge of historical and current events, we will evaluate each book against the essential question: Fiction or the future? This course will require weekly reading requirements outside of class time and weekly participation in whole class discussions. Students will also develop and strengthen their academic research skills, essay writing, and creative project skills

Earth and Space Science: An innovative take on physics class, in which we use the students' understanding of the natural world to explain and understand fundamental ideas of physics. The class will first focus on the world the students interact with all of the time. It will also include a look forward to our collective future as space explorers.

Election Studies is a one-trimester deep dive into the 2024 General Election. Our conversations will center largely on the presidential election but also national congressional elections. Together we will follow speeches, debates and note-worthy news that leads up to election day on November 5th. Whether you are a politics enthusiast or beginner, if you have an interest in learning more about the 2024 elections, their significance and their public policy implications, this course is designed for you.

Prerequisite: Open to Grades 10-12. Students must have completed Government before taking this course.

Engineering Physics is a project-based class, focusing on the mechanical aspects of physics, and how they can be applied to various physical tasks. The students will complete a series of projects illustrating Newton's 3 Laws of Motion, as well as integrating other aspects of traditional physics as they explore how to take direct action in the world around them.

In English Literature, students read contemporary and classic works of fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction to identify the elements of Literature. Lectures and student research help students read texts in historical context. Throughout the course, students participate in and lead discussions, conduct original research, and develop both analytical and creative writing projects.

In this environmental science elective, we will explore the biological components that make up our planet’s ecosystems and how they interact with the environment. From the smallest microorganisms to the largest ecosystems, we’ll examine the science behind biodiversity, species conservation, and the role of plants and animals in maintaining a balanced environment. We’ll also explore pressing environmental issues like climate change, pollution, resource extraction, and how new technologies are helping to protect our natural world. Join us to learn how science plays a key role in a sustainable future.

Exploring Oklahoma, Missouri, and Cahokia, Illinois to encounter up close lessons in history, literature, and culture. This TSAS elective immerses students in off-site field trip adventures!

Students will gain enriched insights exploring destinations in the tri-state area after reading and researching several topics: Native Mounds Culture, Jazz Culture/Harlem Renaissance, and the pioneers who explored regions west of the Mississippi River after the Louisiana Purchase. In the classroom, students will prepare by reading Native American stories passed down through oral tradition as well as literary classics by Langston Hughes, Mark Twain, and Kate Chopin. We will begin exploring with a daytrip to the Spiro Mounds, and the course will culminate with an excursion along I-44/Route 66 to St. Louis and Hannibal, MO, and Cahokia, IL. From St. Louis we will make day trips to Hannibal, home of Mark Twain, and Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site.

This elective is for 10th through 12th grade; it requires student planning and initiative! It may require a fundraising drive, but the following costs will be covered for every student in good standing: travel, museum admissions, breakfast/dinner, lodging. Planned trips are part of the course and are mandatory. Treat the travel dates as sacred to successfully complete this course. (Parent chaperones are welcome but must cover their costs.)

Students will learn about “experimental” or “non-traditional” reading and writing practices. Topics discussed will include writing under strict rules to explore creativity and critical thinking, in addition to choose-your-own adventures and blackout poetry.

In addition to reading select works of experimental writing, students will have opportunities to create their own experimental writing and develop a zine of original experimental writing.

This is an advanced class reserved for 11th and 12th grade students. However, 9th and 10th grade students can petition for admission. Ask Dr. Hawkins for more information.

Students will learn, practice, and perform the foundations of concert style dance forms such as Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and Contemporary Dance. Students will learn, practice, and perform the foundations of social dance forms such as Swing, Lindy-Hop, Hip-Hop and Latin dancing. Students will learn, practice, and perform the foundations of Cultural dance forms such as African and Flamenco. This course may be taken multiple times since each trimester is different and all levels may be included in the course. Students are expected to dress out in moveable clothing or assigned dancewear and shoes.

This trimester course is designed to be a fun exploration of musical theatre. We will explore a wide range of musical theatre performances. From Wicked to Hamilton students will be exposed to different themes, musical composition, and talent. This course will look at musical theatre from a cultural lens and explore its impact on modern society. This course will include a performance piece as a midterm and a final.

Exploring the land that would become the 46th state, students will visit capitals, grasslands, sacred grounds, and ghost towns on day trips throughout Oklahoma. In class, we will identify destinations worthy of exploration and make plans to visit them. We will read works by Oklahoma poets past/present and songwriters with distinct Okie voices. Guided by the cultural heritage of the five civilized tribes of Oklahoma, we will examine the cross-cultural bridges that unite the people who call this state their home. Finally, the elective will invite students to experience an off-grid weekend. Camping out under the stars (with the goal of leaving no carbon footprint) students will better appreciate their state and what it means to be a responsible 21st century resident.

- Must be 16 years old and in good academic standing

From the Renaissance to Modern Art, the human figure has long been a source of inspiration to artists. In this class we will explore how artists have approached their depictions of the human body. Using that inspiration, we will create 3-dimensional and 2-dimensional works that all depict some aspect of the figure.

This class asks students to watch and seriously study movies. Students will learn about movie narratives, camera work, set and sound design, costumes and make-up, and editing, among other concepts. In addition to watching and studying movies, students will have opportunities to develop and practice movie-making through weekly labs. Other assignments include quizzes, exams, short writing assignments, and a final project.

This is an advanced class reserved for 11th and 12th grade students. However, 9th and 10th grade students can petition for admission. Ask Dr. Hawkins for more information.

Focusing on the literature of E.M. Forster, Virginia Woolfe, and the storied members of the Bloomsbury Group, students will explore how a small, eclectic group of writers and thinkers discovered their voices. Students will choose one of the members of the loosely knit group to research and give voice to in a dynamic, multimedia presentation.

What can studying food and dining practices tell us about a culture? What are the traditions surrounding food around the world? This class will look at the intersection of food and culture and even try some various cuisines along the way. We will also turn to our own community to see what food options our diverse immigrant community has brought to Tulsa.

Bienvenue en France: French Life and Culture, a one trimester course, will allow students to embark on a cultural adventure through the French-Speaking world! This course delves into the fascinating cultures of France and other Francophone countries, exploring their unique histories, artistic expressions, social customs, and contributions to global society. While some basic French vocabulary and phrases will be introduced, the primary focus is on understanding and appreciating the diverse cultures within the Francophone world by learning about inventions, famous people, language, music, art, history, literature, food and much more. The importance of cultural awareness is stressed through group work, presentations, reenactments and projects. Students will confront French colonialism head-on and study how modern colonialism works to displace and suppress minorities and people of color. Students will engage with authentic materials, explore current events, and develop a global perspective. No prior French language skills or experience are required.

French I focuses on the development of reading, writing, listening and speaking activities through vocabulary, grammar, and culture. This course is designed for students with little or no knowledge of French language or culture. The textbook used is Bon Voyage! Level I, and there is a penpal component to the course.

Transitioning to high school can be a pretty exciting time! Yet, with newfound freedom, an increased workload, and greater responsibility, one can feel a bit overwhelmed trying to balance all of the changes. In this class, we will discuss and explore strategies that will set you up for a smooth transition into high school. Some topics covered will include time-management skills, study habits, college/career exploration, and emotional well-being, with a strong emphasis on relationship building. We will engage in FUN hands-on activities, class discussions, and group projects to help ensure social and academic success for the next 4 years and beyond.

Genocide is defined as the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group. When genocide has occurred outsiders have often proclaimed, “never again!” - In this one trimester elective, we will seek to understand the cause and effect of the world’s deadliest genocides and ask ourselves “Is never again truly possible? And if so, what is our part in making never again a reality?”

Government isn’t just something you read about — it’s something that affects your life every day. In this class, you’ll dive into how our government works, from voting and laws to the rights and responsibilities we all share as citizens. You’ll learn how the choices made in Washington impact everything from your school to your future. By the end, you’ll have a deeper understanding of how to make your voice heard in shaping the world around you.

This computer elective course exposes students to a structured progression from basic to advanced techniques in both Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, (possibly InDesign as well). Projects will include a range of graphic design applications, varying from print, web and digital formats. Each week would build upon the previous, culminating in a final project and possible portfolio presentation at the end.

Prerequisites include completion of Art Foundations and basic computer skills.

Stories are important. They are how we keep track of great (or awful) things that have happened, how we teach our children, how we understand strangers. They help us stay connected with our past and dream about our future. It is with this in mind that we will consume the great stories of Western civilization (World Literature will cover the others) with the hope that we will be inspired, enlightened, and entertained.

For millennia, humans have created all manner of artwork using a wide variety of materials and techniques to achieve their artistic goals-- have you ever wondered what it would be like to create art the way they did? What’s it like to paint a fresco or weave a basket? How do you make a pot?

In this class, you’ll explore a wide variety of media projects based in an art historical context including painting, sculpting, clay, ink, fibers, prints, paper and more. This includes studying a variety of styles and techniques from other cultures and multiple time periods and applying that knowledge to a physical project. There will be research, sketchbook and studio work to give yourself a greater understanding of how over time artists and cultures have worked with their hands to shape their vision of their world.

Healthy individuals are composed of more than just a healthy body and healthy mind, but rather a synergistic system that is capable of building and healing itself. This class is designed as a safe space for you to push your physical and mental limits, but also learn how and when to rest. By the end of this class, you should have a good idea of how well-defined your physical limits are, how to focus on a task or problem, how to become the architect of your own growth, and how to maintain your own health.

"Health and the Human Body" is a science elective that delves into the complexities of human health and how the environment and our own anatomy and physiology intersect and lead to either health or disease. Through presentation, hands-on activities, research, and engaging discussions, students will explore topics such as nutrition, genetics, and infectious disease transmittance and prevention.

Photographs can provide glimpses into lives past, long-ago events, and forgotten places. They can help shape our understanding of culture, history, and the identity of the people who appear in them. Photography has been utilized in these ways, and perceived as both an art form and a tool. Photographs can also be powerful tools for telling stories and chronicling events. Their context and presentation can greatly influence the way we understand everything from historical narratives to current cultural issues and situations. This course is a one-trimester survey of photography from its prehistory to the present. Course readings, lectures, and demonstrations will address photography’s multiple histories: as artistic medium, as social text, as technological adventure, and as cultural practice. We will view images made by important contributors to photography’s histories, as well as images that are important less for who made them than for their power within the discourses of mass culture. We will also learn about various technical processes, the camera’s evolution, and the vocabulary and issues of photographic theory and criticism.

This class is a lecture based photo course with some alternative processing.

Understanding How Pop Culture Influences Our Perceptions of History:

Have you ever thought about how movies and TV shows shape the way we see and understand history? In this class, we'll explore how films and pop culture influence our perception of real events and people. From action-packed battles to everyday moments, discover how the media changes the way we think about the past!

This trimester course focuses on the impact of inhumanity throughout the early 1900s till the end of World War II. This one trimester course will trace the history of antisemitism throughout the world and the impact these events have had on policy and overall societal tolerance. The course will have a primary focus on the inhumane behavior displayed in Nazi Germany before and during World War II. The class will initially study the roots of anti-Semitism in Europe. This will be followed by a study of the philosophy, literature, propaganda and economic circumstances that conditioned the German populace for acceptance of anti-semitic policies. After intensive study of this event, the course will demonstrate that genocide has occurred in multiple places throughout the world in the modern era.

This course is designed to introduce and explore plant science, soil science and landscape design. Students will become familiarized with plant identification, structures and functions and learn various methods of plant propagation. Instruction will largely consist of hands-on activities, labs and development of our school garden.

Explore real-world employment opportunities in the Hospitality Industry, where meetings and events factor into the success of virtually every market segment: corporate, association, education, fraternal, and more. We will examine entry level positions and upward climbing potential within hotel management, event venue operations, sales, and catering. We will meet professionals working in sound and light production. We will visit various venues and meet and listen to guest speakers with an array of professionals meeting planning expertise, perhaps even attend a catered event or see back-of-house operations. We will also explore how tour operators, travel agencies, destination management companies, and chambers of commerce, add to the wealth of a city (and examine how city budgets depend on visitor tax dollars). We will look at entrepreneurial opportunities that were born out of this industry’s demand (i.e. Airbnb, hotel childcare, etc.) and consider how you can get your start.

Improvisation, in theatre, is the playing of scenes without written dialogue.This happens with acting and reacting in the moment and in response to the stimulus of one's immediate environment and inner feelings. In other words, think "playing it by ear", "take it as it comes", "making it up as one goes along" or the infamous "winging it". It's not just for the stage as we all improv most every moment of every day. This helps give you the tools to feel more comfortable "thinking on your feet". If you've even seen "Whose Line is it Anyway", you'll know what we'll be doing. It's tons of fun!

Students will learn the basics of various debate formats, conduct research, write cases, and perform in-class debates. Students will often engage with real-world issues, current events, politics, economics, and philosophy. This course prepares Novice debaters to join the Varsity Speech and Debate Team! Participation in tournaments is required.

Do you like solving problems?

Do you find yourself excited by new technology coming out?

Do you just like learning new things?

This class is for you!!

We will explore the impact of technological advances and how they affect our lives.

We will explore how we can use the tech in our lives in better ways.

We will also explore a little coding, just to see what makes machines “think.”

An overview introduction to the world and application of various engineering fields. This course will cover the various disciplines of engineering and what the degree and industry applications are of those disciplines. Additionally, practical skills every engineer should know such as unit conversion and problem solving will be covered. Students who are interested in pursuing degrees/careers in the varying fields of engineering are encouraged to take this course.

• Senior course — juniors only with teacher permission