Departments & Courses

Pre-AP World History I

Students in World History I are introduced to the significant structures and forces that have shaped human experience. Freshmen explore content ranging from pre-history to 1200, examining the events, individuals, and developments that shaped the rise and fall of societies across the globe. Through engagement with primary and secondary sources, students practice the analytical skills of historians and ultimately build and critique historical arguments. Completion of the course prepares students to take AP World History: Modern as sophomores.

Course Expectations: 

Demonstrate a desire to learn more about history. Daily course work includes reading and analyzing course materials (books and other sources) along with class discussions and activities.

AP World History: Modern

Students in AP World History: Modern investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes from 1200 to the present. They will develop and use the same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time. Student historians explore six themes throughout the course to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.  At the conclusion of the course, students will be able to take the AP World History exam to qualify for college credit.

Course Expectations: 

Demonstrate a desire to learn more about history. Daily course work includes reading and analyzing course materials (books and other sources) along with class discussions and activities.

History Requirements:

ONE of the following courses:

U.S. History 

This course provides the student with a comprehensive history of the United States from colonial days to the present. The course places special emphasis on the experiences of different social classes and minority groups, the growth of industrialization, and the shaping of American foreign policy. Students will be challenged to develop the skills needed to conceptualize as they read, and will be trained to write an organized, precise, and imaginative essay.

AP U.S. History | Grade 11

In AP U.S. History, students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in nine historical periods from approximately 1491 to the present. Students develop and use the same skills and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change. The course also provides eight themes that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places: American and national identity; work, exchange, and technology; geography and the environment; migration and settlement; politics and power; America in the world; American and regional culture; and social structures. (The College Board)

Course Criteria:

• A final grade of 92% or above and no semester grade below 85% in previous History courses:
  • Pre-AP World History I (Grade 9)
  • World History II or AP World History: Modern (Grade 10)
• A final grade of 90% in previous English courses:
  • English (Grade 9)
  • Survey of Western Literature (Grade 10)

Stipulation: Students who do not meet the qualifications may enroll in AP US History with the potential for academic intervention after the first quarter. 

Course Expectations:

• Students will be expected to read each night and independently cover material in order to come to class prepared for discussion and/or writing each day. 

• Evening Google Hangout sessions are held before tests and, though not required, are strongly advised. 

• Accepted students will be given a summer assignment which requires them to watch a series of introductory videos and read one chapter’s worth of class material.

Additional History and Social Sciences Course Offerings:

Intro to Art History This full credit Art History course is a prerequisite for the Senior AP Art History course.  Enrollment is by selection only, per the Art History teacher.

This course is designed to prepare students to take AP Art History and the AP Art History exam in Grade 12.  The purpose of the course is to instill in the students a life-long appreciation of art and to enable them to discover universal principles of aesthetics that will help them to understand art of their own time. Works of art are studied in a global and historical context. Painting, sculpture, and architecture are evaluated through the use of PowerPoint presentations, student discussions, and museum visits. Students will work to develop critical thinking, so that a work of art can be intelligently analyzed in its own political, cultural, and social context, and compared to another work from an entirely different era and geographical area.

Course Criteria:

• A minimum average of 93% in both History and English

• A minimum score of 90% on both History and English midterms

Course Expectations:

There is a strong emphasis on developing speaking and writing skills. Students will be expected to join the Museum Club and be present at outings.

Pre-AP Art HistoryThis full credit Art History course is a prerequisite for the Senior AP Art History course.  Enrollment is by selection only, per the Art History teacher.

This course is designed to prepare students to take AP Art History and the AP Art History exam in Grade 12.  The purpose of the course is to instill in the students a life-long appreciation of art and to enable them to discover universal principles of aesthetics that will help them to understand art of their own time. Works of art are studied in a global and historical context. Painting, sculpture, and architecture are evaluated through the use of PowerPoint presentations, student discussions, and museum visits. Students will work to develop critical thinking, so that a work of art can be intelligently analyzed in its own political, cultural, and social context, and compared to another work from an entirely different era and geographical area.

Course Criteria:

• A score of over 500 in the English section on the PSAT 

• A minimum average of 93% in both History and English

• A minimum score of 90% on both History and English midterms

Course Expectations:

There is a strong emphasis on developing speaking and writing skills. Students will be expected to join the Museum Club and be present at outings.

The Civil Rights Movement:  Then and Now 

This course explores the evolving concept of race and membership in the United States, beginning with the origins of racialized ideas of human differentiation and continuing to modern-day. The class will consider how the ideas of race and racism developed in scientific, academic, and political spheres, and will examine the consequences of dividing society by race. Students will study resistance to the ideas of racism and segregation, highlighting the events of the Civil Rights movement as a case study. We will pay particular attention to the “upstanders” of this era, and explore how we can continue to be “upstanders” to racial injustice today. The course will rely heavily on documentary films and primary source documents. 

Course Criteria:

• Open to all juniors

Course Expectations:  

Active classroom participation and presence is expected.  Students will have weekly reading and journal assignments, as well as, quarterly synthesis papers.

ONE of the following courses:

Government 

Government is the culminating course in the History curriculum. It provides an in-depth study of the workings of the American government past and present with the stated goal of building a culture of political participation. The study of the daily workings of government at the federal and state levels builds an increased awareness of individual’s rights and responsibilities as an American citizen. Student will monitor current events at the national and local level in order to better understand the system of federalism, the three branches of government, and the evolution of power in the American system.

OR

AP Government and Politics 

The AP U.S. Government and Politics course is a year-long college level introduction to American political life. Students will study American political culture, the roots of American governing institutions, and the role of the media, the citizen and interest groups in influencing and implementing policy. By examining seminal American political theory and dissecting landmark Supreme Court decisions, students will analyze the interaction between the branches of the American government and assess the continued strength of the federal system envisioned by the Framers. Students who possess an interest in current events and American and world politics will be at home in this course.

Course Criteria:

• A minimum 90% average in History grade for Grades 9-11

• No midterm or final exam grade in History with a score below 80%

Course Expectations:

Daily coursework includes readings from the AMSCO review book and Edwards text along with discussions and activities that use current American political life as a case study. In preparation for the course, students will complete a summer study guide and essay on the U.S. Constitution and sit for an exam on the U.S. Constitution during the first weeks of the course.

ONE of the following courses:

Principles of Economics  

Students will gain a foundation in practical economic theory and its applications.  Economics studies the allocation of scarce resources, the determination of prices within various types of markets and the choices/decisions that individuals and businesses make.  This course covers basic topics in microeconomics, such as consumer (demand) theory, producer (supply) theory, market structures and industrial organization.  It also examines broad macroeconomic events in money and banking, financial markets, investment risk and business failures. Financial literacy topics will study applications in effective financial management skills including managing debt and understanding the time value of money.

OR

AP Macroeconomics  |  Grade 12 

This intensive course will prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exam in Macroeconomics in May. The students will gain a foundation in the principles and concepts of economic theory and understand the applications of these concepts to models and markets. Students will learn how to analyze various economic scenarios within the context and framework of economic principles and models; they will evaluate these scenarios descriptively, graphically, and mathematically to explain and interpret market behavior and predict outcomes.

Course Criteria:

Minimum 92% average in Social Studies, Math, and Science courses for Grade 9, Grade 10 and first semester Grade 11

Course Expectations:

All enrolled students will be expected to complete a summer assignment.

Students should have the desire and ability to learn higher level economic concepts and analysis. Students will be expected to analyze quantitative problems: a firm understanding of mathematics is necessary. 

AP Psychology  

The AP Psychology course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatments of psychological disorders, and social psychology. Throughout the course, students employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas. (The College Board).

Course Criteria:
Minimum 90% final average in history for grade 10 and first semester Grade 11

Stipulation: Preference will be given to students who meet the above qualifications. Students who do not meet the qualifications may still enroll, though placement is not guaranteed. 

Course Expectations:

Interested students should have a serious interest in psychology and human behavior and fully understand that this course strongly emphasizes science and biology at times. Students must read independently on weeknights in order to come to class prepared for discussion. Accepted students will be given a summer assignment which requires them to cover the first unit’s material via a chapter’s worth of reading and several short videos. 

AP Art History  This course is designed to prepare the students to take the AP Art History exam.  Works of art are studied in a global and historical context. Painting, sculpture, and architecture are evaluated through the use of Powerpoint presentations, student discussion, and museum visits. The purpose of the course is to instill in the students a life-long appreciation of art and to enable them to discover universal principles of aesthetics that will help them to understand art of their own time. 

Course Criteria:

• Successful completion of the Grade 11 full credit Art History course

Course Expectations:

There is an emphasis on developing speaking and writing skills. Students will work to develop critical thinking so that a work of art cannot only be intelligently analyzed in its own political, cultural and social context, but can be compared to another work from an entirely different era and geographical area. Students will be expected to join the Museum Club and be present at outings. 

ONE of the following Math courses:

Algebra 1

This is a first year Algebra course in which students will learn to reason symbolically. It is designed to give students a solid foundation in algebraic concepts and skills. The key content involves writing, solving, and graphing linear and quadratic equations, including systems of two linear equations in two unknowns. Quadratic equations are solved by factoring, completing the square, graphically, and by application of the quadratic formula. The course also includes study of monomial and polynomial expressions, inequalities, exponents, functions, rational expressions, ratio, and proportion. Algebraic skills are applied in a wide variety of problem-solving situations.

Geometry (entrance based on placement exam) 

This course stresses the ability to reason logically and to think critically, using spatial sense. Students will engage in activities that allow them to create geometric understanding. This course will formalize and extend students’ geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students will explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships moving toward formal mathematical arguments. The course guides students to experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to exercise problem-solving skills in authentic situations. The curriculum includes the topics of transformations, congruence, similarity, quadrilaterals, logic, trigonometry, two- and three-dimensional figures, and circles.

Biology 

This course concentrates on the topics of biochemistry, cell theory, anatomy and physiology of genetics, reproduction and development of living things, evolution and ecology. Laboratory investigations are an integral part of the course as they aid in concept clarification and help relate concepts to reality through scientific inquiry.

Health 

A two-semester study of topics pertaining to an individual's health. Exercise, nutrition, sexuality, mental health and social health and disease comprise the major portion of the curriculum. Students are encouraged to discuss relevant personal experiences and develop personal health and fitness plans.

Research & Technology I This bi-weekly class covers research, writing and computer skills. Students learn how to evaluate print and non-print sources and conduct library research using a variety of resources, including specialized databases, references and indexes. Students develop mastery in MLA 8 format and citations. Students also learn how to organize and write a research paper.

ONE of the following Math courses:

Algebra II/Trigonometry 

This course expands the concepts of Algebra I and Geometry with a focus on higher-level critical thinking skills and applications. Students will develop advanced skills in working with linear, quadratic and exponential functions, and will expand their knowledge to include logarithmic, polynomial, rational and radical functions.  Throughout the course, students will expand their knowledge and understanding of the real and complex number systems.  Additionally, students will study trigonometry. They will define trigonometric functions, sketch their graphs, prove identities, solve trigonometric equations and use them to model periodic behavior. A student’s ability to develop and use formulas will be critical to their success in this course. Students will be required to explore multiple problem solving strategies and apply the skills they have developed.

Geometry 

This course stresses the ability to reason logically and to think critically, using spatial sense. Students will engage in activities that allow them to create geometric understanding. This course will formalize and extend students’ geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students will explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships moving toward formal mathematical arguments. The course guides students to experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to exercise problem-solving skills in authentic situations. The curriculum includes the topics of transformations, congruence, similarity, quadrilaterals, logic, trigonometry, two- and three-dimensional figures, and circles.

Chemistry 

This course covers the topics of: atomic structure, periodic properties and bonding, formulas and equations, the physical behavior of matter, solutions, kinetics and equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, thermodynamics, redox reactions and electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry and the IUPAC naming system for organic compounds. Students perform laboratory experiments as a regular part of the course.

STEM Requirements:

Algebra II/Trigonometry 

This course expands the concepts of Algebra I and Geometry with a focus on higher-level critical thinking skills and applications. Students will develop advanced skills in working with linear, quadratic and exponential functions, and will expand their knowledge to include logarithmic, polynomial, rational and radical functions.  Throughout the course, students will expand their knowledge and understanding of the real and complex number systems.  Additionally, students will study trigonometry. They will define trigonometric functions, sketch their graphs, prove identities, solve trigonometric equations and use them to model periodic behavior. A student’s ability to develop and use formulas will be critical to their success in this course. Students will be required to explore multiple problem solving strategies and apply the skills they have developed.

ORPre-Calculus  

Pre-Calculus combines the trigonometric, geometric, and algebraic techniques needed to prepare students for the study of calculus. This course is designed to strengthen students’ conceptual understanding of topics and mathematical reasoning skills in problem solving. Some topics covered include function analysis, advanced trigonometry, inverse functions, polar coordinates, matrix algebra and conic sections. Facility with these topics is especially important for students intending to study calculus, physics, and other sciences, and/or engineering in college.

Physics An inquiry into aspects of the natural world using laboratory experiments, reasoning, imagination and mathematical tools. The course begins with an extensive study of mechanics: forces, motion and energy. This is followed by investigations of wave phenomena, heat, light and electricity, sound, optics, nuclear physics and relativity. The mathematics needed to illustrate these concepts is reviewed or introduced as needed. Students perform laboratory experiments as a regular part of the course.

Additional STEM Course Offerings (may select up to 2 credits):

AP Chemistry  

AP Chemistry is a college-level course designed for students to take the AP exam in May. Included topics are: 1) Atomic Structure and Properties; 2) Molecular and Ionic Compound Structure and Properties; 3) Intermolecular Forces and Properties; 4) Chemical Reactions; 5) Kinetics; 6) Thermodynamics; 7) Equilibrium; 8) Acids and Bases; 9) Applications of Thermodynamics. Problem solving is strongly emphasized. Laboratory investigations will include physical manipulations and common procedures, emphasizing observation, record-keeping, & group collaboration. This course encourages student development of inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, creating models & representations, applying mathematical routines, developing a scientific argument, and connecting concepts in and across domains. 

Course Criteria: 

A minimum score of 90% on the Grade 10 Chemistry midterm A minimum average of 95% during the first two quarters of Grade 10 Chemistry 

Course Expectations:

Accepted students are expected to keep up with the fast pace of the course by completing all assignments, collaborating with fellow AP Chemistry students and completing formative assessments on each topic. There will be an extensive online summer assignment with weekly deadlines and a test on the topics the second week of school.  The class will be flipped, meaning students will be responsible for watching lectures at home and note taking.  

AP Computer Science Principles  

The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and work with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. 

Course Criteria:

•  A minimum average grade of 90% in first semester Physics

Course Expectations:

The AP Computer Science Principles course is in a blended classroom setting where students use digital curriculum through Edhesive, an online program funded by a grant from Amazon. Even though all course materials are available online, students are required to keep pace and work on daily lesson exercises in class. Assessments include unit exercises, projects, quizzes and tests.

AP Environmental ScienceAP Environmental Science is an online course moderated by an instructor. The course provides students with the scientific principles, concepts and methodologies required to understand the inter-relationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for preventing and/or resolving them. 

Course Criteria: 

• No prerequisites

• Course fee approximately $1,600

Course Expectations: 

Students make real-world connections between the topics introduced in class and those in their own “backyard.” They participate in ethical discussions and collaborative projects designed to probe how different cultures and social structures affect the environment, and to explore potential solutions to today’s environmental issues. Students engage authentically and creatively with classmates through a variety of discussions, activities, labs, and projects to investigate the real-world problems that face our environment today. They study our environment and work collaboratively to understand our role in it. 

Pre-Calculus

Precalculus combines the trigonometric, geometric, and algebraic techniques needed to prepare students for the study of calculus. This course is designed to strengthen students’ conceptual understanding of topics and mathematical reasoning skills in problem solving. Some topics covered include function analysis, advanced trigonometry, inverse functions, polar coordinates, matrix algebra and conic sections. Facility with these topics is especially important for students intending to study calculus, physics, and other sciences, and/or engineering in college.

Calculus

Calculus is a transition course from high school to upper division mathematics. The areas of study include graph analysis, limits of functions, continuity of functions, derivatives at a point and of a function, integration and techniques of anti-differentiation. Students will construct and analyze mathematical models of real-world phenomena. They will strengthen their problem-solving skills and will learn to read, write, speak, and think in the language of mathematics. Students taking this course must have the approval of the junior year math teacher, an average of 85% in Algebra II/Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus.

AP Calculus AB 

The AP Calculus AB course is a challenging and demanding course that will provide students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental concepts of Calculus. It will cover analysis of graphs, limits, continuity of functions, asymptotic behavior, derivatives, integrals, differential equations, and further applications of Calculus in order to prepare students to take the AP exam. Students will improve and refine their mathematical and problem-solving abilities and develop logical reasoning skills.

Course Criteria: 

• Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus

• Students taking this course must have an average of 93% in all mathematics courses taken at D.A. 

• A minimum score of 80% on the first AP Calculus exam in September

Course Expectations: 

Accepted students are expected to keep up with the fast pace of the course by thoroughly completing all assignments. There will be an intensive summer assignment on which there will be an exam the second week of school. Homework will be assigned daily, including weekends and breaks. Students will be expected to attend occasional extra sessions after or before school hours. 

AP BiologyAP Biology covers the four Big Ideas as outlined by the College Board.  Big Idea 1: The process of evolution drives the diversity and unity of life.  Big Idea 2:  Biological systems utilize energy and molecular building blocks to grow, reproduce and maintain homeostasis.  Big Idea 3:  Living systems retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to life processes.  Big Idea 4:  Biological systems interact, and these interactions possess complex properties. These Big Ideas are distributed into 8 Units. The course integrates mathematics, particularly statistics, and therefore requires mastery in algebra, and trigonometry. There is an extensive summer assignment that requires review of Chemistry. 

Course Criteria:

• Final average of 95% or better in Grade 9 Biology

• Final average of 93% or better in Chemistry, Physics, and all Math courses

• Attendance and punctuality records considered

Course Expectations:

Extensive summer assignment with a test on the material the first week of school. Some classes will be flipped, students must be responsible for watching lectures at home and taking notes. Lab work and activities are required and not negotiable.

AP Environmental Science

The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. Students will study: ecology, biogeochemical systems, humans' effect on the environment, and the cultural and social effects of environmental change.

Forensic Science

Criminalistics is a branch of forensic science that involves the recognition, identification, individualization, evaluation and reconstruction of “physical evidence.” The purpose of this course is to acquaint the student with the philosophy and methodology of dealing with physical evidence in a general way. This course is an introduction to investigative techniques which includes an examination of questioned documents, fingerprint techniques, polygraph examinations, firearms identifications, pathology, toxicology, ballistics and clandestine operations. No attempt will be made to provide the student with all the techniques she will need to know to work in a forensic science laboratory. Instead, the general approach is designed to give the student a sound fundamental base upon which to build. The laboratory aspect of this course will consist mainly of work on unknowns designed to stimulate physical evidence problems and to stimulate thinking about them. The lecture part of the course will provide theoretical knowledge required to complete lab exercises.

AP Physics B

AP Physics is a college-level course designed for students to take the mandatory AP exam in May. Included topics are: 1) Newtonian Mechanics, 2) Fluid Mechanics and Thermal Physics, 3) Electricity and Magnetism, 4) Waves and Optics, and 5) Atomic and Nuclear Physics. There will be extensive reading assignments and problem solving. Laboratory investigations will include the design of experiments, observation and measurement of real phenomena, data analysis, recognition of the source of errors, drawing of inferences, and communication of results including skilled laboratory record keeping. Prerequisites: Teacher approval is required. This course requires extra periods for lab and lecture and will extend beyond the school day one day a week.

Intro to Psychology
This is an overview course that touches on the fundamental concepts of Psychology. Theories to be explored include: Behavior, cognition, perception and learning, personality and motivation. The course will examine several theorists whose ideas have had a significant impact on how we understand and define personality.

AP Computer Science Principles 

The AP Computer Science Principles course is designed to be equivalent to a first- semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking skills vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. The course engages students in the creative aspects of the field by allowing them to develop computational artifacts based on their interests. Students will also develop effective communication and collaboration skills by working individually and collaboratively to solve problems, and will discuss and write about the impacts these solutions could have on their community, society, and the world.

AP Psychology 

The AP Psychology course introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology. Throughout the course, students employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas.

Maker Space for a Better Place  |  Grade 12 

1/2 Credit  This course will introduce 3D printing and design to students. The course will begin with 3D printing basics in the 1st semester. Second semester will culminate in a project where students use their 3D printing and engineering design skills to create a product that will improve lives or make our world a better place. This course will meet 2 times per week for a total of 100 minutes.

 Course Requirements:

• Open to all seniors

Students will examine Sacred Scripture through the following statement: our God is a God of liberation, not enslavement. In the first half of the year, students will study the Old Testament and the Jewish tradition. The second half of the year is devoted to the New Testament with a focus on Jesus and the new Kingdom of God. In addition to an introduction to Biblical criticism, students are also challenged to make connections to issues of enslavement and liberation occurring today through a variety of projects, films, music and personal reflection. Throughout the course, a special emphasis is placed on the role of women within the Bible and the Catholic faith. During the second semester, freshmen will attend the urban plunge, an opportunity to put faith into action by serving others in the greater community.

Church History, Sacraments, and the Church TodayThis course examines the manner in which the Church helped shape society in the past, so as to determine how the Church continues to shape society in the present. The course highlights God’s action in human history and more specifically examines the means by which God empowers individuals, and the impact this empowerment has on society. The sacraments of the Church will be studied during the time period(s) in which they originated or later evolved. The historic nature of this study is emphasized and the students are encouraged to appreciate and use their knowledge of history as they revisit areas of study with a new emphasis. For example, knowledge of the historic lessons of the fall of the Roman Empire will help when studying the rise of the Church during the Dark Ages and knowledge of the chaos in the world during the early 1960s will help in the appreciation of the Second Vatican Council. All documents and films are approached critically as students are reminded that the lessons of the past can often be applied critically to the present. The continuity between Theology I and Theology II will be emphasized as students are challenged to determine and identify God’s liberating action in the life of the Church and her members.

Christian Ethics

Morality in the Christian tradition begins with a reflection on the nature of the human person created in the image of God and destined for happiness. In this course, students will look within the Christian tradition for answers to the questions of who we are, who we are called to become, and how we ought to act in order to fulfill that call. Students will come to a deeper understanding of Church teaching on these questions and of the reasoning behind her teachings. The first half of the course is dedicated to examining prayerfully the Scriptural, theological, and philosophical roots of Christian moral teaching, while the second half of the course is given to applying the principles to particular moral issues, especially with regard to sexual ethics, respect for human life, ecological ethics, and justice.

Catholic Social Teaching & World ReligionsThe emphasis in the course is to ensure that Catholic Christian values which students have embraced at Dominican Academy remain with the students as they enter into the larger secular society. The emphasis during the first semester is to examine the larger issue of social justice in light of Catholic Social Teachings. The task is to take the values and principles espoused in the Church’s teaching and extend them into a world where the issues of social justice/injustice are experienced. Further, students will learn that one principled individual can make a difference in facilitating the development of a just society for all.

The second semester challenges the students to commit themselves to their Catholic Christian identity as they enter a world of non-Christian believers by presenting a survey of world religions based on the recommendations of the Second Vatican Council. The course begins with an examination of the documents of the Council, which encourages Catholics to engage other religions in dialogue, confident that the truths of Catholic Christianity will emerge intact from such dialogue. The course emphasizes appreciation for the way in which God’s will is made known to all humanity, as well as tolerance for those who live their lives in a manner that is different from the students’. A service project during the second semester will emphasize that service is an integral part of living out Catholic social teaching in the world.

Creative Writing  |  Grade 12  

This course teaches students to write more effectively and to express their ideas in a clear and engaging fashion. Students will also learn how to criticize and analyze the works of their peers in a constructive fashion and how to evaluate criticism and incorporate changes into their own work, while maintaining and developing their personal writing style. This will be accomplished through the use of literary examples, extensive exercises, and written assignments, and small group and class discussions.  Topics covered include: setting, characterization, narrative perspective, mood and tone, elements of plot, and literary devices and techniques.

Course Expectations: 

All written assignments should be unique and original and will be judged on how well they fulfill the specific assignment. In addition to written assignments, students are expected to participate in class discussions and constructive critiques of one another’s work. Averages will reflect both written assignment grades and class participation.

Shakespearean Theater  |  Grade 11

In this half credit course, students will explore the works of William Shakespeare from both a literary and theatrical point of view. By structuring the course around the chronology of his career (we will begin with Taming of the Shrew and end with King Lear), students will gain an understanding of Shakespeare’s motivations as a playwright and his influence on the English world. Then, students will apply what they have learned to the modern world of theater, with various projects and activities designed around the creative and technical aspects of performing Shakespeare’s works for audiences today.

Pre AP Art HistoryThis full credit Art History course is a prerequisite for the Senior AP Art History course.  Enrollment is by selection only, per the Art History teacher.

This course is designed to prepare students to take AP Art History and the AP Art History exam in Grade 12.  The purpose of the course is to instill in the students a life-long appreciation of art and to enable them to discover universal principles of aesthetics that will help them to understand art of their own time. Works of art are studied in a global and historical context. Painting, sculpture, and architecture are evaluated through the use of PowerPoint presentations, student discussions, and museum visits. Students will work to develop critical thinking, so that a work of art can be intelligently analyzed in its own political, cultural, and social context, and compared to another work from an entirely different era and geographical area.

Course Criteria:

• A minimum average of 93% in both History and English

• A minimum score of 90% on both History and English midterms

Course Expectations:

There is a strong emphasis on developing speaking and writing skills. Students will be expected to join the Museum Club and be present at outings.

Intro to Art History | Grade 11

1/2 credit

The study of great masterpieces of painting, sculpture and architecture from the traditional canon of art history are studied using slides, lectures, discussion and museum visits. Works from prehistoric times to the present are studied.  The purpose of the course is to enable students to discover universal principles of aesthetics that will help them to understand art in their own time and to instill in them a life-long appreciation of art.  The course will have a special focus on works of art in New York City; buildings, works in the permanent collections of museums and contemporary exhibitions. 

Course Criteria:

• Open to all juniors 

Course Expectations:

• There is an emphasis on developing speaking and writing skills. 

• Students will work to develop critical thinking so that a work of art cannot only  be intelligently analyzed in its own political , cultural and social context, but can be compared to another work from an entirely different era and geographical area.

• Students will be expected to join the Museum Club and be present at outings. Meetings will be held every two or three weeks on Thursdays.

The Civil Rights Movement:  Then and Now 

This course explores the evolving concept of race and membership in the United States, beginning with the origins of racialized ideas of human differentiation and continuing to modern-day. The class will consider how the ideas of race and racism developed in scientific, academic, and political spheres, and will examine the consequences of dividing society by race. Students will study resistance to the ideas of racism and segregation, highlighting the events of the Civil Rights movement as a case study. We will pay particular attention to the “upstanders” of this era, and explore how we can continue to be “upstanders” to racial injustice today. The course will rely heavily on documentary films and primary source documents. 

Course Criteria:

• Open to all juniors

Course Expectations:  

Active classroom participation and presence is expected.  Students will have weekly reading and journal assignments, as well as, quarterly synthesis papers.

Dominican Yearbook  |  Grade 12This class will include a Digital Classroom with resources to instruct students on all areas of yearbook publication including: development and implementation of yearbook theme, project planning and management, use of typography, photography, caption, headline, and copywriting/editing, layout and design, desktop publishing skills, management of Ad Sales, publicity, correspondence with key groups, design, implementation. Rubrics correspond with teaching materials provided by Jostens Yearbook Publishers. Students will gain marketable skills in photography, copy writing/editing, and desktop publishing. 

Course Criteria:

• Open to all seniors

• Students selected for editorial positions based on meeting and interview with instructor

Course Expectations:

Students must meet strict deadline criteria set forth in September. Yearbook will meet after school on Tuesdays. Attendance is mandatory.

Forensic Science  |  Grade 12

Criminalistics is a branch of forensic science that involves the recognition, identification, individualization, evaluation and reconstruction of “physical evidence.”  This course will acquaint students with the philosophy and methodology of dealing with physical evidence in a general way. This introduction to investigative techniques includes an examination of questioned documents, fingerprint techniques, firearms identification, pathology, toxicology, DNA, and ballistics. The laboratory aspect of this course will consist mainly of work on unknowns designed to simulate physical evidence problems and to encourage thinking about ways to solve them. The lecture part of the course will provide theoretical knowledge required to complete lab exercises.

Course Criteria:                                                                                                                  

• Open to all seniors

Course Expectations:           

Students must participate in class discussions and complete all labs. 

Maker Space for a Better Place  |  Grade 12 

1/2 Credit  This course will introduce 3D printing and design to students. The course will begin with 3D printing basics in the 1st semester. Second semester will culminate in a project where students use their 3D printing and engineering design skills to create a product that will improve lives or make our world a better place. This course will meet 2 times per week for a total of 100 minutes.

 Course Requirements:

• Open to all seniors

Body-Mind Conditioning  |  Grade 12

This course focuses on the practice of the Pilates technique and Hatha Yoga as a means of strengthening, toning, and stretching the body. Both techniques center on the use of breath to create focus of mind, as well as precision and fluidity of movement. The course includes an introduction to meditation and various relaxation techniques. 

Course Criteria: 

• Open to all seniors

Course Expectations: 

Full participation is expected. Appropriate yoga attire and hair pulled back is required for each class.

Glee Club  |  Grades 9-12

Glee Club is a performing group that sings at all major school events and various other functions throughout the year.  Glee Club rehearses every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:50-8:20 A.M. and once a month on Wednesday from 7:50-8:20 A.M.  Rehearsals include vocal exercises along with sight reading and learning music.  An individual music folder will be provided along with MP3 recordings as needed.  Students enrolled in this course will receive a letter grade each quarter and ½ credit towards graduation. 

Course Criteria:

• Open to all D.A. students regardless of musical background

Course Expectations:

Active participation is expected of all students in all rehearsals.  Students must learn and memorize their music both during rehearsals and on their own.  Glee Club members must perform in several events throughout the year.  New members must pay a $60 fee for a concert dress.  The same dress may be worn every year a student is a member of the Glee Club. 

Music Theory  |  Grade 11

Students will explore the structure of music in terms of rhythm, melody, and harmony.  Written and oral/aural activities, including singing and playing the keyboard, will develop students’ knowledge and skills central to composing and performing music.  Topics include reading, writing, and analyzing musical notation, intervals, scales, and chords. 

Course Criteria:

• A minimum average of 90% in Music I and II

• A performing background in vocal or instrumental music is strongly recommended

Course Expectations:

Students are required to participate in all class activities, including exercises involving chanting, singing and playing the keyboard.  Homework will be assigned weekly from the course workbook.  All students will need to purchase the workbook, Alfred’s Essentials of Music Theory, which is available online. 

Senior Ensemble  |  Grade 12

This course is an advanced performing ensemble open only to seniors.  Students study and perform high-level acapella arrangements for women’s voices and compose arrangements of songs. Course activities will also be structured around enhancing vocal technique and musicianship. This ensemble will perform throughout the year at various D.A. events.  

Course Criteria:

• A minimum of an 90% average in Music I and II and/or Glee Club 

• The ability to harmonize, sing independently, and blend vocally with other singers

• A consultation or vocal hearing with the instructor may be required if a student has not taken Music or Glee Club at Dominican Academy. 

Course Expectations:

Students are expected to learn and memorize their music both during rehearsals and on their own. An individual folder with music will be provided along with MP3 recordings as needed.  Active participation is expected of all students in all rehearsals. Senior Ensemble members are expected to perform in several events throughout the year.

Advocacy  |  Grade 12

The goal of this course is to provide an introduction to the tactics and tools of nonviolence and advocacy.  The course begins with the person of Jesus and moves through a range of Christian peacemakers.  The course will prepare students for participation in the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice (IFTJ) in Washington, D.C.  Students enrolled in Advocacy are encouraged to attend this conference.  Students will investigate the lives and writings of Jesus of Nazareth, Mohandas Gandhi, St. Oscar Romero, the Four Churchwomen murdered in El Salvador (Ita Ford, Maura Clarke, Jean Donovan and Dorothy Kazel), Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dorothy Day, and Sr. Helen Prejean.

Course Criteria:

·  Open to all seniors

Course Expectations:

Students are encouraged to attend the IFTJ conference which takes place in Washington D.C. from October 28-30, 2023.  IFTJ is the largest Catholic social justice gathering in the U.S. In addition to written assignments and projects, students are expected to participate actively and consistently in class discussions.

Chinese Society and Culture  |  Grade 12

Taught in English, the half-credit elective of Chinese Culture provides a comprehensive understanding of China's rich and diverse cultural heritage. Students will explore various facets, encompassing history, art, literature, philosophy, religion, traditions, and contemporary society. By examining these components, students will develop a profound appreciation of China's global influence and establish cultural connections between China and other civilizations.

Course Criteria:

• Open to all seniors

Course Expectations:

The course requires active participation in class discussions, reading, and research. Assessments include individual and group papers and presentations. Diverse course materials, such as newspaper articles, broadcast pieces, excerpts from books and films, will enrich students' learning experience.

Intro to Latin Poetry  |  Grade 11 

In this course, students finish the grammatical instruction of Latin 1 and 2 before beginning to read unadapted Latin poetry. Students will read, interpret, and discuss selections from Catullus, Vergil, and Ovid. The works are grounded in their cultural and historical contexts, and students are introduced to practices of literary criticism and translation. Although the full-credit Latin 3 is recommended for students who wish to take AP Latin in their senior year, students will sucessfully continue into either Latin IV or AP Latin after completing the half-credit Latin Poetry. 

Course Criteria:             

• A minimum first semester average of 85% in Latin II

Course Expectations: 

This course will also prepare the student to continue Latin in her senior year. 

Latin IV  |  Grade 12

In this course, students read, interpret, and discuss selections from the entirety of Vergil’s epic poem, the Aeneid. Students further develop translation skills, analyze the poem’s hexameter, and learn to recognize poetic devices. The poem is grounded in its cultural and historical context, and students will read the poem from a variety of interpretive approaches. 

Course Criteria:

• A first semester average of 90% in Latin III or;

• A 90% average in the ½ credit Introduction to Latin Poetry course is recommended.

Course Expectations:

Students who take this course will study Latin meter, advanced grammatical structures, and figures of speech necessary for the translation and interpretation of the Aeneid.