Realistic (Do-ers)

Design and build original 3D artworks using paper, clay, wire, and found objects. Learn the elements and principles of three-dimensional design through hands-on studio projects. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Explore sculpture through carving, casting, construction, and modeling. Work in metal, clay, wood, wire, paper, plaster, stone, and found objects while designing original 3D pieces and strengthening craft. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: B in one of: ADR664, ADR601, ADE671, AMJ671, ACY661 or ADE771

Explore 3D form, design, and structure through metal fabrication and technical problem solving using techniques such as soldering, welding, cutting, and texturing to create expressive sculptural works. This course builds on the metal fabrication techniques learned in AMJ671 and AMY671, but focuses more on larger sculptural objects and exploration of metal sculpture techniques. Students will be required to keep a sketchbook that documents their ideas, process, and any revisions, similar to the sketchbook kept in all jewelry classes. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Any metals and jewelry class

Learn contemporary jewelry design and metalsmithing: sawing, soldering, cold connections, stone setting, and chain making. Create finished, wearable pieces. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Strengthen reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking through science-fiction texts about first contact. Analyze how alien encounters reflect cultural beliefs, fears, and hopes across eras. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Examine how literature and film wrestle with invention, science, and ethics from the 19th century to today. Build skills in analysis, discussion, and concise writing through the sci-fi genre. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Gain hands-on experience with construction fundamentals and industry safety standards while earning certifications including OSHA 10 and First Aid/CPR. This course will prepare students for apprenticeships with local trade unions and employers in construction and the skilled trades including the Connecticut State Building Trades Training Institute (CSBTTI). (1/2 year - 1 credit) 12. 

To learn more about the CT Building Trades Training Institute Pre-Apprenticeship Pipeline Program, click here.

Prepare for the CT DEEP Safe Boating exam and hands-on training on the water. Learn navigation, safety, and recreational boating while exploring maritime careers. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Explore the cosmos in this college-level study of the universe. Learn how galaxies, planets, and stars form and evolve, and examine how math and physics help explain space phenomena. This rigorous college-level course mirrors university expectations with advanced labs, projects, and independent study. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*ECSU equivalent course: AST214: Descriptive Astronomy w/Lab (4 credits)

Get ready for college-level chemistry. Strengthen your problem-solving and lab skills as you review key chemical concepts. Required for students planning to take UConn Chemistry.  (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Uncover what matter is made of and how it changes. Explore atoms, bonding, reactions, and energy through hands-on labs and experiments. This class builds a foundation for future science studies and careers in health, technology, and engineering. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Experience chemistry at a faster pace and higher level. Explore matter, reactions, and energy through rigorous labs and projects that build strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This fast-paced, honors-level course challenges motivated learners to think critically and work independently. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and a B or better in Algebra

Tackle chemistry at a college level through challenging labs, online assignments, and summer prep work. This rigorous college-level course mirrors UCONN's class with advanced labs done after school, projects, and independent study. (1 year - 1.25 credits) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and SCH485

* UConn equivalent course: CHEM127Q General Chemistry I (4 credits) and CHEM128Q General Chemistry II (4 credits)

Discuss today's big questions in health and medicine from the history of healthcare to disease prevention and medical ethics. Learn how science, technology, and society shape wellness. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Not open to students who are enrolled in or who have completed SMD606 

Before enrollment, students submit a written plan of study for independent research for Science Department Head approval and gain approval of a science faculty member to serve as a mentor. Students may enter the Connecticut Science Fair and comply with all regulations. (1 year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: Science Department Head approval 

Understand how the universe moves. Study motion, forces, energy, sound, and light through experiments and STEM projects. Learn to think like an engineer while designing and testing your own creations. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: B or higher in Algebra 2 strongly recommended

Explore the forces that shape our world through motion, energy, waves, and electricity. Through hands-on labs, you'll see physics in action and build strong problem-solving skills. This rigorous college-level course relies on algebra to explain phenomena through advanced labs, projects, and independent study. (1 year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: B or higher in Algebra 2 strongly recommended 

* UConn equivalent course: PHYS1201Q General Physics I (4 credits)

Learn the language of engineering graphics with AutoCAD. Practice geometric construction, orthographic and isometric drawings, dimensions, and tolerances. Create simple 3D prints to bring designs to life. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Advance to complex 2D and 3D modeling in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Chief Architect. Apply teamwork and problem solving to real-world projects and earn college credit opportunities. This advanced dual-enrollment course combines college-level study with hands-on industry experience. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: VED201

* Three Rivers Community College equivalent course: CAD 1330 2D CAD-AutoCAD

Explore engineering fields and the design process while engaging in hands -on making projects. Use industry standard 3D modeling software to design, test and build projects such as solar cars and bridges. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

*UConn equivalent course UNIV 1820: First Year Seminar - Intro to Making (1 credit)

Experience advanced manufacturing processes, safety, and materials while making products with CNC machines and 3D printers. Earn college credit and entry to the YMPI program. This advanced dual-enrollment course combines college-level study with hands-on industry experience. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

*CT State Three Rivers equivalent course: MFG 1004 Manufacturing Processes

Train for high-demand careers in modern manufacturing. Learn safe tool use, shop math, and workplace readiness while earning OSHA 10, pre-apprenticeship hours, and college credit. This advanced dual-enrollment course combines college-level study with hands-on industry experience. (1/2 year - 1 credit) 12.

Prerequisite: VIM651 with C or higher, additional ½ credit Tech Ed course, teacher/counselor approval. 

*CT State Three Rivers equivalent courses: MFG 1415 Safety in the Workplace (2 credits), EGR 1120- Engineering Drawing Specs (3 credits), MFG 1453 Benchwork (2 credits), MFG1405 Manufacturing Math (3 credits)

To learn more about the Youth Manufacturing (YMPI) Pipeline Program, click here.

Start woodworking with hand tools and select power tools. Learn safety, measuring, and project planning while building practical projects. Explore related careers. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Take on more complex wood projects using varied species and power tools. Meet industry guests, deepen safety and measuring skills, and explore career pathways. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: VWT201

Build on skills by designing and constructing complex projects using advanced tools and machinery while emphasizing safety, precision and professional shop practices. Complete major projects that demonstrate craftsmanship, problem-solving and career readiness in the skilled trades. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Prerequisite: VWT651