Humanities

Students make both functional and sculptural forms using a variety of hand-building techniques. Students develop ideas and craftsmanship, design and build work, and learn three-dimensional design concepts. Studio fee (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Fine Arts students further develop observational drawing skills, enhance knowledge of basic drawing tools and techniques, and explore the conceptual ideas of image making by emphasizing concepts in composition and organization and creation of volumetric space. Students maintain required sketch-books for personal exploration and idea development. Studio fee, Prerequisite: ADR664 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

UConn equivalent ART1030: Drawing 1 (3 Credits)

Students continue to build upon hand-building techniques and develop skills on the pottery wheel. Students will develop ideas and craftsmanship as they design and build work and learn three-dimensional design concepts to create functional and sculptural forms. Prerequisite: ACL661. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students continue to develop skills creating sculptural and functional forms on and off the wheel, explore idea development and higher standards of craftsmanship, and conduct required historical and contem-porary research. Prerequisite: ACY661 and instructor permission. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students focus on independent idea development, proficiency in technical skills, and research into contemporary and historical ceramic work. Prerequisite: ACY761 and instructor permission. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students learn the basic elements and principles of design using line, color, value, shape, form, and texture to create art and explore a variety of tools and materials. Students develop creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Fine Arts students continue to explore various printmaking processes and techniques including but not limited to the basics of serigraphy and silk-screening on fabric. Students refine their design skills and explore multimedia and printmaking as a means of expression. Students maintain required sketchbooks for idea development and visual and verbal responses to artwork. Prerequisite: APT875 & ACP875. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students learn the basic steps and techniques of drawing from observation, explore a variety of tools and materials, and develop confidence and skill to express visual facts. No drawing experience necessary. Studio fee (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students will continue to build their skills and techniques of drawing from direct observation, explore a variety of tools and materials, and develop confidence in drawing skills to express visual facts. Students maintain required sketchbooks for personal exploration and idea development. Prerequisite: ADR601. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Beginning Fine Arts students learn the basic steps and techniques of drawing from direct observation, explore a variety of tools and materials, and develop confidence in drawing skills to express visual facts. Students maintain required sketchbooks for personal exploration and idea development. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students further develop observational drawing skills, enhance knowledge of basic drawing tools and techniques, and explore the conceptual ideas of image making by emphasizing concepts in composition and organization and creation of volumetric space. Students maintain required sketch-books for personal exploration and idea development. Prerequisite: ADR661. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12. UConn equivalent course: ART 1030: Drawing I (3 credits). 

Students who have a serious interest in the arts will explore drawing, painting and two and three- dimensional design, and a wide variety of media and techniques. Students will begin to develop the foundations that they will continue to build upon in the Fine Arts Program. No art experience required. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 9th graders only.

Fine Arts students continue to refine their drawing skills, arrange compositional elements, and develop technical expertise using a variety of media. Students focus on observational drawing of the human figure and its relationship to its environment. Students maintain required sketchbooks. Studio fee, Prerequisite: B in ADR664 or ACP875 (full year – 1credit) 11 & 12.

Fine Arts students continue to refine their drawing skills, arrange compositional elements, and develop technical expertise using a variety of media. Students focus on observational drawing of the human figure and its relationship to its environment. Students maintain required sketchbooks. Studio fee, Prerequisite: B in ADR664 or ACP875 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students learn introductory elements and techniques while exploring a variety of mediums, including but not limited to drawing, painting, mixed media, and sculpture. No art experience required. Studio fee (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11, & 12. 

Students work in partnership with peers with special needs in a cooperative learning environment to gain valuable experience while creating personal works of art. No art experience necessary. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Fine Arts students learn a problem-solving approach to color theory, both practical and historical, and develop observational painting skills to describe form and structure. Students explore current and past artists while developing a variety of design and painting techniques. Studio fee – students purchase all personal painting supplies, Prerequisite: ADR664 or ACP875 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Fine Arts students continue to explore color as a means of expressing form and concepts with emphasis on the figure as subject matter. Students study the contributions of painters, past and present, and maintain required sketchbooks for resolving compositions. Studio fee, Prerequisite: B in APT874 (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students seriously committed to studying visual art and developing a portfolio of individualized artwork for college preparation develop aesthetic understanding through studio projects that stimulate the imagination, encourage creative problem-solving, and refine skills. Students maintain a required sketchbook and submit a required portfolio to the College Board. Studio fee, Prerequisite: Successful completion of two or more advanced art electives, parental consent and teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students further develop observational drawing skills, enhance knowledge of basic drawing tools and techniques, and explore the conceptual ideas of image making by emphasizing concepts in composition and organization and creation of volumetric space. Students maintain required sketch-books for personal exploration and idea development. Prerequisite: ADR661. Studio fee (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12. UConn equivalent course: ART 1030: Drawing I (3 credits)

Students learn about a variety of painting materials (tempera, watercolor, acrylics) and techniques in this beginning painting course. Students work from observation to develop personal artistic approaches. No painting experience required. Studio fee, Prerequisite: ADR601, ADR661, ADR865, APA501 or APA001 (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn basic ballet skills through barre warm-ups, center floor exercises, and combinations. Students learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Some dance experience preferred (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students expand on ballet skills through advanced barre warm-ups, center floor exercises, and combi-nations. Students continue to learn the history, vocab-ulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: Ballet 1 or teacher permission (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn to choreograph in various styles of dance by exploring improvisational movement and different means of inspiration. Students learn the elements of dance and how to manipulate them to choreograph original pieces. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: Completion of a dance course (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students will expand on their knowledge of chore-ography by learning choreographic tools. They will learn how to incorporate props, lighting, costuming, music editing etc. into their dances. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: DCH301 (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students serious about the art of dance join this advanced Dance Company. Students practice a variety of genres in this performance class that requires mandatory participation in annual shows, festivals, community events, and various performance opportunities. Proper attire is required for class. Prerequisite: Completion of a dance course and an audition (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students explore the fundamental skills and methods of the actor’s art and learn various techniques, theories and skills involved in character development and stage presence. Students read, interpret, develop and perform improvisations, scenes from plays and contemporary monologues (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students advance acting skills and methods and explore various techniques, theories, and skills involved in different acting styles, character development and stage presence. Students read, interpret, develop and perform realistic and nonrealistic scenes from various dramatic periods: Ancient, Elizabethan, Baroque, Modern, Postmodern and Contemporary. Prerequisite: DDR311 (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students partner with peers with special needs in an active and fun theater-based cooperative learning environment. Students gain valuable experience exploring the fundamental skills and methods of the actor’s process through improv and scripted acting activities, culminating in the production of an in-class play (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12. 

Students continue to develop their acting skills through a focus upon scene work, emphasizing active listening, connecting, character creation and development, text analysis and revealing emotional truth. Students have the opportunity to work on several scenes and present them at a high level of preparation. Students become familiar with the audition process, including cold reading. Prerequisite:  DDR411 (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn basic Hip Hop dance skills through warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participa-tion in the end-of-semester showcase. Some dance experience preferred (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students expand Hip Hop dance skills through advanced warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students continue to learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: DHH321 or teacher permission (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students explore the diverse world of theater, from set and costume design to lights and sound; from playwriting to directing (and acting, too). Students develop their own play, beginning with a design concept and culminating with a complete stage treatment. (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students explore the unique theaterical challenges and expressive possibilities of the singer/actor performing a scene to set music. Students further refine interpretation and musical/acting skills by working in-depth on classic scenes from the American musical theater repertoire. Prerequisite: DIT401. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 10, 11, & 12.

Students experience and explore all performance aspects of musical theater; acting, singing, and dance. Students will spend equal portions of the semester with each subject, participating in introduction activities, becoming more comfortable on stage and developing as a well-rounded performer. This course will prepare students for and culminate with the audition for the spring musical. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn basic jazz dance skills through warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Some dance experience preferred (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students expand jazz dance skills through advanced warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students continue to learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: Jazz 1 or teacher permission (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn basic modern dance skills through warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as partici-pation in the end-of-semester showcase. Some dance experience preferred (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students will expand on modern dance skills through a variety of more advanced warm ups, exercises, and combinations. This includes the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: DMO301 (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12. 

Students learn basic tap dance skills through warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students also learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Some dance experience preferred (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students expand on tap dance skills through advanced warm-ups, exercises, and combinations. Students continue to learn the history, vocabulary, and techniques of the genre. Proper attire is required for class, as well as participation in the end-of-semester showcase. Prerequisite: Tap 1 or teacher permission (½ year – ½ P.E. credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students read, write about, and study popular works of the past ten years. In addition to fiction, students may study biographies, comic essays, and works of history or social science. Students as a class have input into some works studied (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students study the principles of effective, imaginative writing, the problems inherent in such writing, and concepts such as unity, coherence, and emphasis. Students are encouraged to take Creative Book Design (ABD671) to combine their writing with the visual image into works of art. Students may take the course for one or two semesters for credit. Does not count towards English credit (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students develop their ability to recognize and write well-constructed English sentences and paragraphs and to speak effectively. Additionally, vocabulary study and reading literary classics encourage growth of reading fluency and comprehension. Students learn the basics of the research paper (full year – 1 credit).

At an in-depth and accelerated pace, students develop their ability to recognize and write well-constructed English sentences and paragraphs and to speak effectively. Additionally, vocabulary study and reading literary classics encourage growth of reading fluency and comprehension. Recommended for highly motivated students whose middle school indicate a level of proficiency in critical reading and writing skills to be successful in grade 9 honors-level coursework (full year – 1 credit).

Students learn good paragraph and essay development in oral and written work and enrich their vocabulary. Students read and respond to American Literature and further develop research techniques (full year – 1 credit) 10.

Students cover the EEN404 curriculum at a more advanced pace and depth. Prerequisite: 9th-grade teacher recommendation, and strong independent reading, writing, and analysis skills (full year – 1 credit) 10.

Students become more sophisticated in paragraph and essay development in oral and written work and continue to enrich their vocabulary. Students read and respond to British Literature, continue to develop research skills, and write essays for the college application process. (full year –1 credit) 11.

At a more advanced pace and depth, students become more sophisticated in paragraph and essay development in oral and written work and continue to enrich their vocabulary. Students read and respond to British Literature, continue to develop research skills, and write essays for the college application process. Prerequisite: 10th-grade teacher recommendation and strong independent reading, writing, and analysis skills (full year –
1 credit) 11.

Students study both British Literature and rhetoric at an advanced pace, breadth, and depth. Students demonstrate initiative, complete a great deal of individual work, and participate in demanding instruction. Students prepare to take the AP Language and Composition Examination. Prerequisite: Honors English 2 strongly recommended; exceptionally strong students may take the class with teacher recom-mendation (full year – 1 credit) 11.

Through the study of themed-units of literature, stu-dents continue to develop their reading and writing skills. Students enhance their verbal and written communication by reading and responding to texts while engaging in the research of future pathways and careers. Teacher recommendation required (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students will explore literature from the senior course offerings and focus on reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Areas of study will include but are not limited to the curriculum focuses of the following senior electives: Contemporary Bestsellers, Human Concerns in Literature, Modern Writers, Multicultural Literature, Public Speaking, Science Fiction, Shakespeare and World Drama. Cannot be taken in conjunction with another senior elective other than Journalism (full year -- 1 credit) 12.

UConn’s First-Year Writing courses introduce students to the work of college writing, which includes posing questions, developing sustained intellectual projects, and generating knowledge that invites engagement with wide and varied audiences. Students work on projects in which they select and define places where they might advance the class conversation across various media. Additionally, students study a variety of texts and are offered the opportunity to take the AP Literature and Composition Exam. Prerequisite: EEN785 or EEN786 (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students read, write about, and discuss works in a variety of genres and explore humanistic themes including identity, relationships, death and dying, and success.  Does not count towards English credit (full year – 1 credit) 12.

This course introduces students to the basics of print and digital journalism. Throughout the semester, students will explore ethics in journalism and news judgment, interviewing techniques, news writing, multimedia stories, and the legalities of journalism. Students will work towards constructing their own print and digital packages. Does not count toward English credit (Semester - 1/2 credit). Grade 9.

Students gain a strong understanding of the techniques that make a good print, digital, or video journalist. In a hands-on format, students build on their knowledge of effective writing, story construction, style and editing. Students develop the technology and writing skills to produce the school newspaper and TV news program. Students may take the course more than once for credit. Does not count toward English credit (full year – 1credit) 9, 10, 11, 12.

Students explore the heroic quest in movies, view films as a contemporary form of mythmaking, and identify the heroic journey in several film genres including thrillers, science fiction, adventure, romance, western, comedy and horror. Does not count towards English credit (½ year – ½ credit) 11 & 12.

Students read, write about, and discuss contemporary works forming the quilt of our ever-increasing diversity. Students study African-American and African; Hispanic-American and Latino; Asian-American; and Native-American literatures in the four major literary forms: novel, short story, drama and poetry and in nonfiction (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students read, write about, and discuss works of 20th-century writers and focus upon thematic strands including the individual and society, crime and criminals, the American Dream, and male and female roles in society (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students read, write about, and discuss science fiction literature from the 19th century to the present with some consideration of science-fiction themes in film and popular culture (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students explore plays as a form of literature through Shakespeare and 20th/21st-century playwrights who followed in his footsteps, including O’Neill, Albee, Mamet, Miller, and McDonagh. Students bring these works to life actively through staged readings and acting, expository and creative writing, and short films (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Through the analysis and discussion of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, sports media and film, students study the literary and sociological roles that sports play in American society. Students read substantial literature, focus upon the topics of values, racism and women in sports, fraud, and corruption, and complete required papers and assignments (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students learn the fundamentals of speech communication. They listen to, deliver, discuss, write about and respond to informative, persuasive, interview and impromptu speeches. Speeches are videotaped and critiqued. Literature, grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and critical thinking are central to the course (full year – 1 credit) 12.

ECSU equivalent course COM230: Basic Speech (3 credits)

Students develop an understanding of child development from prenatal to preschool stages of growth.  Students also explore parenting concepts and career opportunities in early childhood education and human resources, and participate in a simulated parenting project by caring for an infant (simulator) over the course of one weekend. (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students explore their personal growth and development, future life decisions, lifestyle, and relationships. Students improve communication skills and gain a general overview of human development through team-building activities and group discussions, debates, and projects (½ year – ½ credit) 9 & 10.

Students study human development and family studies in depth in this college-level course. Students gain an understanding of individual and family development over the lifespan and explore the development of the individual that occurs in family systems over time. Forty hours of student field study is a UConn/ECE requirement. This class requires a summer assignment (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

UConn equivalent course: Individual & Family Development (3 credits)

Students interested in exploring the field of education learn about the responsibilities of a teacher in elementary, middle and high school. Students learn about planning lessons, learning styles, planning lessons and managing a classroom, as well as the role of education in the United States and how to become a certified teacher. Students job shadow teachers and practice lesson planning in a range of subject areas (½ year – ½ credit) 11 & 12.

ML students beginning to develop English and literacy explore the meaning of American citizenship, rights, and responsibilities and learn and reinforce language skills through reading, writing and speaking. Prerequisite: Placement test or teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

ML students approaching social and academic English language profiency explore the meaning of American citizenship, rights, and responsibilities and learn and reinforce language skills through reading, writing and speaking. Prerequisite: Teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

ML students approaching social and academic English language proficiency learn about the modern history of the United States of America and reinforce language skills through reading, writing and speaking. Prerequisite: Placement test or teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

ML students learn about the modern history of the United States of America and reinforce language skills through reading, writing and speaking. Prerequisite: Teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Ninth-grade ML students beginning to develop English and literacy explore modern world history from the Renaissance through the twentieth century and those political, economic, geographic, and social concepts most applicable to life today. Students develop the inquiry skills to become engaged students and active community members. Students learn and reinforce language skills through reading, writing, and speaking. Prerequisite: Placement test or teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9.

Ninth-grade ML students approaching social and academic English language proficiency explore modern world history from the Renaissance through the twentieth century and those political, economic, geographic, and social concepts most applicable to life today. Students develop the inquiry skills to become engaged students and active community members. Students learn and reinforce language skills through reading, writing, and speaking. Prerequisite: Placement test or teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9.

ML students developing English and literacy receive instruction in vocabulary, grammar, speaking, listening, and reading and writing to develop social and academic English skills. Students participate in activities to adjust to cultural differences and nuances of life in the United States. Prerequisite: Placement test or teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 2 credits – English and World Language) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

ML students continue to focus upon mastery of English grammar, including thorough verb study and development of all language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening). Students read and analyze a combination of short stories, novels, and poetry. Prerequisite: Placement test or GLS301/GLS302 and teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

ML students read texts of multicultural stories, nonfiction, novels, and excerpts of classic works and participate in grammar lessons to reinforce reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Prerequisite: Placement test or GLS311 and teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students enrolled in Multilingual English II or III or who have exited the ML program or EL classification develop academic literacy to prepare for the language demands across academic contexts with increased proficiency of productive and receptive language skills. Students think critically to evaluate and synthesize written and oral information as they build academic vocabulary, increase reading comprehension, improve writing fluency, and hone research skills. Prerequisite: Teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Newly arrived ML students beginning to develop English and literacy receive instruction in vocabulary, grammar, speaking, listening, reading, and writing to develop social and academic English skills. Students participate in activities to adjust to cultural differences and nuances of life in the United States. Prerequisite: Placement test or teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 2 credits – English and World Language) 9, 10, 11 & 12. 

Students gain a better understanding of the African-American/Black, Puerto Rican/Latino contributions to United States history, society, economy, and culture.  This class is for any student who wants a more complete and inclusive view of our nation. (full-year) 1 credit. Open to 11 & 12.

Students examine the issues, events, and people that shape our country today and develop skills necessary for critical analysis of the news and active participation in a democratic society. Prerequisite: Teacher or counselor recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students learn about microeconomics by studying the relationship among scarcity, opportunity, cost, and supply and demand, and individual consumer and firm behavior. Students learn about macroeconomics by studying the economy as a whole, and by examining unemployment, productivity, inflation, trade, and development (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

ECSU equivalent course ECO100: Political Economy of Social Issues (3 credits)

Students learn about microeconomics by developing a thorough understanding of the economic principles that apply to consumers and producers within an economic system and of the nature of markets and the government’s role in the economy. Students learn about macroeconomics by studying the economic system as a whole including economic performance measures, the financial sector and international economics (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students examine genocide in modern history, including the Nazi Holocaust, to understand the causes, resistance, results, survival, and healing. Students research, discuss, role play, conduct oral history projects, participate in simulations, and listen to speakers to develop a deeper understanding of humanity and inhumanity (½ year – ½ credit) 11 & 12

Students study the major regional issues shaping today’s world, explore the foundation of U.S. democracy, and examine the role of the United States in the world (full year – 1 credit, meets Civics requirement) 10.

Students study the major regional issues shaping today’s world, explore the foundation of U.S. democracy, examine the role of the United States in the world, develop advanced writing skills, and complete major research projects, including participation in Connecticut History Day (full year – 1 credit – meets Civics requirement) 10.

Students examine American political, economic and social history and America’s role in the development of the modern world from 1960 to the present day with particular emphasis upon the Civil Rights Movement, political polarization, modern economic theory, the Counterculture, Vietnam, the Cold War, the Middle East, and the War on Terror (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students have a hands-on introduction to the theory and practice of the American political system and take part in simulations of electioneering and governing. May be taken for honors credit (full year – 1 credit)
11 & 12.

Students have a hands-on introduction to the theory and practice of the American political system and take part in simulations of electioneering and governing. Students will complete in-depth research and critical analysis of current events shaping U.S. politics (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

To prepare for college-level psychology courses, students study human thought processes and behaviors, noted psychologists and psychiatrists, research methods, brain studies, motivation, states of consciousness, intelligence and creativity, stages of human development, personality theories, gender issues and relationships, psychological disorders and therapies (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students examine in depth the core concepts and theories of psychology to understand psychology as the study of the mind and human behavior. Students learn about important psychologists past and present, research methods, experiments and terminology, and students prepare for the AP Psychology examination (full year – 1 credit) 12.

Students examine questions about the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and pop culture and enrich their knowledge and appreciation of all three: What if Socrates ruled Hogwarts? Can anyone resist the Sauron’s Ring of Power? Does free will or determinism dominate The Walking Dead? Students explore these and other questions and share their ideas, books, and resources (full year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students learn about the basic structure and procedures of the United States’ legal system, with a special focus on Connecticut. Students examine the rule of law and explore constitutional, family, civil and criminal law through reading, analysis, role play and interaction with legal professionals. Prerequisite: HGS424, HGS425 (Global Studies & Citizenship or HOD permission) (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students learn about human social behavior by focusing upon human development, cultural diversity, social class, gender and the role of institutions such as family, education, and religion. In this hands-on class, students explore careers in the field of sociology and learn how sociologists conduct research to understand and explain societal issues like criminal behavior (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

This course helps students understand the interconnection between society, groups and the individual. Students explore general themes, such as diversity, religion, culture, family, and various societal forces which intersect with one another to shape everyday lives. (full-year) 1 credit. Open to 11&12.

UConn course equivalent SOCI1001: Sociology (3 credits)

Students explore the development of the United States from the Federal Period to the 21st century to understand fundamental historical concepts and develop academic and communication skills (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students develop the skills and factual knowledge to critically analyze events in U.S. history. Students prepare to meet the writing and research requirements of intermediate and advanced college courses. Students assess historical materials and weigh evidence and interpretations in historical scholarship. Students will complete major research projects, including participation in Connecticut History Day (full year –1 credit) 11 & 12.

*This course will be offered every other year. It will be next offered during the 2024-2025 school year.

Students examine European events and movements from the Renaissance to the present day to understand the forces and ideas that have shaped our culture. Because the study of history goes beyond content, students study topics in a variety of ways and approaches, including analysis of primary source documents, classroom discussions, simulations and historical writing tasks (full year - 1 credit) 11 & 12.

UConn equivalent course: HIST1400: Modern Western Traditions (3 credits).

Students learn the history of the modern world from the Renaissance through the twentieth century and those political, economic, geographic, and social concepts most applicable to life today. Students develop the inquiry skills to become engaged high school students and active community members (full year –1 credit).

Students learn the history of the modern world from the Renaissance through the twentieth century and those political, economic, geographic, and social concepts most applicable to life today. Students develop the inquiry skills to become engaged high school students and active community members. Recommended for highly motivated students whose score on the HSPT indicates a level of proficiency proficient in critical reading and writing skills. Students will complete major research projects, including participation in Connecticut History Day to be successful in honors level coursework (full year – 1 credit).

Students examine modern and historical women’s issues, including religion, love, marriage, family, beauty and body image; explore the impact of individuals and events on women’s lives; and analyze media, periodicals and primary source documents, including advertisements, art and women’s writings (½ year – ½ credit) 11 & 12.

Students study the major developments of Western Civilization from ancient times through the early Renaissance (Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, Early Christianity, Crusades), and examine evidence surviving from the Ancient and Medieval Periods and the historian’s challenge to interpret these materials. Students develop research skills and participate in a project using Slater Museum’s collections (full year –1 credit) 11 & 12.

UConn course equivalent HIST 1300: Western Traditions before 1500 (3 credits)

Students study the literature, music, and film of the innovative and revolutionary minds of the 20th century to develop an understanding of counter and subculture and their dynamic relationship to the mainstream. Students explore and critique the lasting effects of the Beats, jazz, hippy culture, new journalism, the fight for equality, NOW, the Black Panthers, the search for peace and Zen, punk rock, the angst of Generation X, and the rage of urban communities. Students create works including spontaneous prose and poetry, rap and outlandish, but culturally relevant, social scripture (full year-1 credit) 11 & 12. 

Students explore the fundamentals in visual, receptive and expressive skills for grammar, facial markers, classifiers, fingerspelling and vocabulary signing. Students will also be introduced to Deaf culture and history. Students interested in continuing ASL studies need to take ASL 1 the following year. (1/2 year - 1/2 credit) 11 and 12.

Students develop a basic understanding of fundamentals in visual, receptive and expressive skills for grammar, facial markers, classifiers, fingerspelling and vocabulary building. Students also study Deaf culture and history to develop the conversational/cultural behaviors for beginning-level conversations in ASL (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12. 

Note: This course is not offered to entering 9th graders.

Students build and expand upon their visual, receptive and expressive skills for grammar, facial markers, classifiers, fingerspelling and vocabulary. Students practice facial grammar and non-manual markers; students also practice conversational skills with more emphasis upon building vocabulary and pragmatics. Students learn more about Deaf culture and history. Prerequisite: LAS304 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students expand their language skills and increase fluency. Students continue to develop proficiency in receptive and expressive signing, interactive communication, and culture and language concepts. Students also expand their understanding of Deaf culture and history through discussion and study of ASL literature. Prerequisite: LAS354 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Chinese to meet every day needs. Students also develop an awareness of similarities and differences between their own and Chinese culture (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students continue to develop and strengthen listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Chinese. Stu-dents also develop an understanding of cultural heritage. Prerequisite: LCH304 or equivalent with teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students deepen and enhance listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Chinese. They also acquire appreciation of the cultural, artistic and intellectual accomplishments of Chinese-speaking countries/regions. Prerequisite: LCH354 or equivalent with teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students focus upon intensive development and use of grammar and vocabulary, develop fluency in oral communication, reading and writing, and exploration and research of aspects of Chinese culture, history and literature. Prerequisite: Successful completion of LCH654 or permission of teacher (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

UConn equivalent course CHIN 1114: Intermediate Chinese II (4 credits)

Students further develop language proficiencies in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Chinese while learning about the culture. Students use and study materials and participate in activities adapted from authentic sources to support linguistic and cultural goals. Prerequisite: LCH856 and/or permission of teacher (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

This course will explore how Classical/World myths address major concepts such as human origin, cultural truth values of a society, and the human need for storytelling. By critically reading ancient myths and contemporary versions of those myths, as well as by examining modern myths in media, students will appreciate the role of myth in societies and begin to understand the role of myth in our modern society (1/2 year, 1/2 credit) 9, 10, 11, 12.

Students attain proficiency to understand, speak, read, and write French at a college level and to develop and refine skills acquired over several years of study. Students focus upon mastery of language skills, rather than on the content of specific texts. Prerequisite: LFR855 (full year - 1 credit) 12.

\Students, in all grade levels with or without experience, develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in French to meet every day needs. Students also develop awareness of similarities and differences between their own and French culture (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students continue to develop and strengthen listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in French, and develop understanding of cultural heritage. Prerequisite: LFR304 or equivalent, or some native speaker background (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students deepen and enhance listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in French and acquire an appreciation of the cultural, artistic and intellectual accomplishments of French-speaking countries. Prerequisite: LFR354 or equivalent; not intended for students who have completed LFR655 with C- or above (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students who have successfully completed French 1 and have a teacher recommendation broaden and deepen listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in French at an accelerated pace to prepare to take more advanced language study and earn college credit. Students also deepen cultural understanding. Prerequisite: LFR304 and teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students deepen reading, writing, speaking, and especially listening skills in French by exploring culture, history, and everyday life through classic and modern cinema of France and other French-speaking cultures. Students study vocabulary and grammar as an inte-gral component of the course. Prerequisite: LFR654 or teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students develop fluency in oral communication by focusing upon intensive study of grammar and vocabulary, and by exploring and researching aspects of French culture, history and literature. Prerequisite: LFR655 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

In this beginning course designed for all grade levels with or without experience, students develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Italian to meet every day needs. Students also develop awareness of similarities and differences between their own and Italian culture (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students continue to develop and strengthen listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Italian, and develop an understanding of cultural heritage. Prerequisite: LIT304 (full year - 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students recommended by their teacher to advance into honors broaden and deepen listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Italian at an accelerated pace to prepare to take more advanced language study and earn college credit.  Students also deepen cultural understanding. Prerequisite: LIT304 or teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students start to build a foundation of Latin vocabulary to support them through higher levels. Students read Latin sentences and short stories, begin to use phrases and sentences and write in Latin. Students develop cultural understanding through readings and discussion. Students will develop novice-level language skills and learn about Ancient Roman culture. (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students build upon the skills and standards of Latin I by learning to interact in more complex situations, reading more complicated materials and writing more extended passages. Students increase their understanding of Ancient Roman culture through reading and discussion. Students continue to develop language skills and to acquire an understanding
of Latin. Prerequisite: LLA304 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students acquire the vocabulary and reading strate-gies to understand, analyze, interpret, and enjoy the language and literature of the late Roman Republic and early Empire. Prerequisite: LLA354 or equivalent (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students expand their lexical and reading skills to understand, analyze, interpret, and enjoy the literature of late Roman Republic and early Empire. Students complete outside readings in English and Latin to develop analytical skills and a background in literary criticism. Prerequisite: LLA655 or equivalent (full year – 1 credit) 12.

UConn equivalent course CAMS3102: Topics in Advanced Latin (3 credits)

Provides students with general information about spoken and written languages and introduces the relationship among the products, practices, and perspectives of the associated cultures. Prerequisite: Open to 9th graders to help decide which language to continue with. Open to 10th graders with a teacher recommendation. (full year – 1 credit) 9 & 10

Students develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Portuguese to meet everyday needs.  Students also develop awareness of similarities and differences between their own and Portuguese culture.  (full year - 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students deepen and enhance listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Portuguese and acquire an appreciation of the cultural, artistic and intellectual accomplishments of Portuguese-speaking countries. Prerequisite: LPO354 (full year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students prepare for AP Spanish Language by furthering their oral fluency and synthesizing their acquired skills and experiences in role play and interaction in Spanish. Students study grammar as appropriate. Prerequisite: LSP654, LSP655, LSL855 or equivalent; not intended for native speakers (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students attain proficiency to understand, speak, read, and write Spanish at a college level and to develop and refine skills acquired over several years of study. Students focus upon mastery of language skills, rather than on the content of specific texts. Fee: Cost of textbook. Prerequisite: LSC855, LSL855 or equivalent (full year – 1 credit) 12.

UConn equivalent course SPAN3178: Intermediate Spanish Composition (3 credits)

Students deepen comprehension and interpretive skills by studying poetry, music, essays, and short stories reflecting the culture and history of Spanish-speaking countries. Students develop writing style, refine gram-mar and extend vocabulary. Prerequisite: LSP461, LSP654, LSP655, LSC855 or teacher recommendation (full year –1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Spanish to meet every day needs. Students also develop awareness of similarities and differences between their own and Spanish culture (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students continue to develop and strengthen listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Spanish and develop understanding of cultural heritage. Prerequisite: LSP304 (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

This course is recommended for students who speak Spanish at home and/or who have lived in or attended school in a Spanish speaking country.  Students improve their literary and conversational skills while building a foundation for Advanced Placement Spanish in their senior year (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students, highly successful in Spanish in eighth grade or previously, take this more intensive, accelerated, advanced course to broaden and deepen their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills and their cultural understanding. Coursework focuses upon building proficiency in the spoken language, and students in this level prepare to take Advanced Placement in their senior year.  Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

In this second course of a two-year sequence, fluent native speakers of Spanish refine and further develop their reading, writing, and speaking skills with emphasis on spelling and grammatical structure. Prerequisite: LSP361 or teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students deepen and enhance listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Spanish and acquire an appreciation of the cultural, artistic and intellectual accomplishments of Spanish-speaking countries. Prerequisite: LSP354 or equivalent; not intended for students who have completed LSP655 with C- or above (full year - 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students in this accelerated course continue to deepen and broaden their listening, speaking, read-ing, and writing skills in Spanish and further develop their cultural understanding. Coursework focuses upon building proficiency in the spoken language, and students in this level prepare to take Advanced Placement in their senior year. Prerequisite: LSP375 or special teacher recommendation (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students deepen reading, writing, speaking, and especially listening skills in Spanish by exploring Spanish culture, history and literature. Students study vocab-ulary and grammar as an integral component of the course. Prerequisite: LSP654 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students in this class focus on the basics of ensemble playing including, scales, sight-reading, and basic band literature.

Open to all grade 9 students with at least one-year experience playing a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument (flute/piccolo, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone/euphonium, tuba, percussion). All first year members of the marching band are required to take concert band for 1 year.

Concert Band’s major required annual performances include the Winter, Spring, and Pops Concerts, and Spring Adjudication Festival. The class requires student participation in after-school dress rehearsals and in the concert performance (full year – 1 credit) grade 9 and all upper grade students with less than 2 years on their instrument.

Students, grades 10-12, with at least two-year’s experience on their instrument study a variety repertoire for percussion ensemble and technique of mallet instruments, snare drum, bass drum, timpani, and auxiliary percussion.

Percussion Ensemble’s required annual performances include Winter, Spring, and Pops Concerts, along with all Symphonic Band Concerts. The class requires student participation in after-school dress rehearsals and in the concert performance. Prereq-uisite: TAB341 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Note: Students who are new to percussion should register for Concert Band.

Students will audition for Honors during the regular audition time in May of the previous school year.  Students will be required to audition for festivals, participate in additional performances, and submit playing assessments of increased difficulty. Prerequisite: 1 year of TAB361 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students, grades 10-12, study a variety of band literature while furthering their technique on their brass or woodwind instruments (flute/piccolo, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone/euphonium, tuba). The class meets four times per week and includes both sectionals and full ensemble rehearsals.

Symphonic Band’s major required annual perfor-mances include the Winter, Spring, and Pops Concerts, Spring Adjudication Festival, and, Graduation Performance. The class requires student participation in after-school dress rehearsals and in the concert performance. Prerequisite: TAB341 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11, & 12.

Note: Percussion students, grades 10, 11 and 12, should register for Percussion Ensemble.

Students will audition for Honors during the regular audition time in May of the previous school year.  Students will be required to audition for festivals, participate in additional performances, and submit playing assessments of increased difficulty. Prerequisite: 1 year of TAB371 (full year – 1 credit) 11 & 12.

Students experience positive musical performance in a large mixed-choral ensemble that explores literature including selections from all periods, styles and cultures. Students develop individual and ensemble skills in vocal performance with an emphasis on part and sight-singing. Students attend all required rehearsals and performances. No audition required. Can be repeated (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students with no prior knowledge of piano learn the basic playing techniques and develop skills using scales, music theory and piano performance repertoire (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students refine piano technique through an in-depth study of standard piano repertoire and scales and recital performance. Prerequisite: TBP301 (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn, practice, and play a more advanced repertoire, and perform in recital. Prerequisite: TPB301 or audition (½ year – ½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students, in grades 9-12, learn the fundamentals of color guard technique, including body movement, spins, tosses, hand and foot placement, and choreography. Advanced students may learn rifle and sabre techniques. Students will learn an indoor Color Guard and compete in the spring on Saturdays throughout Connecticut as part of the USBand and MAC competition circuits. All equipment and costumes are provided for this class. Students are encouraged to purchase guard gloves and practice flags for home use (½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students sight-sing proficiently and adhere to the highest standard of musical excellence in this advanced singing course for four to eight-part mixed voices. Students attend all required rehearsals and performances. Prerequisite: Audition (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students will audition for Honors Chamber Choir. Students will be required to audition for various festivals, participate in additional performances, and submit singing assessments of increased difficulty. Prerequisite: TAC001 or TTC001 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Jazz ensemble is an audition-based group, open to students, grades 9-12, who play saxophone, trombone, piano, drum set, electric guitar, upright or electric bass, and trumpet. Students cover a variety of Jazz Literature including Swing, Latin, Big Band, Funk, and Blues. The ensemble meets one night per week after school.

Jazz Ensemble’s required annual events include two concerts in April and May, two to four competitive festivals outside of the school day, and Class Night.  Prerequisite: Audition (after school - ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Auditions take place in December and rehearsals start in January.

Students in grades 9-12 who play a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument (flute, piccolo, clarinet, saxo-phone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, percussion) or have been accepted in Colorguard or Drumline prepare and perform a competitive marching band show, including marching music and choreography. After completion of the show, the group competes weekly in the USBands New England circuit.  This class meets three days per week after school.

Marching Band’s major required annual events include all home football games (plus Thanksgiving every-other-year), Saturday competitions, Sept. through Nov., the Winter Concert, and parades in December and on Memorial Day. Marching Band students are required to participate in an eight-day band camp and a four-day overnight retreat in August. All members are required to have an updated sports physical on file with the NFA Medical Center before starting rehearsal. All first-year brass, woodwind, and percussion marchers are required to enroll in a full year of concert band. Prerequisite: Audition for Drumline or Color Guard (no audition for brass, woodwind, and percussion) (after-school – ½ year – ½ credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12 (grade 9 students may take concurrently with Concert Band; students grades 10-12 may take concurrently with Symphonic Band and/or Percussion Ensemble.

Drumline auditions take place in December for the winter percussion workshop, and in March for those accepted into the workshop program. Auditions for Color Guard take place in March

Students learn music notation, basic musical components (melody, harmony and rhythm), and aural skills. Students not currently enrolled in performing groups gain exposure to components of music theory as a subject area, and performing arts students gain additional music knowledge and awareness, and prepare for further instrument or voice study. Prerequisite: Experience in performing ensemble or instructor approval (1/2 year – 1/2 credit) 11 & 12.

Students, grades 9-12, who play or would like to play violin, viola, cell, upright bass, or piano, learn or improve their skills in this performance ensemble for mixed-level string musicians. Students participate in required after-school dress rehearsals and a free private lesson each week after school with a private string teacher. 

Orchestra’s major required annual performances include the Winter, Spring, and Pops Concerts, an outreach concert, and a spring Adjudication Festival. Students participate in required after-school dress rehearsals. and as inventory allows, instruments are provided for class use (full year – 1 credit) 9, 10, 11 & 12.

Students will audition for Honors during the regular audition time in May of the previous school year.  Students will be required to audition for festivals, partici-pate in additional performances, and submit playing assessments of increased difficulty. Prerequisite: 1 year of TOR361 (full year – 1 credit) 10, 11 & 12.

Students learn the basics of how to prepare for any type of vocal audition. Students create vocal demos for auditions, recording music they have written, build confidence singing in front of others, and participate in an end-of-semester performance (½ year –½ credit) 10, 11 & 12.