™
AP Capstone™ is an innovative diploma program from the College Board that equips students with the independent research, collaborative teamwork and communication skills that are increasingly valued by colleges. AP Capstone™ is built on the foundation of two AP courses — AP Seminar and AP Research — and is designed to complement and enhance the in-depth, discipline-specific study experienced in other AP courses. In AP Seminar, students investigate real-world issues from multiple perspectives, gathering and analyzing information from various sources in order to develop credible and valid evidence-based arguments. In AP Research, students cultivate the skills and discipline necessary to conduct independent research in order to produce and defend a scholarly academic paper. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research, as well as on four additional AP Exams of their choosing, will receive the AP Capstone Diploma™. Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research but not on four additional AP Exams will receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. AP Seminar may also be taken as a stand-alone option. Department approval is required. These courses are taken as open electives and do not fill a graduation requirement. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® SEMINAR - Year 1 of AP Capstone Program
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grades 10 and 11. Prerequisite: Deans Office permission.
AP® Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Students will explore issues of global diplomacy in the way it traditionally appears (government to government) as well as how it is evolving in the current age. Students will research, contemplate, discuss and write about such topics as individual and group self-determination, art as a tool of resistance, the development of the state of Israel and nuclear proliferation. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational literary and philosophical texts. They also listen to and view speeches, broadcasts and personal accounts; and they experience artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in research-based written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations – both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments.
AP® RESEARCH - Year 2 of AP Capstone Program
Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or 12. Prerequisite: AP Seminar with a score of 3 or higher and Deans Office permission. AP® Research allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, students design, plan and conduct a yearlong research-based investigation to address a research question. In previous years, students have chosen to research a gamut of topics such as finance, economics, sociology, politics, and the arts. In the AP Research course, students further develop the skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding research methodology; employing ethical research practices; and accessing, analyzing and synthesizing information as they address a research question. Students explore their skill development, document their processes and curate the artifacts of the development of their scholarly work in a portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of approximately 4,000–5,000 words (accompanied by a performance or exhibition of product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense. Students are encouraged to take this in conjunction with another AP course related to their topic.
ENGLISH
The WMA English Department offers a curriculum that merges the writings of the Western tradition with contemporary global literature. Students are encouraged to consider myriad themes and explore how they speak to today’s global concerns. The department adheres to culturally relevant pedagogies and student-centered learning strategies. Our goal is to create an experience whereby students see themselves reflected in the literature, as well as to offer them a diversity of voices to help build empathy and appreciation of other perspectives. A major aim of the program is to develop critical and creative thinkers who see beyond cultural stereotypes and biases. The English department encourages collaborative analyses through daily discussions and close readings of the texts. This Socratic approach fosters dialogue and debate, which in turn strengthens critical reading, thinking and verbal skills. Our program focuses intensely on writing and our progression offers students mastery of the tools needed to structure and write a compelling analytical and argumentative paper. The art of rhetoric is also introduced and public speaking is a component in each grade level course. An intensive focus on process writing ensures that students are well prepared for the rigors of college. Yearlong courses will culminate in a “Golden Thread” writing and synthesis project to foster creativity and deeper understanding of the literature and course essential questions. All courses are full year and worth three credits, unless otherwise indicated.
ENGLISH 9
• Level: Grade 9 and select international students. International students require approval of the ESOL/English departments. English 9 is designed to introduce students to the different genres of literature as well as the structural approach to the English classroom at the Academy. The course aims to promote and engender a love of reading, writing, and discussion; to give students a chance to explore their creative and analytical voices; and to form connections between ideas in literature and the world. Reading for class is presented as an active exercise, a conversation between reader and text with annotation required. The course revolves around the essential question: What does it mean to speak true in a constantly changing world? Assigned texts include Lord of the Flies, They Called Us Enemy, A Song Below Water and Romeo & Juliet. Through a combination of journal writing and process writing focused on literary analysis, students will work to refine their writing and analysis skills, form personal connections to the text and to any historical, sociological, or psychological references. In addition to analytical writing, students will also write a personal narrative, build argumentative and presentational skills and produce a group film project reimagining a scene from Romeo & Juliet. The year ends with the “Golden Thread Project,” a cumulative project that displays students’ ability to analyze the themes and topics covered throughout the year.
HONORS ENGLISH 9
• Level: Grade 9. Prerequisite: English teacher recommendation and department approval. This honors level course is designed for the student who has strong reading comprehension skills and excellent writing skills, including mastery of the five-paragraph essay. Students in this course are expected to complete all reading and writing assignments at an accelerated pace, have strong annotation skills and participate in class discussion daily. A love of reading and a deep appreciation for the elements of literature are essential. Grammar concepts will be reviewed and reinforced more within the context of the students’ own writing. The course revolves around the essential question: What does it mean to speak true in a constantly changing world? Assigned texts include The Lord of the Flies, Antigone, Frankenstein, Punching the Air and Romeo & Juliet, in addition to poetry, short stories and various other short texts. Students will also study a unit on rhetoric, which will align with the skill sets needed for Honors English 10 and AP Seminar. Students will be required to write critical essays after each unit, in addition to quizzes, tests and creative projects. Students will also participate in the Grade 9 winter film project to culminate their studies of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet
ENGLISH 10
• Level: Grade 10 and select international students. Prerequisite: Grade 9 English course or approval of the ESOL/English depts. The learning theme of English 10 is “othering in action,” focusing on how human beings create groups and justify mistreatments of others. The objective of the course is to provide a robust reading and writing experience whereby students analyze and consider texts connected to dystopia, group making and discrimination in society. Reading assignments include Night, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, Persepolis and The Color of Water. The course also includes a major research unit. Class discussions and writing assignments based on these texts are supplemented with grammar instruction. Students will also work to build solid critical reading skills and acquire the process of analytical writing through classroom discussion and regularly scheduled thesis-driven papers. Assessments include: daily class discussions, weekly reading checks, literary analysis assignments, a research paper and presentation for the “Golden Thread” final project.
HONORS ENGLISH 10
• Level: Grade 10 and select Grade 11 students. Prerequisite: Grade 9 English course and department permission. This honors level course is designed to prepare students for the rigors of AP Language & Composition in their junior year. Students are expected to complete reading and writing assignments at an accelerated pace and participate in class discussions on a deeper level. Students also read ancillary texts and create research projects in conjunction with several works studied to further their understanding of historical context and global perspectives. The learning theme of English 10 is “othering in action” and the course’s essential question is: How and why do humans discriminate against certain groups, and what impact does that have? The objective of the course is to provide a robust reading and writing experience whereby students analyze and consider texts exploring themes of alienation and othering in society. Reading assignments include Night, The Color of Water, Persepolis and Macbeth, in addition to a short story unit. Students build solid critical reading and analytical writing skills through classroom discussion, close reading activities, personal response writings and thesis-driven papers. Students are also given the opportunity to showcase their creative work with a Holocaust memorial project and narrative essay. The year culminates with a research paper and presentation for the “Golden Thread” final project.
AMERICAN LITERATURE
• Level: Grade 11, select Grade 12 students. Prerequisite: English 10 or approval of the ESOL/English departments. This American literature survey course introduces students to the best of the American writing tradition, including iconic works such as The Great Gatsby. These classics are often paired with contemporary works such as The Kite Runner, A Raisin in the Sun, Fences and March. Course reading also includes short stories, poetry and essays. Students engage in intensive reading of the literature and focus on developing their critical reading and writing ability. Students write several analytical essays and complete assignments in a variety of other forms: personal, creative, expository, argumentative and research. Process writing – brainstorming, outlining, drafting, revising, editing – of each major paper assignment is expected. The goal is to have students expand upon the five-paragraph essay format and develop a clear, economical and honest style in their prose. Instruction is given on elements of essay structure, syntax, grammar and MLA formatting. Teacher conferences are an important component of this writing program. Assessments include: four to six major writing assignments, as well as journals and process writing assignments; quizzes on the reading; and a final paper focusing on an essential question that covers the entire course. Daily class participation is expected, and participation is graded based on class preparation and engagement in class discussion.
CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE
• Level: Grade 12, PG. Prerequisite: Students will be enrolled based on teacher/department placement. The goal of this course is to offer students an environment with guided instruction for needed skillset review. A rich reading experience will help develop stronger comprehension, reading endurance and additional foundational strategies for improved academic performance. This course will reinforce literary analysis skills, and the instructor will scaffold approaches to offer students more practice with reading strategies. The instructor will also reinforce and review paragraph structure, syntax, grammar and thesis development, as well as how to craft an argument and structure it logically. Students will be guided through the process writing approach and produce, throughout the year, at least three five-paragraph literary analysis essays (one after each major literary unit). Students will also complete a writing unit in the fall focusing on personal memoir to enhance their college essay preparation. This course will expose students to contemporary texts to explore the essential question: In a global world today - with so many religions, societies, customs and cultures - is the human experience different or the same? All texts will be culturally relevant and center on contemporary themes to provide a “mirror” for students to see themselves within the characters, while also offering a “window” into other perspectives of humanity. Stories will introduce students to different settings and geographies, as well as myriad cultural identities of characters. This course is suitable for students needing extra review of English reading and writing foundational skills in order to prepare them for college.
AP® ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grades 11 and 12. Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
The goal of this course is to develop students’ writing and reading skills to a college level and prepare students for the Advanced Placement English Language & Composition exam in the spring. Students read and carefully analyze a broad and challenging range of nonfiction (and some fiction) prose selections. The major text for this course is The Bedford Reader, which will be supplemented with handouts. Students will also read American literary works such as The Great Gatsby, The Awakening and Between the World and Me, as well as Stephen King’s memoir On Writing: Memoir of the Craft. Writing is examined using the template of Aristotle’s definition of the rhetorical situation, as well as a SOAPSTONE approach. Writing assignments include literary analyses, memoir, creative writing, argumentative and synthesis essays, editorials, press releases and journals. Students keep a journal consisting of informal, unpolished responses to the assigned readings and write in class each week, including timed impromptu essays. Individual and group exercises focus on discovery, organization, thesis development and argument development. Teacher conferences are not scheduled but highly encouraged. The third trimester will also include a unit on the personal essay in preparation for the Common Application personal essay students will have to write senior year. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 12 or PG. Prerequisite: Departmental permission. The goal of this course is to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Literature & Composition exam. Students will be immersed in significant texts from the British and American traditions. Through close-reading techniques and critical writing assignments, students will learn how to analyze literature at a complex level and contemplate the author ’s intention. Students will learn about dominant social narratives – particularly in regards to gender, race and culture – and explore the essential course question of how literature can help shape, mold or redefine such narratives. Students will also identify the power of literature to shape the world while reflecting on the historical and social values of such works. Classics of the Western Canon are paired with contemporary global voices in order to spark dialogue and explore the intersection of the traditional and the new. Students will consider how themes of identity and gender in Jane Eyre compare with Junot Diaz’s The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao; or how the complications of race and bigotry in Othello compare to Toni Morrison’s Beloved. Other works assigned include various short stories and an extensive poetry unit that covers Shakespeare’s sonnets and the Romantics. Students will engage in major literary analysis and critical writing assignments — both long format and short essays — and are required to conference with the teacher frequently. A literary research paper will also be completed. Online class discussion board postings and various creative writing exercises will also be assigned to generate a deeper appreciation of literature and literary elements. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
ENGLISH 12 Trimester Elective Courses
These trimester courses are for Seniors and Postgraduates not enrolled in a full-year English course. Students are required to take one elective each trimester to equate to a full-year course. There are no prerequisites. Each course earns one credit.
RESEARCH & WRITING
• Level: Grade 12, PG and select underclassmen.
This course is designed to help students acquire the skills necessary to produce a 15- to 20-page research paper accompanied by an annotated bibliography while learning the spirit of inquiry and curiosity, and following the research process from idea to finished essay. Students will be expected to choose a topic of global importance; research their topic; evaluate materials; and communicate abstract ideas clearly and successfully. Related assignments are designed to build research and writing skills. Independent work and initiative are expected. The faculty role is to provide guidance and hands-on instruction for each step of the research and writing process. Students will be assessed throughout the process.
GLOBAL LITERATURE
• Level: Grade 12, PG and select underclassmen. This course is designed to provide students with insight into global issues by exposing them to a number of literary voices. Through the lens of literature, the course will help students learn about physical, political and human geographies. Protagonists from different countries and cultures provide us with a way of connecting with people whose motivations may be very different from our
own, providing a window into other cultures and backgrounds. The course will also investigate different cultures along with the choices and consequences of emigration and the continuing impacts of colonialism. Texts include: Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake and Ins Choi’s Kim’s Convenience, as well as assorted essays, poems and short stories. Through intensive reading, analysis and discussion of these texts, the class will investigate various universal themes and their historical context. These will include migration, displacement, human rights challenges, cultural identity and assimilation. In addition to reading tests and quizzes, course assessments include several literary analysis essays and short research projects.
CREATIVE WRITING
• Level: Grade 12, PG and select underclassmen.
Creative Writing offers an opportunity to strengthen the engagement students share with literature, writing and the self. Students will study and generate writing in the genres of memoir, fiction and poetry. The course curriculum centers around a theme of identity, defining equality and defining new spaces and ways to belong. Writers such as Eileen Chang, Arturo Bolano, Bashō and Shakespeare among others offer rich examples of engagement with storytelling, identity, challenging societal norms and themes of becoming. In addition to rigorous explorations of literature spanning multiple genres and cultures, students will also establish their own creative practice. They will produce a full-length collection of short stories, poetry and self-analysis reflecting upon their creative choices, research process and influences from the readings studied. The final project will have each student demonstrate their ability to complete a polished written work in their genre of choice from start to finish independently. By the end of the course, students will gain confidence in their sense of voice, perspective and engagement with identity in relation to the world.
WOMEN’S LITERATURE AND GENDER STUDIES
• Level: Grade 12, postgraduate or select underclassmen.
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of women’s literature and gender studies, inviting high school seniors to delve into the complexities of identity, power dynamics and representation through the lens of literature, poetry and critical discourse. With a strong emphasis on literary analysis and writing, students will engage with seminal texts, contemporary works and scholarly discussions to deepen their understanding of gender issues and feminist thought. Throughout the course, students will critically examine the ways in which literature reflects, shapes, and challenges societal norms and expectations surrounding gender roles and identities. By analyzing themes, characters and narrative techniques, students will gain insight into the diverse experiences of women and explore the intersections of gender with race, class, sexuality, and other facets of identity. Students will read Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower in addition to various short stories, poetry, articles, essays and excerpts from bell hook’s Feminism is for Everybody, Audre Lorde’s Sister Outsider, and a study of the documentary “Miss Representation.”
AFRICAN AMERICAN LITERATURE
• Level: Grade 12, PG or select underclassmen.
This course will offer a survey of African American literature from the 18th century to the present. Emphasis will be given to three major periods in African American literary production: the antebellum era, the Harlem Renaissance and the post-soul movement. Throughout the course, students will examine the ways that African American authors and texts respond to major political and cultural movements. Additionally, they will consider the implications these texts pose for African American equity, justice and inclusion on a national scale. Students will read Harriet Jacobs’s Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl and Nella Larsen’s Passing as well as a variety of poetry and short stories.
ASIAN LITERATURE: East Asia
• Level: Grade 12, PG or select underclassmen.
This course invites students to explore how societies and individuals balance cultural traditions with modernity and societal change. Through the study of classical and contemporary works from China, Korea, and Japan, students will examine cultural identity, historical influence, and the relationship between tradition and progress. Some of these texts include Forgotten Country by Catherine Chung, The Tao Te Ching by Lao Tze, various poems by Matsuo Basho, and the film Spirited Away by Hayao Miyazaki. Throughout the course, students will build cultural understanding and awareness alongside analytical writing and critical thinking skills. The course will conclude with a creative synthesis project, showcasing learning from the trimester and responding to the essential question: How do societies and individuals balance cultural traditions with modernity and societal change?
ASIAN LITERATURE: Southeast Asia
• Level: Grade 12, PG or select underclassmen.
This course invites students to explore how literature reflects the negotiation of identity, history and societal transformation in post-colonial societies. Through the study of works from Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore and other nations, students will examine cultural resilience, colonial and post-colonial influence, and the search for identity in a changing world. Core texts include Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay, selected works by Viet Thanh Nguyen and Ocean Vuong, and the film Crazy Rich Asians. Throughout the course, students will engage in critical analysis, literary synthesis and creative projects, honing skills in college-level writing and discussion. The trimester will culminate in a synthesis project, inviting students to connect the themes and texts studied to respond to the essential question: How does literature express the negotiation of identity and trauma in post- colonial societies?
ASIAN LITERATURE: South and Central Asia
• Level: Grade 12, PG or select underclassmen.
Students in this course are invited to explore how literature reflects cultural identity, responds to conflict and fosters connections between diverse cultures and nations. Through the study of works from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia, students will examine themes of faith, conflict, resilience and reconciliation in a region shaped by rich traditions and historical complexities. Core texts include The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy, short stories by Central Asian authors such as Hamid Ismailov, and selected works by Khaled Hosseini, Mahatma Gandhi and Malala Yousafzai. Throughout the course, students will engage in close reading, critical analysis and literary synthesis while building college-level writing and discussion skills. The trimester will culminate in a synthesis project, allowing students to connect the themes and texts studied in response to the essential question: In what ways does literature reflect cultural identity, respond to conflict and build bridges between cultures and nations?
ADDITIONAL ENGLISH DEPARTMENT COURSES
These courses do not meet the graduation requirement for English. They are elective courses.
JOURNALISM (1 credit) Full year, evenings
• Level: Open to all grade levels with Journalism Faculty permission
This course meets Tuesday evenings to create Wilbraham & Monson Academy’s student newspaper, Atlas. Students learn basic journalistic skills: interviewing, headline writing, news reporting and writing a news or feature article. One class each month serves as an editorial board meeting to determine the content of the upcoming issue and make assignments. A second class each month will focus on production of the current issue of the newspaper. The goal of this course is to produce a quality school newspaper while learning to write grammatically correct and stylistically solid editorial copy for news, editorial, feature and sports articles.
NOVEL WRITING SEMINAR
(2 credits) Two-term
• Level: Open to grade 10 and above
Prerequisite: Instructor review of 500- to 1,000-word creative writing submission; Dean of Studies/Dept. Chair approval. In this two-trimester course (T2 and T3), students will take their first leap toward becoming the next Mark Twain, J.K. Rowling, Ernest Hemingway or Agatha Christie as they work toward publishing their first novel. Students will meet twice a week in a classroom setting. The first four weeks will be spent working on the foundation of building a story: storyline, character building and point of view, as well as weekly assignments to enhance the writer’s creative spirit and grammar skills. Students will then begin writing their novels, with assigned weekly word counts methodically advancing the writers toward their goal. The first drafts, which will include roughly 25,000 words, will be completed by late April. The novels will be refined in early May and printed before the end of school. *Small class fee for publication may be incurred.
WRITING WORKSHOP
(2 credits) Two-term - This class is required, if recommended
• Level: Intermediate; assists students in need of additional writing skill development.
Prerequisite: English/ESOL department recommendation. Through a collaborative environment, students learn the skills necessary to develop an effective planning, writing and revision process. Ongoing revision of a digital writing portfolio allows students to develop and apply an array of writing techniques to a variety of writing forms; increase organization; and learn to use more sophisticated expression, word choice and advanced grammatical structures. This course focuses on the student’s individual writing needs and is offered in addition to a student’s required English class.
ESOL – English for Speakers of Other Languages
The goal of the ESOL program is to assist English language learners to increase their fluency, comprehension, and confidence in English, so they can use it comfortably and effectively in both academic and social situations. The program provides a balanced curriculum in the four essential domains of language mastery: reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as in grammar and vocabulary. Students work to acquire the academic skills needed for the increased level of difficulty and quantity of reading and writing that is expected of them in traditional English classes. Based on application materials and the results of the English placement tests taken by international students when they arrive on campus, students are placed either in traditional English classes or in one of two leveled ESOL programs. Those students who take ESOL also take U.S. History for ESOL Students. Students placed in traditional English classes may also be recommended for Writing Workshop, based on their demonstrated writing ability. Placement is by ESOL and English department recommendation.
ADVANCED ESOL PROGRAM
This two-class program for all grade levels provides a transition to either Superior ESOL or traditional English classes. Students in Advanced ESOL will take both a Language and a Literature class, as described below
Advanced ESOL: Language and Structure
Through explicit reading and writing practice, students will develop academic language skills, critical thinking and learning strategies; a foundation of grammatical structure; comfortable oral fluency; and an active vocabulary to support their academic success. The course uses authentic content from National Geographic including articles, videos, audio files, charts and other infographics to prepare students to work effectively and confidently in a variety of academic environments. Throughout this course, students will conduct critical reading of nonfiction; complete exercises in grammar which are reinforced in sentence and multi-paragraph writing, journal entries, and creative nonfiction; perform daily conversational speaking and formal public speaking presentations; and carry out authentic listening activities. Text used: Pathways: Reading, Writing and Critical Thinking 2, level 2 or 3, 2nd edition.
SUPERIOR ESOL PROGRAM
Advanced ESOL: Literature and Analysis
The purpose of this class is to allow English language learners the opportunity to develop and strengthen their critical comprehension of literature through the study of short stories, novels and poetry at an appropriate level and pace. They write personal responses and creative pieces, as well as build the skills needed to write a literary analysis essay. Students participate in a variety of speaking and listening activities including whole class discussions, group work and formal oral presentations. Vocabulary is developed through the literature studied and includes a foundation of literary terms used in both discussion and writing. Students improve basic and advanced grammar through their writing in this course. Texts include a selection of short stories, short films, novels and a variety of poetry. These may include, but are not limited to, Before the Ever After by Jacqueline Woodson, Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson and They Called Us Enemy by George Takei.
This two-class program for all grade levels provides a transition between ESOL and traditional English classes. These higher level ESOL classes provide an increase in the quantity of reading and writing, as well as raise the level of difficulty of reading and expectations for writing from the Advanced ESOL level program.
Superior ESOL: Language and Structure
Through explicit reading and writing practice, students will continue to develop and expand their academic language and critical thinking skills at an appropriately challenging level. Using authentic and relevant content from National Geographic including articles, videos, audios, charts and infographics, students are prepared to work effectively and confidently in a variety of academic environments. Key units will focus on solidifying paragraph and essay structure as well as expanding writing skills to include research strategies, advanced grammar, increased oral fluency and more sophisticated academic vocabulary. Practice is provided through the use of textbooks and online workbook exercises. Students will engage in conversational and formal public speaking throughout the course including formal multimedia presentations. Text used: Pathways: Reading, Writing and Critical Thinking 2, level 3 or 4.
Superior ESOL: Literature and Analysis
Through the study of American short stories, novels, poetry and film, students will solidify and expand critical reading comprehension, academic and creative writing skills, listening and speaking skills needed for discussion-based classrooms; and further develop an active vocabulary of everyday words, as well as acquire an advanced vocabulary of literary terms. Students will participate in a variety of speaking and listening activities including short story skits, whole class discussion, group/pair work and formal oral presentations. Writing assignments include personal responses, descriptive, comparative and creative pieces, and literary analysis essays. Students improve advanced grammar through their writing in this course. Texts may include but are not limited to short stories from Discovering Fiction 2, The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds, and Speak by Laurie Halse-Anderson.
MATHEMATICS
In a college preparatory boarding school, the math department must maintain a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that not only prepares students for collegiate-level mathematics but also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation while supporting an appreciation for mathematics. Tailored instruction ensures that students at varying levels of proficiency are supported and challenged, while the meaningful integration of modern technology equips them for success in an increasingly complex, digital world. Professional development for teachers maintains a high level of instruction, ensuring a cohesive and effective educational experience that aligns with the school’s overarching mission to cultivate academic and personal excellence.
ALGEBRA I
• Level: Introductory. Prerequisite: Passing grade in 8th grade Math or Pre-Algebra
This course aims to acquaint students with abstract Algebra-based mathematics, laying a robust groundwork for subsequent studies. It encompasses the exploration of multi-step equations and inequalities, alongside the graphical representation of linear equations and inequalities, including absolute-value functions. Additionally, students will delve into exponent properties, exponential functions and receive an introductory overview of quadratic equations. Throughout, learners cultivate foundational algebraic skills, positioning them for success in Geometry and beyond.
HONORS ALGEBRA I
• Level: Accelerated Introductory. Prerequisite: Overall grade of 83% in Honors class or 95% in regular class; teacher recommendation.
This course endeavors to familiarize students with abstract Algebra-based mathematics, establishing a sturdy foundation for future academic pursuits in a more accelerated format when compared to Algebra I. Students will delve into the intricacies of solving multistep equations and inequalities, as well as graphing linear equations and inequalities, including absolute-value functions and radicals. Additionally, the curriculum includes the exploration of exponent properties, exponential functions, introductory quadratic equations and other topics as time allows. Throughout the course, students will cultivate essential algebraic skills essential for success in Geometry and beyond.
GEOMETRY
• Level: Introductory. Prerequisite: Algebra I or Honors Algebra I
This course serves as an introductory exploration of Euclidean geometry, encompassing fundamental concepts and applications. Topics include standard angle measurement, proofs, congruence and similarity in both two- and three-dimensional contexts, as well as the calculation of area, volume and other geometric properties. We will also look at transformations and their real-world applications. Throughout the curriculum, students cultivate geometric reasoning skills while reinforcing algebraic foundations, equipping them for success in subsequent studies in Algebra II.
HONORS GEOMETRY
• Level: Accelerated Introductory. Prerequisite: Overall grade of 83% in Honors class or 95% in regular class; teacher recommendation.
This accelerated course offers an in-depth introduction to Euclidean geometry, delving into advanced concepts and multi-layered problem-solving scenarios. Students explore fundamental elements such as measurement, proof development, congruence and similarity in both two- and three-dimensional contexts, alongside the calculation of area, volume and other geometric properties. We will also look at transformations and their real-world applications. Throughout the curriculum, emphasis is placed on developing robust geometric reasoning skills while reinforcing algebraic foundations, preparing students for the challenges of subsequent studies in Algebra II.
ALGEBRA II
• Level: Intermediate. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry
This Algebra II course provides an exploration of advanced algebraic concepts. Students explore functions, polynomials, logarithms, exponentials, rationals, quadratics and linear problem types, all analyzed in graphical, expression and function formats. Through systematic instruction and problem-solving exercises, students enhance their proficiency in algebraic reasoning, sharpening analytical skills crucial for success in higher-level mathematics.
HONORS ALGEBRA II
• Level: Accelerated Intermediate. Prerequisite: Overall grade of 83% in Honors Algebra I and Honors Geometry classes or 95% in College Prep Algebra I and Geometry classes; teacher recommendation.
This accelerated Algebra II course presents an examination of advanced algebraic concepts. Students engage with functions, polynomials, logarithms, exponentials, rationals, quadratics and linear problem types, all expressed in graphical, expression and function formats. The curriculum extends to include statistical concepts and additional topics will be explored as time permits. Through
structured instruction and problem-solving tasks, students not only enhance their proficiency in algebraic reasoning but also develop analytical skills crucial for success in higher-level mathematics.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY MATH - This course is not approved for NCAA credit.
• Level: Intermediate. Prerequisite: A passing grade in Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry; teacher recommendation. This course provides a broad overview of mathematical concepts and their real-world applications, emphasizing problem-solving, logical reasoning, and quantitative literacy. Designed for students seeking a practical and engaging approach to mathematics, the course covers topics such as logic and set theory, probability and statistics, financial mathematics, mathematical modeling, and voting and apportionment methods. Students will develop critical thinking skills and learn how mathematics applies to everyday life, decision-making and various professional fields. The course integrates technology where appropriate, encourages collaborative learning and emphasizes clear communication of mathematical ideas.
PRECALCULUS
• Level: Advanced. Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry
This Precalculus course, designed to prepare students to take a Calculus course the following year, offers students an in-depth exploration of essential Calculus prerequisite concepts. Throughout the curriculum, students engage with a diverse array of topics including functions, and trigonometric functions and identities. Through systematic instruction and guided practice, students develop a comprehensive understanding of these foundational areas, honing their mathematical reasoning and analytical skills. Emphasis is placed on applications that help in preparing for Calculus and on mathematical problem-solving, ensuring students are well- prepared for the challenges of higher-level mathematics and future academic pursuits. With a focus on depth of understanding and mastery of key concepts, this course provides students with a solid foundation for continued success in mathematics.
HONORS PRECALCULUS
• Level: Accelerated advanced. Prerequisite: Overall grade of 83% in Honors class or 95% in regular class; teacher recommendation. This accelerated Precalculus course, designed to prepare students for the rigor of AP Calculus the following year, offers an intensive exploration of essential Calculus prerequisite concepts. Throughout the curriculum, students engage with a diverse array of topics including functions, polars, conic sections, trigonometric functions and identities, and the definition of the derivative. Supplementary topics such as matrices or statistics may also be included, time permitting. Through systematic instruction and guided practice, students develop a comprehensive understanding of these foundational areas, honing their mathematical reasoning and analytical skills in preparation for the challenges of AP Calculus and beyond. With a focus on meaningful applications and mathematical problem-solving, this course equips students with the necessary tools for success in higher-level mathematics and future academic pursuits.
STATISTICS & PROBABILITY
• Level: Intermediate, Grade 12 and postgraduate. Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry
This introduction to statistics course offers a dynamic and engaging exploration of practical statistical concepts and probability theory. Students delve into a wide range of real-world applications, spanning diverse fields such as the environment, healthcare, human rights, criminal justice and sports. Through hands-on activities and interactive discussions, students develop the skills to craft compelling oral and written statistical arguments using appropriate terminology. Moreover, students gain proficiency in leveraging technology to enhance their problem-solving capabilities and analyze statistical data effectively.
AP® STATISTICS
• Level: Advanced Placement.
Prerequisite: Overall grade of 83% in Honors/AP class or 95% in regular class; teacher recommendation. AP Statistics is the high school equivalent of a college statistics course and will prepare students for the AP test. Students develop strategies for collecting, organizing, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Students design, administer and record results from surveys and experiments. Probability and simulations aid students in constructing models for chance behavior. Sampling distributions provide the logical structure for confidence intervals and significance tests. Students use a graphing calculator and online applets to investigate statistical concepts. Use of statistical software is demonstrated and examples of output from statistical software are provided. Students are required to prepare written and oral analyses of real data. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
CALCULUS: Calculus with Applications
• Level: Advanced, Grade 11 or above. Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and Precalculus; teacher recommendation. This course offers an introductory exploration of the principles of differentiation and integration, illuminating their profound connections to the realms of physics, engineering and finance. Through a combination of graphical, numerical and algebraic analyses, students engage deeply with the core concepts of calculus. By integrating technology-enhanced learning alongside traditional methods, students cultivate foundational calculus skills that empower them to navigate complex mathematical challenges and real-world applications with confidence and precision.
AP® CALCULUS AB
• Level: Advanced Placement. Prerequisite: Overall grade of 83% in Honors class or 95% in regular class; teacher recommendation. This college-level course is intended for students who wish to develop a strong base understanding of the concepts of calculus. Topics include limits, calculating derivatives and integrals (polynomial, rational, logarithmic, trigonometric, exponential and inverse trigonometric functions), maxima and minima, slope fields and volumes of solids. Students will prepare for the AP Calculus AB exam in May, which is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® CALCULUS BC
• Level: Advanced Placement. Prerequisite: AP Calculus AB, or a 98% or higher in Honors Precalculus; teacher recommendation. This college-level course builds on topics learned in Calculus I. This course goes beyond the curriculum for AP Calculus BC in depth and breadth. Topics include integration by parts; partial fractions; integration by trigonometric substitutions; Euler’s Method; Newton’s Method; logistics growth; sequence; Maclaurin and Taylor Series; and parametric, polar and vector functions. Students will prepare for the AP Calculus BC exam. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
MULTIVARIABLE CALCULUS & DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
On Campus or Online depending on interest. When it is taught online a Course Fee Applies.
• Level: Post-Advanced Placement. Prerequisite: AP Calculus BC; 83% overall grade with 85% in homework; teacher recommendation.
This college-level course delves into the intricacies of multivariable calculus and differential equations, offering students a first understanding of advanced mathematical concepts. Through theoretical study and practical application, students explore topics such as vector calculus, partial derivatives, gradients, line integrals, and solutions to ordinary and partial differential equations. Emphasizing analytical reasoning and computational techniques, students engage in hands-on problem-solving exercises and real-world applications, preparing them for complex mathematical challenges in diverse fields. With a focus on developing critical thinking skills and mathematical fluency, this course equips students with the tools needed to excel in higher-level mathematics and make impactful contributions to scientific and engineering disciplines.
LINEAR ALGEBRA
On Campus or Online depending on interest. When it is taught online a Course Fee applies.
• Level: Post-Advanced Placement. Prerequisite: AP Calculus AB; 83% overall grade with 85% in homework; teacher recommendation. Can be taken as a second math course at the same time that a student is taking AP Calculus AB or higher with teacher and department chair recommendation.
Through a wide variety of practical problems, conceptual questions, and visualizations, students learn how to think about vectors, the spaces in which vectors live, and linear mappings between those spaces. They develop powerful new ways of thinking mathematically and apply their new skills to solve a wide variety of problems from other fields, including computer graphics, economics and population biology. This year-long course covers a typical one-semester college linear algebra curriculum, including matrix algebra, vector spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and applications to differential equations. Linear algebra is a required and very useful subject in college for many science and engineering majors, and it can be studied either before or after multivariable calculus. Please visit the One Schoolhouse website for complete information. Students enrolling in online courses will need to adhere to the One Schoolhouse academic schedule. Work will be expected during WMA vacation periods. Failure to do so could result in course failure.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
The Science & Technology Department at WMA helps students learn to objectively and systematically analyze the world around them using empirically derived knowledge. It is our job to help students learn the tools for making observations and studying the world, as well as guide them to an understanding of current scientific theories; and then apply that knowledge through engineering practices. We emphasize engendering curiosity, development of core skills and the use of the iterative nature of science and engineering in solving problems. We strive to impart a clear understanding of the continuum of scientific disciplines and technological applications. Our curriculum centers on common themes of energy transformation and material limitations. We prepare students for a life of continuing education and responsible citizenship through objective critical thinking and the responsible application of knowledge.
STEM 9: Physics with a Global Perspective
Level: Introductory, Grade 9
This conceptual physics course is designed to provide all students with the foundations for success in any of the sciences. To develop analytical reasoning and critical thinking skills demanded of 21st century learners, this course will exploit project and problem-based learning. Learning will combine independent study and group collaborative efforts to strengthen information processing, problem solving ability and the skills of good science practice. Physics concepts will always thread back to the unifying topic of energy. Many units within the course will examine global and international issues related to the science content in order to better understand that the
Nature of Science is very much a social endeavor. Students will incorporate communication-of-science skills through research, technical writing and presentation components, as well as deeper reading and guided independent study.
STEM 9: Physics (Advanced)
• Level: Advanced Introductory, Grade 9. Prerequisite: Departmental permission, recommendation from prior course instructor in math and science.
This conceptual physics course offers select students the foundation for success in any of the sciences while exposing them to greater challenges and quicker development in areas of science, offering the opportunity for rigorous science progression at WMA. Students will be able to explain and communicate what constitutes the study of physics using details and examples with emphasis on energy transfer, while demonstrating a more detailed and quantitative understanding of the principles. Adapting the Engineering Design Process to investigate and solve problems, students will be able to develop evidence-based explanations for empirically observed phenomena that relate to real world problems and each will produce an independent research project to be completed by the end of the year. Students will become grade-level competent in NexGen scientific practices by learning how to make objective observations, research a question, formulate hypotheses, design experiments, master basic and advanced techniques of measurement and use them in calculations, analyze results, draw conclusions and communicate their work. By melding a skills-based approach to science with fundamental content, students will develop and enhance those strategies that will be the basis for all future science courses. This course may be considered as a selection course for an accelerated curriculum in the other core disciplines of biology and chemistry.
CHEMISTRY
• Level: Introductory, Grades 10 and 11
This course is an overview of the chemical nature of matter. Students will study the composition, structure, properties and reactions of atoms and molecules. This inquiry-based course leads students to develop analytical, critical reasoning skills that extend beyond the chemistry discipline. They will acquire the skills and knowledge inherent to chemistry in order to understand other branches of science more deeply.
HONORS CHEMISTRY
• Level: Accelerated introductory, Grades 10 and 11.
Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 90% in STEM 9 with a final exam or project grade of 80% or better; enrolled in Algebra 2 or higher; departmental permission (chair or designated teachers.)
This course is an in-depth introduction to matter and the ways its behavior is expressed and analyzed, providing a basis for understanding the physical nature of matter and building skills that help students learn through evidence-based reasoning. It is intended as a preliminary course to progression to AP Chemistry, with a more rigorous understanding of core principles and more math intensive analysis. Through lecture, discussion and hands-on experimentation, students gain an overview of the chemical nature of matter and develop analytical, critical reasoning skills that are necessary for a more in-depth and broader study of chemistry.
BIOLOGY
• Level: Introductory, Grade 11. Prerequisite: passing grade in a Chemistry course
This course is an overview of the fundamental principles of living organisms, their processes and how they interact with the environment. It includes the study of cell structure and function, genetics and heredity, evolution and classification, the diversity of living organisms and their ecological roles. Students will develop scientific process skills in observation, measurement, data collection and analysis, learning and understanding concepts through a combination of lecture, demonstration, discussion and laboratory experimentation.
HONORS BIOLOGY
• Level: Accelerated introductory, Grade 11. Prerequisite: Minimum final grade of 93% in Chemistry with final exam grade of 87% or better; OR minimum final grade of 87% in Honors Chemistry with a final exam grade of 80% or better; departmental permission (chair or designated instructor.)
This fast-paced course uses lectures, demonstrations and laboratory experimentation to study how living organisms function and interact in the natural world. Major topics include energy systems, genetics, evolution and ecological principles, and a heavy emphasis on cell structure and function. The course is focused on the unifying themes of biology: diversity, adaptation and the struggle for survival. Students should have a command of chemical principles prior to enrollment, and understand chemical bonding, solubility rules, polyatomic ions, chemical equilibrium, and water chemistry. Students use a variety of laboratory tools and models to study living and prepared specimens and models, learn basic techniques such as microscopy and molecular biology techniques and design. The course has a heavy emphasis on practicing the skills common to all science disciplines. Upon completion of the course, students should comprehend the integral components of carbon compounds, cell structure and function, cell transport, cellular energy and cell division while learning the importance of these elements working together to sustain each individual organism in its environment and thus life on Earth.
HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY*
• Level: Introductory, Grade 11 or above.
Prerequisite: Minimum of 73% in both a biology and a chemistry course. Most often, this is taken in 12th grade. This course studies the structure and function of the human body and the mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. The course introduces students to the study of all the body systems and the interrelationship between anatomy and physiology. Topics covered include: orientation to the human body; tissues; integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.
*Not a lab-based course; does not fulfill the science requirement for graduation.
PHYSICS FOR ENGINEERING
• Level: Introductory, Grade 11 and above. Prerequisite: Algebra II
This problem-based course is an introduction to the intersection of engineering design and physics. It is meant for students who want to explore engineering but might not be ready for a more theoretical or calculus-based study of physics, which will be required in advanced engineering courses. Students are exposed to authentic applications associated with various branches of engineering (Mechanical and Structural). Through short and long-term collaborative student-centered investigations, all students develop a solid understanding of fundamental physics principles and demonstrate the engineering design process.
HONORS ADVANCED PHYSICS
• Level: Intermediate, suggested Grade 11 and above; Grade 10 with special permission.
Prerequisite: Algebra II (students should be in Precalculus concurrently). Students must score 90% or better on the final for the previous year math class; departmental permission required.
This honors level course is for students looking to develop an in-depth understanding of fundamental principles of physics. Concept development uses algebra-based mathematical problem solving for an in-depth study of mechanical dynamics and Newtonian Physics. Topics include: particle motion in one dimension and two dimensions, forces, simple harmonic motion, momentum, impulse, work, energy and rotational motion. Students learn through a combination of homework, in-class problem solving, demonstration, discussion, laboratory experimentation and quantitative data analysis.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
• Level: Introductory, Grade 11 or above. Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry and STEM 9 or an equivalent physics course. This course is an introduction to environmental science - the study of how humans affect the environment and the organisms living in it. Major topics include ecology, ecosystem dynamics, energy resources, climate change, waste management and human health issues. Students explore the scientific, political, economic and cultural issues that affect environmental policies and practices through class discussion, lectures, hands-on laboratory experiments and outdoor fieldwork. Students gain insight into our evolving role/impact on the environment and better understand the nature and processes of our world through experimentation, observation, data collection and analysis.
AP® BIOLOGY
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above
Prerequisite: A full year chemistry course with a grade of 85% or better; Minimum grade of 93% in Biology with exam grade of 90% or better OR minimum grade of 87% in Honors Biology with exam grade of 80%; department permission for newly matriculating students. The speed with which scientific knowledge is expanding has made it necessary to shift from a “content coverage” approach to an approach that is inquiry-based learning of essential themes and patterns that pervade all content. This shift to inquiry-based learning helps students develop the reasoning skills necessary to engage in more advanced science practices used throughout the study of AP Biology. The four essential concepts in the course are information storage and expression, energetics, systems integration and evolution. The course is taught with an expectation of a pre-existing complete but basic understanding of biological principles such as cell structure, biomolecules, genetic expression and evolution as well as certain minimal chemical lab skills. At WMA, this is provided in either Biology or Honors Biology. Students will learn more detail of the systems studied and will develop skills, such as designing a plan for collecting and analyzing data; applying mathematical models; and connecting concepts within and across domains. This course is designed to be compliant with The College Board AP®® curriculum. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® CHEMISTRY
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above. Prerequisite: Final grade of 93% or better in Chemistry with 90% on final exam; or 87% or better in Honors Chemistry with 80% or better on final exam; departmental permission. This college level, lab-based course continues in-depth study of the basic concepts of chemistry with emphasis on the application of math skills, including algebra and statistics, as important tools of scientific inquiry. The curriculum is based on and extends the material covered in Honors Chemistry. Students deepen skills and content knowledge through lecture, discussion, hands-on experimentation and investigation. Extensive independent work is expected with intense focus both inside and outside of the classroom. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above
Prerequisite: Completed courses in biology and chemistry. Additionally, a final grade of 87% or better with exam grade of 83% or better in most recent course of Honors Chemistry, Honors Biology and/or a physics class; OR final grade of 90% or better and exam grade of 87% or better in most recent course of Biology, Chemistry and/or physics at the regular level; departmental permission. This college level, lab-based course is an in-depth investigation of how humans have impacted the environment. Topics include diminishing biodiversity, freshwater shortages, global warming, fossil fuel depletion and long-range import of air pollutants. Students gain insight into our evolving role and impact on the environment, and better understand the nature and processes of our world through experimentation, observation, data collection and analysis. The course primarily utilizes outdoor labs and fieldwork, including investigations of soils, water, terrestrial ecosystems and population biology with a focus on possible solutions for a sustainable future. In addition, students will participate in class discussion, lectures and hands-on laboratory experiments. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® PHYSICS C: MECHANICS
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above
Prerequisite: Completed AP Calculus AB or above. AP Calculus AB may be taken concurrent with instructor permission. This course is equivalent to Physics 1, Introduction to Mechanics in college. It is a calculus-based approach where techniques in mathematics are applied to physics concepts and problem solving. Topics in the course are outlined in the AP Physics course description online as required by the College Board®. Students will improve skills in applying calculus-based mathematics to fundamental concepts learned in Newtonian Mechanics including forces, energy, momentum, angular systems and simple harmonic motion. Students are assessed in both their performance on traditional assessments and laboratory work. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
SCIENCE TRIMESTER ELECTIVES
ELECTRONICS – THEORY AND PRACTICE (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 10 and above. Prerequisite: STEM 9 or other introductory physics class, Algebra 1. This hands-on course explores the concept of how electricity works, its application and the physics of electric circuits. The course will focus exclusively on electric circuits of different types for different purposes. Students will use the physical laws learned, and make digital and analog circuits. Topics include circuit construction, power source consideration and building electronic control circuits from scratch. Students build circuits and take measurements of circuit variables using tools such as multimeters and signal generators. They will compare the measurements with the behavior predicted by mathematical models and explain the discrepancies, thereby increasing an understanding of the relationship between the mathematical representation of circuit behavior and corresponding reallife effects.
INTRODUCTION TO MECHANICAL ENGINEERING (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 11 and above
This course will provide the student with an understanding of manufacturing principles followed by hands-on experiences. The course will introduce students to drawing objects to scale on paper, quickly followed by CAD systems. The different CAD drawings will be 3D printed, Laser cut, made in the wood shop and eventually, through use of the HAAS machines, completed as a special project.
INTRODUCTION TO MECHANICAL ENGINEERING II (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 11 and above
Introduction to Mechanical Engineering II will build upon the knowledge and skills explored in Introduction to Mechanical Engineering. Students will access prior experience with SolidWorks, 3D printing, laser cutting, etc. and apply their growing engineering knowledge to an authentic project, such as the design, construction, structural analysis and testing of a wooden truss.
INTRODUCTION TO EXERCISE SCIENCE (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 11 and above
This innovative course blends practical training with in-depth classroom instruction. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of basic anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics and nutrition while developing hands-on skills in the fitness center. The curriculum covers principles of exercise selection, program design, movement coaching and performance optimization, emphasizing both the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of effective training. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on practical application, students will learn to create and implement evidence-based fitness programs, analyze movement patterns and apply scientific principles to athletic development. This course integrates concepts from biology, physics and data analysis, preparing students for potential careers in sports science while also equipping them with valuable lifelong fitness management skills.
HISTORY & SOCIAL SCIENCE
The History & Social Sciences Department is committed to developing young historians and social scientists who are able to sift through large amounts of information, analyze texts, write about and discuss topics across the social sciences effectively. It is the belief of the department that a modern citizenry must have an understanding of the origins of cultures, peoples and economics across the globe and across time. In addition to specific subjects and content, our goal is to expand each student’s academic skills including critical reading, note taking, discussion, research, structured writing and academic documentation. These skills are necessary to ensure students’ success in their postsecondary education, as well as in higher social science endeavors.
WORLD HISTORY
• Level: Introductory, required Grade 9
Starting in the year 1CE, this freshman history course explores how cultures, goods, ideas, technology and conflict spread across time, shaping the modern world. The course examines world history starting with the expansion of the Roman Empire and concludes with World War II. Using a collection of primary and secondary sources, the course content includes a combination of broad historical backgrounds and in-depth case studies of specific groups, regions and people. Throughout the year, we cultivate the necessary skill sets to succeed in a history-based course, including comprehension of content, research, analysis and interpretation, chronological reasoning and application of historical concepts. Students develop these skills by critically reading primary and secondary sources, writing research essays, presenting research, negotiating and working collaboratively.
HONORS WORLD HISTORY
• Level: Accelerated Introductory, Grade 9. Prerequisite: Department permission. This honors level course is designed for the student who has strong reading and comprehension skills and excellent writing skills, including mastery of the five-paragraph essay. Students in this course are expected to complete all reading and writing assignments at an accelerated pace, have strong note-taking skills, and participate in class discussions daily. The course examines world history starting with the expansion of the Roman Empire and concludes with World War II. Using a collection of primary and secondary sources, the course content includes a combination of broad historical backgrounds and in-depth case studies of specific groups, regions and people. Throughout the year, we cultivate the necessary skill sets to succeed in a history-based course, including comprehension of content, research, analysis and interpretation, chronological reasoning and application of historical concepts. Students develop these skills by critically reading primary and secondary sources, writing research essays, presenting research, negotiating and working collaboratively.
HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
• Level: Intermediate, Grade 10
This course is an in-depth study of emerging themes in human geography, the branch of geography that studies people, their communities, cultures, economies and interactions with the environment. Major concepts covered include the geography of migration, language, religion and politics. Students gain skills in critical reading, research, writing and verbal communication through class discussion, presentations and writing.
AP® HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 10. Prerequisite: Departmental permission
This college level course is a rigorous study of how humans interact with and are shaped by geographies, with particular emphasis on the themes of globalization and cultural diversity. Students will examine geography from a social science perspective, though physical science will also be emphasized in order to contextualize the given region of study. The course is organized into seven units of study: Geography - its Nature and Perspectives; Population; Cultural Patterns and Processes; Political Organization ofSpace; Agriculture and Rural Land Use; Industrialization and Economic Development; and Cities and Urban Land Use. Students will apply political, economic and social lenses to improve their critical reading of text and maps, and will build researching, writing, note taking, outlining and verbal skills through class discussion, presentations and written assessments. Students will gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of the modern world and build confidence in their ability to be global citizens and leaders. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; exam fee is charged.
UNITED STATES HISTORY
• Level: Grade 11, required
Students survey American historical development from the colonial period to contemporary times. Topics considered include: nationalism, industrialization, the emergence of the U.S. as a world power, protest and reform movements, and development of the modern U.S. political and economic structure. Students develop skills in critical reading and analysis of primary and secondary source materials through research, writing, note-taking, outlining and verbal communication using a variety of discussion and writing formats.
U.S. HISTORY for ESOL Students
• Level: Introductory, International students . Fulfills the U.S. History requirement. Prerequisite: ESOL Department permission
This course is designed to give international students an introduction to the development of America’s social, political and cultural traditions from colonial times through the Cold War. Students develop an awareness of the cultural and geographic diversity of the United States and are exposed to differing viewpoints of the American people through the use of textbooks, supplementary readings, relevant websites and current news sources. The class focuses on key research and writing skills including note-taking, outlining, essay preparation and proper source citation.
HONORS GOVERNMENT AND DIPLOMACY
• Level: Honors, Grade 11 and above
Prerequisite: Successful completion of a Grade 10 history course with an 83% or higher and instructor recommendation. This course focuses on the institutions, issues and challenges present in the global realm of diplomacy and foreign policy. Using both the United States and other nations as case studies, students will examine how power is created, attained and shared. Components of study will include both Institutions (executive, legislature, courts, bureaucracy, media) and processes (elections, interest groups, grass roots movements). Students will also study specific contemporary issues of diplomacy compiled annually by the Foreign Policy Association. Each week (or two) students will discuss and analyze a reading dealing with a current issue in global foreign policy. Examples include Russia’s foreign policy, the relationship between China and America, South Africa’s fragile democracy, and the media and foreign policy. Finally, students will study specific skills inherent in successful diplomacy: tact, negotiation, discretion and communication. Readings, quizzes, exams, oral presentation and debates will all be components of skill development and assessment. Periodic short position/advocacy papers will be assigned, and a longer format paper will culminate Coursework.
AP® UNITED STATES HISTORY
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above . Prerequisite: Departmental permission
This course focuses on the development of historical thinking skills (chronological reasoning, comparing and contextualizing, crafting historical arguments using historical evidence, and interpreting and synthesizing historical narrative) and an understanding of content learning objectives organized around eight themes, such as national identity and America in the world. In line with university U.S. History survey courses, students will focus on American history from 1491 to the present day. The course will explore nine different periods of U.S. history. Students develop ability in distinguishing fact from opinion, using primary sources, analyzing and synthesizing information, relating cause and effect, and presenting and defending personal perspectives based upon historical information. Students will develop research and critical reading skills beyond the textbook through their exploration of various primary sources. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® WORLD HISTORY:
MODERN
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above . Prerequisite: Departmental permission
AP World History: Modern is a college-level survey of world history from the perspective that ever-increasing trade and interconnectedness between societies, nations and cultures are the driving force of historical change. This course focuses on historical reasoning skills, allowing students to find and interpret primary source historical data; compare and contrast societal developments across time, geography and culture; and analyze change in history as a process with causes and consequences. Students should expect a high volume of reading and writing, as well as periodic assessments measuring baseline historical content and students’ ability to respond to AP-style essay prompts. Students are also expected to undertake minor research projects throughout the course of the year. Students exiting the course will have a strong understanding of how historians organize history, how to develop a complex thesis driven response to historical questions and how to tie regional historical events into the context of world history. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® PSYCHOLOGY
• Level: Grade 11 and above. Prerequisite: Departmental permission
The Advanced Placement Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. The course will offer students the opportunity to learn about the explorations and discoveries made by psychologists over the past century. Students will get the chance to assess some of the differing approaches adopted by psychologists, including biological, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, psychodynamic and social perspectives. Students will also learn the basic skills of psychology research and develop critical thinking skills. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
HISTORY & SOCIAL SCIENCES TRIMESTER ELECTIVES
INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 11 or above
In this course, students will survey the field of psychology with a focus on the principles and theories in the field. To lay the groundwork for the course, students will explore the history of psychology by studying notable figures and their influential theories Throughout the trimester, we will explore biopsychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology and developmental psychology. Students will cultivate critical psychological thinking skills, problem solving, writing, and research method skills by familiarizing themselves with foundational studies within each area of psychology, engaging in the various steps of the research process and working collaboratively.
WOMEN’S STUDIES (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 11 or above
This interdisciplinary course delves into the multifaceted realm of Women’s Studies, spanning historical periods, literary narratives and contemporary sociopolitical landscapes. Through a nuanced examination of women’s experiences, struggles and achievements, students will trace the evolution of women’s roles in society from 1800 to the present day. Engaging with seminal texts and thought-provoking discussions, participants will gain a profound understanding of the intersectional nature of gender, race and class, fostering critical thinking skills and promoting empathy. By culminating in an analysis of current events and issues affecting women globally, this course empowers students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, making it a truly enriching academic journey.
CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP, ECONOMICS & FINANCE
The Center for Entrepreneurship, Economics & Finance (CEEF) provides engaging classes for students, with the opportunity to learn real-world critical thinking and business skills, while creating a foundation for introductory and advanced studies of economics, finance and entrepreneurial endeavors in the future. Students taking WMA’s finance courses will learn key financial concepts and the language of financial literacy. Entrepreneurship courses teach students how to think, plan and act like entrepreneurs, in both profit and nonprofit organizations. Economics students will enhance their understanding of current economic events by exploring markets, macroeconomic and microeconomic principles and models, the critical component of opportunity costs and decision-making, and learn to manipulate and interpret quantitative data and graphs representing economic situations. CEEF students utilize the state-of-the-art Mark R. Shenkman Trading Center, as well as WMA’s computer lab, to embark on active research and prepare PowerPoint slides, videos and oral presentations. WMA’s showcase facility houses 16 computer stations with monitor displays, two 70” LCD monitors, an LED dynamic stock ticker, video conferencing capabilities, as well as a subscriptions to AAII (American Association of Individual Investors), the WSJ, and Bloomberg Businessweek. Courses are listed below with the grade level at which they are first available.
ECONOMICS
AP
® MACROECONOMICS - The Global Economy Full Year
• Level: Advanced Placement. Grade 11 and above. Prerequisite: Instructor permission
The purpose of the AP course in macroeconomics is to provide students with a learning experience equivalent to a typical college introductory macroeconomic course and prepare them for the AP exam in the spring. Students will be taught economic principles that apply to an economic system as a whole. Emphasis is placed on the study of national income, price determination, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth and international economics. Through lectures, class discussions, class activities, and homework assignments, students define terms, calculate and interpret tabular data, conduct graphical analysis, analyze hypothetical scenarios, and develop skills in explanatory diagrams and technical writing. Because this course is designed to be college-level work, it will require a major commitment of time and intellectual energy from a student. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP® MICROECONOMICS Full Year
• Level: Grades 11 and above, Advanced Placement. Prerequisite: AP Macroeconomics, Departmental permission.
The purpose of the AP course in microeconomics is to provide students with a learning experience equivalent to a typical college introductory microeconomics course and prepare them for the AP exam in the spring. Students will cultivate their understanding of the principles that apply to the functions of individual economic decision-makers. Emphasis is placed on the study of production, cost, the perfect competition model, imperfect competition, factor markets, market failure and the role of government. Through lectures, class discussions, class activities, and homework assignments, students define economic principles and models, model economic situations
using graphs or visual representations, and determine and explain outcomes of various economic situations. Because this course is designed to be college-level work, it will require a major commitment of time and intellectual energy from a student. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS (1 credit)
• Level: Introductory, Grade 9 or above
In this introductory course, students develop a basic understanding of select economic principles and models, as well as critical thinking skills that will allow them to be more informed and engage in discussions about current economic events in the media. Students are provided with thought-provoking questions about the economy and examine a variety of foundational topics. Topics might include GDP, unemployment, inflation, taxes, fiscal and monetary policy, government debt, global trade supply and demand, and incentives. Students can be assessed with a variety of methods, including quizzes, tests, projects, and short papers.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 9 or above
Students prepare to become responsible, enterprising entrepreneurs or entrepreneurial thinkers who contribute to economic development and sustainable communities. The curriculum follows the framework of the National Standards for Entrepreneurship Education. Students will use strategies for idea generation and assessment of the feasibility of ideas; learn to understand basic free market economy and the entrepreneur’s role in the economy; expand their awareness of social responsibility and the entrepreneur’s contribution to society; demonstrate an understanding of financial management and basic accounting principles; and understand the steps essential in business startup. Additionally, students will read related literature, including case studies, and create new model ventures with a focus on opportunity recognition, resource management, and team building.
GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 10 or above. Prerequisite: Entrepreneurship preferred
This course presents the opportunities and challenges of global entrepreneurship in the context of a world that is rapidly changing in both economic and cultural ways. Through a series of exercises, students will improve their critical reading, researching, writing, note-taking, outlining, and verbal skills. Class discussions, student presentations, and written formats will all be part of the process. Students will read related literature, including case studies, and create new model ventures with a focus on opportunity recognition, resource management, and team building. The overall goal of the class is to develop global thinkers who exhibit an expanded awareness of global opportunities. Upon completion, students should understand and appreciate the importance of global citizenship and global competence; be able to analyze and describe individual cultural norms and expectations; exhibit broadened sensitivity to the challenges of living in cross-cultural and cross-national environments; and understand similarities and differences of entrepreneurship in developed, emerging, and transitional economies.
SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 10 or above. Prerequisite: Entrepreneurship or Global Entrepreneurship
How do we create innovative and effective solutions to social problems around the world? This course was designed for individuals who want to identify and bring about transformative societal change. Using the Declaration of Human Rights as the basis of study, students will investigate social issues of their choosing, based on the Articles from this document, created for the United Nations in 1948 and is still respected today. At the conclusion of the course, students will understand and appreciate the importance of social entrepreneurship in today’s world; have broadened individual sensitivity to the challenges of living in a world beset with social problems; be able to analyze and describe individual actions that might be taken to impact social issues; and develop the skills required to work collaboratively on a solution.
FINANCE
FINANCIAL PLANNING (1 credit)
• Level: Introductory, Grade 9 or above
This trimester course focuses on providing students with basic personal finance skills. Students will study the following topics: money management decision-making; budgeting; borrowing and debt; earning and careers; investing; financial well-being; and paying for college. Within these topics, varied activities are designed to engage students and have them apply their learning to current life situations. Students learn extensive financial literacy concepts and terms in each unit. The course concludes with a case study where students apply their knowledge to real-world situations, such as preparing a financial plan for a professional athlete to manage wealth, or a family to understand the costs of paying for college.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT (1 credit)
• Level: Intermediate, Grade 10 or above. Prerequisite: Financial Planning or departmental permission. This trimester course provides an overview of how an individual would build a portfolio over time and manage that portfolio based on the fundamental principles of portfolio management. Emphasis will be placed on techniques to develop a portfolio for the beginning investor, researching mutual funds and ETFs, and evaluating portfolio performance. Topics will include portfolio diversification, investment analysis, risk, financial literacy, investing behavior and asset allocation. Concluding projects include researching a mutual fund company and preparing a personal investment plan.
STOCK MARKET ANALYSIS (1 credit)
• Level: Intermediate, Grade 10 or above. Prerequisite: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management or department permission. This trimester course provides advanced study of the stock market and interpreting financial statements to select stocks for a portfolio. Students will learn the application of fundamental analysis in selecting stocks that match risk tolerance and investment time horizons. Long-term stock investment analysis and stock research strategies will be examined. The course concludes with students researching a stock sector, then preparing an individual stock analysis report on a specific stock in their stock sector. This class serves as an excellent foundation for Student Investment Seminar.
HONORS BEHAVIORAL FINANCE (1 credit)
• Level: Intermediate, Grade 11 or above. Prerequisite: Financial Planning, Portfolio Management or department permission. Honors Behavioral Finance is a deep examination of how psychology informs the art and science of investment management. The course examines cognitive and emotional biases that influence our investment decisions and investor behavior. Students will explore their own behavior investment type (BIT) and concrete solutions to biases associated with their investment type to refine their investment decision-making processes to construct more appropriate risk/reward portfolios. Students read The Psychology of Money to better understand how biases and the brain impact financial decisions. Assessments are varied and include podcasts, posters, TEDtalks, PowerPoint presentations, and reading reflection analysis (RRA) reports.
BUSINESS OF SPORTS (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 10 or above
This course explores how the business side of sports shapes what happens on the field, in the locker room, and in the front office. Students will look at how players, teams, leagues and events make money through ticket sales, media rights, sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and how that money affects decision-making for players and team management. Students will also be introduced to the growing role of sports gambling, including its influence on fan engagement, league policies, and concerns about integrity in competition. Using case studies from professional sports, college athletics and major sports events, students will examine topics such as athlete contracts, salary caps, name, image and likeness (NIL), media rights, and major controversies impacting the sports industry.
BUSINESS DATA ANALYSIS WITH EXCEL AND AI (1 credit)
• Level: Grade 11 or above
This course is designed for students who know they want to pursue economics, finance, or business in college and want to enhance their skills with numbers, charts, and graphs to perform data analysis to provide clarity, understanding, and visualization of information. Excel is widely used in economics, finance and business, enabling users to calculate, organize and evaluate quantitative data. Through a series of problem sets related to economics, finance and business, students will learn, practice, and develop Excel skills involving data recording, data organization, formulas, charts and graphs, and pivot tables. Please note: Students should have a computer running a Windows or Macintosh operating system. Chromebooks, iPads, smartphones and tablets are not adequate. Students will need a personal copy of Excel on their device.
STUDENT
INVESTMENT SEMINAR (1 credit) This is an evening class (6:45 - 8 p.m.) on Thursday
• Level: Intermediate. All grade levels.
Are you interested in being part of an investment team that researches stocks to be recommended to the school’s Investment Committee? Working as a team to select a specific stock among the eleven stock sectors is a central component of this credit class that will teach students the skills involved in buying stocks using a fundamental analysis approach to investing. Teams understand their stock analysis can result in the Investment Committee contributing real money to the school’s portfolio. The culminating experience for selected teams is an end-of-trimester presentation, with a detailed investment rationale, to an Investment Advisory Committee.
WORLD LANGUAGES
Learning a foreign language is an inherently global experience, therefore it forms an essential part of our curriculum. Language learning allows students to appreciate cultural differences while understanding culture as part of a broader global context. Moreover, learning a language encourages students to engage in public speaking and to share ideas collaboratively. The result is a curriculum that nurtures global citizens and leaders. The World Languages Department offers instruction in three modern languages: Spanish, French and Chinese; and one classic language, Latin. The four components of language instruction – reading, writing, speaking, and listening – form the core of the language courses. Students are challenged to engage in these activities regularly. Furthermore, through language, students are exposed to diverse perspectives on art, history, current events, and culture. Language study is enhanced by the use of technology such as educational apps, authentic video and audio media, language podcasts and interactive educational websites. Departmental permission is a prerequisite for all language courses beyond the first year of study
CHINESE
These courses are offered through an online partner. Course fees apply. Students enrolling in online courses will need to adhere to the One Schoolhouse academic schedule. Work will be expected during WMA vacation periods.Failure to do so could result in course failure. Please visit the One Schoolhouse website for the complete course descriptions for the Chinese courses listed below.
CHINESE – BEGINNING I CHINESE – INTERMEDIATE I
CHINESE – BEGINNING II
FRENCH
FRENCH 1
• Level: Novice Low to Mid
CHINESE – ADVANCED I
CHINESE – INTERMEDIATE II AP
LANGUAGE & CULTURE
Beginning students study the language that can be used in everyday conversation. The course is taught using a communicative approach. Students begin to communicate in the target language through interpersonal speaking and writing, presentational speaking and writing, and interpretive reading and listening. Students communicate about such topics as greetings, telling time, school subjects, foods, shopping, weather, holidays, family and friends, and leisure activities. This class is conducted in French as much as possible, with an emphasis on becoming a competent communicator. Students expand their understanding of culture by studying some Francophone countries.
FRENCH 2
• Level: Novice Mid to High. Prerequisite: Passing the French 1 final exam and teacher recommendation. This course fosters students’ knowledge of the cultural variety of the modern Francophone world through readings, projects, films, and other authentic material. While delving into Francophone cultures, students work on acquiring the four language skills. Increased importance is placed on written French at this level, and continued importance is placed on improving verbal skills and listening comprehension skills. Through various games and activities, students learn practical vocabulary and gain a solid foundation in sentence structure and tenses.
HONORS FRENCH 3: Francophone
• Level: Intermediate Low to Mid.
Cultures
Prerequisite: Final grade of 80% or better in French 2; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. The emphasis at this level is on improving communicative skills and accuracy while learning many aspects of the culture through written stories, songs, videos, and other authentic material. Students gain vocabulary and learn to use the grammar in context. They practice speaking about past, present and future events. Through listening comprehension, writing and speaking practice, students become good communicators who have a good understanding of Francophone cultures.
HONORS
FRENCH 4: Global Challenges Edited
• Level: Intermediate Mid to High
Prerequisite: Final grade of 80% or better in Honors French 3; passing the final exam; and teacher recommendation. This course considers several current global challenges in the Francophone world related to topics such as identity, politics, France’s colonial history, the environment, health and nutrition. Francophone literature and movies are also great tools that are used at this level. Students continue to improve their accuracy and their command of all the skills.
HONORS FRENCH 5
• Level: Intermediate High to Advanced Mid
Prerequisite: Final grade of 83% or better in Honors French 4; passing the final exam; and teacher recommendation. Students continue to develop proficiency at the advanced level in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing within the context of the Francophone world and its culture. The themes include literature, history, popular culture and current events. Through films and series, podcasts and authentic videos, students gain a deeper knowledge of the cultural diversity of the modern Francophone world and improve their communicative skills.
AP FRENCH
• Level: Advanced Placement
Prerequisite: Final grade of 90% or better in Honors French 4; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. Students continue to develop proficiency in speaking and writing French and analyzing cultures of French-speaking countries. Open to those students with sufficient language skills and the intellectual maturity and motivation to undertake a college-level language program. The course focuses on spoken and written discussion of ideas, as well as on everyday communicative competence, while exploring the history and cultural diversity of the Francophone world. Students work to achieve a high degree of fluency in French. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
POST AP FRENCH
• Level: Post AP. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. This class is designed for students who have completed AP French and wish to continue their study of French culture and society. The themes covered include literature, history, popular culture and current events. Students make presentations on topics such as French history or French literature, and they continue to practice writing, listening, reading and speaking French.
LATIN
LATIN 1
• Level: Beginner
This course aims to help the student attain comprehension of the Latin language through practice in reading it. Using the Cambridge Latin Course Unit 1, students learn about Roman life by reading stories and dialogues pertaining to Roman life in the city of Pompeii in the 1st century C.E. and develop an understanding of Roman culture and civilization, especially during the 1st century C.E.
LATIN 2
• Level: Advanced Beginner. Prerequisite: Passing the Latin 1 final exam and teacher recommendation.
Students continue their study of the Latin language, with an emphasis on grammar, vocabulary and syntax. The aim of the course continues to be the development of the student’s ability to read Latin. The Cambridge Latin Course Units 2 and 3 are used for this purpose. Students continue to explore Roman culture and civilization by reading stories about life in Roman Britain and Roman Egypt.
HONORS LATIN 3
• Level: Intermediate. Prerequisite: Final grade of 80% or higher in Latin 2; passing the final exam; and teacher recommendation. Students continue their journey through the Cambridge Latin Course by finishing Unit 3. In this course, students will develop their ability to read more complex Latin passages. They also continue their study of Roman civilization by exploring the monuments and topography of ancient Rome and the early history of the Empire.
HONORS LATIN 4
• Level: Advanced Low.
Prerequisite: Final grade of 85% or higher in Honors Latin 3; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. Students conclude their journey through the Cambridge Latin Course by reading the Latin stories in Unit 4. In this course, students will make the transition from reading the adapted Latin of the Cambridge Latin Course storyline to reading original Latin. Students will read selections from Martial, Ovid, Catullus, Virgil, Horace, Pliny, and Livy.
ADVANCED LATIN
• Level: Advanced High.
Prerequisite: Final grade of 83% or higher in Honors Latin 4; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. This course is offered to students who have completed Honors Latin 4 and who do not want to take Advanced Placement Latin. In this course, students will read a selection of Latin prose and poetry. Poetry will include selections from Ovid, Catullus, Horace and Virgil. Prose selections will be from Pliny, Livy, Caesar and Cicero. Through these reading selections, students will continue to appreciate the global nature of the Roman experience. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening the student’s ability to read Latin.
AP LATIN
• Level: Advanced Placement.
Prerequisite: Final grade of 90% or higher in Honors Latin 4; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. The main objective of this course is to prepare students for success on the AP Latin exam. To achieve this objective, the students will be guided in developing the ability to literally translate into English all of the passages of Virgil’s Aeneid and the “Letters of Pliny the Younger,” which are required by the College Board for the AP Latin program. The students will read the entire Aeneid in English. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
SPANISH
SPANISH 1
• Level: Novice Low to Mid
Students in this beginner class study language that can be used in everyday conversation. The course is taught using a communicative approach. Students begin to communicate in the target language through interpersonal speaking and writing; presentational speaking and writing; and interpretive reading and listening. This class is conducted in Spanish as much as possible; emphasis is placed on becoming a competent communicator. Students expand their understanding of culture by studying the countries of the Hispanic world. Vocabulary will focus on greetings, time, school, leisure activities, shopping, family, clothing, weather, simple foods found in restaurants and markets, and holidays.
SPANISH 2
• Level: Novice Mid to High. Prerequisite: Passing the final exam and teacher recommendation. This class continues to emphasize and build the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students learn to express more complex thoughts using a variety of verb tenses, including an introduction to the present subjunctive, while building vocabulary and developing their reading and writing skills. Classes are conducted in Spanish; however, English is occasionally used to explain difficult grammar and certain material. Students are required to use the target language as they develop all of their skills while they explore Hispanic culture through readings in the textbook, complemented by videos of native speakers. Students are encouraged to conduct simple exchanges with native speakers in the community. Classwork varies to include listening activities and lessons in the digital text.
SPANISH 3
• Level: Intermediate Low. Prerequisite: Final grade of 80% or higher in Spanish 2; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. Spanish 3 begins with a thorough review of the grammatical concepts covered in the first two levels. Students continue to expand their vocabulary while building all language skills. At this level, students will study and practice the present subjunctive in more depth. The class is conducted mostly in Spanish; therefore, students at this level should be comfortable using the target language to speak and should be able to write using coherent and connected sentences. Classwork and homework include reading and listening activities and lessons in the digital text as students expand their knowledge of the language and Hispanic cultures.
HONORS SPANISH 3
• Level: Intermediate Low to Mid.
Prerequisite: Final grade of 90% or higher in Spanish 2; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. At the Honors level, students refine their competence in the four skills needed to learn a world language and begin interpretation of literary texts. Increased emphasis is placed on students’ writing, speaking and listening comprehension. The students analyze short stories and poems. An honors-level course demands a great deal of personal responsibility and determination, as students are expected to review basic materials outside the classroom so that class discussions can focus on cultural topics and current events. The class is conducted in Spanish.
SPANISH 4
• Level: Intermediate Mid. Prerequisite: Final grade of 85% or higher in Spanish 3; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. Spanish 4, conducted entirely in Spanish, is a course for those wishing to continue Spanish studies at a higher level. Through a variety of authentic materials, students will examine, discuss and present on varied topics, such as current events and issues concerning the Spanish-speaking world, to improve their speaking and writing skills. A strong emphasis is placed on speaking both daily in class and in regular presentations and projects. The use of technology, film and additional materials enhances the content of the course.
HONORS SPANISH 4
• Level: Intermediate Mid to High.
Prerequisite: Final grade of 90% or higher in Honors Spanish 3; passing the final exam; teacher recommendation. Honors Spanish 4, taught entirely in Spanish, is designed to further hone students’ competence in all modes of expression and to deepen students’ understanding of the culture of the Spanish-speaking world through film, music, short stories, poetry and drama. Students increase their understanding of formal and informal speech; improve their spoken fluency by expressing their ideas and values; and advance their writing ability through frequent compositions based on film, readings and class discussions. The course seeks refinement in interpersonal, interpretive and presentational communication.
SPANISH 5
• Level: Intermediate High
Prerequisite: Final grade of 85% or higher in Spanish 4; passing the final exam; and teacher recommendation. Spanish 5 is an advanced-level course conducted entirely in Spanish for students who wish to continue developing their language skills beyond Spanish 4 without the pace or exam focus of AP Spanish. The course emphasizes communicative proficiency, cultural understanding, and confidence in real-world language use. Through authentic texts, media, film and discussions, students explore cultural, social and global topics from across the Spanish-speaking world. Students regularly engage in speaking and writing tasks designed to strengthen fluency, accuracy, and organization of ideas, with an emphasis on expressing opinions, making comparisons, and supporting viewpoints. A strong focus is placed on interpersonal communication, presentations, and collaborative projects. By the end of the course, students aim to reach an Intermediate-High to Advanced-Low level of proficiency, particularly in speaking and listening, while continuing to refine reading and writing skills.
AP SPANISH: Language and Culture
• Level: Advanced Placement
Prerequisite: Final grade of 90% or better in Honors Spanish 4; passing the final exam; and teacher recommendation. AP Spanish Language polishes students’ communicative skills, moving them to a higher level of proficiency in their speaking, listening, writing, and reading of Spanish. A broad range of authentic materials from textbooks, newspapers, the web, film, television and the local community serves as the basis for discussion and investigation of diverse cultural and linguistic themes. The class is conducted exclusively in Spanish; students are expected to participate actively. Evaluation is based on a variety of assessments, including essays, journals, oral quizzes, projects and presentations. The AP Exam is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
ADVANCED STUDIES IN SPANISH
• Level: Post AP. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
This class is designed for students who have completed AP Spanish and wish to continue their study of Spanish culture and society. The themes covered include literature, popular culture, politics and government. Students blend in-depth independent research projects of their own design with continued practice in writing, listening, and speaking Spanish.
FINE & PERFORMING ARTS
Creative problem solving and new avenues of self-expression are at the core of Wilbraham & Monson Academy’s Fine & Performing Arts (FPA) program. We offer a full range of learning in theater, music and the visual arts, including digital media, which benefits the entry-level student as well as the advanced artist or performer seeking a higher-level experience. We strive to teach students the skills and thought processes that ensure a deeper understanding of both their immediate and global cultural environments. The faculty members in the FPA Department offer in-depth studies of current practices within their respective disciplines. The department encourages personal growth and the pursuit of both individual and collaborative excellence. Therefore, the process is equally as important as the final product. To help achieve this end, courses are tiered allowing students to build both their confidence and their skill level. All of the instructors in the department are working professionals, actively engaged in their art. We believe students are better prepared for the challenges of the 21st century by understanding and engaging in the complex and diverse human expression inherent in these disciplines.
VISUAL ARTS
STUDIO ART (1 credit) Required prior to other visual art courses
Students in this course gain an understanding of the fundamentals of painting, drawing and principles of design through studio practice. The course addresses aesthetics, criticism and art history. Students will be assessed on sketchbook assignments, major projects and class participation.
DRAWING (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
This course is especially designed to improve drawing skills as well as the ability to visually represent an idea. Throughout the course, students will explore a variety of drawing media. Using various means of representation, abstract and realistic, students will develop a personal style that they will use to interpret their life in a visual way. Assignments will include practicing drawing skills on their own and researching imagery that will be used in class projects.
PAINTING (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
Students explore the use of paints and color for self-expression, and to gain an understanding and appreciation for paint as a medium personally and historically. They will learn basic color theory by doing simple painting studies and progressing to more complex/ abstract paintings. Art history is discussed, as well as various techniques of painting. Students are assessed on effort, creativity and the productive use of time to fully explore the medium, as well as the quality of the work produced.
PAINTING II (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art and Painting
To further explore the use of paint, students build on knowledge and experience to create paintings with much deeper and personal meaning – to understand art is a form of self-expression. The focus is on the review of color theory and development of a personal voice through a series of projects. The course encourages students to develop self-expression and appreciation of paint as a personal and historic medium.
SCULPTURE (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
Through studio practice and research, students are exposed to a variety of approaches and considerations in order to arrive at a completed piece of work. By direct experience, students learn to problem solve material and aesthetic concerns, understand and apply 3-dimensional concepts in a variety of challenges, resulting in a portfolio of work. This course is encouraged for students who wish to pursue AP Studio-3D Design.
CERAMICS (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
This course is an introduction to working with clay in the ceramic studio. Students are introduced to three specific handbuilding techniques: coils, pinch pots, and slab. They are also given demonstrations on different decorative, textural and glazing techniques with which they can then experiment. There are four main projects throughout the term: a coil project, a pinch pot project to create two pots - one is to have a handle, a cubist mask project and a final project based on memorabilia, in which the student picks something of importance to them to recreate. Students will also have the opportunity to explore ceramics of contemporary artists through video presentations and a research project. Work will be collectively viewed, discussed and graded using a rubric. Weekly participation grades will reflect a student’s effort, productivity, conduct, attitude and cleanup habits.
CERAMICS II (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art, Ceramics
This is the second course in the ceramic series. Students will expand on their handbuilding techniques learned in Ceramics I, and be introduced to creating works on the wheel. There will be projects that encourage further exploration of their handbuilding skills such as an abstract sculpture, and a tile “all about me” project. Students will learn ways to create vessels using slab, then learn how to produce different pieces on the wheel. After researching tea sets, tea ceremonies through history and their significance to different cultures, students will create an original tea set depicting some type of ceremony, holiday, or personal tradition using handbuilding and wheel production. Work will be collectively viewed, discussed and graded using a rubric. Weekly participation grades will reflect a student’s effort, productivity, conduct, attitude and cleanup habits.
DARKROOM PHOTOGRAPHY I (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
Students learn the fundamentals of traditional darkroom photography through work with the SLR camera and in the darkroom, gaining experience in how an image is formed and printed. Students will also develop awareness of composition, subject matter and lighting. Daily effort, projects, and a willingness to explore the medium are important to success in this course.
DARKROOM PHOTOGRAPHY II (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art, Darkroom Photography I
Students will build upon existing knowledge, continue to develop skill in the darkroom and increase technical understanding with various cameras while striving to deepen creativity. While working in the darkroom to demonstrate basics and refine printing, students will also apply their knowledge of composition, subject matter and lighting. Students will produce a portfolio of work.
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY (1
credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
This course will help students to understand and apply the creative processes involved in creating imagery for web or print, while considering the visual impact of the internet on our lives. Through various projects, students will learn Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom basics to manipulate and manage files in computer labs. Each student will produce a digital portfolio that combines photography with design basics. Weekly preparation and participation are important.
FASHION: DESIGN STUDIO (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
This course will give students a foundation in figure drawing through various methods. Students will learn and practice basic fashion illustration techniques using various media. The creation of original ideas will be explored using a variety of methods and prompts to generate new ideas. Students will use these new ideas to design clothing or a “collection” to be presented at the end of the course.
FASHION: PRODUCTION STUDIO (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art; Fashion: Design Studio recommended
This course will give students a foundation in garment construction, sewing techniques, fabric and fiber qualities and the use of a sewing machine. Students will have the opportunity to prepare and produce sewn garments from their own pattern made in class.
INTRODUCTION TO JEWELRY MAKING (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
Students will explore and create a variety of handmade, wearable art jewelry from copper and silver nickel wire. Through the investigation of multiple techniques and the study of cultural, ceremonial and historical eras of jewelry, students will use fabrication techniques of hammering, twisting, wrapping, coiling, weaving and beading and will focus on creating earrings, rings, pendants, chains, and clasps. As the course progresses, technical challenges will increase. Work will be collectively viewed, discussed and graded using a rubric. Weekly participation grades will reflect a student’s effort, productivity, conduct, attitude and cleanup habits.
DIGITAL MEDIA AND VIDEO (1 credit)
The Digital Media & Video course introduces students to the fundamentals of digital media, focusing on video production and editing. Each week, students engage in a new project that explores various topics. They learn the value of storytelling by creating storyboards while developing their technical skills with different software programs, including Stop-Motion Animation, iMovie, and PixilArt. Each project aims to enhance students’ abilities and deepen their understanding of camera angles, filming techniques, basic editing and software navigation.
ART DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (1 credit)
• Prerequisite: Studio Art or equivalent
Good design springs from problem solving; from door handles to sneakers, whenever humans interact with the built environment the user experience is influenced by design. The people who design these interactions are artists. The artist/designer comes in many fields including Industrial Design, Graphic Design, Photography, Illustration, Packaging Design or Landscape Design – all of which are college majors. The driving motivational force of this curriculum is to expose students to the core principles of good design and decision making. This is not a theoretical class. The second aspect of this curriculum is to produce objects using the technology available in the iLab and the art studios.
AP STUDIO-2D DESIGN Full year
(offered 2026)
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 and above
Prerequisite: Studio Art, at least one additional art course, departmental permission pending student portfolio review
Through the completion of a range of assignments, students develop individual themes and approaches to a variety of two-dimensional media. With a focus on the elements and principles of art and design, students also develop objectivity, personal critiques and an understanding of the historical and global impact on the arts. The course will prepare advanced art students for the AP Exam and the creation of a portfolio for application to study art in college. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
AP STUDIO-3D
DESIGN
Full year (offered 2027)
• Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 and above. Prerequisite: Studio Art, at least one additional art course, departmental permission pending student portfolio review. Students are highly encouraged to take AP Studio-2D Design prior to AP Studio-3D This course offers an in-depth exploration of the many aspects of 3D Design. From plaster casts to recyclable materials, we learn how to use materials in order to make our vision clear and accessible. Problem solving is a critical part of this course. Students are expected to experiment and follow through with ideas. Research on designers and sculptors, shared through student presentation and response, informs and inspires the class. The work culminates in a group exhibit in the gallery. The AP Exam in May is mandatory; an exam fee is charged.
ADVANCED STUDIES IN ART Full year
• Level: Advanced. Prerequisite: Department permission required
This course offers post-AP art students an opportunity to continue to study and build their portfolio for application to a college art program. The program is built as an independent study, in coordination with the AP Studio art instructor, allowing the student to work in the medium of their choice to build the best portfolio to showcase their skills. Space is extremely limited and students must have completed the AP Studio courses prior to consideration for this option. A thoughtful, well-planned and thorough course proposal is required prior to acceptance into the program - details, dates, materials and projects should be carefully considered and organized into a document. Ultimate permission belongs to Dean’s office.
PERFORMING ARTS
INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE (1 credit)
• Level: Introductory
As a set of staged practices rich with social context, the theater has sought to document, engage and affect communities. This course introduces and explores theater from page to stage as a live performing art. Topics include theatre as an art form, dramatic structure, theatrical representation and the crafts of theater artists, such as directors, designers, playwrights and actors. Historical contexts and perspectives will also be considered. We will also engage with live performances and video archives of past performances to deepen understanding and comprehension.
DIGITAL MUSIC (1 credit)
• Level: Introductory
Digital Music is an introduction to MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) sequencing and audio recording. This is a hands-on class designed to give the student a thorough understanding of digital music and MIDI interface. Utilizing the DAW (digital audio workstation), this course will introduce the concepts of creating digital audio and MIDI sequencing through the use of software applications. The class will also touch upon mixing and EQ methodology, as well as production and engineering tactics. The term will culminate in a finished recording designed entirely by the student.
PERCUSSION (1 credit)
• Level: Introductory
Percussion class is open to all who want to explore the world of melody, harmony and rhythm through the use of percussion instruments that are both pitched and non-pitched. The course offers the students the ability to learn and develop the art of instrumental music while promoting the enjoyment and appreciation of a variety of music genres through rehearsals and performance. The class will explore various styles such as: Marching, Classical, Latin and Rock, with the possibility of working together to create an original percussion piece.
PERCUSSION 2: Advanced Percussion (1 credit)
• Level: Intermediate/Advanced
The Intermediate/Advanced Percussion Ensemble is a performance-based course designed for students who have moved beyond introductory instruction and are developing proficiency in percussion performance. The class builds upon fundamental skills and introduces a wide range of percussion instruments, techniques and ensemble performance practices. Enrollment is intended for percussionists and drummers, as well as pianists, guitarists, and other musicians who demonstrate advanced beginner to intermediate-level musicianship, including the ability to read both treble and bass clefs. Students should be comfortable learning new material at a steady pace and participating in ensemble rehearsals. The course emphasizes both individual and group performance across a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, world music and contemporary styles. Through regular rehearsals, guided practice, and performances, students will continue to develop technical proficiency, musical expression, and ensemble skills as both soloists and members of the percussion ensemble.
EXPLORATORY MUSIC (1 credit)
• Level: Beginning to Intermediate
This course is designed with the beginning to intermediate musician in mind. As a class we will analyze and explore music of different genres and intentionally survey music from around the world. We will learn, discuss, reflect and apply our knowledge of the eight elements of music (Tonality, Timbre, texture, rhythm, dynamics, form, harmony and melody). In addition, we will become more familiar with traditional music notation (basic elements of theory) and experiment with beginning improvisation. Classwork will include playing various world percussion instruments, vocalizing and sharing personal instrumental experimentation in addition to creating a group composition as a class. This hands-on course will allow students to learn a new instrument or dive deeper into prior experience. Vocalists who would like to learn or develop keyboard skills are encouraged to enroll. Each student will commit to studying a melodic instrument of their choice for the entire trimester following an open trial period. Keyboards will be available in addition to a limited number of school-owned instruments. Depending on the instrument chosen by the student, the teacher may advise rental or purchase.
MUSIC PERFORMANCE PRACTICUM
(1 credit)
• Level: Intermediate through Advanced. Course can be taken for one trimester or yearlong as content will be customized. Instrumental and vocal intermediate through advanced student musicians will have the opportunity to pursue their musical passion. Musicians who sing or play a pitched melodic instrument are welcome - piano, strings, classical guitar, brass, woodwind, as well as any non-Western pitched instruments such as the traditional guzheng (Chinese zither). This course will give individual musicians a forum to advance their personal performance goals through structured class assignments, guided practice and masterclasses, as well as provide support to apply for appropriate auditioned local, statewide and national ensembles deemed appropriate. Class enrollment will determine chamber and small ensemble groupings and/or individual accompanied solos. In addition, as a whole class we will compose a thematic performance piece reflective of the structure and instrumentation of enrolled students. Musicianship skills (aural dictation, rhythmic training, sight singing/sight reading, interval identification, chord structure, harmonic progression, etc.) will be taught as an important component to developing the whole musician. Skills will be assessed and reassessed at the beginning of each trimester and individualized accordingly. Students taking this course for the year will meet the music performance elective course requirement for recommendation into Tri-M Music Honor Society should other criteria be met.
VOCAL POINT (Chorus) (1 credit) Full year once per week in the evening
• Level: Open to all community members
Singing in a chorus is one of the most powerful things you can do. It is not necessary to have prior experience, Vocal Point is open and welcoming to all who love to sing! Join us as we learn and explore songs representing different time periods, styles and cultures. Vocal Point will sing for special concerts, campus events, invited guests, caroling during the holidays, and even travel off campus for field trips and special performance opportunities. Members of Vocal Point who are needing additional challenges are able to sing the National anthem at home games, and audition for opportunities such as Senior Districts and all-state.
CHAMBER CHOIR (1 credit) Full year once per week in the evening
• Level: Audition required
Chamber Choir is the esteemed choral ensemble of WMA. Auditions are required for enrollment into this yearlong class. Chamber choir is designed to be relatively small and will focus primarily on acapella style performances. Repertoire selected will be a combination of student choice and teacher suggestion spanning various genres including, but not limited to, pop/rock, R&B, gospel and jazz. Students will write, arrange and perform music designed for audience appeal. In an effort to maximize rehearsal time and maintain a once per week rehearsal schedule, the expectation is that individual parts will be learned outside of class time. Practice videos and study materials will be provided through a shared platform to maximize student collaboration.
JAZZ MUSIC ENSEMBLE (Jazz Band) Full year
• Level: Intermediate to Advanced; Audition and instructor evaluation required. This course explores an intermediate to advanced jazz repertoire, including swing, jazz-rock, Latin jazz, and original compositions by both the director and students. Enrollment is intended for students who demonstrate a strong foundation in instrumental technique, music reading, and ensemble performance skills, and who are prepared to engage with more challenging jazz literature and stylistic demands. Students will develop advanced listening and ensemble skills through scale warm-ups, sectional work, full rehearsals, and performances, with an emphasis on intonation, balance, blend, style, and rhythmic precision. A high level of individual preparation is expected, as students must be able to maintain their part independently while contributing musically to the full ensemble. Course goals include expanding students’ technical and stylistic proficiency in jazz performance; deepening their understanding of their instrument’s role within a large ensemble; reinforcing professional rehearsal practices; and preparing polished performances that are engaging for both musicians and audiences. The ensemble will perform at a variety of public and private events throughout the year.
CHAMBER ENSEMBLE Full year
• Level: Intermediate to Advanced; Audition or departmental permission required
This yearlong class enables students to improve technical abilities on solo instruments while facilitating playing in chamber and advanced ensemble groups. Classical music through Baroque through contemporary music be chosen to study. Student selection as well as teacher recommendations will be considered for repertoire. Due to this class being an advanced focused class, participation in auditions, competitions and public performances is expected .
AP MUSIC THEORY Full year
• Level: Advanced Placement. Prerequisite: Department approval Essential skills: Ability to read at least one clef of music and proficiency in an instrument or voice. The AP Exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged AP Music Theory is a year-long course designed to challenge musicians while developing aural and visual analysis skills to understand the fundamental building blocks of Western classical music. Topics of study will include circle of 5ths major and minor keys signatures, modes, triads, seventh chords, inversions, intervals, polyphonic rhythms and the study of common musical forms. Theoretical discussion will include multiple clefs and students will develop skills in rhythmic dictation, roman numeral analysis, modulation, cadences, realizing figured bass, and developing counterpoint. This course involves a strong emphasis on aural recognition and dictation, sightsinging, and analytical score study. AP music theory requires a background in reading music, experience with instrumental or vocal performance and at least one trimester of Music Performance Practicum, Music Concentration, or yearlong jazz band participation.
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED COURSES
FIRST YEAR FOUNDATIONS (0.5 credit) Fall Trimester
Level: Grade 9, required
The intention of First Year Foundations is to provide just that, the basis or groundwork for success at Wilbraham & Monson Academy. In doing so, we will work to develop our sense of community, focusing throughout on our core values: “Live Clean. Work Hard. Speak True. Play Fair.” We will begin by identifying the personal qualities that set us apart from others, as well as those shared traits that have brought us all to our school. In this way, we will build our Grade 9 community, establishing a strong sense of belonging through activities centered around team-building, mindfulness and gratitude. Developing a comprehensive understanding of how our school works, from technology to infrastructure, will ensure future success. Additionally, students will examine the development of the teenage brain and the role of executive functioning, alongside study skills and strategies that will be incorporated into multiple learning opportunities throughout the WMA experience. Learners will become well-versed in all student supports across campus, from the Academy’s nursing staff to the counseling office to the writing center and math tutors, and the value and use of office hours built into the school day. In alignment with our health curriculum, students will venture into the topics of relationships, gender roles and expectations, understanding of boundaries and consent, and intercourse and contraception. In cooperation with our health program, students will further develop their understanding of drugs and addiction. Each of these topics is cyclical, as Academy students receive health education throughout middle school and upper school, and we recognize the importance of continuing conversations and opening dialogue, in an effort to establish trust and teach the science behind such critical topics. Finally, we will reflect on our experience together, crafting letters to our future selves - organized around our topics of study - to be returned to us during our senior year. We are sure to marvel at our expectations and experiences!
HEALTH 10 (.25 credit)
Grade 10, required
This trimester course is designed to enhance personal health and wellness through the discussion of mental health, positive psychology, sexual education and personal identity. The focus of this course is the development of identity, personal values and a goal-oriented mindset. Students will meet once per week over the course of one trimester. Students are graded on in-class assignments.
COLLEGE COUNSELING SEMINARS (required, no credit)
This series of courses has been developed by the College Counseling Office to aid our students in researching and selecting the colleges or universities that will best meet their needs and to assist them in the process of application. These seminars are required at each grade level and students earn no credit. Classes are scheduled to fit with the students’ other classes and meet with a frequency determined by College Counseling.
10th GRADE: KNOWING YOURSELF
Sophomore Seminar is offered by the College Counselors during the spring trimester. Through authentic engagement and reflection, students begin to identify their strengths and goals for the future. This course has been designed to help our students find educational opportunities – primarily programs of study in postsecondary institutions – that are consistent with their occupational interests. The sessions will focus on a variety of topics including the importance of self-reflection in the college process; strategies for developing a strong personal statement; and an introduction to SCOIR, WMA’s college counseling software. All sophomores are administered the Self-Directed Search Assessment.
11th GRADE: UNDERSTANDING THE COLLEGE ADMISSION PROCESS
Junior year is the formal start of the college process. Through weekly Junior Seminar classes and individual counseling meetings in the Winter Trimester, students develop prioritized college search criteria, create a standardized testing plan, build a balanced college list and begin the personal essay process. Additionally, students will learn how to research and identify colleges that are a good match, how to navigate SCOIR and a college website and how to complete the Common Application. Students will create a Common Application account as part of the class.
12th GRADE: APPLYING WITH CONFIDENCE
Seniors return in August with a polished draft of their personal essay and are prepared to finalize applications. A number of required classes are offered to review the Common Application, to instruct students how to link their Common Application and SCOIR accounts (a necessary step for the submission of their online applications), to understand the various application options (Early Decision, Early Action and Priority) and to address other important topics. Ultimately, our focus turns to 1-on-1 meetings with our students. Counselors provide close, individualized support - refining college lists, reviewing essays, coordinating testing plans and carefully reviewing every application before submission. Students also have the opportunity to meet with admission officers from more than 80 visiting colleges and universities.
Department
English
2026-2027 Upper School
COURSE OFFERINGS BY GRADE LEVEL
Faculty/Department recommendations are required to progress to Honors or AP level courses.
Grade 9 Options
English 9
Honors English 9
Advanced ESOL
Superior ESOL
Math
Science & Technology
History, CEEF & Social Sciences
Algebra 1
Honors Algebra 1
Geometry
Honors Geometry Algebra 2
Honors Algebra 2
STEM 9: Physics STEM 9: Physics Adv
Grade 10 Options
English 10
Honors English 10
Advanced ESOL
Superior ESOL
Geometry
Honors Geometry
Algebra 2
Honors Algebra 2
Precalculus
Honors Precalculus
Chemistry
Honors Chemistry Online:
AP Comp Sci Principles
World History Honors
World History
U.S. History for ESOL
Human Geography
AP Human Geography
U.S. History for ESOL AP Seminar
Grade 11 Options
American Literature
AP Language & Composition
Superior ESOL
Algebra 2
Honors Algebra 2
College Preparatory Math
Precalculus
Honors Precalculus
Calculus
AP Calculus AB
Biology
Honors Biology
AP Chemistry
Honors Advanced Physics Physics for Engineering
AP Computer Sci A Online
U.S. History AP U.S. History
Honors Gov’t & Diplomacy AP Macroeconomics
AP Psychology
AP Research– (after AP Seminar)
Grade 12 & PG Options
AP Language & Composition
AP Literature & Composition
Contemporary Literature
English 12 Trimester Courses
Previous options plus:
Statistics & Probability
AP Statistics
AP Calculus BC
Online:
Multivariable/Vector Calculus Linear Algebra
Previous options plus: AP Physics C
AP Biology
AP Environmental Science
Human Anatomy & Physiology
Environmental Science
Honors Gov’t & Diplomacy
AP World History
AP Microeconomics
Language French, Latin, Spanish or Chinese at a beginning or continuing level as determined by the Department Chinese classes are online Levels through AP are offered.
Fine Arts AP Studio 2D and AP Studio 3D are available after taking electives, with department approval. One course is offered each year, alternating.
Performing Arts
Jazz Music Ensemble, Chamber Ensemble, Vocal Point Chorus, AP Music Theory
Music Practicum (can be taken 3x for full year)
Trimester courses are listed at the grade level they are first available.
Science & Technology Exploring Web Design Exploring Big Data
CEEF/ Social Science Financial Planning Intro to Economics Entrepreneurship
Electronics Theory & Practice
Social Entrepreneurship
Global Entrepreneurship
Portfolio Management
Stock Market Analysis
Student Investment Seminar is open to all grades with approval.
Fine Arts Studio Art (prerequisite for other visual arts)
Intro to Mech. Eng. 1 or 2 Intro to Exercise Science
Honors Behavior Finance Business Data Analysis Intro to Psychology Women’s Studies
Any course as appropriate
Any previously listed course
The following visual art trimester electives are open to students as available after the prerequisite is met:
Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, Fashion Design, Fashion Production, Intro to Jewelry Making, Digital Photo, Darkroom Photo I, Digital Media & Video, Art Design & Technology.
The following courses are available after taking the first level course:
Ceramics II, Advanced Digital Photography, Darkroom Photography II, Painting II. AP Studio 2D and AP Studio 3D are available after taking electives, with department approval.
Performing Arts Intro to Theatre, Percussion (Beg/Adv), Digital Music, Exploratory Music, Music Practicum (can be taken full year)
Electives are subject to change.
