Curriculum Guide

Yearly

1691 1692 HP

This course will introduce the student to playwrights and genres not covered in Acting 1; students will study intermediate acting methods and techniques.

Prerequisite: Theatre Appreciation (or Introduction to Theater) and Intermediate Acting (or Acting 1). May be repeated with Director of Theatre’s permission. Performance participation is mandatory.

Yearly

1555 1556 EP
1557 1558 HP

This course focuses on the critical development of the actor. Students will learn about contemporary and classical performance literature through monologue and scene study. This course will introduce the student to playwrights and genres not covered in Beginning Acting.  Students will study advanced acting methods and techniques, that will culminate into a final showcase. To receive HP credit for this class, students will participate in directing for the stage. Students will learn about the role and function of the director. They will also learn the basic tools for blocking and staging, including composition, movement, and picturization. Students will learn how to teach basic actor coaching techniques, and there will be some script analysis.

Note: Performance participation is mandatory.

EP Prerequisite: Beginning Acting. HP Prerequisite: Permission from the instructor. 

Semester

Fall and Spring

1665 HP Fall
1666 HP Spring

This course is for the serious production student who has successfully completed previous broadcast courses.  Students will work as Directors, Technical Directors, Camera Operators, Commentators, and will work with a variety of video switchers and live graphics.  The course focuses on live video production skills and web streaming. This course requires a time commitment outside of the school day including some nights and weekends. 

Prerequisites: Beginning Video and Intermediate Broadcast or Introduction to Film and Video Production. 

NOTE:  This course may be taken both semesters.

Yearly

1643 1644 HP

This is an audition-only group composed of members of the Woodward Academy Dance Ensemble. In addition to a regularly scheduled class for instruction in technique, members meet on Monday and Wednesday after school. Students in this ensemble must have previous experience at a highly advanced level. A full year of commitment is expected. Performance participation is mandatory.

Note: Enrollment in this course and level requires an audition and permission from the instructor.

Yearly 

1885 Fall HP, 1886 Spring HP

This course builds on the skills mastered in Debate and Intermediate Debate. Students will continue to develop research, speaking and critical thinking skills needed to participate in state and national debate competitions. Because the topic changes annually and content is reshaped to address student needs, this course may be repeated for elective credit.

Prerequisite: Intermediate Debate or permission of the Instructor.

Semester

1580 EP
 

This course covers advanced techniques on the guitar and music literature. Levels 6, 7, 8. 

Prerequisite: Intermediate guitar, previous levels, and permission of the instructor. 

Note: Students may take one semester or continue on for as many as their schedule will allow. Each semester taken equates to one level. In any one year, students may group classes together (i.e. Beginning Guitar with Intermediate Guitar or Intermediate Guitar with Advanced Guitar). With instructor permission, may be repeated.

Yearly

1827 1828 HP

This course is designed to offer the highly motivated student continued study of jewelry design and metalsmithing. Alternative techniques and new materials will be explored to enable individual exploration and experimentation. Students are encouraged to develop and pursue personal style and direction. 

Prerequisite: Advanced Jewelry and permission of the Department Chair.

Yearly

1765 1766 HP

This course is designed to offer the highly motivated student in a yearlong study of jewelry design and metalsmithing. Alternative techniques and new materials will be explored to enable individual exploration and experimentation. Prerequisite: Jewelry 1 and Jewelry 2. 

See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Yearly

1829 1830 HP

This course is a continued study of drawing and painting problems for the serious and highly motivated art student.  Students will be expected to continue to explore and enhance the foundations of painting techniques and skills of Advanced Painting. Students are encouraged to develop and pursue personal imagery, style, and direction. At the end of the course a portfolio of the course’s work will be expected. 

Prerequisite: Advanced Painting and written permission of the instructor and Department Chair.

Yearly

1703 1704 HP

This course is a study of drawing and painting problems for the serious and highly motivated art student. Students will be expected to continue to explore and enhance the foundations of painting techniques and skills of Painting I and II. Students are encouraged to develop and pursue personal imagery, style, and direction. At the end of the course a portfolio of the course’s work will be expected.

Prerequisite: Painting 1 and 2 and written permission of the instructor and Department Chairperson 
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Yearly

1711 1712 HP

This class is a continuing investigation into alternative techniques. Emphasis on independent study and portfolio development will be stressed.  

Prerequisite:  Advanced Photography 1 and permission of the Department Chair.

Yearly

1701 1702 HP

This class is designed to further explore camera and darkroom techniques with emphasis on independent work and experimentation. Alternative techniques will be emphasized. Developing the student’s own style and beyond-the-classroom work will be emphasized.

Prerequisite: Photography 1 and 2 and permission of the Department Chair

Yearly

1921 1922 HP

This is a co-taught computer science and engineering course focused on teams of students applying the engineering design process to the construction of competitive solutions to the annual FIRST Tech Challenge and Robotics Competition. Students will grow their knowledge of mechanical design, electrical systems, and fluid power concepts and apply them to their robot builds.  Student leadership development, team collaboration, and problem solving will be at the core of the skills exercised at the conclusion of each student’s high school robotics experience.

Prerequisites: prior organized robotics or engineering course/club experience, or permission of the Department Chair. This course can be taken multiple years.

Yearly

1713 1714 HP

This course is designed to offer the highly motivated student continued study of sculptural forms. Many different materials and techniques will be explored to enable individual expression. Students are encouraged to develop and pursue personal style and direction. 

Prerequisite: Advanced Sculpture and permission of instructor.

Yearly

1705 1706 HP

This course is designed to offer the highly motivated student a year-long study of sculptural forms. Many different materials and techniques will be explored to enable individual expression. 

Prerequisite: 3-D Design 1 and 2, Ceramics 1 and 2, and permission of instructor.

Yearly

1675 1676 HP

In this intermediate film class, students will translate their written scripts to the screen. Production and Post-Production elements will also be taught, as students will immerse themselves in crafting visual stories.

Prerequisites:  Introduction to Storytelling and Cinema Studies.

Yearly

1105 1106 CP

1107 1108 EP

NCAA Approved

This is a year-long course whose topics include order of operations, writing algebraic expression and equations, solving
linear equations and inequalities, graphs of linear functions,
graphs of linear inequalities, solving systems of linear equations and inequalities, calculating slope, meaning and properties of exponents, and solving absolute value equations.
 

Yearly 

1117 1118 HP

NCAA Approved

This is a year-long course which covers topics of Algebra 2 in
more rigorous detail and with a different style (more learning
through exploration, discovery, and use of technology). Sophomores who take Algebra 2 Honors College Prep (HP), if recommended, will follow it with a year of Pre-Calculus Honors
College Prep and then a choice of either AP Statistics or AP
Calculus. Sophomores who wish to take BOTH AP Statistics
and AP Calculus should plan space in their schedule (either
during their junior or senior year) for two math courses. 

Yearly

1125 1126 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course is the completion of a single two-year course
(started in the course called GAT). It is an exercise-driven
course in algebra, analytical geometry, trigonometry, and
pre-calculus. This course makes extensive use of both inductive and deductive reasoning (i.e., creation and derivation and
appropriate use of technology. Topics include one variable
statistics, linear regression, exponential, polynomial, rational
and logarithmic functions, 3-D vectors, and conics.

Prerequisite: GAT HP

Grades 11-12

This elective course provides an understanding of the structure and function of the human body through the detailed introduction of specific organ systems and how they inter-relate forming an integrated whole. The course includes lectures along with various laboratory dissections, activities, and demonstrations. In addition, students work through case studies as an integral part of the course where, through the understanding of disease, they are able to relate structure and function of various organ systems of the body to a functional unit that maintains homeostasis and thus survival.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Year-long

1143

1144 AP

NCAA Approved HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a year-long course whose topics include limits, the derivative and its applications,
and the integral and its applications. A national, standardized examination for possible
college credit is required for completion of the course.

Prerequisite: Satisfactory
completion of Pre-Calculus HP or superior completion of Pre-Calculus EP and permission
of Department Chairperson.

Yearly

1145 1146 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This year-long course is an extension of the AP AB Calculus course. The BC Calculus topics include derivative and
integral applications of polar and parametric functions, advanced integral techniques, improper integrals, polynomial
approximations and series, infinite series, and vector defined
motion. The Multivariable Calculus topics include vectors,
vector-valued functions, functions of several variables, and
multiple integration. The national, standardized examination
AP Calculus BC for possible college credit is required for
completion of the course.

Prerequisite:  AP Calculus AB and permission of Department
Chairperson.

Yearly 

1821 1822 AP

HOPE Rigor Recognition

This Advanced Placement course, the equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course, involves theories of computer science and programming in Java. Topics include object-oriented program and class design, program implementation, program analysis, effective use of array data structures, and standard searching and sorting algorithms. Students design programs, develop algorithms it needs, and write code to implement them. Students must take the AP Computer Science AP exam, an examination for possible college credit, at the end of the course.

Technology: Java.  Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Principles, or permission of the Department Chair.

Yearly

1802 1803 AP

HOPE Rigor Recognition

In this Advanced Placement course, the equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course, students will learn computer science by investigating a technology topic of their choice and building a socially useful mobile app.  AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. Students must take the AP Computer Science Principles AP exam, an examination for possible college credit, at the end of the course.

Technology: JavaScript. Prerequisite:  Honors College Prep Math, Introduction to Computer Science, Introduction to Digital Technologies, or permission of the Department Chair.

A course which adds to the English 3HP study preparation
for the AP Language and Composition test, the class also
asks junior students to read and write on non-fiction works in
preparation for the AP Language and Composition test in May.
Note: Enrollment requires permission of the Department Chair or superior completion of English 2 HP. 

Yearly

1049 1050 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

A college-level course for those seniors with superior analytical reading and writing skills that emphasizes prose analysis
and argument, the class culminates in taking the AP Language
and Composition exam in May. The course trains seniors to
observe the author’s rhetorical choices in relation to his or
her purpose. Students then practice their own writing skills,
with a focus on analytical, persuasive, and document-based
essays.  The course will cover both fiction and nonfiction. 
The student’s performance on the May AP test may result in
college credit for the course.

Note: Enrollment requires satisfactory completion of English
3HP or permission of the Department Chairperson. 

Yearly

1043 1044 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

A senior college-level course emphasizing composition and advanced literary criticism, the course centers on literary classics requiring superior close reading techniques and intuition and superior analytical writing. The senior-level class culminates in the taking of the AP Literature and Composition exam in May. The student’s performance on this test may result in college credit for the course. 

Note: Enrollment requires satisfactory completion of English 3HP, AP English Language and Composition (11th grade), or permission from the Department Chair.

Yearly

1225 1226 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition
 

The Advanced Placement European History course is designed to provide the student with the factual knowledge of major events and trends in Europe from approximately 1450 to the present. Areas of emphasis include the following:  social, intellectual, economic, religious, and political developments in modern Western Europe. This course prepares students for the AP examination in European History offered in May of each year. Successful completion of this examination may qualify a student for college credit. 

Prerequisite: Approval of the Department Chair is required if moving to a more rigorous level in social studies with this class.  

Yearly

1477 1478 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The AP French Language course prepares students to demonstrate proficiency across three communicative modes (Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational) and the five goal areas outlined in the Standards for World Language Learning in the 21st Century (Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities). Students are required to take the AP French Language and Culture Exam at the end of the course.

Prerequisite: 3HP, 4HP or Department Chair approval.

Yearly

1495 1496 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition
 

The AP German Language course prepares students to demonstrate proficiency across three communicative modes (Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational) and the five goal areas outlined in the Standards for World Language Learning in the 21st Century (Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities). Proficiency goal: Intermediate High. Students are required to take the AP German Language and Culture Exam at the end of the course.  

Prerequisite: 3HP or 4HP and/or departmental approval.

Yearly

1575 1576

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course will use authentic Japanese language materials to discuss various cultural topics. Coursework provides students with opportunities to perform intermediate-to-advanced-level tasks and prepares students to demonstrate their level of Japanese proficiency across the three communicative modes (Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational). Its aim is
to provide students with ongoing and varied opportunities
to further develop their proficiencies across the full range of language skills within a cultural frame of reference reflective of the richness of the Japanese language and cultures, as they prepare for the AP Japanese Exam.
Note: Department Chair approval required.

1243 1244 AP

HOPE Rigor Recognition

AP Macroeconomics is an introductory college-level course which introduces students to the principles of understanding the economy as a whole. Students will learn how economic activity is measured, and analyze and explain the real world impact of unexpected economic shocks. Using models built on graphs and data, students will evaluate how government fiscal and monetary policies affect key measures of a nation’s economic performance, and by extension affect the standard of living of the average family. Successful completion of the AP examination may qualify a student for college credit.  

Prerequisite: Approval of the Department Chair is required if moving to a more rigorous level in social studies with this class

Yearly

1573 1574

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course will use authentic Chinese language materials to discuss various cultural topics. It deepens students’ immersion into the language and cultures of the Chinese-speaking world. It places emphasis on using the language holistically in a culturally appropriate context. Course work reflects the proficiencies exhibited throughout the intermediate range. Students are required to take the AP Mandarin Chinese Exam at the end of the course.

NOTE:  Approval of Chinese teacher and department chair needed.

Yearly

1227 1228 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition
 

The Advanced Placement course in Economics will focus on preparing students for the AP Microeconomics exam administered in May of each year. Class material and discussion will emphasize decisions encountered by private-sector businesses (this includes publicly owned companies). Students will also be responsible for analyzing case studies and presenting their findings to the class. Successful completion of the AP examination may qualify a student for college credit.    

Prerequisite: Approval of the Department Chair is required if moving to a more rigorous level in social studies with this class.

Yearly

1629 1630 AP
 

This course focuses on the continued development and building of the skills necessary for students who are preparing for a career in music. The course concentrates on the study of harmony while also stressing ear training, terminology, and music notation. A strong background in music reading is highly recommended; a background in piano study, while not required, is also helpful.

Note: Enrollment requires the recommendation of a Woodward music faculty member and permission of the instructor. Students must also be concurrently enrolled in chorus, band, or strings. 

Yearly

1467 1468 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The AP Spanish Language course prepares students to demonstrate proficiency across three communicative modes (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational) and the five goal areas outlined in the Standards for World Language Learning in the 21st Century (Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities). Students are required to take the AP Spanish Language and Culture Exam at the end of the course.

Prerequisite: 3HP, 4HP or department approval.

Yearly

1461 1462 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The AP Spanish Literature and Culture course is designed to introduce students to the formal study of a representative body of literature written in Spanish from Spain, Latin America, and the United States. The course aims to provide students with ongoing and varied opportunities to develop proficiency in Spanish across a full range of skills, with emphasis on critical reading and analytical writing.

Prerequisite: AP Spanish Language and Culture or department approval.

Yearly

1141 1142 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a year-long Advanced Placement course designed to
prepare students for an end of course exam which may allow
them to receive college credit for the course. It will be taught
with the rigor and pace of a college class. Topics that will be
covered include proper methods of collecting, displaying and
analyzing data, linear and non-linear relationships between
variables, design of experiments and surveys, probability,
probability models, behavior of random variables, and inferential statistics using the Normal model, Student’s T-distribution, and the Chi Square statistic. Appropriate use of technology (graphing calculator, computer software, and the Internet)
is also a significant component of the course.

Prerequisite:

For HP students: May be taken concurrently as
the second math course with Analysis HP, Pre-Calculus HP, or
AP Calculus AB;

For EP students: Satisfactory completion of
Pre-Calculus EP and permission of Department Chairperson.

Yearly

1223 1224 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The Advanced Placement course in the United States Government will focus on understanding the ideas of political philosophers; public voting behavior and national elections; the political activities of Congress and the President; and controversial Supreme Court decisions. The spring semester is devoted to an analysis of the important political concerns facing the United States. This course is designed to prepare students for the AP exam in the U.S. Government offered in May of each year. Successful completion of this examination may qualify a student for college credit.

Prerequisite: Approval of the Department Chair is required if moving to a more rigorous level in social studies with this class.

Yearly

1221 1222 AP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The Advanced Placement Program in United States History is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to understand the problems and concepts in United States history. Students will study the political, economic, and social factors that have contributed to the development of the United States from its colonial beginnings to the post-Watergate era. The course prepares students for the Advanced Placement examination in United States History offered in May of each year. Successful completion of this examination may qualify a student for college credit.

Prerequisite: Approval of the Department Chair is required if moving to a more rigorous level in social studies with this class.

Semester

1238 CP, 1239 EP

This semester elective introduces art and architecture across the globe from 5000 BCE to 1500 CE within a chronological, historical framework. Students will analyze, discuss, read, and write about artworks and architecture beginning in the Middle East and Africa, and ending the term in Europe and Asia.  Religion, language, political propaganda, and social issues will be discussed. This course will improve critical thinking, writing, analysis, and comprehension skills through essay tests focused on slides reviewed in lectures.

Prerequisite/corequisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Spring Semester

1241 CP, 1242 EP

This semester-long course explores art and architecture from 1500 CE to the 21st Century within a chronological, historical framework. Students will analyze, discuss, read, and write about artworks and architecture found in various cultures around the world.  This term will begin in Europe and then move to the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Religion, language, political propaganda, and social issues will be discussed. This course will improve critical thinking, writing, analysis, and comprehension skills through essay tests focused on slides reviewed in lectures. Art History I is not a prerequisite, but is encouraged.   

Prerequisite/co-requisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

(Grades 11-12)

Astronomy traces the development of man’s view of the universe and the methods and tools of investigation that have made this process possible. In the context of physical law, descriptive information about the solar system, life cycles of stars and galaxies, black holes, and cosmology is presented. In addition, a familiarity with the sky and its apparent motions is developed, partly through occasional nighttime observing sessions and use of Woodward’s planetarium.

Yearly

1360 1361 CP

This course introduces the student to the composition and structure of the Universe. Course content includes, but is not limited to, historical astronomy, astronomical instruments, the celestial sphere, the solar system, stellar evolution, galaxies, and cosmology. Additional topics may include manned space exploration and the latest developments in extra-solar planets and exobiology.

Prerequisite or co-requisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Semester

1060 CP

1061 EP

Fulfilling the mandatory
summer work for those students who are going into grades 9
and 10 who are required to have 20 hours of tutoring because
they earned D’s for two semesters in English 8 or English I,
this course is also available to students who want support to
find greater success in English 1 and 2 in the Upper School. 
The course does give the student elective credits in the US
(which tutoring does not).  Reviewing grammar, using a
summer reading book to teach writing, and teaching critical
reading and thinking skills as well as listening, speaking, and
viewing skills comprise the coursework. 
 

1062 CP

1063 EP

Fulfilling the mandatory
summer work for those students who are going into grades
11 and 12 who are required to have 20 hours of tutoring
because they earned D’s for two semesters in English 2 or
English 3, this course is also available to students who want
support to find greater success in English 3 and 4 in the Upper School.  The course does give the student elective credits
in the US (which tutoring does not).  Reviewing grammar,
using a summer reading book to teach writing, and teaching
critical reading and thinking skills as well as listening, speaking, and viewing skills comprise the coursework. 
 

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1679 EP

Offered fall and spring semester for students in grades 9-12, this is a survey course on all the aspects of theatrical development including terminology, the theatre and its analysis, principle elements of performance study, acting technique, directing, and theatrical design. This course serves as a fine arts credit and is a prerequisite for Acting 1, Acting 2, and Performance Ensemble.

Semester

1609 EP
This course covers the basic technique on the guitar and music reading skills. Levels 1 and 2. Class size is limited with priority given to older grades.

The course is designed to accomplish the objectives of the Advanced Placement Biology syllabus. The AP Biology curriculum centers on four “big ideas” in biology: 1) Energetics and the Cell; 2) Genetics; 3) Evolution; 4) Ecology and Interactions. The AP Biology course explores these topics in great detail, moves at a pace consistent with college-level understanding, and requires the completion of inquiry based laboratory investigations that often run multiple days. Advanced laboratory equipment, cutting edge technology, and in-depth protocols will be used throughout the year. A three-day field trip is a course requirement. At the end of the course, students are required to take the AP Biology exam.
 

This course is a study of life at all levels, with an emphasis on molecular biology in the first semester and an emphasis on the connections among living things in the second semester. The classroom environment is interactive, and a variety of strategies are used to get students involved in the learning process. Strategies include the use of activity-oriented laboratory work, review guides, charts, critical thinking exercises, research, class discussions, writing, and projects.

Biology EP engages students in an examination of the concepts and principles that govern life, with emphasis beginning at the molecular level to the cellular level. The spring semester expands to the macroscopic level understanding evolutionary relationships as a unifying theme leading to the eloquent diversity of living organisms and the symbiotic relationships that organisms have with each other and with their environment. This course also explores biotechnology and its impact on the modern world. Faculty use a variety of techniques to help students investigate the complexities of living organisms and improve their science literacy including lecture, classroom activities, and laboratory investigations and reports.

Students will take an in-depth look at a variety of topics across Biology. The course will focus on basic biochemistry, a variety of cellular processes (membranes, transport, energetics, division, and communication), classical genetics, molecular genetics, ecology, and evolution. Emphasis is placed on laboratory work including the use of advanced equipment.

Note: An overnight field trip to the Jekyll Island 4-H center during Spring Semester is a course requirement.
Note: Enrollment requires permission from the Department Chair.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1176 Calculus (Fall) EP

1177 Calculus (Spring) EP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a semester-long course whose topics include functions
and their properties, limits, the derivative and its applications, and the integral and its applications. Use of technology
(graphing calculator, a little computer software, and the Internet) is also a significant component of the course. 

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus EP or Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry EP.

Note: Pre-Calculus with Algebra EP does NOT satisfy the
prerequisite for this course.

Note: For scheduling purposes, some who request 1176 may
be placed in 1177 or vice versa.

Yearly

1687 1688 HP

This course is a band instruction and performance class for advanced musicians. Students must audition and be accepted into Symphonic Winds to participate in this Capstone course. In addition to rehearsing and performing with the Symphonic Winds, Capstone students will prepare an individual project, under the guidance of their music teacher, concerning how the music performed that year, or music in general, advances compassion and empathy in the world. Limited class time will be available to complete this project.  t will be completed largely outside of class. Finally, students will present their project at a Showcase during Experience the Arts Day or in another appropriate forum.

Note: Enrollment requires an audition. Performance participation is mandatory. Students must receive approval from the Upper School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal, or Academic Dean) in order to take a year-long non-core Capstone course. 

Both semesters must be taken to satisfy the Compassion Capstone Requirement

Yearly

1689 1690 EP
1693 1694 HP

This course is a choral instruction and performance class for advanced musicians. Students must audition for and be accepted into Festival Singers to participate in this Capstone course. Students who also participate in Jazz Choir or Camerata may receive Honors Prep credit. In addition to rehearsing and performing with the Festival Singers, Capstone students will prepare an individual project, under the guidance of their music teacher, concerning how the music performed that year, or music in general, advances compassion and empathy in the world. Limited class time will be available to complete this project.  It will be completed largely outside of class.  Finally, students will present their project at a Showcase during Experience the Arts Day or in another appropriate forum.

Note: Enrollment requires an audition. Performance participation is mandatory. Students must receive approval from the Upper School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal, or Academic Dean) in order to take a year-long non-core Capstone course.

Both semesters must be taken to satisfy the Compassion Capstone Requirement

Yearly

1699 1670 EP
1671 1672 HP

This course is for Honors and Advanced Dance students only. Students must audition for and be accepted into Advanced Dance to participate in this Capstone course.  In addition to rehearsing and performing in the Young Choreographer’s Showcase and the Spring Dance concert, Capstone students will be required to create an individual dance project under the guidance of their teacher.   In addition to choreography, this project will encompass various art modalities;  poetry, film, a Ted Talk, photography or even spoken word. This dance project must focus on the importance and deeper meaning of Compassion and Empathy in our world, and must utilize the language of movement to convey this message. It will be created and rehearsed largely outside of class, and will be presented at the Spring Dance Concert.

Note:  Enrollment requires an audition. Students must receive approval from the Upper School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal, or Academic Dean) in order to take a year-long non-core Capstone course.

Yearly

1901 Fall HP, 1902 Spring HP

This course builds on the skills mastered in Debate and Intermediate Debate. Students will continue to develop research, speaking and critical thinking skills needed to participate in state and national debate competitions. It is taught contemporaneously with Advanced Debate. In addition to satisfying all of the requirements of Advanced Debate, students will prepare and complete a compassion capstone research paper and artifact on a public policy issue of choice. 

Prerequisite: Intermediate Debate or permission of the Instructor.

Satisfies Compassion Capstone Requirement for juniors and seniors (both semesters required)

Semester

Spring

1517 CP
1518 EP
1519 HP

This course examines the concept of ethical dilemmas in science and technology.  Ethics refers to the philosophical study of how we view what is morally right and wrong. In this course, we will consider recent advances in areas of science and technology as well as the potential positive and negative consequences that our society might incur in response to the expansion or growth of these innovations. Ultimately, students will select and research various perspectives of a controversial innovation in science or technology. Students will substantiate and recommend a course of action for a particular innovation based on their evidence-based personal perspective. 

Satisfies Compassion Capstone Requirement 

Yearly

1457 1458 HP

Hope Rigor Recognition

This course is a senior course that expands the opportunities in French 4 with a particular focus on a specific aspect of French culture. In addition to the normal class requirements of French 4, Capstone students will prepare an individual project, under the guidance of their French teacher, concerning a specific aspect of French culture that emphasizes compassion and empathy. Students will complete this project outside of class and present in the appropriate forum.

Prerequisite: 3HP (with the permission of the Department Chair). This course satisfies the Compassion Capstone Requirement.

Yearly

1490 1491 HP

Hope Rigor Recognition

This course is a senior course that expands the opportunities in French 5 with a particular focus on a specific aspect of French culture. In addition to the normal class requirements of French 5, Capstone students will prepare an individual project, under the guidance of their French teacher, concerning a specific aspect of French culture that emphasizes compassion and empathy. Students will complete this project outside of class and present in the appropriate forum.

Prerequisite: Level 4 EP/HP or AP French (with the permission of the Department Chair). This course satisfies the Compassion Capstone Requirement.

Yearly

1697 1698 HP

This course is an instruction and performance class for advanced musicians made up of orchestra students (violin, viola, cello, and bass). Students in this course must have previous experience at an advanced level of playing. Students must audition and be accepted into Philharmonia in order to participate in this Capstone course. In addition to rehearsing and performing with the Philharmonia, Capstone students will prepare an individual project, under the guidance of their music teacher, concerning how the music performed that year, or music in general, advances compassion and empathy in the world. Limited class time will be available to complete this project. It will be completed largely outside of class. Finally, students will present their project at a Showcase during Experience the Arts Day or in another appropriate forum.  

Note: Enrollment requires an audition. Performance participation is mandatory. Students must receive approval from the Upper School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal, or Academic Dean) in order to take a year-long non-core Capstone course.

Both semesters must be taken to satisfy the Compassion Capstone Requirement

Yearly

1695 1696 HP

This course is for advanced students only. Students must audition for and be accepted into Theatrical Design to participate in this Capstone course. Under the guidance of the technical theatre teacher, Capstone students will prepare an individual project that showcases the understanding of compassion and empathy created by the world of theatre through the elements of design.  This project could include Set Design, Light Design, Costume Design, Makeup design, or  Sound Design. It is the designer’s job to create an environment or mood so that an audience can in turn have their own experience that includes an empathetic response. This will engage the students to illuminate and reflect personal growth and knowledge. The final project will be collected in the style of a portfolio including: research journal, drafts, models, sketches, photographs of building, collaboration with others, performance. It will be completed both in and outside of class. 

Note: Students must receive approval from the Upper School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal, or Academic Dean) in order to take a year-long non-core Capstone course.

Yearly

1691 1692 HP

This course is an honors and advanced level class for students who are interested in advancing their understanding of acting and theatre. Students must audition for and be accepted into Performance Ensemble to participate in this Capstone course. Students will also participate in Performance Ensemble, the Fall II One Act Play, all class showcases, and Experience the Arts Day. Under the guidance of the theatre teacher, capstone students will prepare an individual project that encompasses an understanding of compassion and empathy in the world of theatre and our community as a whole.  Students will apply acting methods, script analysis, and directing to these projects.  The final project will be created and rehearsed largely outside of class, and will be presented at the Spring Theatre Showcase.

Note:  Enrollment requires an audition. Students must receive approval from the Upper School Administration (Principal, Assistant Principal, or Academic Dean) in order to take a year-long non-core Capstone course.

Fall and Spring Semester

1757 EP

This is a studio course designed to offer students experiences in the techniques of clay design through hand-building and glazing techniques 
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Semester

1758 EP

This is a studio course designed to offer students an advanced experience in working with clay, including glaze formation, surface design, and alternative firing techniques.

Prerequisite: Ceramics 1

Semester

1601 1602 EP

1603 1604 HP

This orchestra class is made up of orchestra students (violin, viola, cello, and bass). Students in this ensemble must have some previous playing experience. This ensemble focuses on previously learned concepts at the intermediate level. Three public performances are given each year. A full year of involvement is expected. 

Note: Enrollment in the course and the level requires audition and permission of the instructor. Performance participation is mandatory.

In 10^th grade, students may take College Prep, Enriched College Prep, or Honors level chemistry. Students learn chemical principles and use chemical knowledge to solve problems and complete lab exercises. They also learn to appreciate the role of chemistry in today's world. In the Honors course, students are expected to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the principles of chemistry.

Yearly

1309 1310 CP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition
 

This course provides for the study of the properties and the behavior of matter. Emphasis is placed on laboratory work and chemical problem solving. Fall semester topics begin with a study of matter, where it comes from, how we use it, how matter can change, and the importance of conservation. Fall semester concludes with a study of chemical reactions.  Spring semester topics include an examination of energy, bonding, gases, intermolecular forces, and acids and bases. Throughout both semesters the topics relate to everyday chemistry seen in the lives of our students such as the chemistry of soap, scuba diving, and air pollution.  This course is intended for those students who were in CP Algebra 1 and CP Biology in 9th grade.  Students who take this course will not take a science course during the 10th grade academic year.  The next science course will be a CP science course (most likely Physics) in 11th grade.  A Chemistry course is a graduation requirement at Woodward Academy.

Prerequisite: Biology and Department Chair approval. 

Yearly

1311 1312 EP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course consists of the study of matter which includes the basic concepts of the atom, the mole, and reaction tendencies. Each topic will emphasize qualitative reasoning and mathematical problem solving. Students will apply their knowledge and skills in the laboratory setting in addition to learning the proper and safe use of lab equipment. Topics include classification of matter, nomenclature, bonding, types of reactions, the mole, quantitative relationships in chemical reactions, thermochemistry, quantum mechanical model of the atom, gases, the role of intermolecular forces in the states of matter and solution formation, solution concentration and solubility, acids and bases, as well as equilibrium and kinetics.

Prerequisite: Biology

Yearly

1313 1314 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

Honors college prep chemistry provides the student with an overview of chemical theory that relates the properties of structure and matter. Strong emphasis is placed on problem solving and experimentation to enhance and support the theoretical methods concepts. It is strongly recommended that students planning on taking AP Chemistry take this class as the first-year chemistry course.

Prerequisite: Biology

Note: Enrollment requires permission from the Department Chair.

Yearly

1615 1616 EP

1617 1618 HP
 

This course is the choral instruction and performance class for beginning through advanced students. Students who also participate in Jazz Choir may receive Honors Prep credit. A full year of involvement is required.  

Note: Enrollment requires an audition. Performance participation is mandatory.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1625 EP Fall
1626 EP Spring

This course exposes students to the history of film as both an art form and as a profitable industry. Students will learn about how film emerged in the late 1800s and quickly developed into a global phenomenon. Film aesthetics, genres, and techniques will be discussed as students will learn how the social aspects of each time period helped film evolve into what we know it as today. 

Note: Class requires permission from the instructor.

Yearly

1137 1138 CP

NCAA Approved (0.5 unit)

This year-long course follows the content of a traditional college algebra course and stresses both technological (graphing calculator) and pencil-and-paper approaches to the mathematics studied. Topics include methods of solving equations and inequalities, graphing and analyzing functions, mathematical modeling of real-world situations, and the study of functions (linear, polynomial, rational, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic).

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1851 CP

1852 EP

1853 HP

NCAA Approved

Comparative Religions is designed to introduce students to religious traditions outside of their own. In addition to providing an overview of the world’s major religions, students have the opportunity to engage a particular topic of their choice. With each religion studied, students will research their topic of interest. This course is taught in accordance with project-based learning and culminates with a final project looking at the chosen topic across various religious traditions. This project will provide students with the skills to become experts on a topic and the ability to engage in ecumenical dialogue on that particular area of interest. The size and scope of the research and projects will be determined by the level a student takes the course. CP focuses on describing a concrete topic, and EP focuses on the significance of that topic to each religion. Students taking the course at the HP level will be expected to utilize primary source material in developing thesis-driven arguments. 

Note: For students in EP English, to take the course at the HP level, approval must be granted by the Social Studies Depart- ment Chair.

Yearly

1605 1606 (Concert and Concert Fundamentals Band) EP

1607 1608 (Concert and Concert Fundamentals Band) HP

1623 1624 (Symphonic Winds) HP
 

Woodward’s Performing Arts department offers three band classes: Concert Fundamentals Band which is for students of a pre-intermediate level needing to complete additional developmental work before entering the Concert Band; Concert Band which is an Intermediate, developing, performing group; and the Symphonic Winds which is the Academy’s most advanced group and responsible for all major musical presentations at Woodward.  Membership in either the Concert Fundamentals class or Concert Band organization carries Enriched Prep Credit. Honors Prep credit for Concert Band may be given (with permission of instructor only) to a member whose work is extended by range and quality beyond the regular class. Membership in the Symphonic Winds carries Honors Prep credit and requires a commitment to excellence in daily collaborative work and individual practice by each member of this organization. Symphonic Winds students are strongly encouraged to arrange and take regular private lessons during the class term. In all band classes, a full year of membership is expected. 

Note: Enrollment in any of these groups requires prior musical training and is only through an individual audition with the Director of Bands. Performance participation is mandatory for all of these courses.

Yearly

1013 1014 EP

NCAA Approved

A yearlong course designed for ninth and tenth grade students whose
classroom performance and test scores indicate that assistance in oral reading skills, vocabulary, and reading comprehension is required, the class focuses on reading works of
fiction and nonfiction by authors since 1940.

Note: Placement is decided by the Reading Specialist, Department Chairperson, and recommending teacher. For some 9th
grade students, the course is required. 

Semester

Fall

1070 EP 

1072 HP

NCAA Approved (1 unit limit with other Creative Writing)
Creative Writing is offered for a limited number of students
who want to pursue creative writing in addition to the opportunities found in English 1, 2, 3, or 4; the course will focus
on writing creative poetry and fiction during fall semester.
Students recommended for English 1HP, 2HP, 3HP, 4HP or AP
may elect this course at the Honors College Prep level.
Note: Enrollment requires permission of Creative Writing
Teacher and Department Chairperson.
 

Semester

Spring

1076 EP 1

1078 HP

NCAA Approved (1 unit limit with other Creative Writing)
Creative Writing is offered for a limited number of students
who want to pursue creative writing in addition to the opportunities found in English 1, 2, 3, or 4; the course will focus on
writing creative nonfiction during spring semester. Students
recommended for English 1HP, 2HP, 3HP, 4HP or AP may elect
this course at the Honors College Prep level.

Note: Enrollment requires permission of Creative Writing
Teacher and Department Chairperson.
 

Semester

Fall

1090 HP

NCAA Approved (1 unit limit with other Creative Writing)
Creative Writing is offered for a limited number of students
who want to pursue creative writing in addition to the opportunities found in English 1, 2, 3, or 4; the course will focus on
writing creative poetry and fiction during fall semester.
Note: Enrollment requires satisfactory completion of Creative
Writing 1 (HP) and permission of Creative Writing Teacher
and Department Chairperson. *Creative Writing 3 and 4 may not be offered every year.

Semester

Spring

1092 HP

NCAA Approved (1 unit limit with other Creative Writing)

Creative Writing is offered for a limited number of students who want to pursue creative writing during spring semester in addition to the opportunities found in English 2, 3, or 4; the course will focus on an independent long-form project in fiction, poetry, or drama in addition to the completion of additional work in creative nonfiction.

Note: Enrollment requires satisfactory completion of Creative Writing 2 ( EP or HP) or Creative Writing 3 (EP or HP) and permission of Creative Writing Teacher and Department Chair. *Creative Writing 3 and 4 may not be offered every year.

Yearly

1903 1904 EP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course will provide students with a lab-based opportunity to learn the procedures and principles of forensic science and criminal investigation. Students will play the role of a crime scene investigator, learning the importance of collecting and processing multiple avenues of evidence during a course-long investigation. The course will cover a large range of techniques in forensic analysis, including microscopy, spectrometry, serology, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA typing, forensic entomology, hair and fiber analysis, criminal psychology, and more. Forensic science incorporates skills in biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and criminal justice. It introduces law enforcement topics such as criminal investigations, fingerprint development, and firearms identification. Scientific literacy will be highlighted via formal report writing and primary literature interpretations. 

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Department Chair Approval.

Semester

Spring

1832 EP
1833 HP

This course is designed for students with an interest in the field of cybersecurity. It is the first course in the cybersecurity pathway and will prepare students for an advanced cybersecurity course and/or cybersecurity certification(s). Students should have some exposure to computer science, but there are no specific course prerequisites. Students will learn cybersecurity topics including digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, software security, networking fundamentals, system administration and the basics of cryptography and programming. Active participation in the CyberStart online simulation is incorporated throughout this course.

Yearly

1633 1634 EP
This class is designed for beginner dance students in the areas of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Choreography, and Improvisation. Students will be able to challenge themselves as young artists and develop their technique and creativity through the art of dance. No dance experience or audition is required. A full year of involvement is expected. Performance participation is mandatory.

Yearly

1637 1638 EP

This class is designed for beginner/Intermediate dance students in the areas of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Choreography and Improvisation. Students will be able to challenge themselves as young artists and develop their technique and creativity through the art of dance. No dance experience or audition is required. A full year of involvement is expected. Performance participation is mandatory.

Note: Enrollment requires permission from the instructor.

Yearly

1639 1640 EP

This class is designed for more advanced dance students in the areas of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Choreography and Improvisation. Students will be able to challenge themselves as young artists and develop their technique and creativity through the art of dance. A full year of involvement is expect- ed. Performance participation is mandatory.

Note: Enrollment requires permission from the instructor.

Yearly

1641 1642 EP

This class is designed for more advanced dance students in the areas of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Choreography and Improvisation. Students will be able to challenge themselves as young artists and develop their technique and creativity through the art of dance. A full year of involvement is expected. Performance participation is mandatory.

Note: Enrollment requires permission from the instructor.

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1589 CP

This course can fulfill the PE/Health graduation requirement or a Fine Arts elective requirement. Students should select Dance Fitness (EP) on page 78 if they wish to take the course as the fine arts elective.  Dance Fitness is made up of ten different classes:  Pilates, Core Focus, Legs and Glutes, Cardio, Step, New York City Ballet Workout, Body Sculpt, Stretch and Tone, Circuit Training, and Yoga.  Students journal personal fitness goals for each semester and work out as a supportive team in order to accomplish these goals. The CP course also includes a health and wellness component. Included are emphases on nutrition, anatomy/physiology, and injury prevention. There is no performance component to this course.  This course may be repeated for elective credit.

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1588 EP

This course can fulfill the Fine Arts graduation requirement or an elective requirement. Dance Fitness is made up of ten different classes:  Pilates, Core Focus, Legs and Glutes, Cardio, Step, New York City Ballet Workout, Body Sculpt, Stretch and Tone, Circuit Training, and Yoga. Included are emphases on nutrition, anatomy/physiology, and injury prevention. Students journal personal fitness goals for each semester and work out as a supportive team in order to accomplish these goals. There is no performance component to this course.  Students should select Dance Fitness (CP) on page 90 if they wish to take the course as the required PE/Health credit. This course may be repeated for elective credit. 

Semester

Fall

1860 EP, 1861 HP

This course teaches students the fundamentals of argumentation and competitive debating, including critical thinking, argument construction, research, and speaking skills. Through the study of debate, students will learn how to read critically, ask pertinent questions, recognize assumptions and implications, and evaluate ideas. Students in the course will practice their developing skills by participating in several intramural competitions.

NOTE:  9th grade students have scheduling priority for this course. Students who plan to pursue debate as an extracurricular activity beyond the first semester should also sign up for Intermediate Debate in the second semester.

Fall Semester

1748 EP

This studio class is a fundamental course for the student who wants to try a variety of art media in one semester. Students will be introduced to the elements and principles of design through the creation of two-dimensional compositions using drawing, design, and printmaking. This is a general art class which meets the one semester fine art requirement and is also an introduction to art.

See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Spring Semester

1749 EP

This studio class is a continuation of Design Studio 1. Students will use design elements and principles to explore more complex design problems. A variety of art materials and media will be implemented to build on concepts and lessons from Design Studio 1.

Prerequisite: Design Studio 1 
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1232 CP, 1233 EP, 1234 HP

The concept of “justice” lies at the very core of American values.  The term justice is featured prominently in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Pledge of Allegiance.  However, what is “just” and what is “unjust” is often a matter of great debate. This course will examine various ways to define justice including legal justice, criminal justice, social justice and more.  Ultimately, students will select a controversial topic in justice, examine that topic from multiple perspectives, and seek a just resolution to the controversy.

Prerequisite/corequisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Semester

Fall

1174 EP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a semester-long study of the mathematics of social
choice and decision making in the context of real-world questions. Topics include voting schemes, weighted systems, and
fair division.

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus EP or Pre-Calculus With Algebra
EP

Semester

Spring

1175 EP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a semester-long study of management science in the
context of real-world questions. Topics include apportionment,
game theory, linear programming, street networks, visiting
vertices, planning and scheduling, coding and encryption.

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus EP or Pre-calculus with Algebra
EP.

Note: Discrete Mathematics 1 is NOT a necessary prerequisite
for Discrete Math 2.

Fall Semester

1750 EP

This is a studio course designed to offer the student the opportunity to explore a variety of techniques and media emphasizing drawing. Exploring the elements of line, value, space, shape, texture, and different tools for drawing are key.

See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Spring Semester

1751 EP

This second semester of drawing is concerned with learning a variety of approaches to solving problems in drawing. It will build upon the foundation of Drawing 1 with the introduction of color. Intensive study of two-dimensional surface treatment, illusion of space, and the structure of objects will be explored. 

Prerequisite: Drawing 1

Semester (Fall and Spring)

Grades 9-12

1909 HP

In this course students will explore the Internet of Things (IoT) and how devices and technology are used to capture data and communicate with one another over the cloud.  Students will use hands-on design projects to learn how sensors and hardware are applied in this sector, the network designs that link devices, and the algorithms and programming that bridge devices to the network. Students will also learn how to capture and mine data from devices stored in the cloud. 

Technology Prerequisite: Intro to Computer Science, Intro to Digital Technology, or AP Computer Science Principles.

Yearly

Grades 10-12

1914 1915 EP
1916 1917 HP

This second engineering course allows students to dive deeper into applied technologies that enhance their engineered solutions to real-world challenges in our community and world.  Project themes will include addressing the National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenge themes, immediate school or community engineering needs, and more rigorous Technology Student Association (TSA) competitive event themes such as Mechatronics, Engineering Design - Infrastructure, CAD Engineering and Architecture, and Alternative Energy - Wind Turbine Design.  Students will have full access to previously mastered lab tools and equipment to construct their design solutions using the documented engineering design process.  Note: This course can be taken multiple years with students building upon their skills each year and applying them to different/multi-year projects.  Submission of student work for Georgia TSA competitive events and conference travel is strongly encouraged. 

Prerequisite:  Engineering 101(Y or S) or Engineering 102 (S)

Year-long

1003 1004 CP

1005 1006 EP

1007 1008 HP

A study of language, speech, literature, and composition with emphasis on composition
and grammar, the ninth-grade course begins a cycle of understanding great literature and
myths which will culminate during the student’s senior year. The literary portion focuses
on heroes in a variety of times and cultures.

Year-long

1017 1018 CP

1019 1020 EP

1021 1022 HP

NCAA Approved

A study of major American writers through selected poems, short stories, novels,
speeches, and plays, the sophomore course asks students to make evaluations of these
works as they compose numerous essays, augment their word bank, and focus on
improving individual grammar errors in writing.

Yearly

1027 1028 HP

NCAA Approved

A course which adds to the above course a serious review of critical interpretation and methodology, the class challenges the stronger junior students at Woodward. Each enrolled student must write a Term Paper and achieve a passing grade on it in order to pass this course.

Yearly

1023 1024 CP 

1025 1026 EP

NCAA Approved

A survey course tracing the development of British literature from early times into the twentieth century, the junior-level class stresses the study of literature, including poetry, novels, short stories, and plays, in order to improve writing ability and to emphasize America's British heritage of ideas and ideals. Included is the preparation of a formal research paper on a literary topic. Each enrolled student must write a Term Paper and achieve a passing grade on it in order to pass this course.

1045 1046 HP

NCAA Approved

A course designed for our strongest senior students, senior Honors College Prep English provides students an opportunity to study drama and film created by a variety of  playwrights and directors. The reading and writing expectations and assignments are challenging, providing opportunities for creative, analytical, oral, and written expression. Using text and film, the course highlights the best work by modern dramatists and directors. Enrollment requires satisfactory completion of English 3HP or AP Language and Composition or permission of Department Chair, recommendation of current 3EP teacher, and superior completion of English 3EP.

Yearly

1037 1038 CP

1039 1040 EP

NCAA Approved

Fall semester emphasizes grammar, vocabulary, composition,
and the elements of fiction (with CP and EP using the same
college-level anthology). During spring semester, students
will apply the elements of fiction to a variety of genres chosen
by the individual teacher.  Spring semester courses vary each
year but usually include emphases on Southern literature,
evil in British and American literature, the conflict of war,
coming of age, gender in literature, modern writers, and other
thematic groupings. The senior-level course finalizes the
preparation of students for the reading and writing (including
research writing each semester) found in a freshman college
environment.

Yearly

1337 1338 AP

NCAA Approved

HOPE Rigor Recognition

The course is designed to accomplish the goals of the Advanced Placement Environmental Science syllabus. The biology, chemistry, geology, and physics of the earth’s interconnected systems are the focus of this elective course. Emphasis is also placed on understanding impacts of human activity and resource use on natural systems, understanding current research and experimentation, and analysis of
decision-making processes that govern human use of natural resources. A summer assignment, extended lab work outside of class time, and an overnight field trip are required. At the end of the course, students are required to take the AP Environmental Science exam.

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry

Note: Enrollment requires permission from the Department Chair.

Yearly

1323 1324 EP

NCAA Approved

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary course which uses the natural sciences (biology, chemistry, and geology) and social sciences (economics, politics, and ethics) to identify and analyze environmental issues/concerns and examine solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Emphasis will be placed on understanding human impacts on the environment and on knowing how to limit environmental destruction. Topics will be explored in lecture and lab. Labs will be quantitative in nature and incorporate data analysis. Students will also conduct a long-term inquiry based research project. Current events in environmental science are addressed through debates and group projects.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Yearly

1345 1346 CP

NCAA Approved

This course is designed for the college prep student. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary course which uses the natural sciences (biology, chemistry, and geology) and social sciences (economics, politics, and ethics) to identify
and analyze environmental issues/concerns and examine solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Emphasis will be placed on qualitative understanding, laboratory activities, and promoting independent thinking and problem solving.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Fall and Spring

1858 CP

ESOL supports international student success through intensive work on speaking, writing, reading comprehension, and grammar. The course is designed to give international students support with writing and reading assignments in core courses as well as advancing students’ proficiency in English. The course also provides extra help for students in preparing for standardized tests such as the PSAT and SAT. 

All new International students will be assessed during the orientation week to see if ESOL placement is appropriate. 

Fall and Spring

1859 CP

ESOL II is designed for international students who have demonstrated advanced proficiency in English. The course provides students with support in writing and research assignments in other courses. Students work on advanced communication skills such as presentations as well as intensive SAT verbal and writing preparation. 

Prerequisite: ESOL I

Note: International students may be exempt from this course pending demonstrated English proficiency and administrative approval.

Semester

Fall

1769 EP

Students will explore an approach to ethics that is guided by a compassionate mindset and grounded in basic human values that can be discerned from common sense, common experience and science.  Students will build knowledge of the self, relationships and systems using creative expression, experiential learning, critical thinking and contemplative exercises.  Students will create art work, debate real world dilemmas and propose solutions as compassionate change makers. Recommended for students interested in positive psychology, service learning and art for social change.

Satisfies Compassion Capstone Requirement when taken in conjunction with Ethical Dilemmas and Decision Making 2.

Semester

Spring

1770 EP

Students will further develop a compassionate mindset by exploring an approach to ethics that is grounded in basic human values that can be discerned from common sense, common experience and science.  Students will continue to build knowledge of the self, relationships and systems using creative expression, experiential learning, critical thinking and contemplative exercises.  Students will create art work, debate real world dilemmas and propose solutions as compassionate change makers.  Recommended for students interested in positive psychology, service learning and art for social change.

Prerequisite: Ethical Dilemmas and Decision Making 1.

Satisfies Compassion Capstone Requirement when taken in conjunction with Ethical Dilemmas and Decision Making 1.

1619 1620 EP

1621 1622 HP
 

This course is the choral instruction and performance class for advanced musicians. Students who also participate in Jazz Choir or Camerata may receive Honors Prep credit. Festival Singers students are strongly encouraged to arrange and take regular private lessons in either voice or piano during the class term. A full year of membership is required.

Note: Enrollment requires an audition. Performance participation is mandatory.

Fall Semester

1767 EP

This studio class is designed to offer the student an opportunity to explore a wide variety of materials and processes involved in the creation of textiles. Topics will include surface design on fabric, dyeing, weaving and hand construction techniques.

Prerequisite: Design Studio 1 & 2 preferred, but not required
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Spring Semester

1768 EP

This studio class is a continuation of Fiber Arts 1. Students will use both traditional and nontraditional approaches to process and materials to create textiles. More complex design problems and techniques will be emphasized.

Prerequisite: Fiber Arts 1
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Yearly

1423 1424 EP

1425 1426 HP

NCAA Approved

Level 1 French emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar, vocabulary, and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic audiovisual materials. The Honors Prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work including more exposure to authentic materials. Proficiency goal is Novice High.

Yearly

1513 1514 CP

NCAA Approved

Level 1 French emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar, vocabulary, and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic audiovisual materials. Proficiency goal is Novice Mid.

Yearly

1565 1566 CP

NCAA Approved

Level 2 French emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar, vocabulary, and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic audiovisual materials. Proficiency goal is Novice High.

Yearly

1433 1434 EP

1435 1436 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In level 2 French students continue to develop the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar and vocabulary are presented as part of culturally rich thematic units. The honors prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Low (EP, HP).

Yearly

1571 1572 CP

1443 1444 EP

1445 1446 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In French 3 emphasis is on strengthening skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal) while building on grammar and vocabulary acquired in the first two years. Students will interact with a variety of multimedia materials in authentic cultural contexts. The honors prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Low-Mid.

Yearly

1543 1544 EP

1545 1546 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This advanced course stresses the use of the target language in analyzing and discussing reading selections, current events, and film. There is also a continued emphasis on the development of practical communication skills in the three modes. The Honors Prep Course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work.

Semester (Fall and Spring)

1463 1464 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

French five provides opportunities for students to continue their language learning in order to prepare for college-level courses. Class content varies by group and can include film, literature, and current events in the Francophone world. Throughout the year, this class communicates with our French partner school through video meetups.

Prerequisite: Level 4 EP/HP or AP French.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1896 CP

Designed for students who have been identified by Middle School staff as those who (whether or not previously enrolled in the Transition Program) would benefit from structured study time during the school day, Freshman Focus supports students with small group instruction based on best practice learning principles. This helps students achieve academic success by teaching them how to set academic goals and develop action plans to achieve those goals. It also helps foster positive learning habits that build student confidence. Because content is reshaped to address student needs, this course may be repeated both semesters of ninth grade. Students will be assigned mandatory tutorial attendance, and teachers will maintain progress reports on grades and assignments. Specific assignments may be given on occasion to help students better understand and apply the learning techniques covered in the course.

Yearly

1109, 1110 CP

1111, 1112 EP

NCAA Approved
This is a year-long course for rising sophomores whose topics include points and lines, logic, angles, properties of polygons, congruence, perimeter, area, volume, coordinate geometry, similarity, right triangle trig, parallel lines, transformations, and circles. Algebra 1 skills are incorporated throughout the course so that those skills will be strengthened and retained. 

Yearly

1103 1104 HP

NCAA Approved

This is a year-long course which is a more rigorous and faster paced course in geometry. Technology (e.g. TiNspire calculators or computers) is used for student-centered exploration and conjecture using inductive reasoning, followed by an emphasis on formal structures and deductive reasoning to prove the conjectures. Topics include congruence;
similarity; properties of lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons and circles; transformations; and measures of two- and three- dimensional objects.

Yearly

1115 1116 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course is actually the first year of a two-year course
which is followed by the sophomore course called Analysis
HP. These courses together comprise an exercise-driven,
integrated geometry/ algebra 2/ pre-calculus course. The text
is a collection of assignments which the class works through;
by answering the questions and correcting their work, the
student learns the skills and topics covered by the course. It
is intended for students of above average intelligence with at
least average work ethic, but with extremely high interest in
mathematics. Topics include analytical geometry, transformations, multiple representations of functions, matrices, complex numbers, quadratics, area, polygons, circles, secant and
tangent properties, linear functions, inductive and deductive
reasoning, and applications and appropriate use of technology.

Yearly

1550 1551 EP

1552 1553 HP

NCAA Approved

Level 1 German emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar, vocabulary, and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic text and audiovisual materials. The honors prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work including more exposure to authentic materials. Proficiency goal is Novice High.

Yearly

1479 1480 EP

1481 1482 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In level 2 German, students continue to develop the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar, vocabulary and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic text and audiovisual materials. The honors prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Low.

Yearly

1483 1484 EP

1485 1486 HP

NCAA Approval, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In German 3, emphasis is on strengthening skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal) while building on grammar and vocabulary acquired in the first two years. Students will interact with a variety of multimedia materials in authentic cultural contexts. The honors prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Mid (EP, HP).

Yearly

1567 1568 EP

1569 1570 HP

NCAA Approval, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The level 4 course includes a review of grammatical concepts and a continued emphasis on vocabulary acquisition by connecting German to other disciplines. Students in German 4 continue to develop interpersonal and presentational communication skills while discussing German, Austrian, and Swiss history and contemporary society in German. Both the EP and HP courses stress the use of German in analyzing and discussing reading selections from literature and print and audio-visual media. The 4HP course includes additional practice in advanced grammar.

Fall Semester

1268 EP, 1270 HP

NCAA Approved

This senior elective explores the historical foundations and current state of contemporary issues in Middle East nations. The course will examine major events and trends in Middle Eastern history, politics, society, and economics relevant to the current era.   

Prerequisite/co-requisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Spring Semester

1272 EP, 1274 HP

NCAA Approved

This senior elective explores the historical foundations and current state of contemporary issues in East Asian nations. The course will focus on major events and trends in Chinese and Japanese history, politics, society, and economics relevant to the current era.

Prerequisite/co-requisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Yearly

1339 1340 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course is designed to provide the upper level science student an opportunity to perform authentic independent scientific research under the guidance of a faculty research advisor. Possible research topics are selected from a variety of disciplines, including the biological, physical, chemical, and engineering sciences. Students identify their topic of research, form a hypothesis or design goal, conduct experiments, analyze results, and report their findings through written and oral presentations. They find a local university professor who will allow them to work in their lab over the summer, returning to school with the research portion completed or near completion. Students are expected to enter their research in local, state, and national competitions. The course is open to juniors or seniors who have demonstrated successful completion of advanced science course work, with a heavy emphasis on laboratory experience. Students are chosen to participate in the course based on their written research proposals, which are evaluated by a faculty committee during the spring prior to enrollment in the course. Interested students should see the department chair for detailed proposal requirements. Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry.

Co-Requisite or Prerequisite: Physics.
Note: Enrollment requires permission from the Department Chair.

Semester

Spring

1815 HP

This one-semester course develops technological analysis and synthesis skills, permits independent work investigating the theory and practice of a significant facet of technology, and offers opportunities to experiment, research and develop technology solutions. beyond what is offered in the existing curriculum. Students propose a substantial project and detail their progress throughout the semester. Students work either directly with the department chair or an approved outside mentor.

Prerequisite: Enrollment requires permission of the Department Chair.

Yearly

1668 HP

This year-long course permits independent work investigating the theory and practice of a significant facet of performing art beyond what is offered in the existing curriculum.  Students propose a substantial project in their area of emphasis and detail their progress throughout the year, while being mentored by a specific performing art instructor. 

Prerequisite: Enrollment requires permission of the instructor and the Department Chair.

Yearly

1707 1708 HP

This year-long course permits independent work investigating the theory and practice of a significant facet of visual art beyond what is offered in the existing curriculum.  Students propose a substantial project in their area of emphasis and detail their progress throughout the year, while being mentored by a specific visual art instructor. 

Prerequisite: Enrollment requires permission of the instructor and the Department Chair.

Semester

Spring

1862 HP

This course expands upon the fundamentals taught in Debate. Students will conduct original research by employing targeted searches and evaluating source credibility. They will also practice evaluating others’ evidence and continue to improve speaking and critical thinking skills. through participation in intramural competitions.

NOTE: due to the changing annual debate topic, Intermediate Debate must be taken in the same school year as Debate. 

Prerequisite: Debate

Semester

1612 EP
 

This course covers intermediate techniques on the guitar and music readings skills. Levels 3, 4, 5. 

Prerequisite: Beginning Guitar, previous levels, and permission of the instructor.

With instructor permission, may be repeated.

Semester
Fall and Spring, Grades 9-12

1907 EP
1908 HP

This is a foundational project-based computer science course for students interested in growing their understanding of how our digital world impacts their personal lives and our society as a whole.  Students will create multimedia digital narratives consisting of Web pages, mobile applications, and computationally-generated music and apply these learnings to an authentic and culturally relevant challenge that is personally impactful to the student. Technology: HTML, CSS, MIT App Inventor, and EarSketch. This course is designed for students who have never programmed before and satisfies the prerequisite requirement for AP Computer Science Principles.

Prerequisite: none

Yearly

Grades 9-12

1910 1911 EP
1912 1913 HP

In this first engineering course, students will be introduced to various engineering disciplines and their foundational concepts.  Students will learn how to apply these concepts and the engineering design process through team collaboration, hands-on design projects, and proper documentation in a design notebook and online portfolio.  Students will learn how to safely use engineering lab tools, equipment, and software to design and build solutions aligned to the state and national Technology Student Association’s (TSA) annual competitive events.  Software used will include Google SketchUp and OnShape for drafting designs and the Arduino IDE for use with Arduino microcontrollers. Example projects and TSA events include an egg drop competition, building an interactive game featuring lights and movement, cardboard furniture for the Structural Design Challenge, the Architectural Design Challenge with modeling, and Computer Integrated Manufacturing using 3D printing and engraving technology. Note: Submission of student work for Georgia TSA competitive events and conference travel is strongly encouraged.

Prerequisite: none

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1685 EP

This semester course is an overview and introduction to electronic and computer-based music technology and music production.  The course includes fundamentals of Garage Band software, song construction, music arranging, and midi recording. 

Note: Previous musical training, while helpful, is not a prerequisite for this course, and grading is based on effort and progress—not musical ability.  May be taken one time. 

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1650 EP

This is an introductory, semester-long course examining the principles and practices commonly used in theatrical stagecraft. Included are the equipment, basic use, and the best practices of lighting, sound, painting, and construction. Upon completion of this course, students will have familiarity with hand and power tools, lighting instruments, as well as a variety of sound equipment. This class is an excellent first step for those interested in theatre technology as it combines active learning and a hands-on style classroom. This class meets during the academic day and may not be repeated for credit.

This course is a prerequisite for Technical Theatre Production and Principles of Theatrical Design.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1651 EP Fall
1652 EP Spring

In this film class, film students will learn the basics of screenwriting through reading scripts and watching films. Students will then translate their written scripts to the screen. Production and Post-Production elements will also be taught, as students will immerse themselves in crafting visual stories. 

Note: Class requires permission from the instructor.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1660 EP

This course introduces video as an art form and establishes a foundation of skills for communication through television.  Students learn to use video cameras and microphones as well as to edit on non-linear computers and to learn production skills for their video projects. The course provides opportunities to participate in each phase of  video production with emphasis of design in composition exercises. 

Note: No prerequisite is required, but enrollment is limited by equipment. Students who took Beginning Video cannot take this class.

Yearly

1497 1498 EP

1499 1500 HP

NCAA Approved

The course places an emphasis on the spoken aspects of learning the language and on mastering hiragana and katakana, the Japanese phonetic syllabaries. In addition to speaking and listening skills, the Japanese writing system, using KANJI (characters of Chinese origin), will be introduced gradually through reading and writing practice. Basic elements of Japanese culture will also be addressed.

Yearly

1501 1502 EP

1503 1504 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

The course continues to emphasize vocabulary development, reading comprehension, oral communication, and simple composition of the Japanese language. Informal speech is introduced and expanded upon, and by the end of level 2 students should be familiar with this more natural way of speaking. Reading and writing practices will continue using KANJI (characters of Chinese origin). Aspects of Japanese culture and everyday life will be covered.

Yearly

1505 1506 EP

1507 1508 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

Japanese 3 is an advanced level course that builds on the grammar, vocabulary, written language, and cultural lessons learned in levels 1 and 2. This course uses more extensive cultural themes to introduce and/or reinforce language concepts. Lessons in level 3 equip students with the skills needed for writing traditional letters, discussing the experience of learning Japanese, navigating popular attractions around Tokyo, using proper etiquette during meals, and more.

Yearly

1511 1512 HP

NCAA Approval, HOPE Rigor Recognition
Japanese 4 is an advanced level course that builds on level
1, 2, and 3. Students will explore “the Japanese soul”: the social, historical, and cultural forces that influence Japanese life. They will study keigo (honorific language), the historical context of Japanese immigration, the issue of Japanese internment camps during World War II, and the bombing of Hiroshima. Cultural discussions include the traditional cultural arts of the tea ceremony, calligraphy, and Japanese haiku poetry. Lessons center around more sophisticated dialogues and complex narratives. In order to encourage character memorization, students create their own illustrations for newly learned kanji. After completing the Adventures in Japanese series, students will be able to write 340 kanji and communicate at an intermediate level in Japanese.

Fall Semester

1755 EP

This is a studio course designed to offer a study in traditional metal techniques. The use of tools, materials, and techniques such as sawing metals, finishing metals, polishing metals, and the fabrication of metals will be taught. Metals used will be brass, silver, and copper. 

See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Spring Semester

1756 EP

This is a more advanced continuation of Jewelry 1. Cast objects, inlaying of metals, and advanced techniques will be explored.

Prerequisite: Jewelry 1 
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Semester

(Fall And Spring) 

1093 EP

1094 HP

NCAA Approved

This course focuses on journalistic writing through analysis of newspapers, yearbooks, literary magazines, and broadcast journalism publications. A concentration on the following components of journalistic writing is critical: influence, purpose, structure, and diction. Reading, writing, and critical thinking are key components as students explore the power and influence of journalism. Students will participate in news gathering, the study of ethics, and the aspects of copy writing, editing, and revising and will study the ethics of journalism. This course also includes a basic overview of photojournalism, typography and design for online and print publications. If a publication is produced, the students will learn the process of publishing. This course can fulfill a prerequisite for applying for the Phoenix yearbook staff.
 

Semester

1093 EP

1094 HP

NCAA Approved

This course focuses on journalistic writing through analysis of newspapers, yearbooks, literary magazines, and broadcast journalism publications. A concentration on the following components of journalistic writing is critical:  influence, purpose, structure, and diction.  Reading, writing, and critical thinking are key components as students explore the power and influence of journalism. Students will participate in news gathering, the study of ethics, and the aspects of copywriting, editing, and revising and will study the ethics of journalism. This course also includes a basic overview of photojournalism, typography and design for online and print publications. If a publication is produced, the students will learn the process of publishing. This course can fulfill a prerequisite for applying for the Phoenix yearbook staff.

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1295 EP

1296 HP

NCAA Approved

Landmark Supreme Court Cases in Civil Liberties gives students the opportunity to explore the relationship between governmental power and personal liberties through an in-depth study of how the United States Supreme Court has interpreted those amendments to the United States Constitution that most specifically involve personal civil liberties (namely the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th, and 14th Amendments), and how those interpretations have changed over time.  

Prerequisite/co-requisite:  US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Yearly

1525 1526 EP

1527 1528 HP

NCAA Approved

Level 1 Chinese emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar, vocabulary, and general Chinese culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic audio-visual materials. Handling basic communication skills of daily life topics with simple sentences is a main part of the course. Proficiency goal is novice-mid to novice-high.

Yearly

1529 1530 EP

1531 1532 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In level 2 Chinese, students continue to develop the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). More grammar and vocabulary are presented as part of culturally rich thematic units for students to conduct daily conversations and to read simple level-appropriate authentic articles. Proficiency goal is novice-high to intermediate-low.

Yearly

1533 1534 EP

1535 1536 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

Chinese 3 emphasizes strengthening skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal) through additional vocabulary and more sophisticated grammar in culturally rich themes. The honors prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Low-Mid.

Yearly

1537 1538 EP

1539 1540 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This advanced course stresses the use of the target language in analyzing and discussing popular social, cultural and historical topics that influence Chinese people’s life. Current events related to students’ lives will also be discussed. Students will interact with a variety of multimedia materials in authentic cultural contexts. There is a continued emphasis on the development of practical communication skills in the three modes. The Honors Prep Course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Mid.

Spring Semester

1363 EP

NCAA Approved

In meteorology, the student will investigate how weather and climate are produced and how they affect daily lives. The course will cover the following topics: the atmosphere, solar radiation, temperature, humidity, precipitation, air pressure, winds, air masses, severe weather, and weather analysis (maps). Instruction is enhanced by frequent use of real-time weather information from online sources; use of computer software for forecasting; and for analyzing past weather.

Prerequisite or co-requisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Yearly

1207 1208 CP

1209 1210 EP

1211 1212 HP

NCAA Approved
The basic goal of the course is to introduce students to the four-hundred-year period beginning approximately 1500 AD. The course is designed as an initial study of the major modern historical figures and the modern social, political, and economic forces at work in thought and action in Europe and Asia. Each enrolled student must write a Term Paper and achieve a passing grade on it in order to pass this course.

Semester

(Grade 10-11 with department approval)

Fall And Spring

1064 EP

NCAA Approved

Offered each semester for students in grades 9, 10, and 11,
the course prepares students for college reading and writing.
Focusing on the influence of time and culture on word meanings and syntax, the course provides students an opportunity
to investigate the distinctive voices and literature of many
different cultures (in addition to the American and British
literature which is covered in English 2 and 3). Because the
vocabulary and critical reading skills necessary for comprehending these works are challenging, students will improve
their ability to be successful in college-level work.

Note: For some 9th grade students, the course is required.
 

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1686 HP
 

This semester course is a continuation of the skills learned in Introduction to Music Production 1. This course moves into the more advanced Logic software. Students will be creating their own compositions. 

Prerequisite: Introduction to Music Production 1 and permission of instructor.

Note: Previous musical training, while helpful, is not a prerequisite for this course, and grading is based on effort and progress—not musical ability. May be taken one time.

Fall Semester

1761 EP

This course starts with the basics of color mixing, brush handling, use of media, stretching of canvas, but advances to problem solving. Realistic and abstract approaches to communicate visually will be explored.

Prerequisite: Drawing 1 and Drawing 2
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Spring Semester

1763 EP

This course is a continuing of Painting I with emphasis on response to color, form and a feeling for paint. Expressive techniques and a contemporary approach to painting will be explored.

Prerequisite: Painting 1
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1235 CP

1236 EP

This course will examine the basic principles of personal finance with an emphasis on financial literacy for young adults. Students will engage with the material in a meaningful and worthwhile way in order to apply these principles to their everyday financial decisions. Topics to cover include saving and spending, income management, budgeting, credit and debt management, student financial aid, investing, and wealth building. Students will also employ the concepts of choice, opportunity cost, and marginal analysis from their 9th grade Economics course to study the financial decision making process.

Prerequisite/corequisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Yearly

1592 1593 HP
 

This is an audition-only group made up of orchestra students (violin, viola, cello, and bass). Students in this ensemble must have previous experience at an advanced level of playing. This ensemble focuses on previously learned concepts at the advanced level. Three public performances are given each year. 

Note: Enrollment in the course and level requires audition and permission from the instructor. Performance participation is mandatory.

Fall Semester

1753 EP

This course is designed to teach the student how to use a 35mm film camera; how to see through the camera, develop film, print film, do darkroom work; and how to exhibit photos. Photographic design, composition, and expression are stressed.

Note: A 35mm SLR (Single Lens Reflex) film camera with a Manual Operation Mode is required. A Nikon FM-10 is recommended and should be brought to the first class. 
See note in red at the intro of Visual Arts curriculum.

Spring Semester

1754 EP

This course is designed to further explore camera and darkroom techniques with emphasis on advanced darkroom techniques using multiple images, high contrast, solarization, and alternative techniques. The use of a 4x5 camera, a holga camera, and a pin-hole camera will also be explored. 

Prerequisite: Photography 1 and permission of the instructor and Department Chair.

Semester 

Fall and Spring

1844 Fall, 1845 Spring CP

This course introduces skills, strategies, and information that can lead to healthy lifestyle choices. Students will participate in aerobic and anaerobic fitness activities, develop an appreciation of lifetime sports, and attend weekly health and wellness classes. CPR certification and choking and foreign body removal for adults, children, and infants is part of the semester curriculum as well as training in use of AED machinery.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1840 Fall Girls
1841 Spring Girls
1847 Fall Boys
1848 Spring Boys
1883 (Fall Zero Period Girls)
1884 (Spring Zero Period Girls)
1849 (Fall Zero Period Boys)
1850 (Spring Zero Period Boys)

This course is designed to assist the competitive athlete
and other students who desire to improve physical strength,
power, speed, and flexibility. The class is composed of sessions that focus on weight training and movement skills, like
jumping and running technique. 

Yearly

1347 1348 AP

NCAA Approval, HOPE Rigor Recognition
 

This course accomplishes the objectives of the Advanced Placement Physics 1 syllabus. AP Physics 1 is the equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers the following seven units: 1) Kinematics; 2) Dynamics; 3) Circular Motion and Gravitation; 4) Work and Energy; 5) Momentum; 6) Rotational Motion; and 7) Simple Harmonic Motion. The course is designed to allow time for the investigation of additional topics of interest and relevance throughout the year. Extensive work in the laboratory is utilized to develop science application and reasoning skills and to enhance the understanding of important physical phenomena and concepts. At the core of the course is an emphasis on science practices and inquiry-based investigations that require a variety of critical thinking skills. At the end of the course, students are required to take the AP Physics 1 exam. 

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra II. 
Note:  Enrollment requires permission from the Department Chair.

Physics courses are offered at the College Prep, Enriched College Prep, Honors, and Advanced Placement levels, with students learning the concepts and principles of mechanics, wave, motion, and light, electricity and magnetism, and other concepts in physics. AP Physics is a college-level course that emphasizes problem-solving and provides lab experiences that enhance and extend science process skills. Students may take the AP Physics exam for college credit in May.

Physics courses are offered at the College Prep, Enriched College Prep, Honors, and Advanced Placement levels, with students learning the concepts and principles of mechanics, wave, motion, and light, electricity and magnetism, and other concepts in physics. AP Physics is a college-level course that emphasizes problem-solving and provides lab experiences that enhance and extend science process skills. Students may take the AP Physics exam for college credit in May.

This course is a study of fundamental physics designed for the college prep student. The course will focus on classical mechanics including topics in kinematics, momentum, energy, and gravitation. Other topics covered include pendulums and simple harmonic motion, waves, heat, electricity and manetism. Emphasis will be placed on qualitative understanding, real world applications, and problem solving using algebra. The course will contain an extensive laboratory component.
 

Physics courses are offered at the College Prep, Enriched College Prep, Honors, and Advanced Placement levels, with students learning the concepts and principles of mechanics, wave, motion, and light, electricity and magnetism, and other concepts in physics. AP Physics is a college-level course that emphasizes problem-solving and provides lab experiences that enhance and extend science process skills. Students may take the AP Physics exam for college credit in May.

Yearly

1131 1132 EP 

1135 1136 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

These are year-long courses whose topics include the study
of functions (polynomial, rational, trigonometric, exponential,
logarithmic, and polar), analytic geometry, and sequences and
series. Pre-Calculus Honors College Prep is a more rigorous,
theoretical treatment of pre-calculus, often using discovery-based learning, which moves at a very quick pace since
the course is intended to prepare students for a year-long
college-level calculus course in the senior year. Both versions
stress both technological and pencil-and-paper approaches to
provide maximum preparation for students’ subsequent study
of mathematics. 

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 EP or HP

Yearly

1129 1130 EP

NCAA Approved (0.68 unit), HOPE Rigor Recognition

This course is intended for juniors who need a slower paced
pre-calculus course spread over three semesters This yearlong course studies all pre-calculus topics except trigonometric topics, and is followed in the senior year by Pre-Calculus
with Trigonometry (EP) fall semester and either Discrete
Mathematics 2 (EP) or Statistics (EP) or Calculus (EP) spring
semester. 

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 EP or Algebra 2 CP with Department Chair approval. 

Semester

Fall 

1170 EP

NCAA Approved (0.34 unit), HOPE Rigor Recognition

This one-semester course is the continuation of Pre-Calculus
with Algebra. It covers the complete study of trigonometric
functions and identities. Students completing Pre-Calculus
with Trigonometry fall semester will choose either Statistics
EP or Discrete 2 EP or Calculus EP for their spring semester
math course.

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus with Algebra EP

Semester

Summer

1170 EP

NCAA Approved (0.34 unit), HOPE Rigor Recognition
This one-semester course is the continuation of Pre-Calculus
with Algebra. It covers the complete study of trigonometric
functions and identities, along with applications of these
topics (complex numbers, polar coordinates, etc.). Students
completing Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry fall semester
will choose either Statistics EP or Discrete2 EP or Calculus
EP for their spring semester math course.

Prerequisite: Rising Juniors: Pre-Calculus with Algebra
EP or Rising Seniors: with permission of department chair,
seniors intending to take Pre-Calculus with Algebra EP their
senior year may also enroll in this summer school course (Prerequisite: Algebra 2 CP or EP)

Yearly

1585 1586 HP

This year-long course covers the basic principles of scenic, lighting, and sound design. Looking at scripts from the designer’s perspective, upon completion, students will have a working knowledge of moving from page to stage via their own scenic and, lighting, costume, and sound design. Students entering this class should already possess a working understanding of stagecraft terminology and practice. This class is an exploration of the designer’s process through hands-on projects and group discussion. This class meets during the academic day.

Prerequisite: Stagecraft. May be repeated with the Director of Theatre’s permission. 

Semester

Fall

1823 CP, 1824 EP, 1825 HP

Public policy debate will teach students how to argue for their beliefs by investigating a modern controversial issue over the course of a semester. After learning the basics of argumentation including methods of persuasion, audience framing, and the structure of an argument, students will research a public policy controversy of their choice, analyze existing proposals, and ultimately advocate for a particular policy recommendation. In doing so, students will learn to understand and persuade those who do not initially agree with them while simultaneously developing their reading, writing, researching, and speaking skills.

Satisfies Compassion Capstone Requirement

Semester

Fall

1819 HP

This one-semester course represents the equivalent of the CS1301 course taught at Georgia Tech. Through a unique partnership, Woodward students enroll in the same online course, complete the same labs, and tackle the same tests as Georgia Tech students. Expect to integrate the Georgia Tech curriculum with fantasy sport data analytics. This course represents the pinnacle of the coding curriculum at Woodward. Technology: Python.  

Prerequisite: Enrollment requires permission of the Department Chair.

Spring Semester

1764 EP

This is a studio course designed to offer an advanced experience working with three-dimensional elements. Students will explore a variety of new materials, techniques, and approaches to solving spatial problems.

Prerequisite: Sculpture 1

Semester

1854 EP, 1855 HP

This course provides elective credit to students in grades 10 - 12  and fulfills one of the requirements for the graduation distinction in Service Learning.  Students who have an interest in service learning and social justice will work in the Horizons summer camp. Students will have a one-week, extended-day class component followed by work with elementary students in the Horizons summer program.  Students must complete one week of Horizons work to earn EP credit and two weeks of Horizons work to earn HP credit. Texts will be provided as needed. 

Prerequisite: Employment in Horizons at Woodward and Approval of the Horizons Director.

Yearly

1419 1420 EP
1421 1422 HP

NCAA Approved

Level 1 Spanish emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal).  Grammar, vocabulary, and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic audiovisual materials. The Honors Prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work including more exposure to authentic materials.  Proficiency goal is Novice High.

Yearly

1417 1418 CP

NCAA Approved

Level 1 Spanish emphasizes the development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communicative modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal).  Grammar, vocabulary, and culture are introduced thematically with meaningful, authentic audiovisual materials. Proficiency goal is Novice Mid.

Yearly

1429 1430 EP 
1431 1432 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In level 2 Spanish students continue to develop the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar and vocabulary are presented as part of culturally-rich thematic units. The Honors Prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Low.

Yearly

1427 1428 CP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In level 2 Spanish students continue to develop the speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal). Grammar and vocabulary are presented as part of culturally-rich thematic units. Proficiency goal is Novice Mid-High.

Yearly

1439 1440 EP
1441 1442 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In Spanish 3 emphasis is on strengthening skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal) while building on grammar and vocabulary acquired in the first two years. Students will interact with a variety of multimedia materials in authentic cultural contexts. The Honors Prep course is designed to prepare the student for future AP work. Proficiency goal Intermediate Mid. 

Yearly

1437 1438 CP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In Spanish 3 emphasis is on strengthening skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal) while building on grammar and vocabulary acquired in the first two years. Students will interact with a variety of multimedia materials in authentic cultural contexts. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Low.

Yearly

1447 1448 EP
1449 1450 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In level 4 Spanish students continue developing skills in the three communication modes and cultural awareness in proficiency based, thematic units. The EP and HP courses stress the use of the target language in analyzing and discussing reading selections from literature and print media and audio-visual media from radio, TV, and movies from Spain and Latin America. The 4HP course includes additional material on a more advanced level for those students who prefer not to take AP or for those who wish to refine their skills after 3HP prior to taking AP language.

Yearly

1473 1474 CP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

In Spanish 4 emphasis is on strengthening skills in the three communication modes (Interpretive, Presentational, Interpersonal) while building on grammar and vocabulary acquired in the first three years. Students will interact with a variety of multimedia materials in authentic cultural contexts. Proficiency goal is Intermediate Mid.

Yearly

1459 1460 HP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

Level five expands on the students’ knowledge of language and culture to include classic and contemporary literature, current events, film, and culture along with grammar review in order to prepare students for college level courses. The focus is on speaking and expressing opinions about the important issues of today and the students’ own personal experience.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1171 Stat Math (Fall) EP 

1172 Stat Math (Spring) EP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a semester-long course whose topics include data collection and analysis, surveys and experiments, probability and 
probability distributions, simulations, confidence intervals,
and significance tests. Appropriate use of technology (graphing calculator, computer software, and the Internet) is also a
significant component of the course.

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus EP or Pre-Calculus With Algebra
EP.

Note: This course is not available to students who have completed AP Statistics.

Note: For scheduling purposes, some who request 1171 may
be placed in 1172 and vice versa.

Yearly

1123 1124 CP

NCAA Approved, HOPE Rigor Recognition

This is a year-long course which introduces the student to
the topics and skills of statistics. Statistical topics include
sampling and experimental design, one-variable data analysis, two-variable data analysis (including correlation and regression), probability and probability distributions (including uniform and normal), and statistical inference (including
confidence intervals and hypothesis tests). 

Yearly

1583 1584 HP
 

This is an audition-only group made up of orchestra students (violin, viola, cello, and bass).  Students in this ensemble must have previous experience at a highly advanced level of playing. This ensemble focuses on previously learned concepts at the advanced level. Five public performances are given each year. A full year of involvement is expected.

Note: Enrollment in the course and level requires audition and permission from the instructor. Performance participation is mandatory. 

Yearly

(grades do not count in the Core GPA)

1869 1870 EP

1871, 1872 HP

Student Publications is a year-long course designed for students interested in news journalism and in developing their skills as writers. Students who take Journalism 1 in the fall, may enroll in Student Publications in the spring of the same year with the permission of the instructor.  Students will generate, write, and edit content, as well as design and publish The Blade, a newsmagazine for the Academy community. In addition, students will produce news and opinion pieces, conduct interviews and provide community coverage for The Butterknife, the weekly newsletter published by Upper School students. Students will work together to devise the content and design for the publications, participating in every element of the production process. Motivation, responsibility, independence, an ability to meet deadlines, a cooperative, growth mindset, and a willingness to be active and engaging participants in campus life are essential characteristics of students choosing to enroll in Student Publications. Editors are expected to generate weekly content as well as perform editing and design duties. Students wishing to pursue editorial roles may enroll in the course for honors credit. Students must be enrolled in one semester of Student Publications before pursuing editorial positions; editorial positions are selected at the discretion of the adviser, with input from the staff and administration.

Yearly

(grades do not count in the CORE GPA)

1876, 1877 EP

1878, 1879 HP

Yearbook is a year-long course designed for students interested in studying and applying the journalistic skills and processes necessary to produce the Woodward Academy yearbook,
The Phoenix. Students develop skills in news judgment,
fact gathering, photography, writing headlines and captions,
graphic design and layout, proofing, editing, and creative
writing. The course requires considerable time outside school
hours as well as leadership and teamwork abilities. Students
must apply for a staff position, a process which includes a
staff application, teacher recommendation, and portfolio.
Students and parents must sign a contract stipulating the
students will follow the student journalist’s code of ethics and
commit their time to the creation of the yearbook. Students
who successfully complete the course will have met the fine 
 

Semester

Fall and Spring

1874 Fall, 1875 Spring CP

This course is designed for students who have diagnosed learning differences (whether or not previously enrolled in the Transition Program).  Other students may take this course with permission from the Director of Learning Support.  Study Strategies supports student academic success through the following areas: self-advocacy, time management, note taking, academic self-monitoring, test prep, and organizational skills.  Because content is reshaped to address student needs, this course may be repeated as desired.  Students will be assigned mandatory tutorial attendance, and teachers will maintain progress reports on grades and assignments. Specific assignments may be given on occasion to help students better understand and apply the learning techniques covered in the course.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1898 CP Fall        
1899 CP Spring

This non-core study support course, led by an upper school math teacher, is designed to provide additional support to students in their effort to meet the standards in their regularly scheduled mathematics class. This course is available only to those registering for Algebra 1, Geometry, or Algebra 2 at the CP level. Preference will be extended to those students who started Algebra 1 CP in the ninth grade; others will be considered if there is sufficient space in the class. Supplemental Math may be not taken in the same semester as Study Strategies, Freshman Focus, Tools, Study Hall, or R Period.

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1587 EP
1559 HP

This course provides the opportunity to learn and apply the crafts and technologies necessary to the successful completion of a theatrical production. Technical Theatre students receive training in theatrical lighting, scenic construction, sound reinforcement, scenic painting, rigging, and theatre safety. Technical Theatre is hands on, focused on the full artistic realization of Woodward Academy theatrical productions and other performing arts department (band, choir, orchestra, and dance) programs with technical needs. 

Prerequisite: Stagecraft. May be repeated for credit.

Semester

1895 CP

This semester-long course is geared toward preparing students for success in the Upper School classroom. While helping students set academic goals, the class will provide instruction in the following:  organization, time management, note taking, and basic life skills. Students will be assigned mandatory tutorial attendance, and teachers will maintain progress reports on grades and assignments. Specific assignments may be given on occasion to help students better understand and apply the learning techniques covered in the course.

Semester

1897 CP

This semester-long course is geared toward preparing students for academic success in college and beyond. The course emphasizes the importance of time management, organization, independence, and awareness of academic standing while providing a positive environment to help students work toward achieving their academic goals. Specific assignments may be given on occasion to help students better understand and apply the learning techniques covered in the course.

Fall Semester, Spring Semester

1298 EP, 1299 HP

NCAA Approved

The Topics in MEDS course is an introductory survey class examining America's diverse cultural heritage through the voices and visions of racial, religious, and ethnic minorities including, but not limited to Native-, African-, Jewish-, Muslim-, and Latino-Americans. We will also examine the roles of women and those who are differently abled. This topics course is interdisciplinary incorporating themes in history, art, literature, sociology, psychology, music, pop culture, and the media. Students will identify, compare, and contrast these various themes in their historical, social, cultural, economic, personal, political, and legal contexts. Topics include genocide, slavery, anti-Semitism, eugenics, reparations, profiling, affirmative action, assimilation, racism, discrimination and inter and intra-racial/ religious relations, among others. 

Prerequisite/corequisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should write an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Semester

Fall and Spring

1635 HP

This flexible course focuses in depth on special areas in theatrical performance.  Topics vary from semester to semester; examples include but are not limited to Musical Theatre, Puppetry, Voice Over, Movement for the stage, Shakespeare, Improvisation, Sketch Comedy, and Devised Theatre. Please check with the instructor to discover the topics covered for next year. With the permission of the instructor, may be repeated when topics vary. 

Semester

Fall and Spring

1636 HP

A flexible course, focusing in depth on special areas in theatrical design and technology. Topics vary from semester to semester, examples include but are not limited to: Stage Management, Stage Makeup, Prop Making, Lighting for the stage, Costume Making, and Technical Direction. Please check with the instructor to discover the topics covered for next year. May be repeated when topics vary.

Yearly

1203 1204 CP

1205 1206 EP

NCAA Approved
The emphasis of this required ninth grade course is on independent thinking. The economic portion is intended as an introduction to basic micro- and macroeconomic concepts and helps the student understand the economic decisions made by individuals, businesses, and nations. The government portion is intended as an introduction to the structure and function of the American government (with particular emphasis on the federal government) and helps the student understand government decision- and policy-making.

United States History 

Yearly

1217 1218 HP

NCAA Approved

This course is designed for the tenth and eleventh grade student who is approved by the Social Studies Department for the Honors College Prep program. The course stresses student reading and interpretation of primary United States political, economic, and social documents; thoughtful class analysis of major movements in United States History; and an emphasis on writing and research skills. Each enrolled student must write a Term Paper and achieve a passing grade on it in order to pass this course. 

Note: Approval of the Department Chair is required if moving to a more rigorous level in social studies with this class.  

Yearly

1213 1214 CP

1215 1216 EP

NCAA Approved
This course presents a broad overview of American history from the late 19th century to the present. Topics include Reconstruction after the American Civil War, the political and economic maturing of the country, World Wars I and II, the Cold War, the growth of national government power, and major social movements during the 20th century. Each enrolled student must write a Term Paper and achieve a passing grade on it in order to pass this course.

Spring Semester

1276 EP, 1278 HP

NCAA Approved

This senior level elective analyzes major economic problems currently facing the United States and the world. Students will read, analyze, and discuss current domestic political and economic issues. Part of the first semester will be dedicated to a reintroduction of basic micro- and macroeconomic principles.

Prerequisite/co-requisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Spring Semester

1280 EP, 1282 HP

NCAA Approved

This senior level elective analyzes major economic problems currently facing the United States and the world. Students will read, analyze, and discuss the political and economic issues that involve the United States in relation to the international community.

Prerequisite/co-requisite: US History; precedence given to seniors; students should select an alternate class on their scheduling form.

Yearly

1031 1032 CP

1033 1034 EP

A year-long course designed to help those juniors who have a need for concentrated work in improving their writing skills, the class is mandatory for all those students who have not demonstrated satisfactory composition skills by the end of English 2. The course is not available on an elective basis for one semester, and only a small number of non-required students may elect the year-long course. Students take this class in addition to the required English 3 class.