Design your High School Diploma in Pasadena

In this 9th grade course, students learn foundational structures of reading and writing to explore different aspects of identity: who they are, their home cultures, and who they want to become. This includes specific skills related to narrative, explanatory, and creative writing, pre-writing, research, and continued vocabulary and grammar acquisition. During this course, students read and engage with texts in collaborative literature circles, as well as various pieces of nonfiction and shorter fiction. Narratives they encounter act as windows into cultures and situations different from theirs, while others may be mirrors that reflect some of their own experiences.

This course appeals to students interested in collaboratively discussing and analyzing English literature, the mechanics of writing and personal expression, and exploring their personal identity and culture.

There is also an advanced/honors level of this course available.

American Literature is a year-long 10th grade course that prepares students to build a better world through research and storytelling. Students use interviews, historical inquiry, and research to strengthen written and oral communication skills and challenge their close reading and interpretations of texts and the world around them. By reading the world through an analytical, critical, and empathic lens, students develop a deep understanding of diverse perspectives that have shaped the field of American Literature. Students expand their understanding of textual analysis and American literature, broadening their definitions of art and storytelling. Some of the questions students explore include: What is the American Dream and who has access to it? What are this nation’s stories and who gets to tell them? How can literature and reading the world through an analytical lens inspire critical responses? What kinds of narratives do cultures and individuals create? 

This course appeals to students interested in making connections between American literature and contemporary society, both in America and in their home countries. This course is beneficial to students looking to deepen their reading, writing, presentation, and critical thinking skills, with a focus on formulating a thesis with clear supportive evidence that analyzes a central argument. 

There is also an advanced/honors level of this course available.

Stories of misfortune, hardship, and heroism have entertained readers about encounters with the outdoors for ages. This 11th or 12th grade English course offers a wide range of stories including survival accounts, adventure tales, and exploration thrillers. Through in-class discussions and outdoor experiences, students will delve into fiction and nonfiction texts/short stories examining key themes such as leadership, decision-making, community building, and character development.  Written assignments will include journal entries, expository and persuasive essays, promoting critical thinking and creative expression. Join Literature in the Wilderness for an unforgettable exploration of literature that celebrates the wild and the human spirit. 

This course appeals to students interested in the intersection of literature, nature, and the human experience, particularly those who enjoy stories of survival, adventure, and exploration. It is ideal for students eager to explore themes such as leadership, decision-making, and community building through both fiction and nonfiction texts. This course is also well-suited for students looking to enhance their critical thinking, writing, and creative expression through assignments like journal entries and essays.  

Migrant Literature is a 9th or 10th grade foundational English class for those looking to improve their ability to read and analyze literature from various cultural perspectives. In this course, we will explore an engage with a variety of fiction, nonfiction, and poetic works to answer the question "What does it mean to be a migrant?" Students will improve their ability to construct narrative analysis and gain a better understanding of various elements of fiction such as themes, setting, symbols, and plot structure. Students will develop critical thinking skills through writing assessments and discussions, in which they will have the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of complex themes within texts. Speaking skills will be developed through reading circle discussions, presentations, and debates.

This course is designed for students who wish to explore global perspectives while deepening their understanding of English literature and the mechanics of writing.

Journalism I is an 11^th and 12^th grade course that teaches students how to formulate questions, interview subjects, gather research, synthesize information, and ultimately produce content in print, digitally, and for social media. Students learn the roles, responsibilities, and ethics of student journalists and practice the various forms of non-fiction writing for an audience of students, staff, and community stakeholders, with the purpose of promoting school culture and global awareness. This class requires mature collaboration to effectively tell meaningful and authentic stories for our EF community and beyond. 

This course appeals to students interested in improving their research and writing skills while learning about their own community, as well as its intersections with global issues and changemakers. This course will benefit students interested in fields related to journalism, reporting, and social media engagement. 

Expanding the skills developed in Journalism I, Journalism II is a course for 11th and 12th graders interested in taking on editorial roles for The International Changemaker, EF’s student newspaper. Meeting together with Journalism I, students will take the lead in assigning stories, managing the newspaper’s workflow, and guiding writers through the developmental, structural, and copy-editing processes. Journalism II students will also take an active role in design and layout, learning to use professional publication software. Beyond the everyday management of the newspaper, the course will also offer student editors the chance to lead projects to develop the International Changemaker’s social media presence and produce a print version of the newspaper for our audience of students, staff, and community stakeholders.

This course appeals to students interested in learning about publishing, editing, and organizational management. This course will benefit students interested in fields related to journalism, reporting, and social media engagement.

This AP English course for 11th or 12th grade students is all about rhetoric. Students discuss rhetorical situations, exigence, how an author crafts their writing tailored to a specific audience, the rationale behind specific stylistic decisions, and how these come together to achieve a given purpose. Fiction is not often read in this class, as the focus is on non-fiction: letters, political speeches, philosophical texts, etc, however, a few fiction pieces may be read through the lens of rhetorical analysis. The course begins with the basics of argumentation: the rhetorical situation. Students are introduced to the rhetorical triangle, speaker/writer, audience, message/purpose, context, and exigence. They then practice with mentor texts to begin deconstructing the bare bones of an argument: basic claims and logical support, before moving into more advanced work and preparation for the AP exam. 

This course appeals to students interested in the way language works in persuasive manners. Students with a context of American history, politics, and social constructs will find this course appealing as many of the texts deal with these areas of thought. This course is beneficial for students looking to go into fields of study including English, Law, Psychology, Sociology, and more. 

AP English Literature and Composition (11th or 12th grade course) focuses on reading, analyzing, and writing about imaginative literature (fiction, poetry, drama). The works students engage with are pulled from various time periods, traditions, languages, and moments in history. A strong understanding of history, from ancient to modern, will greatly aid a student’s ability to critically analyze and engage in the work. The course underscores the importance of understanding imaginative literature to both provide meaning to and engage the reader. Because of this, a strong foundation in the study of rhetoric is built early on. Students continuously consider the structure, style, theme, figurative language, symbolism, and imagery of every work they read. Assessments largely focus on writing, including expository, editorial, analytical, argumentative, and narrative styles. 

This course appeals to students who enjoy verbal reasoning, literature, critical theory, and open discussions. These are key skills required for college, and it will benefit students to refine these talents before moving on to university and beyond. 

Screenwriting is an advanced studies course for 11th and 12th grade students. This course provides students with the opportunity to interpret selected movies and screenplays through critical analysis. In this class, students will develop an understanding of the conventions and standards of the screenwriting genre and the mythic structure outlined in The Writer’s Journey. By the end of the course, students will be able to define and identify mythic archetypes in film and television and craft sequences that demonstrate the elements of story: plot, character, setting, etc. Throughout the course, students will be expected to give caring criticism when critiquing peers' work, accept caring criticism from peers and instructor, and revise and improve previous efforts. 

This course appeals to students interested in storytelling and film. This course will benefit students interested in developing different interpretation techniques related to literature and students interested in pursuing film/cinematography majors offered in college. 

This advanced screenwriting course builds on foundational skills developed in Screenwriting I, deepening students' understanding of narrative structures, character development, and visual storytelling. Students will analyze complex screenplays and cinematic texts, while refining techniques such as non-linear storytelling, subtext, and genre innovation. The course will continue to explore the mythic structure from The Writer’s Journey, with a focus on crafting original scripts and constructing a professional portfolio of completed works. Peer workshops will emphasize constructive feedback and revision, helping students develop their unique screenwriting voice. 

Students will also learn industry-standard screenwriting formats and pitch techniques. This course is ideal for those passionate about storytelling and film production, or considering careers in screenwriting, film directing, or cinematic studies, while enhancing critical thinking and creative writing skills. 

Geography is a 9th or 10th grade foundational history course designed to help students develop essential skills in analyzing geographical data from historical perspectives. Through the study of major world regions, students explore how geography has shaped human societies, political systems, economic development, and cultural interactions over time. The course integrates world history with geographic inquiry to build a strong base for future social science study.

The course will emphasize literacy development and supporting academic English skills. Students regularly work with maps, primary and secondary sources, informational texts, and structured writing assignments to strengthen reading comprehension, vocabulary, and historical thinking. Through discussion, analysis, and research-based projects, students build the skills necessary for success in advanced history and social science courses.

Modern World History is a contemporary history and social studies course set from 1750 to the present day. This course is for 9th or 10th grade students. It begins with an overview of the world in 1750 – the social makeup, the economic spheres of influence, dominant political entities, and the circumstances of the masses. It analyzes relationships between revolution and evolution, industrial revolutions, social upheavals, and labor and society. There is a distinct focus on gender disparities, disputes centered on ethnicity, the reaches of empire, and the massive changes brought about by the 20th century. Students express their knowledge and understanding in a number of ways, ranging from performing role-plays, giving speeches, participating in Socratic seminars, working on creative writing projects, and building dioramas. Students are also asked to pair primary and secondary sources with their pre-existing knowledge so as to encourage historical thinking.

This course appeals to students who wish to take a survey course of the world with questions of equity, inclusion, and diversity as the center stage. It will benefit students who need to improve their analysis of primary sources and strengthen their argumentative writing skills, both of which will be necessary in their later years of high school and beyond.

What does it mean to be an American in a global context? To what extent is "American Exceptionalism" a reality? What does active citizenship look like? And how can we better understand other perspectives? Students wrestle with these open-ended questions, while developing a strong foundation of knowledge in American history, government, and culture. Students examine the span of American history from the pre-colonial period to the early 21^st century, while developing the key skills of an historian. Interpretive and experiential in scope, this course challenges students to compare and critique multiple narratives of American history through engaging discussions, role-playing activities, and project-based assessments. Examining the global context of American historical events, as well as local historical connections to Los Angeles County, allows students to see that history is all around them. Developing students’ voice in oral presentations and analytical writing is a combined curricular focus with Grade 11 English courses. This course is for 10th or 11th grade students.

This course appeals to students who wish to focus on developing strong critical analysis skills. A research paper on a key event in American history will help to advance these skills and will also serve as a writing sample for future college and internship applications. 

This course for 11th or 12th grade offers a comprehensive survey of United States history viewed through the diverse lenses of African American, Asian American, Chicano/Latino, and Native American communities. Moving chronologically from the late 18th century to the present, students explore how these groups shaped the nation’s economy, culture, and laws while navigating challenges of equity and identity. By centering these often-untold narratives, the course provides a vibrant and inclusive look at the "history of movements" that built modern America.

This course appeals to students eager to explore the complexity of the American identity. It challenges students to synthesize multiple perspectives and master primary source analysis, fostering the empathy and advanced writing skills necessary for success in college and a globalized workforce.

This is a year-long 9th or 10th grade course designed to replicate the experience of an introductory college human geography course. We use geographic processes to systematically study and understand spatial patterns that are evident in the world in which we live by focusing on the distribution, processes, and effects of human populations on the planet. Units of study include population, migration, culture, political geography, economic development, industry, agriculture, and urban geography. We focus on geographic models and their applications. We also use several case studies to compare these themes. Students demonstrate proficiency by taking exams in traditional AP format, quizzes, essays, research papers, projects, and presentations. Key frameworks of this class include human-environment interactions, the study of spatial distribution, and trends in contemporary demography. Students ask themselves: how was this world created, and how can I effect change within it? 

This course appeals to students who would like to challenge themselves in a wide variety of disciplines. It will benefit students who wish to explore the intersection of hard and social sciences, which may open up the door to potential career interests and colleges suited for them. 

In this 10th or 11th grade course, students study the cultural, economic, political, and social developments that have shaped the United States from circa 1491 to the present. This course provides students with an overview of American history to the present day. We study the main political, economic, social, and cultural developments during this period so that students understand the chronology of U.S. history and how individual facts fit into a bigger picture. This course also enhances students' ability to evaluate historical information, providing a balance of factual knowledge and critical analysis. 

This course appeals to students who enjoy history and also want to be challenged. AP U.S. History is recommended for students who have a heightened level of interest in U.S. History and are motivated to learn college-level historical thinking skills. Since this is a fast-paced, reading-intensive course, students who wish to join the class should be accustomed to reading lengthy chapters closely. This course is aimed to prepare students to take the AP exam and students will be expected to participate in a rigorous plan of self-study outside of class to adequately prepare for the exam. 

AP Psychology is an introductory college-level psychology course for 11th or 12 grade students. Students cultivate their understanding of the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes through inquiry-based investigations as they explore concepts like the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology. 

This course appeals to students interested in topics of human behavior and mental processes, connecting psychological concepts and theories to real-world scenarios, and analyzing and interpreting data. This course is well-suited for students who might be considering courses of study in social sciences at the university level. 

AP Microeconomics and Macroeconomics is a college-level 12th grade course designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of micro and macro economics. The course explores how individuals and businesses make decisions regarding the allocation of resources and how these decisions impact markets. Furthermore, the course explores how economies function as a whole, examining topics such as economic growth, inflation, unemployment, fiscal and monetary policy, and international trade. Students will analyze economic concepts, theories, charts and data to develop a solid foundation in micro and macro economic principles.

This class appeals to students interested in personal business and finance and in understanding the fundamental principles of microeconomic theory and how individuals and firms make economic decisions. Students interested in understanding large-scale economic trends, policymaking, and global economic systems, as well as those eager to explore how economic decisions impact nations and the global economy should consider this class.

Advanced Studies International Relations explores the global forces that shape our world, from shifting power dynamics to the complexities of international law. Students apply core political theories to analyze how nations and international bodies interact in the 21st century. The curriculum tackles pressing global challenges, including climate change, security, and human rights. Through diplomatic briefings and policy simulations, students move beyond the news to understand the strategic and economic motivations driving world events.

 As an Advanced Studies seminar, this 12th grade course provides a rigorous, college-preparatory environment centered on global literacy and civil discourse. It appeals to students interested in law, political science, or economics, challenging them to refine their ability to argue from diverse perspectives. Students leave with a sharpened "global lens" and the negotiation skills essential for leadership in our interconnected world. 

This 9th or 10th grade course is designed to provide an introductory overview of the foundational concepts of study of life and living organisms. Students develop understanding of laboratory techniques and inquiry skills through various laboratory investigations and research projects. Students are exposed to biology topics such as biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.

This course appeals to students interested in developing their understanding of the world around them while honing the critical thinking and inquiry skills of a scientist. Further, this course serves as a required or recommended prerequisite for advanced courses in the science department including AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, and other Advanced Studies courses. 

This 10th or 11th grade course introduces the basic principles of chemistry. Students gain experience using facts, graphs, data tables, concepts and math skills in problem solving situations. Basic laboratory skills are developed along with chemical literacy. The student will be exposed to atomic and molecular structures, phases of matter, atomic structure and periodic properties, energy of chemical and nuclear reactions, chemical kinetics, equilibrium reactions, solubility, electro-chemical cells, and organic chemistry. 

This course appeals to students interested in a project-based learning model and hands- on laboratory experience. Additionally, this course is suggested for students pursuing AP Chemistry, AP Biology or Advanced Studies classes in science. 

Physics is a one-year 11th grade laboratory intensive course devoted to the study of motion and forces, energy and momentum, thermodynamics, and electricity and magnetism. Physics is meant to foster a greater understanding of the students’ world around them. It is meant to develop their appreciation of phenomena not only through their observation, but quantification of real-world experiences. Moreover, the value of scientific processes and practices are acquired through learning new methods of inquiry and powerful critical thinking skills. The students have the opportunity to acquire the concepts, knowledge, and skills through hands-on activities, laboratory practices, and science demonstrations. Most of the labs and classroom activities involve algebraic equations as well as some other mathematical calculations. Finally, this course seeks to connect science with its real-world purpose. 

This course appeals to students interested in engineering, technical, or medical professions. Physics provides students with an opportunity to explore natural phenomena through the application of scientific principles, mathematical models, and scientific inquiry. By utilizing demonstration, laboratory, and other learning activities and experiences, students will gain an understanding of major concepts in physics. 

This 12th grade astronomy course will have students understand the physical nature of the universe. Topics will include the planets, the Sun, formation of the Solar System, the life cycle of stars, black holes, the nature of galaxies, the evolution of the universe, and the possibility of life beyond Earth. During the course, students will make detailed observations both by telescope and planetarium software along with image processing. We will learn the history of astronomy in Pasadena, especially the work of Edwin Hubble at Mount Wilson Observatory. 

Note: For University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) applicants, this course fulfills a College-Preparatory Elective (Area G) requirement, rather than a Science (Area D) credit.

Advanced Placement (AP) Biology is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the study of life and living organisms, with an emphasis on depth and complexity of topics beyond the high school level. Students develop their critical thinking and inquiry skills through laboratory investigations, research projects, and analysis of scientific literature. The course covers topics such as biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. 

This 12th grade course appeals to students interested in pursuing college study or a career in a scientific field (for example: pre-med). 

Advanced Placement Chemistry is a second-year high school course and is designed to be the equivalent of a general college chemistry course. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based lab investigations as they explore the four Big Ideas: scale, proportion, and quantity; structure and properties of substances; transformations; and energy. Students find this course both challenging and enlightening. As we work through the material it is important that students view chemistry as being more than atoms, molecules, and reaction. Throughout the year students are asked to solve many problems, think creatively, and work both independently and as a team. 

This course appeals to students interested in furthering their foundation for a science career. 

AP Physics C: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism is a 12th grade, year-long, calculus-based, college-level physics course taken concurrently with AP Calculus BC (recommended) or AP Calculus AB. Students have the opportunity to delve deep into conceptualized knowledge of mechanics, as well as waves and optics, relativity, and electricity and magnetism. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study and activities as well as hands-on laboratory work as they explore concepts like change, force interactions, fields, and conservation. 

This course appeals to students who are planning to specialize or major in one of the physical sciences or engineering and who seek to further their foundation for a science. 

This 11th or 12th grade course provides a comprehensive overview of environmental science, including the study of ecological systems, natural resource management, and the impact of human activities on the environment. Students develop their critical thinking and analytical skills through laboratory investigations, field studies, case studies, and research projects. The course covers topics such as ecosystems, biodiversity, pollution, climate change, energy, sustainability, and environmental justice. 

This course appeals to students interested in deeper exploration of environmental issues and applying scientific understanding to complex social and political issues. Students passionate about the environment, advocacy, or trans-disciplinary thinking should consider this course. 

IIntegrated Math 1 is the first course of a three-course accelerated sequence that covers all content traditionally taught in Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Precalculus. Each course in this series offers students a “big picture” understanding of mathematics. This includes understanding how the various areas of mathematics are related, relevant, and useful in understanding the real world. Students discover and come to understand math through the application of project based learning. Students are then able to become critical thinkers and gain the tools necessary in any field that requires problem solving. Students completing this course are proficient in communicating mathematics both verbally and symbolically. They understand the whys of the mathematics they are doing and are able to perform all levels of skill-based mathematics including manipulating algebraic expressions, using algorithms, and performing basic computations. 

Integrated Math 1 builds and strengthens students’ conceptual knowledge of functions, linear functions, equations, inequalities, sequences, basic exponential functions, systems of linear equations, systems of linear inequalities, quadratic functions, one variable descriptive statistics, correlation and residuals, analyzing categorical data, mathematical modeling, and both coordinate and transformational geometries.

Personalization and differentiation based on their Math proficiency and incoming skill level will ensure that students are appropriately challenged to build their mathematical analysis and application skills to solve real world problems on a pathway toward AP and Advanced Studies math courses.  

Integrated Math 2 is the second course of a three-course accelerated sequence including Integrated Math 1, Integrated Math 2, and Integrated Math 3 that prepares students to take AP Calculus at its conclusion. The Integrated Math series covers all content traditionally taught in Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Precalculus. Each course in this series offers students a “big picture” understanding of mathematics. This includes understanding how the various areas of mathematics are related, relevant, and useful in understanding the real world. Students discover and come to understand math through the application of project based learning. Students are then able to become critical thinkers and gain the tools necessary in any field that requires problem solving. Students completing this course are proficient in communicating mathematics both verbally and symbolically. They understand the whys of the mathematics they are doing and are able to perform all levels of skill-based mathematics including manipulating algebraic expressions, using algorithms, and performing basic computations.  

Integrated Math 2 builds and strengthens students’ conceptual knowledge of functions, absolute value functions and inequalities, systems of linear and nonlinear equations and inequalities, quadratic functions, matrices, probability, decision making based on probabilities, mathematical modeling, geometric proof, similarity, transformations, and trigonometry.  

This course appeals to students interested in building their mathematical analysis and application skills to solve real world problems on a pathway toward AP and Advanced Studies math courses.  

Integrated Math 3 is the third course of a three-course accelerated sequence including Integrated Math 1, Integrated Math 2, and Integrated Math 3 that prepares students to take AP Calculus at its conclusion.

The Integrated Math series covers all content traditionally taught in Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Precalculus. Each course in this series offers students a “big picture” understanding of mathematics. This includes understanding how the various areas of mathematics are related, relevant, and useful in understanding the real world. Students discover and come to understand math through the application of project based learning. Students are then able to become critical thinkers and gain the tools necessary in any field that requires problem solving. Students completing this course are proficient in communicating mathematics both verbally and symbolically. They understand the whys of the mathematics they are doing and are able to perform all levels of skill-based mathematics including manipulating algebraic expressions, using algorithms, and performing basic computations.  

In Integrated Math 3, several big ideas are interwoven, including: functions (e.g., inverse, composite, piecewise, parametric), trigonometry, polar coordinates, modeling, and algebraic manipulation. Students engage with an introduction to several calculus topics, including limits, area under a curve, and rates of change. On a daily basis, students work collaboratively with others as they use problemsolving strategies, complete investigations, gather evidence, critically analyze results, and communicate clear and effective arguments while justifying their thinking.   

This course appeals to students interested in building their mathematical analysis and application skills to solve real world problems on a pathway toward AP and Advanced Studies math courses.  

Calculus is a year-long course for 11th and 12th grade students that introduces the core ideas of calculus through accessible, concept-driven instruction and steady skill development. Students explore how calculus models change and accumulation in real-world contexts, building intuition alongside procedural fluency.

The course focuses on the foundational concepts of limits, continuity, derivatives, and integrals, with frequent opportunities to interpret graphs, analyze functions, and solve applied problems. Students learn to use derivatives to describe rates of change and optimize outcomes, and integrals to find accumulated change and area. Throughout the year, students strengthen algebraic reasoning, problem-solving strategies, and mathematical communication.

Designed as an accessible alternative to AP Calculus AB/BC, this course moves at a supportive pace with an emphasis on confidence, clarity, and application. It is well-suited for students who have successfully completed Integrated Math 3 and are ready to take the next step into college-preparatory mathematics.

AP Statistics is an introductory college-level statistics course, for 11th or 12th grade students, that introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students cultivate their understanding of statistics using technology, investigations, problem solving, and writing as they explore concepts like variation and distribution; patterns and uncertainty; and data-based predictions, decisions, and conclusions. Students will have the opportunity to put their learning into practice through project based learning throughout the course 

This course will prepare students who have an interest in the social, political, and health sciences, business, economics, engineering or mathematics fields to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.   

This course appeals to students who have completed Integrated Math 1, 2, and 3 and are interested in studying an AP level math course other than AP Calculus with many real-world applications. 

AP Calculus AB is an introductory college-level calculus course. Students cultivate their understanding of differential and integral calculus through engaging with real-world problems represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally and using definitions and theorems to build arguments and justify conclusions as they explore concepts like change, limits, and the analysis of functions. Key topics covered are the  existence of limits, differentiation techniques, optimization, related rates, integration techniques, and differential equations.  AP Calculus AB covers content taught in the first semester of calculus at the university level.    

This course appeals to students who have completed the Integrated Math series and are interested in advanced mathematic studies that will prepare them for a rigorous STEM pathway in college.    

AP Calculus BC is an introductory college-level calculus course. Students cultivate their understanding of differential and integral calculus through engaging with real-world problems represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally and using definitions and theorems to build arguments and justify conclusions as they explore concepts like change, limits, and the analysis of functions. Key topics covered are the existence of limits, differentiation techniques, optimization, related rates, integration techniques, differential equations, sequences and the convergence of series, parametric equations, and polar coordinates. AP Calculus BC covers content taught in the first two semesters of calculus at the university level. 

AP Calculus BC is a fast-paced and challenging course that appeals to students who have completed the Integrated Math series and are interested in advanced mathematic studies that will prepare them for a rigorous STEM pathway in college.  

Note: AP Calculus BC covers all topics contained in AP Calculus AB plus additional content. 

This course is a seminar-style course designed for students who want to go beyond the standard high school sequence and explore how higher mathematics is built, connected, and applied. Content may include topics spanning multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and elements of differential geometry, with an emphasis on reasoning, proof, modeling, and visualization.

Using a wide variety of practical problems, conceptual questions, and visualizations, students develop powerful new ways of thinking mathematically and applying their skills to problems drawn from fields such as economics, physics, chemistry, data science, and computer graphics. Students may investigate themes such as partial derivatives and optimization, vector spaces and linear transformations, curvature and parameterized surfaces, and the mathematical structures that unify these ideas.

Advanced Studies: Topics in Mathematics is an advanced and challenging course intended for students who have completed AP Calculus AB or BC (or equivalent) and are eager to engage in deep, discussion-driven mathematics with an eye toward both theory and real-world application.

2D Arts & Design is an introductory art course open to all students, regardless of previous art experience or ability. This course starts with a study of the language and elements of art, such as line, shape, form, space, color, and texture. The course subsequently explores the principles of design, such as rhythm and movement, balance, proportion, variety, emphasis, and unity. Students develop a variety of drawing, painting, and critical analysis skills. They are given instruction in color theory, shading, observational drawing, drawing from imagination or invention, painting, and photography techniques. Students are expected to research and learn about techniques, cultures, and artists throughout time. Students will be exposed to a variety of materials such as graphite, charcoal, gouache, and photography. 

This course appeals to students who have an interest in 2-dimensional art forms, and more traditional mediums. It is an entry-level course open to all students, regardless of previous art experience or ability. It is a prerequisite for the AP Art class open to 11th and 12th grade students. 

3D Arts & Design is an art course open to all students. Students in this course hone their 3D visual arts and design skillsets through explorations in three-dimensional space. Applying the elements and principles of art and design while immersed in the design process provides a foundation for student projects in this course. Working from process to product, students realize their creations using techniques and concepts related to 3D design and sculpture. Traditional and emergent technologies and materials support course work, including modeling and sculpting in oil-based clay and Sculpy, modeling and sculpting in 3D CAD software, printing in 3D plastic, using wire, and fabricating in cardboard, along with other foundational 3D techniques and materials. Fabrication and use of maquettes and models help students iterate, evolve, and improve their concepts and craft in each project. 

Written and visual analysis of historical and contemporary case studies provides context for students to understand and direct their developing visual voices. In the interest of fostering original thought and making, students are given ample opportunities to self- direct their work throughout the year. Drawing connections between 2D and 3D modalities supports coursework investigating themes of abstraction, representation, observation, invention, imagination, space, form-language, form-sense, and architecture and design throughout the year. Visiting local museums and engaging in the broader visual arts community is supported as opportunities arise. 

This course appeals to students interested in sculpture, architecture and design, visual art, concept design, character design, jewelry design, and games. Intro to 3D Arts is an entry-level course open to all students, regardless of previous art experience or ability. It is a prerequisite for the AP Art class open to 11th and 12th grade students. 

Woodcraft offers students a hands-on introduction to the craft of woodworking using traditional hand tools. In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of woodworking, including measuring, cutting, shaping, and joining wood. They will become familiar with essential hand tools and understand how to use each tool safely and effectively. 

Students will explore basic woodworking techniques, from making precise cuts to creating simple joints, and will work on projects that reinforce their skills. Emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and developing a strong foundation in hand-tool techniques, with an understanding of how these tools have been used for centuries to create both functional and artistic pieces.

Ceramic Handbuilding will focus on the use of clay as a material for making art. A variety of handbuilding and forming techniques will be explored through the creation of objects; Including pinch pots, coil construction, and slab construction. The use of clay, slip, glaze, and various firing methods will all be explored. Students learn to design and analyze functional and nonfunctional objects. Students are also expected to research and learn about artists old and new, and encouraged to attend local museums and art events as they are added to our activities calendar. 

This course appeals to students who are interested in learning to work with clay, students interested in furthering their 3D design techniques, and those who want to create both functional and decorative pieces. Ceramic Handbuilding is an entry-level course open to all students regardless of prior art experience or ability. 

In Video and Storytelling, students develop knowledge of narrative structure and story for the world of the moving image. Students learn the basics of the moving image starting with the first films from the turn of the 20th century to contemporary digital filmmaking. Throughout the course students explore the major theories surrounding the moving image and develop a vocabulary by which to describe cinematic compositions. A variety of project-based assignments build familiarity with using simple cameras, lenses, and editing software (traditional, stop-action, and/or animation), through which students will develop their own filmmaking and storytelling style. Participants are expected to create a short film written, edited, and filmed individually.

This course appeals to students interested in various aspects of filmmaking, including cinematography and editing. The course is an opportunity for students to bring their storytelling and creativity to the screen.

AP Art & Advanced Design Portfolio allows students to prepare portfolios in alignment to their choice of AP Art offerings, including: AP 2D Art and Design, AP 3D Art and Design, AP Drawing. Students investigate different materials, processes, and techniques. Using this research, they create a portfolio consisting of at least five finished pieces that are all connected to a theme, in addition to a number of other artworks that explore different mediums and techniques and show diverse ideas. Using knowledge of the elements and principles of design, students also communicate their ideas about their artwork and the work of others. Students engage in class critiques and exhibit their work. 

This course appeals to students who would like to investigate, communicate, and create in order to deepen their understanding of art and create a portfolio for college. Portfolios can be used to apply for scholarships and are sometimes necessary when applying for Arts-focused colleges or programs. Students may also elect to submit their portfolio for college credits at the end of the school year in May (rather than taking a written exam). A completed portfolio should demonstrate a sophisticated and advanced level of creativity and mastery of technique. A score of 3, 4, or 5 is considered “passing” and the student will gain college credit in Visual Art or Humanities at many colleges and universities. 

Mandarin 1 is an introduction to Mandarin Chinese. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as cultural aspects of Mandarin-speaking countries. Students develop functional language ability to meet needs in their personal and academic lives. They learn to speak with sentence-level language, ask and answer basic questions, and handle simple everyday life situations. Activities designed for the course train the four tones, vocabulary, grammatical constructions, and simplified characters in meaningful contexts.

This course appeals to any student interested in Mandarin for personal interest, basic intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Mandarin-speaking region or country. Mandarin 1 is not grade-specific and can be enjoyed as an elective

Mandarin 2 is a continuation to Mandarin 1. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as cultural aspects of Mandarin-speaking countries. While many of the linguistic tasks students learn to handle are similar to those of year one, the level of language required to carry out these tasks is higher.

This course appeals to any student interested in intermediate Mandarin for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Mandarin-speaking region or country. Mandarin 2 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Mandarin 1 or the equivalent. 

Mandarin 3 continues to dive deeper into the exploration of the Mandarin language. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as cultural aspects of Mandarin-speaking countries. Linguistic tasks required of students at this level necessitate a basic understanding of Mandarin, including a moderate command of tonal variants and vocabulary at the intermediate-low proficiency level.

This course appeals to any student interested in intermediate Mandarin for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Mandarin-speaking region or country. Mandarin 3 is not grade-specific and can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Mandarin 2 or the equivalent.  

Mandarin 4 builds on the language acquired by students in Mandarin 1, 2, and 3. Students continue to engage in all three modes of communication, with continued emphasis on the interpersonal and presentational. Students continue to use culture as a vehicle to advance proficiency in all modes of communication. Conducted entirely in Mandarin, this course utilizes the communicative method to ensure students feel confident interacting entirely in Mandarin.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in Mandarin at the intermediate-mid to intermediate-high level or in learning Mandarin for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Mandarin-speaking region or country. Mandarin 4 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Mandarin 3 or the equivalent.  

French 1 is an introduction to the French language. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as cultural aspects of French-speaking countries. Students acquire common beginner structures used in daily life and are able to communicate needs, likes, and dislikes in the present tense.

This course appeals to any student interested in French or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, basic intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a French-speaking region or country. French 1 is not grade-specific and can be enjoyed as an elective. 

French 2 is a continuation in the French language. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as cultural aspects of French-speaking countries. Students acquire common elementary-to-intermediate structures used in daily life and are able to recognize and use verbal tenses.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in lower- intermediate French or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a French-speaking region or country. French 2 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of French 1 or the equivalent. 

French 3 is a beginning advanced continuation in the French language. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as many cultural aspects of French-speaking countries. Students acquire common yet more complex structures used in daily life and will use hypothetical and abstract statements.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in mid-intermediate French or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a French-speaking region or country. French 3 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of French 2 or the equivalent. 

French 4 is an advanced exploration of the French language and culture. All three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretative, and presentational) are targeted as well as many cultural aspects of French-speaking countries. Students acquire complex structures and are able to use more complicated hypothetical and abstract statements.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in intermediate-high French for personal development, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or in future study in a French-speaking country. French 4 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of French 3 or the equivalent. 

Spanish 1 is an introductory course designed for students with little or no previous study of the Spanish language. This course introduces students to basic language patterns and vocabulary. Students use culture from the Spanish-speaking world as a vehicle towards proficiency in the interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational modes of communication.

This course appeals to any student interested in Spanish or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, basic intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Spanish- speaking region or country. Spanish 1 is not grade-specific and can be enjoyed as an elective. 

Spanish 2 helps students further develop the language acquired in Spanish 1. Students continue to engage in all three modes of communication, with an increased focus on the interpersonal mode. Students advance their ability to negotiate meaning and produce the language.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in Spanish at the intermediate-low level or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Spanish-speaking region or country. Spanish 2 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Spanish 1 or the equivalent. 

Spanish 3 builds on the language acquired by students in Spanish 1 and Spanish 2. Students continue to engage in all three modes of communication, with a special emphasis on the interpersonal and presentational. Students continue to use culture as a vehicle to advance proficiency in all modes of communication.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in Spanish at the intermediate-mid level or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Spanish-speaking region or country. Spanish 3 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Spanish 2 or the equivalent. 

Spanish 4 builds on the language acquired by students in Spanish 1, 2, and 3. Students continue to engage in all three modes of communication, with continued emphasis on the interpersonal and presentational. Students continue to use culture as a vehicle to advance proficiency in all modes of communication. Conducted entirely in Spanish, this course utilizes the communicative method to ensure students feel confident interacting entirely in Spanish. This course incorporates themes closely related to the AP Spanish Language & Culture program.

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in Spanish at the intermediate-mid to intermediate-high level or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in the humanities or international relations, or future employment or travel in a Spanish-speaking region or country. Spanish 4 is not grade-specific, can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Spanish 3 or the equivalent.  

AP Spanish Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate level college course in Spanish. Students build on their knowledge of the Spanish language and culture developed in previous courses. Students deepen their understanding of Spanish language and culture by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication to real-life situations as they explore concepts related to family and communities, personal and public identities, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, contemporary life, and global challenges. The AP Spanish Language and Culture course strives to promote both fluency and accuracy in language use and avoid overemphasis on grammatical accuracy at the expense of communication. 

This course appeals to any student interested in becoming proficient in Spanish at the intermediate-high to advanced-low level or in learning another Romance language for personal interest, intercultural communication, future studies in Spanish language or literature, the humanities or international relations, or for future employment or travel in a Spanish-speaking region or country. AP Spanish Language & Culture is not grade- specific and can be enjoyed as an elective, but has a prerequisite of Spanish 3 or the equivalent.