Upper School Curriculum

List of 6 items.

• English

  Graduation Requirements

  4 Credits
  English 9, 10, 11 / AP English Language, 12 / AP English Literature
  
  

  Courses

  English 9 (Honors) (1 Credit · 9th Grade)
  English 9 develops students' grammar, syntax, and vocabulary skills while introducing them to diverse literary genres, including plays, novels, novellas, short stories, and poetry. Students read, analyze, and discuss works of literary merit, with an emphasis on developing their content-specific vocabulary in order to expand foundational skills in analytical, creative, and expository writing. Additional attention to reading comprehension is emphasized through Close Reading assessments.
  Graduation requirement. Summer reading and writing assignment.
  
  English 10 (Honors) (1 Credit · 10th Grade)
  English 10 continues to focus on reading comprehension skills and elements of literary analysis and Close Reading assessments. Students enhance their critical thinking, writing mechanics, and discussion skills while refining their ability to independently apply content-specific vocabulary and terms. The course explores diverse themes and texts with an outward, global perspective. Throughout the course, students compose creative, expository, and analytical writing.
  Graduation requirement. Summer assignment.
  
  English 11 (Honors) (1 Credit · 11th Grade)
  English 11 primarily focuses on American literature and authors, complementing studies in concurrent history courses and allowing students to make connections across subject areas. English 11 emphasizes refining all areas of writing, with a strong focus on college preparedness. Students build on foundational skills such as thesis development, organization, and the integration of quotations and citations, while engaging in various essay types: literary analysis, argument, and research.
  11th graders take either English 11 or AP English Language & Composition. Summer assignment.
  
  English 12 (Honors) (1 Credit · 12th Grade)
  English 12 focuses on the refinement of skills that students have developed throughout their previous English courses. Serving as a capstone course, students build a portfolio of work that demonstrates their critical thinking skills, writing ability, and oral presentation skills.
  12th graders take either English 12 or AP English Literature & Composition. Summer assignment.
  
  English Language & Composition (AP) (1 Credit · 11th Grade)
  Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
  AP Language and Composition is a college-level course in effective writing and critical reading. The course follows the curriculum established by the College Board and focuses on the mastery of rhetoric, synthesis, and argumentation. Students analyze the use of language through the study of essays, short-form writing, speeches, poetry, and various forms of media. Course content focuses on contemporary nonfiction texts and multimedia that respond to current events and modern discourse.
  Required as English 11 or AP Lang. Summer assignment due the first week of class.
  
  English Literature & Composition (AP) (1 Credit · 12th Grade)
  Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
  AP English Literature and Composition is a college-level course designed for highly motivated English students who have demonstrated strong analytical, synthesis, and argumentation skills. The course follows the College Board curriculum and is designed as an intensive, seminar-style course. Students use interpretation to understand the writing process and craft, including style, structure, and literary devices, and analyze a diverse range of masterworks from British and American literature, spanning classical to contemporary texts.
  Required as English 12 or AP Literature. Summer assignment due the first week of class.
  
  Seminar (AP) (1 Credit)
  AP Seminar is the first prerequisite for the College Board's AP Capstone Program. Students investigate real-world issues through self-driven and collaborative research, utilizing the QUEST framework: Question and Explore, Understand and Analyze, Evaluate Multiple Perspectives, Synthesize Ideas, and Teamwork. Culminates in four major projects: a research review, a research argument, and two presentations.
  10th to 12th graders eligible.
  
  Research (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: AP Seminar
  AP Research cultivates the skills necessary to conduct independent research and inquiry. Students design, plan, and implement a yearlong investigation into a research question they have generated, developed, and revised. Culminates in an academic paper of 4,000 to 5,000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense.
  
  American Women's Literature (1/2 Credit · Spring)
  A discussion-based survey course exploring the powerful legacy of American women writers from the early 19th century to the modern day. Students analyze poetry, film, nonfiction, and fiction to consider how women have used literature as a means of protest, a way to reclaim their identities, and an avenue to challenge societal norms. Past works have included Emily Dickinson, Mary Hood, Natalie Diaz, Alice Walker, and Kate Chopin.
  
  Creative Writing (1/2 Credit · Fall)
  Creative Writing is designed for students who view writing as an art form. This workshop-style elective encourages students to explore their unique voice through a study of diverse texts, peer collaboration, and the nuances of craft work. Students experiment with poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction, engaging point of view, poetic form, syntax, dialogue, and word choice.
  
  Digital Journalism (1 Credit)
  Explores the elements of yearbook and school newspaper production: page design, advanced publishing techniques, copywriting, editing, journalism, and photography. Students develop information literacy skills (research, ethics, bias, organization, access, equity, and design) while producing The Delta and Talon.
  
  Film Seminar (1/2 Credit · Spring)
  Film Seminar aims to transform the way students approach and think about cinematic works. The seminar explores the evolution of moving images through their reflection of history and their impact on society. Students trace the 100-year history of iconic film genres, including horror, comedy, westerns, and film noir, and study the technical aspect of cinematography including editing, sound, and mise-en-scene.
  Designed for juniors and seniors. Mature content.
  
  Public Speaking (1/2 Credit · Spring)
  Students learn how to write speeches for different audiences and practice those in front of their peers. The goal is for students to gain confidence in their ability to speak in any situation. Most of the writing and editing is done in class; practicing the speeches is done at home.
  
  

  Portrait of a Graduate

  How English shapes our graduates.

  • Purposeful - Close reading and sustained writing teach students to think precisely.
  • Confident - Harkness discussion and presentation build a clear, intentional voice.
  • Discerning - Weighing evidence and argument, students learn to read the world critically.

• Mathematics

  Graduation Requirements

  4 Credits
  Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus / Algebra III & Trigonometry
  
  

  Courses

  Algebra I (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Honors Algebra I serves as the foundation to upper-level mathematics courses, marking the transition from basic arithmetic to more abstract problem solving. Students learn basic properties and theorems used to solve equations and manipulate expressions, and how to model real-world problems using algebraic language. The course introduces variables, exponents, exponential functions, factoring, quadratic functions, and coordinate geometry.
  Graduation requirement.
  
  Geometry (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Algebra I
  Geometry focuses on the study of the physical world through shape, measurement, and logic. Topics include geometric vocabulary, properties of triangles, congruence, proofs, postulates, and theorems. Through study, practice, and hands-on application, students prove geometric relationships and solve complex problems involving coordinate planes and geometric modeling.
  Graduation requirement.
  
  Geometry (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Algebra I
  Honors Geometry is taught at an accelerated pace and places emphasis on a deeper conceptual understanding and application of course content. Topics include geometric vocabulary, properties of triangles, congruence, proofs, postulates, and theorems. Through study, practice, and hands-on application, students prove geometric relationships and solve complex problems involving coordinate planes and geometric modeling.
  Graduation requirement.
  
  Algebra II (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry
  Algebra II provides a comprehensive review of foundational concepts from Algebra I while introducing higher-level mathematics. Students deepen their understanding of quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions while exploring their real-world applications. The course also requires students to work with conic sections, complex numbers, and real numbers.
  Graduation requirement.
  
  Algebra II (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry
  Honors Algebra II is taught at an accelerated pace and places emphasis on algebraic fluency and the concept of function. Students deepen their understanding of quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions while exploring their real-world applications. The course also requires students to work with conic sections, complex numbers, imaginary numbers, and real numbers.
  Graduation requirement.
  
  Algebra III / Trigonometry (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
  Algebra III/Trigonometry is a continuation of advanced concepts from Algebra II. The course places emphasis on a deeper conceptual understanding and application of algebraic problem-solving and geometric applications. Students study topics of trigonometry in the second semester with a focus on the behavior and interaction of functions. The course provides review of core mathematical concepts and an introduction to basic trigonometry prior to enrollment in Pre-Calculus.
  
  Pre-Calculus (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
  Pre-Calculus provides students with a deeper understanding of advanced functions through algebraic, graphical, and numerical approaches. Students study polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions while working to understand their real-world applications. Course content includes unit circles, periodic modeling, asymptotes, reasoning, and simplifying rational and radical expressions.
  
  Pre-Calculus (AP) (1 Credit)
  Pre-Requisite: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II, Teacher Recommendation
  AP Pre-Calculus is taught at an accelerated pace and places an emphasis on a deeper conceptual understanding and application of course content. This course provides students with a deeper understanding of advanced functions through algebraical, graphical, and numerical approaches. Students study polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions while working to understand their real-world applications. AP PreCalculus focuses on four units of study: Polynomial and Rational Functions, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions, and Trigonometric and Polar Functions. AP Pre-Calculus is a college-level course that follows the curriculum established by the College Board.
  
  Calculus AB (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus, Teacher recommendation
  AP Calculus AB is a rigorous, college-level offering that follows the curriculum established by the College Board. It explores the concepts of limits, derivatives, and integrals. Students develop a deep, conceptual understanding through four distinct lenses: practical, algebraic, graphical, and numerical. Students apply course content to real-world scenarios using complex mathematical reasoning to find optimal solutions.
  
  Calculus BC (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: AP Pre-Calculus, Teacher recommendation
  AP Calculus BC is a rigorous, college-level offering for highly motivated mathematics students. BC is taught at an accelerated pace with emphasis on deeper conceptual understanding and application while following the College Board curriculum. The course explores limits, derivatives, integrals, polar and parametric functions, and sequences and series.
  
  Statistics (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II
  AP Statistics is a college-level course that follows the curriculum established by the College Board. The course focuses on the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. Topics include exploration of data, probability and simulation, the design of samples and experiments, and statistical inference.
  
  Calculus (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus
  Honors Calculus focuses on the study of differential calculus. Students learn about the "power of the derivative," focusing on limits, continuity, rates of change and motion, and the infinite. Students apply course content to real-world scenarios using mathematical reasoning to find solutions.
  
  Financial Algebra (1 Credit)
  Financial Algebra provides students with a base of financial knowledge through theory, application, and discussion-based learning. Course content is focused on financial responsibility and preparedness, with key concepts in budgeting, investing, financial planning, and consumer literacy.
  Designed for juniors and seniors.
  
  

  Portrait of a Graduate

  How mathematics shapes our graduates.

  • Purposeful - Proof and problem-solving teach students to reason from first principles.
  • Confident - Students learn to approach unfamiliar problems with confidence.
  • Discerning - Modeling real situations teaches students to test assumptions.

• Science

  Graduation Requirements

  3 Credits
  Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  
  

  Courses

  Physics (Honors) (1 Credit · 9th Grade)
  Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra I
  Honors Physics serves as an introduction to the fundamental laws of nature. Students work to understand how the universe works through concepts of mechanics, electricity, relativity, and magnetism. The course combines seminar-style learning with a hands-on approach, placing emphasis on scientific philosophy and the scientific method. Students conceptualize, build, test, and troubleshoot their own prototypes in the lab.
  Graduation requirement. Taken in 9th grade.
  
  Chemistry (Honors) (1 Credit · 10th Grade)
  Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Geometry
  Honors Chemistry focuses on the study of matter, its properties, and the changes it undergoes. Topics include chemical bonding, molecular structure, stoichiometry, and the unique properties of solids, liquids, and gases. The course requires strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills; students develop foundational laboratory skills through hands-on experimentation.
  Graduation requirement. Taken in 10th grade.
  
  Biology (Honors) (1 Credit · 11th Grade)
  Prerequisite: Physics, Chemistry
  Honors Biology explores the fundamental processes that sustain living organisms, from the molecular instructions within our DNA to the delicate balance of global ecosystems. Topics include cellular biology, bioenergetics, genetics and heredity, the evolution and diversity of life, and ecology and interdependence. Students continue to develop their laboratory skills through hands-on experimentation.
  Graduation requirement. Taken in 11th grade.
  
  Biology (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Biology; recommended AP Statistics
  AP Biology is a rigorous course for students who intend to pursue careers in medicine, research, or the biological sciences. It goes beyond Honors Biology to focus on more complex chemical and molecular processes. Topics include the Chemistry of Life, Cellular Structure and Function, Cellular Energetics, Cell Communication and the Cell Cycle, Heredity, Gene Expression and Regulation, Natural Selection, and Ecology.
  
  Chemistry (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Chemistry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus (may be taken concurrently)
  AP Chemistry is a college-level course that follows the curriculum established by the College Board. It is highly math-intensive with a focus on the analytical and physical areas of chemistry. Students revisit foundational material with greater depth, while adding complex topics like thermodynamics and kinetics. Strong lab component; lab reports are central to the grade.
  
  Environmental Science (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Chemistry; Honors Biology (may be taken concurrently)
  A college-level course designed to provide students with the knowledge and awareness to make informed decisions about modern environmental issues. Content is structured around a complex understanding of the interrelationships of the natural world, taught through lecture, discussion, labs, field studies, guest speakers, and field trips.
  
  Physics 1 (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Physics; Honors Algebra II (may be taken concurrently)
  AP Physics 1 is a challenging, college-level course that helps students understand how the world moves and works. Topics include motion, forces, energy, momentum, rotation, and waves, with a focus on problem solving and scientific thinking. Hands-on labs, experiments, and real-world applications build strong analytical and critical-thinking skills.
  
  Forensics in Chemistry (1/2 Credit · Fall)
  Prerequisite: Honors Chemistry
  Step into the role of forensic scientist in this lab-driven elective. The course is designed around a single, unfolding murder mystery. Students use deductive reasoning and the principles of chemistry to analyze evidence and solve the case. Grades are based on weekly labs and lab reports.
  
  Health Sciences ( 1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Physics, Chemistry, prior or concurrent Biology, instructor approval
  An engaging, hands-on introduction to the health sciences that introduces students to the Health Sciences. Combines classroom instruction with a supervised clinical experience under a Registered Nurse preceptor: vital signs, feeding, patient transfers, mobility assistance, and infection control. Students also earn BLS and First Aid certifications. Emphasizes professionalism, communication, teamwork, and compassionate patient care.
  11th and 12th graders. Optional Special Studies component.
  
  

  Portrait of a Graduate

  How science shapes our graduates.

  • Purposeful - Lab inquiry builds reasoning through evidence and honest observation.
  • Confident - Designing experiments and defending conclusions builds confidence.
  • Discerning - From clinical placements to AP research, students learn to navigate ambiguity.

• Social Science & History

  Graduation Requirements

  3 Credits
  World History, United States History, U.S. Government
  
  

  Courses

  Pre-AP World History (1 Credit)
  Pre-AP History establishes a strong foundation for Upper School history courses. Students analyze primary and secondary sources, building historical knowledge and developing critical analysis and research skills. The synthesis of quantitative, qualitative, and spatial data challenges students to shape persuasive written and oral arguments. Strong emphasis on writing and reasoning, aligned with AP standards.
  
  World History (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Pre-AP History or AP Human Geography
  A comprehensive survey of the global human experience, tracing the development of societies from 1200 CE to the modern era. Students explore the trends, transitions, and themes that have shaped societies across the world: cultural exchange, the rise and fall of empires, and the introduction of new technologies.
  
  United States History (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Honors World History or AP World History
  An intensive, analytical survey of the American experience from pre-colonial America to the modern day, taught through a thematic lens: American Identity, American Government, Economic Policy, and Global Relations. Critical thinking through primary and secondary sources and evidence-based argumentation.
  11th graders take either U.S. History or APUSH.
  
  Art History (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: AP World History
  For the highly motivated and enthusiastic art/history student. The course surveys global art from the time of Paleolithic humans to current trends, studying art in the context of the socio-economic and political conditions of its time and how these pieces still speak to us today.
  
  European History (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: AP World History
  A year-long college-level course covering nine historical periods from 1450 to the present, beginning with the Renaissance. Students sharpen historical skills and essay writing while engaging primary and secondary sources. Themes include diversity, identity, culture, demographic change, economic transformations, environmental issues, globalization, politics and citizenship, and reform.
  
  Human Geography (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, PSAT scores (rising 9th grade)
  AP Human Geography explores how humans have shaped the surface of the earth through migration patterns, trade, agriculture, and political organization. Students engage primary source documents, complex economic theories, and college-level texts as they develop their research and writing skills.
  
  Psychology (AP) (1 Credit)
  A systematic, scientific study of human behavior following the College Board curriculum. Students explore methodology, psychological principles, and phenomena surrounding the human mind. Emphasis on the experimental nature of psychology; students master high-level vocabulary, apply theories to real-life scenarios, and consider case studies.
  Available to 10th (with approval), 11th, and 12th. Mature content.
  
  U.S. Government & Politics (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Pre-AP World History or AP Human Geography
  A year-long college-level political science course built around foundational documents and divided into five units. Students sharpen analytical writing skills as they assess primary and secondary sources. Foundational documents, Supreme Court cases, and constitutionalism are developed throughout the course.
  
  United States History (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: AP World History
  Explores the cultural, economic, political, and social developments that have shaped the United States from pre-colonial America to the modern day. Students analyze patterns and connections between historical periods: causation, comparison, and continuity and change. Document analysis, evidence-based argumentation, and analytical essays.
  11th graders take either U.S. History or APUSH.
  
  World History (AP) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Pre-AP World History or AP Human Geography
  A rigorous exploration of the global human experience from 1200 CE to the modern era. Document analysis, evidence-based argumentation, and historical inquiry while synthesizing primary and secondary source materials. Analytical essays and college-level texts.
  
  Business Entrepreneurship (1/2 Credit · Fall or Spring)
  A project-based course that gives students a practical understanding of what it takes to start, manage, and sustain their own business. Students explore financial literacy, marketing strategy, business operations, and leadership skills through real-world experiences, hands-on projects, and interactions with local entrepreneurs. The course guides students from concept to execution.
  10th to 12th graders eligible.
  
  Dynamics of Education (1/2 Credit · Spring)
  An in-depth look into the world of education for highly motivated students. The course studies the evolution of education and surveys learning styles, methods of instruction, and career paths in the field. Features guest speakers and field experience on the SDS campus: students choose which grade level(s) interest them most and are assigned a teacher to work with in grades K through 6.
  11th and 12th graders, with instructor approval. Optional Special Studies component.
  
  Introduction to Philosophy (Honors) (1/2 Credit · Fall)
  A semester course to help students develop an understanding of complex concepts and different points of view. An introductory survey of three or four of the most important topics in the Western philosophical tradition. Students explore classic and contemporary responses to questions such as: Is there an enduring self? What is the mind? What is the right action? Can I know what the external world is really like? Does God exist? Am I free?
  
  

  Portrait of a Graduate

  How social science and history shapes our graduates.

  • Purposeful - Weighing competing accounts, students understand how the world came to be.
  • Confident - Building historical arguments, students learn to take a position.
  • Discerning - Sifting evidence from opinion, students learn to read the world critically.

• World Languages

  Graduation Requirements

  3 Credits
  Three consecutive years of the same language
  
  

  Courses

  French I (Honors) (1 Credit)
  In French I, students begin to speak, read, write, and understand basic French. They learn to talk about themselves, introduce people, order food and drinks in a cafe, give directions, tell time, make plans, and read a subway map. Present and near-future tenses are covered as students build their vocabulary.
  
  French II (Honors) (1 Credit)
  French II reviews the present and future tenses but places its emphasis on the past tenses. Topics include the weather, the calendar, hotel reservations, apartment rental, foreign study, and the daily routine. The study of adjectives enhances a growing vocabulary.
  
  French III (Honors) (1 Credit)
  French III is an upper-level course in which students speak almost entirely in French. As they refine their ability to speak, read, write, and understand French, they study fitness and health, cooking, clothing, and the regions of France. Grammatical topics covered include all tenses related to the indicative mood, pronouns, and the comparative and superlative.
  
  French IV (Honors) (1 Credit)
  French IV is an advanced language course. Students speak and are spoken to exclusively in French, and learn to discuss a wide range of topics through the study of award-winning films and documentaries. All verb tenses of the indicative mood and the subjunctive are covered. Preparation for AP French.
  
  French (AP) (1 Credit)
  This advanced course is designed specifically to prepare students for the Advanced Placement French Language and Culture exam. Students speak and are spoken to exclusively in French, communicating clearly, both orally and in writing, about a variety of topics, with the aim of sharpening their use of French grammar and vocabulary.
  
  German I (Honors) (1 Credit)
  In German I, students begin to speak, read, write, and understand basic German. They are introduced to basic grammatical structures and learn vocabulary to describe themselves and discuss simple daily activities: school, home, sports, leisure, telling time, weather, food and drink. Present tense and one form of the future tense. German culture, art, music, history, and geography.
  
  German II (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Reviews and builds on the vocabulary covered in German I, along with present-tense verbs both regular and irregular. Class focuses on mastery of verbs in the simple past and present perfect tenses. Further insights into German-speaking cultures through projects and presentations.
  
  German III (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Students continue to hone their writing and speaking skills in the target language. Emphasis on speaking German much more in the classroom and mastering idiomatic expressions. Students delve more deeply into cultural distinctions between American and German-speaking societies.
  
  German IV (Honors) (1 Credit)
  German IV students are comfortable conversing and writing in the target language. Reads and discusses short stories from literature and contemporary pieces. Delves into idiomatic grammar expressions and examines literature, poetry, history, culture, politics, and current events.
  
  German (AP) (1 Credit)
  AP German Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate-level college course. Students cultivate their understanding of German language and culture by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication across themes: family and communities, personal and public identities, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, contemporary life, and global challenges.
  
  Latin I (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Latin I serves as an introduction to the Latin language: pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and translation, as well as Roman culture, history, geography, and mythology. The course also reviews English grammar and grows English vocabulary through discussions of Latin derivatives.
  
  Latin II (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Latin II continues to introduce the basics of the Latin language: pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and translation, as well as Roman culture, history, geography, and mythology. The course continues to review English grammar and increase English vocabulary through discussions of Latin derivatives.
  
  Latin III (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Latin III prepares students to read genuine Latin literature. Students more readily read passages and have most Latin paradigms memorized. Continued development of grammatical and translation skills; readings are of a more serious nature and slowly build up to challenging students with real Latin authors. A greater emphasis is placed on historical subject matter.
  
  Latin IV (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Latin IV explores great Roman authors and their time and culture. After completing the grammar units, the class moves into Caesar's De Bello Gallico: Julius Caesar as author, general, and politician. The last focus is Vergil, using the Aeneid, students learn dactylic hexameter, literary devices, and how scansion leads to a deeper understanding of the text.
  
  Latin (AP) (1 Credit)
  The AP Latin course is designed to give students the experiences needed to be successful on the College Board AP Latin exam. The course's goals are to develop students' abilities to translate the required passages from Vergil's Aeneid and Caesar's De Bello Gallico into English as literally as possible, and to understand context: political, historical, literary, and cultural, as well as the rhetorical devices employed.
  
  Spanish I (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Introduces students to the Spanish language and culture. Students learn to communicate in basic Spanish about themselves, their families, activities they enjoy, and a variety of other simple subjects. By the end of the year, they listen, speak, read, and write at a basic level and have learned about some of the Hispanic cultures around the world.
  
  Spanish II (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Reviews the present and near-future tenses, then focuses on the past tenses. Students read and write at an elevated-basic level as they study Hispanic culture and learn to give directions, discuss daily routines, and develop a more sophisticated writing style.
  
  Spanish III (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Students study the more complex aspects of Spanish grammar and by the end of the year are expected to communicate, in writing and orally, at an intermediate level entirely in Spanish. Indicative review and the subjunctive; commands, wishes, requests, and doubts. Culture and literature continue.
  
  Spanish IV (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Spanish IV is an advanced-level language course in which all verb tenses, including complex and nuanced grammatical structures, are covered. Students read and analyze authentic Spanish poetry, short fiction, newspapers, magazines, and film. Conducted entirely in Spanish; preparation for AP Spanish.
  
  Spanish Language & Culture (AP) (1 Credit)
  Designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Spanish Language exam. Students review grammar, expand vocabulary and idiomatic expressions, and practice writing, reading, speaking, and listening daily. Students compare and contrast curricular themes and Hispanic cultures, defend arguments in debates, and communicate exclusively in Spanish.
  
  

  Portrait of a Graduate

  How world languages shape our graduates.

  • Purposeful - Years inside one language build the discipline of thinking in a new voice.
  • Confident - Working in the target language, students learn to communicate across cultures.
  • Discerning - Experiencing literature and film in another language, students learn to see the world from more than one perspective

• Fine Arts

  Graduation Requirements

  2 Credits
  
  

  Courses

  Introduction to Art (1 Credit)
  Introduction to Art provides a foundation for advanced art courses. Emphasis is placed on understanding the Elements of Art and Principles of Design as a basis for composition. Students explore drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. Willingness to engage in the creative process matters more than talent or previous experience.
  
  Studio Art (I, II, III, IV) (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Intro to Art
  Studio Art builds on the skills mastered in Introduction to Art with emphasis on conceptual and expressive work. Students continue to improve optical drawing techniques and, through research and critique, develop a more in-depth exploration of themselves as artists. Studio II & III students must provide evidence of a concentration.
  
  Art & Design: 2D / 3D / Drawing (AP) (1 Credit)
  For the highly motivated and confident art student. Students articulate an area of sustained investigation and create images in a series. The AP process includes original works of art and thorough documentation of the artistic process across the year. Three portfolio categories: Drawing, 2-D (including Photography), and 3-D.
  May require time outside of class.
  
  Music Theory (AP) (1 Credit)
  For juniors and seniors interested in exploring the nuts and bolts of how music works. The course requires in-depth study in aural theory, written theory, and sight singing. Recommended that students have a strong foundational knowledge of an instrument or vocal performance prior to registering.
  
  Theatre I (1 Credit)
  A hands-on overview of theatre as an art form: its nature, elements, genres, styles, and techniques. Class activities include verbal and nonverbal expression, pantomime, acting techniques, character development, scene, and monologue work. Students gain a broad knowledge of theatrical production, terminology, and stage direction, and discuss major movements in theatre history.
  
  Theatre II, III, IV (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Theatre I
  Honors Theatre II, III, and IV continue the hands-on work begun in Theatre I: verbal and nonverbal expression, pantomime, acting techniques, character development, scene, and monologue work. Continued reading, critique, and discussion of major movements in theatre history at deepening levels of complexity.
  
  Concert Band I (1 Credit)
  The Spartanburg Day School Band is the school's foundational instrumental music group. All students are welcome to join, though it is suggested that students have some musical and/or instrumental experience. The band performs concerts throughout the year both on and off campus and travels to compete at state and national music festivals.
  
  Concert Band II, III, IV (Honors) (1 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Concert Band I
  Continued participation in the Spartanburg Day School Band at upper levels. All concert obligations, festival travel, audition opportunities, and ensemble participation continue from Concert Band I; honors-level expectations are added for musicianship, leadership, and independent practice.
  
  Jazz Band / Pep Band (1/2 Credit)
  Prerequisite: Concurrent Concert Band enrollment
  Jazz Band allows students to explore the medium of jazz and improvisation in a classroom setting. The group performs on and off campus, travels to festivals and competitions, and performs at the SDS graduation ceremony, basketball games, and additional functions as needed.
  
  

  Portrait of a Graduate

  How the fine arts shape our graduates.

  • Purposeful - Studio practice and rehearsal ask for sustained, purposeful work.
  • Confident - On stage and in ensemble, students learn to lead and take creative risks.
  • Discerning - Critique and revision teach deliberate choices and a vision of one’s own.