COURSE CATALOG 2020/21 - NOTRE DAME ACADEMY - NDA.org

 
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COURSE CATALOG 2020/21 - NOTRE DAME ACADEMY - NDA.org
NOT RE DAM E ACAD E M Y

2020/21
COURSE
CATALOG
Notre Dame Academy Mission Statement
Notre Dame Academy, a Catholic college preparatory school for
grades 7-12, sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame, promotes
the holistic development and empowerment of young women for
leadership and service by providing an exceptional educational
experience permeated with Gospel values.
COURSE CATALOG 2020/21 - NOTRE DAME ACADEMY - NDA.org
COURSE CATALOG 2020/21 - NOTRE DAME ACADEMY - NDA.org
CONTENTS
 Ms. Sarah Cullum
 Principal
 scullum@nda.org

                                                               About the IB Program						1
 Mrs. Jessica Beaverson
 Dean of Students                                              International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses				                           2
 jbeaverson@nda.org
                                                               Honors Courses							3
 Mrs. Andrea Zimmerman                                         Advanced Placement (AP) Courses					3
 Dean of Academics
 azimmerman@nda.org                                            Graduation Requirements						5

                                                               Paths to P.E. Credit							8
 Ms. Angie Joseph
 IB Coordinator                                                Progression of Mathematics Courses				                                 9
 ajoseph@nda.org                                               Grade 7 Courses							11

 Ms. Abby Beham                                                Grade 8 Courses							15
 Counselor (A-L)                                               Grade 9 Courses							21
 abeham@nda.org
                                                               Grade 10 Courses							29
 Mrs. Kristin Schank                                           Grade 11 Courses							39
 Counselor (M-Z)
 kschank@nda.org                                               Grade 12 Courses							59

                                                               Pre-Professional Career Exploration Courses			                         79
 Ms. Erin Young
 College Counselor                                             College Credit Plus (CCP)						80
 eyoung@nda.org
                                                               Lourdes Scholars Program						81

 Mrs. Anastasia Desmond                                        Courses Listed by Subject						83
 Career Counselor
 adesmond@nda.org

                                                               From the Counseling Professionals at NDA
                                                               Our mission is to help your daughter grow spiritually, intellectually,
                                                               emotionally, and physically into the ‘Woman of Vision’ that God has called
                                                               her to be. We recognize that no two girls are alike. Therefore, Notre Dame
                                                               Academy offers a wide variety of courses along with individual support
                                                               from faculty and counselors who work collaboratively to ensure students
 Notre Dame Academy admits students of any race,
 color, national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges,   are enrolled in the right courses.
 programs and activities generally accorded or made
 available to students at the school.
                                                               Counselors meet with every student a minimum of three times
 It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,         throughout the year to review their academic, personal, college, and
 national or ethnic origin in the administration of its        career goals. Counselors also have students complete graduation
 educational and admissions policies, scholarship
 and loan programs, or athletic and other school
                                                               progress checks annually. Students are welcome and encouraged to meet
 programs.                                                     with their counselor at their convenience.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
COURSE CATALOG 2020/21 - NOTRE DAME ACADEMY - NDA.org
COURSE CATALOG 2020/21 - NOTRE DAME ACADEMY - NDA.org
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB) PROGRAM

ABOUT THE IB PROGRAM
                          Why IB?

                                                                  91         % OF NDA IB
                     In keeping with the demands
                     of a 21st century world, the
                     IB curriculum encompasses                           STUDENTS
                     the study of rich content.
                     Students learn a wide variety                SCORE 4 OR HIGHER TO
                     of intellectually stimulating
                     practices while learning to view             EARN COLLEGE CREDIT
their own academic experience through a global lens.
NDA is the ONLY IB Diploma World School in
Northwest Ohio.
                                                              How does IB assessment
                                                              compare to AP assessment?
Lifelong Learning Skills                                      While both IB and AP programs come with testing fees,
With information everywhere, memorizing knowledge             they are structured very differently.
will not be enough for lifetime success. IB’s focus on
                                                              One of the main differences between IB and AP is how
developing lifelong learners teaches students to think
                                                              they are assessed. AP is high stakes testing, where
critically and apply knowledge so their skills will remain
                                                              passing relies entirely on a single test. IB students
relevant as workforce demands change. IB teachers
                                                              are assessed throughout the two-year program and
function as a coach and mentor, leading students in how
                                                              in multiple ways, such as oral presentations, papers,
to discover solutions on their own, preparing students
                                                              exams, projects, labs, and exhibitions.
for college and a career.
                                                              Additionally, IB courses require the learner to engage in
IB is rooted in the IB Learner Profile, which states that
                                                              creativity, critical analysis, seminars, advanced research
every IB student will become:
                                                              and writing tasks, as well as collaborative project-
      •    A thinker             •   Principled               based learning. Students have several opportunities
      •    An inquirer           •   Balanced                 to demonstrate their mastery of the skills taught in IB
      •    A communicator        •   Knowledgeable            classes.
      •    Open-minded           •   Reflective               For more about the IB Program, please contact
      •    Caring                •   Courageous               Ms. Angie Joseph, IB Coordinator, at ajoseph@nda.org.

                    FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR IB STUDENTS
           FRESHMEN                       SOPHOMORES                 JUNIORS                      SENIORS
      •   English I                   • English II              • Year one of                 • Year two of
      •   Math I                      • Math II                   student’s                     student’s
      •   Theology I                                              preferred IB                  preferred IB
                                      • Theology II
      •   Biology                                                 Courses                       Courses
                                      • Chemistry
      •   World History                                         • Begin IB Diploma            • Complete IB Diploma
                                      • U.S. History, AP          Program                       Program
      •   Foreign Language I            U.S. History, or AP
      •   Performing/Fine Arts          Psychology
          Elective                    • Foreign Language II
                                      • Performing/Fine
                                        Arts Elective

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                                 1
IB COURSES

INTERNATIONAL
BACCALAUREATE (IB)
    IB courses are offered at two different levels:
                                                      Mathematics (Group 5)
      Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL).       Mathematics Application & Interpretations SL
                                                       Mathematics Analysis & Approaches SL
             Often described as a step up
      from Honors, SL courses are equivalent to a
            freshman college level course.
                                                      The Arts (Group 6)
           HL courses are equivalent to upper
                college level coursework.              Music SL/HL (Voice, Composition, or Instrument)
                                                       Theatre Arts SL/HL
        Colleges accept HL IB courses for credit.
        Some colleges accept SL courses as well.       Visual Arts SL/HL
        Both levels are challenging and provide
     students with college admission and academic
                    skill advantages.                 Diploma Candidates
                                                       Creativity, Action, Service (CAS)
                                                       Extended Essay (EE)

English (Group 1)                                      Theory of Knowledge (TOK)

    English HL
                                                      Online Courses
Language Acquisition                                   Business Management SL/HL
                                                       Chinese (Ab Initio) SL
(Group 2)                                              Economics SL/HL
    French SL                                          French (Ab Initio) SL
    Latin SL                                           Film SL
    Spanish SL                                         Informational Technology in a Global Society SL/HL
                                                       Mathematics Analysis & Approaches HL

Individuals & Societies                                Philosophy SL
                                                       Psychology SL/HL
(Group 3)                                              Spanish (Ab Initio) SL
    Business Management SL/HL
                                                       Benefits of Online Courses:
    History of the Americas HL
                                                       -Learn at own pace in location of choice, given a
                                                        period in school to work on material
Science (Group 4)                                      -Study alongside students from around the world
    Biology HL                                         -Gain experience in the latest online learning tools
                                                       -Regularly communicate with teahcers and fellow
    Physics SL
                                                        students
    Physics HL

2                                                                     2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
HONORS & AP COURSES

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)

English                           Science                           Techology
                                                                     AP Computer Science Principles
 AP English IV                     AP Chemistry II
                                   AP Environmental Science

Mathematics                       Social Studies
 AP Calculus (AB)                  AP U.S. History
                                   AP Psychology
                                   AP United States Government
                                    and Politics

HONORS
English                           Social Studies                  Fine & Performing
 English I (Honors)                World History (Honors)         Arts
 English II (Honors)
                                                                    Art III (Honors)
 English III (Honors)
 English IV (Honors)
                                  Modern & Classical                Art IV (Honors)
                                                                    Honors Choir
                                  Languages                         Orchestra (Honors)
Mathematics                        French I (Honors)
                                   French II (Honors)
 Math I (Honors)
                                   Latin I (Honors)               Electives
 Math II (Honors)
                                   Latin II (Honors)                Fitness & Nutrition (Honors)
 Math III (Honors)
                                   Spanish I (Honors)               World Religion (Honors)
 Pre-Calculus (Honors)
                                   Spanish II (Honors)
                                   Spanish III (Honors)
Science                            Spanish IV (Honors)

 Biology I (Honors)
 Chemistry (Honors)
 Organic Chemistry (Honors)lish
 Anatomy/Physiology (Honors)
 Physics (Honors)
 Molecular Genetics (Honors)

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                3
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

                                 NDJA (Grades 7-8)
                         General Graduation Requirements
  Language Arts
   • English 7 (1.0 credit)                                                                    2.0 credits
   • English 8 (1.0 credit)

  Mathematics
   • Math 7 (1.0 credit)                                                                       2.0 credits
   • Math 8 (1.0 credit)
   • Higher level Math count towards NDJA graduation credit as well (see pg. 9 for details)

  Theology
   • Theology 7 (1.0 credit)                                                                   2.0 credits
   • Theology 8 (1.0 credit)

  Science
   • Science 7 (1.0 credit)                                                                    2.0 credits
   • Science 8 (1.0 credit)

  Social Studies
   • Ancient Civilizations 7 (1.0 credit)                                                      2.0 credits
   • U.S. History 8 (1.0 credit)

  Fine/Performing Arts                                                                         1.0 credit

  Physical Education                                                                           0.25 credit
   • NDJA Physical Education (0.25 credit)

  Mandatory Annual Retreat                                                                        N/A

  Total credits required to graduate                                                          11.25 credits

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                        5
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

                                      NDA (Grades 9-12)
                              General Graduation Requirements
    English                                                                                           4.0 credits
     • English I - IV (1.0 credit each)

    Mathematics
     • Math I - IV (1.0 credit each)                                                                  4.0 credits
     • Higher level Math count towards graduation credit as well (see pg. 9 for details)

    Theology
     •   Theology I: Jesus Christ: God’s Revelation/Mission & Ministry or Faith Basics (1.0 credit)
     •   Theology II: Jesus Christ: Source of Salvation/Church & Sacraments (1.0 credit)              4.0 credits
     •   Theology III: Theology of the Body/Morality (1.0 credit)
     •   Theology IV: Faith in Action (Social Teachings)/Logic, Reason, & Apologetics (1.0 credit)

    Science
     • Biology (1.0 credit)                                                                           3.0 credits
     • Chemistry (1.0 credit)
     • Science Elective (1.0 credit)

    Social Studies
     •   World History (1.0 credit)
     •   U.S. History (1.0 credit)                                                                    3.0 credits
     •   American Government (0.5 credit)
     •   Social Studies Elective (0.5 credit)

    Foreign Language (Same language)                                                                  2.0 credits

    Fine/Performing Arts                                                                               1.0 credit

    Physical Education                                                                                 0.5 credit

    Health                                                                                             0.5 credit

    Technology                                                                                         0.5 credit

    Financial Literacy (to be fulfilled by attending an in-school seminar)                            0.25 credit

    Senior Project (25 clock hours)                                                                   0.25 credit

    Service Learning Hours (70 clock hours)                                                            1.0 credit

    Mandatory Annual Retreat                                                                             N/A

    Total credits required to graduate                                                                24.0 credits

6                                                                                 2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
NON-COURSE REQUIREMENTS

NON-COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Notre Dame Academy strives to not only educate, but to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. NDA is
the only school in Northwest Ohio to have a dedicated Career Counselor. Students in grades 7-12 meet with
the Career Counselor at least once a year to discuss and complete incremental steps which help students discern
their personal career path. NDA’s curriculum includes non-course requirements to prepare students for the world
after high school, as well as optional career discerning and networking opportunities throughout the year. These
non-course requirements can be seen below in bold. For more information about these offerings, please contact
the Career Counselor, Mrs. Anastasia Desmond, at adesmond@nda.org.

                        Grade 7                                                 Grade 8
    Junior Achievement: Economics for                      Junior Achievement: It’s My Future
    Success
                                                           Career Cluster Exploration
    Career Cluster Exploration
                                                           Naviance: Strengths Explorer Assessment
    Introduction to Naviance                               & Presentation
    Career Week                                            Career Week
    Dine & Do                                              Dine & Do

                        Grade 9                                               Grade 10
    Naviance Tutorial: Search Career Clusters              Naviance: Career Search
    Naviance: Learning Style Assessment                    Naviance: Do What You Are Assessment
    & Presentation                                         & Presentation
    Professional Skills Lab                                Professional Skills Lab
    Career Week: How to Build a Resume                     Career Week: The Art of Writing a Cover Letter
    Career Week Speaker                                    Career Week Speaker
    Dine & Do                                              Dine & Do

                        Grade 11                                              Grade 12
    Naviance: Search Holland Code                          Senior Project (25 clock hours)
    Naviance: Interest Survey                              Senior Project Research & Professional
                                                           Documents
    Research Career Facts Form
                                                           Professional Skills Lab
    Holland Code Analysis & Interpretation
                                                           Career Week: Business Dining Etiquette
    Professional Skills Lab                                Workshop & Networking Bootcamp
    Career Week: Interview Simulation                      Career Week Speaker
    Career Week Speaker                                    Dine & Do
    Dine & Do                                              Linked In Training

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                         7
P.E. CREDIT OPTIONS

PATHS TO P.E. CREDIT
                                 +                            =
                                                                                   High
                Individual                 Team
                                                                                school P.E.                         P.E. Electives
               Activities at            Activities at
                                                                               Requirement                           Fitness & Nutrition
                   NDA                      NDA
                                                                                   Met                                Lifetime Activities
                                                                                                                     Movement Science

                                 +                            =
                                                                                   High
                One season               One season                             school P.E.
               of SFS Cheer             of SFS Cheer                           Requirement                         Qualifying NDA
                                                                                   Met                                 Sports
Must submit
  YELLOW                                                                                                                 Basketball
  Proof of

                                 +                            =
Credit Form                                                                                                            Crew (Rowing)
                                                                                   High                                Cross Country
               One season               One season
                                                                                school P.E.                                 Golf
               of marching              of marching
                                                                               Requirement                              Gymnastics
                   band                     band
                                                                                   Met                                    Lacrosse
                                                                                                                    Outdoor Track & Field
                                                                                                                           Soccer

                                 +                            =
                                                                                                                           Softball
                                                                                   High
                One season               One season                                                                  Swimming & Diving
                                                                                school P.E.
              of a qualifying          of a qualifying                                                                     Tennis
                                                                               Requirement
                nda sport                nda sport                                                                       Volleyball
                                                                                   Met

    BYU Course Options:                                                                                                   Qualifying

                                                                           =
                                                                                                High                    Independent
              Aerobics 045                             One BYU                                                         Study Activities:
                                                                                             school P.E.
               Cycling 041                          P.E. Elective,
                                                                                            Requirement                    Activities that are rigorous
               Bowling 041                            0.5 credit                                                        in nature and include elements
                                                                                                Met                       of strength, flexibility, and
                                                                                                                       endurance. See examples below:
                 Golf 041             Must submit
                                      Credit Flex                                                                              Swim Team
               Jogging 041

                                                                           =
                                        Form
     Intermediate Swimming 043                                                                                               Club Volleyball
                                                                                                High
        Fitness for Living 041                      independent                              school P.E.                      Club Softball

    Fitness for Sports & Recreation
                                                        study,                              Requirement                    Travel Basketball
                                                      0.5 credit                                Met                                Dance
               Tennis 041
         Walking Fitness 041                                                                                                    Kickboxing

         Weight Training 041                                     60 clock hours of a club sport or outside NDA
                                                                                                                       A complete log as proof of activity
                                                     Activity that includes strength, flexibility, and endurance      must be submitted to Mrs. Edgell for
                                                        training. Must meet state benchmarks. Log required.                  credit to be awarded.

8                                                                                                 2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
MATH PROGRESSION

PROGRESSION OF
MATHEMATICS COURSES
 7th Grade          8th Grade           9th Grade            10th Grade            11th Grade          12th Grade

                                           Math
                                        Foundations      "       Math I
                                                                              "       Math II
                                                                                                   "      Math III

                                                                                                         Math IV or
                                                                                    Math III or
                                                                                    Math III (H)   "    Pre-Calculus

   Math 7
                "     Math 8
                                    "    Math I or
                                                         "    Math II or      &                              (H)

                                         Math I (H)           Math II (H)
                                                                              (       IB Math
                                                                                     Year One      "      IB Math
                                                                                                         Year Two

                                                                                        Pre-                A.P.
                                                                                     Calculus
                                                                                                   "     Calculus

                "    Math I or
                                    "   Math II or
                                                         "    Math III or     &        ..(H)*              (AB)*

                                                                              (
  Math 8*
                     Math I (H)*        Math II (H)*          Math III (H)*
                                                                                      IB Math
                                                                                     Year One      "      IB Math
                                                                                                         Year Two

                                                                                        A.P.               Indep.
                                                                                    Calculus
                                                                                                   "       Study

  Math I (H)*
                "    Math II (H)*
                                    "    Math III (H)*
                                                         "
                                                                   Pre-
                                                                Calculus      &      ..(AB)*            ..options**

                                                                  ..(H)*
                                                                              (      IB Math
                                                                                    Year One       "      IB Math
                                                                                                         Year Two

                                                                                  * Math Department approval required
                                        ** For more information, please contact Mr. Gruenwald, Math Department Chair

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                                 9
GRADE 7

GRADE 7 CORE COURSES
                                                            MATH I (HONORS)
Language Arts                                               Grade Level: 7-9
ENGLISH 7
                                                            Credit: 1.0
Grade Level: 7                                                Admission to this course requires department
Credit: 1.0                                                   approval and additional Math Placement Test.
  English 7 aims to develop students’ writing, reading,       This course is designed for students who are
  and speaking skills. A variety of materials and             proficient in the fundamentals of mathematics. Those
  techniques are used to develop competence in                entering this class intend to continue in honors math
  both oral and written communication, including the          courses. This rigorous course incorporates the study
  formation of individual paragraphs and then the five-       of Number Sense (understanding and application
  paragraph essay. In grammar, the parts of speech are        of all sets of numbers up to real numbers), Algebra
  a major area of focus.                                      (solving multi-step equations and inequalities, using
                                                              function notation, applying and interpreting graphs),
Mathematics                                                   Geometry (similarity, congruency, dimensional
                                                              analysis, circles), and Probability/Statistics (basic
MATH 7                                                        probability, data displays, regression lines, predicted
Grade Level: 7, 8                                             values, correlation). Emphasis will be placed on
                                                              a deeper understanding and application of these
Credit: 1.0
                                                              topics along with concise and correct vocabulary and
  This course will prepare students for mastery in the        writing.
  study of mathematical topics, including Algebra,
  Geometry, and Statistics. Math 7 introduces
  and enhances students’ operative knowledge of
  integers, decimals, fractions and percentages.
  Special emphasis is placed on evaluating numerical        Theology
  and algebraic expressions, and writing and solving
  inequalities and equations. Two and three-                THEOLOGY 7
  dimensional Geometry and basic Data Analysis              Grade Level: 7
  (including graphical representation) are also studied     Credit: 1.0
  in-depth.                                                   Students will follow the 7th grade course of study
                                                              required by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo.
MATH 8                                                        Students will come to understand Scripture and
                                                              Tradition as expressions of God’s Revelation in
Grade Level: 7, 8
                                                              Jesus Christ. Through Jesus’ teachings the student
Credit: 1.0                                                   learns to live the spirit of the kingdom in genuine,
  Admission to this course requires department                self-sacrificing love and reflect deeply on their
  approval and additional Math Placement Test.                responsibility to respect, nurture and protect the
  Math 8 builds and enhances Math 7 skills necessary          gift of life. The students will also learn the order and
  for success in the subsequent Math I course. Along          meaning of the Catholic mass as a celebration of
  with deepening prior knowledge, special emphasis            Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.
  is placed upon the study of sets of numbers; writing,
  solving, and graphing equations; percent applications,
  linear functions. transformational geometry, statistics
  and data analysis, and probability. Students are
  expected to have a solid understanding of operations
  using rational numbers including integers.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                               11
GRADE 7

Science                                                    Physical Education
SCIENCE 7                                                  NDJA PHYSICAL EDUCATION 7
Grade Level: 7                                             Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 1.0                                                Credit: 0.25
  In this course, students will become proficient in         This course must be taken in either 7th or 8th grade.
  the areas of science inquiry and application of Life,      IThis course is designed to be an introduction to a
  Physical and Earth and Space Science. In Life Science,     wide variety of activities, such as Basketball, Dance,
  the focus is on the impact of matter and energy            Fitness Activities, Gymnastics, Lacrosse, Soccer,
  transfer within the biotic component of ecosystems.        Softball, Tennis, Track, and Volleyball.
  In Physical Science, the focus is on the empirical
  evidence for the arrangement of atoms on the
  Periodic Table of Elements, conservation of mass and
  energy, and transformation and transfer of energy.
  In Earth and Space Science, the focus is on Earth’s
  hydrologic cycle, patterns that exist in atmospheric
  and ocean currents, the relationship between thermal
  energy and the currents, and the relative position and
  movement of the Earth, sun and moon. Experiential
  activities, both in the classroom and outdoors, are
  included in all topic areas.

Social Studies
ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS 7
Grade: 7
Credit: 1.0
  Students will explore and experience World History
  from 750 B.C. to 1600 A.D. The areas of focus are
  Ancient Greece and Rome, as well as portions of
  Africa and Asia. This course will conclude with the
  study of the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and the Age
  of Exploration. For each area of study, the students
  will examine different governmental, economic, and
  geographical influences on the Ancient World as well
  as explain, analyze, and evaluate historical events on
  a global scale.

12                                                                            2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 7

GRADE 7 ELECTIVES
Music                                                         Theatre
JA CHOIR 7                                                    EXPLORATORY MUSICAL DANCE 7
Grade: 7, 8                                                   Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 0.5                                                   Credit: 0.5
  Students will learn and perform a variety of vocal            This semester course dance class is for both
  literature from Broadway and A Cappella to Classical          inexperienced and experienced dancers. Students will
  in this semester class. Students will learn the basics of     learn dance with a concentration on styles found in
  harmony and music reading and have the opportunity            musical theatre.
  to participate in community and school performances
  and competitions. No experience necessary. Can be
  repeated for credit.                                        EXPLORATORY SPEECH & DRAMA 7
                                                              Grade: 7, 8
                                                              Credit: 0.5
BEGINNING STRINGS 7
                                                                In this semester class, students will learn the basics
Grade: 7, 8
                                                                of movement and speech through a variety of in class
Credit: 0.5                                                     performances.
  Students will learn how to play a string instrument
  in a group setting during this semester class. As an
  ensemble, students will learn how to read music and         PLAY PRODUCTION 7
  explore string techniques on the violin, viola, cello,      Grade: 7, 8
  or bass. Music appreciation, practice skills, and basic     Credit: 0.5
  musicianship will be discussed. Students will perform         Prerequisite: Exploratory Speech and Drama
  in a concert at the end of the semester. No music
  experience necessary. Instruments may be owned,               Play Production is a continuation of the skills and
  rented, or provided by the school. Can be repeated            concepts learned in Exploratory Speech and Drama.
  for credit.                                                   The class culminates with a public performance of a
                                                                student produced play. Students must be available for
                                                                an evening performance at the end of the semester.
JA ORCHESTRA 7
Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 0.5
  Prerequisite: Previous music experience or two              Visual Arts
  semesters of Beginning Strings
                                                              INTRODUCTION TO VISUAL ARTS 7
  This class is for students who already know how
  to play a musical instrument, have an interest              Grade: 7, 8
  in ensemble playing, and want to strengthen                 Credit: 0.5
  their musical skills. Students will work on basic             Students will discover a variety of 2-D and 3-D
  musicianship skills to become more confident on               projects that express their personal interests and
  their instrument. Practice techniques, scales, and            experiences. Fundamental elements and principles
  tuning will also be taught. The ensemble will perform         are introduced. Graphite, color pencil, ink, acrylic
  in a short concert at the end of the semester. All            paint, watercolor paint, clay, and sculpture are some
  instruments are welcome! Instruments may be                   of the media explored. Visual journals are utilized
  owned, rented, or provided by the school.                     daily to explore new material, techniques and themes.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                              13
GRADE 7

Journalism
EXPLORATORY JOURNALISM 7
Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 0.5
  Students learn and employ basic journalistic
  principles in the production of the 7th & 8th grade
  newspaper and yearbook. Students will have specific
  responsibilities to carry out related staff positions,
  as well as the general responsibility of working
  with the rest of the staff to produce high quality
  publications. The majority of class time is devoted to
  photographing, writing, editing, and production tasks.
  Maximum class size of 12.

14                                                         2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 8

GRADE 8 CORE COURSES
Language Arts                                               MATH I (HONORS)
ENGLISH 8                                                   Grade Level: 7-9
Grade Level: 8                                              Credit: 1.0
Credit: 1.0                                                   Admission to this course requires department
                                                              approval and additional Math Placement Test.
  English 8 aims to develop students’ writing, reading,
  and speaking skills. Communication skills are               This course is designed for students who are
  improved through the writing process, and the               proficient in the fundamentals of mathematics. Those
  continued study of grammar and oral expression. The         entering this class intend to continue in honors math
  course also includes an independent and a thematic          courses. This rigorous course incorporates the study
  study of literature.                                        of Number Sense (understanding and application
                                                              of all sets of numbers up to real numbers), Algebra
                                                              (solving multi-step equations and inequalities, using
                                                              function notation, applying and interpreting graphs),
                                                              Geometry (similarity, congruency, dimensional
Mathematics                                                   analysis, circles), and Probability/Statistics (basic
                                                              probability, data displays, regression lines, predicted
MATH 7                                                        values, correlation). Emphasis will be placed on a
                                                              deeper understanding and application of these topics
Grade Level: 7, 8
                                                              along with concise, correct vocabulary and writing.
Credit: 1.0
  This course will prepare students for mastery in the
  study of mathematical topics, including Algebra,          MATH II (HONORS)
  Geometry, and Statistics. Math 7 introduces               Grade Level: 8-10
  and enhances students’ operative knowledge of             Credit: 1.0
  integers, decimals, fractions and percentages.              Prerequisite for current NDA students: 87% average
  Special emphasis is placed on evaluating numerical          or better in current Math I Honors class at the time
  and algebraic expressions, and writing and solving          of registration and department approval.
  inequalities and equations. Two and three-
  dimensional Geometry and basic Data Analysis                Admission for all other students requires
  (including graphical representation) are also studied       department approval and additional Math
  in-depth.                                                   Placement Test.
                                                              This rigorous course includes the study of Number
MATH 8                                                        Sense (radicals, imaginary numbers), Algebra
Grade Level: 7, 8                                             (polynomial operations, quadratic functions),
                                                              Geometry (proofs, similarity, congruency, polygons,
Credit: 1.0                                                   circles), Right Angle Trigonometry, and Probability
  Math 8 builds and enhances Math 7 skills necessary          (combinatorics, simple and conditional probability).
  for success in the subsequent Math 1 course. Along
  with deepening prior knowledge, special emphasis
  is placed upon the study of sets of numbers; writing,
  solving, and graphing equations; percent applications,
  linear functions, transformational geometry, statistics
  and data analysis, and probability. Students are
  expected to have a solid understanding using rational
  numbers, including integers.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                               15
GRADE 8

Theology                                                   Social Studies
THEOLOGY 8                                                 U.S. HISTORY 8
Grade Level: 8                                             Grade: 8
Credit: 1.0                                                Credit: 1.0
  The students will follow the 8th grade course of study     Students will explore and experience U.S. History
  required by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo.          from the Age of Exploration in 1492 to Reconstruction
  Throughout this year the students will learn about         in 1877. This will include colonization of the new
  the very nature of the Church’s mission as they            world, the American Revolution, establishment of
  deepen their understanding and appreciation for the        a national government, expansion west, the Civil
  four Marks of the Catholic Church. The students will       War, and Reconstruction. For each area of study,
  be able to identify key people and events in Church        the students will examine the cause and effect of
  history. They will know that service and action on         human actions on historical events as well as analyze
  behalf of justice is the responsibility of each member     different viewpoints.
  of the Church. In addition, we will supplement
  our curriculum with Saint John Paul II’s catechesis,
  Theology of the Body for Middle School, in which the
  students are presented with the Christian view of the
  “one flesh union” of man and woman in the context
                                                           Physical Education
  of true love, marriage and family life.                  JA PHYSICAL EDUCATION 8
                                                           Grade: 7, 8
                                                           Credit: 0.25
Science                                                      This course must be taken in either 7th or 8th grade.
                                                             This course is designed to be an introduction to a
SCIENCE 8                                                    wide variety of activities such as Basketball, Dance,
Grade Level: 8                                               Fitness Activities, Gymnastics, Lacrosse, Soccer,
                                                             Softball, Tennis, Track and Volleyball.
Credit: 1.0
  In this course, students will become proficient in
  the areas of science inquiry and application of Life,
  Physical and Earth and Space Science. In Life Science
  the topic focuses on the continuation of the species.
  In Physical Science the topic focuses on forces and
  motion within, on and around the Earth and within
  the universe. In Earth and Space Science the topic
  focuses on the physical features of Earth and how
  they formed. This includes the interior of Earth,
  the rock record, plate tectonics and landforms.
  Experiential activities, both in the classroom and
  outdoors, are included in all topic areas.

16                                                                           2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 8

GRADE 8 ELECTIVES
Music                                                         Theatre
JA CHOIR 8                                                    EXPLORATORY MUSICAL DANCE 8
Grade: 7, 8                                                   Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 0.5                                                   Credit: 0.5
  Students will learn and perform a variety of vocal            This semester course dance class is for both
  literature from Broadway and A Cappella to Classical          inexperienced and experienced dancers. Students will
  in this semester class. Students will learn the basics of     learn dance with a concentration on styles found in
  harmony and music reading and have the opportunity            musical theatre.
  to participate in community and school performances
  and competitions. No experience necessary. Can be
  repeated for credit.                                        EXPLORATORY SPEECH & DRAMA 8
                                                              Grade: 7, 8
BEGINNING STRINGS 8                                           Credit: 0.5
Grade: 7, 8                                                     In this semester class, students will learn the basics
                                                                of movement and speech through a variety of in class
Credit: 0.5                                                     performances.
  Students will learn how to play a string instrument
  in a group setting during this semester class. As an
  ensemble, students will learn how to read music and         PLAY PRODUCTION 8
  explore string techniques on violin, viola, cello, or       Grade: 7, 8
  bass. Music appreciation, practice skills, and basic        Credit: 0.5
  musicianship will be discussed. Students will perform
                                                                Prerequisite: Exploratory Speech and Drama
  in a concert at the end of the semester. No music
  experience necessary. Instruments may be owned,               Play Production is a continuation of the skills and
  rented, or provided by the school. Can be repeated            concepts learned in exploratory speech and drama.
  for credit.                                                   The class culminates with a public performance of a
                                                                student produced play. Students must be available for
                                                                an evening performance at the end of the semester.
JA ORCHESTRA 8
Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 0.5
  Prerequisite: Previous music experience or two              Visual Art
  semesters of Beginning Strings
  This class is for students who already know how             INTRODUCTION TO VISUAL ARTS 8
  to play a musical instrument, have an interest              Grade: 7, 8
  in ensemble playing, and want to strengthen                 Credit: 0.5
  their musical skills. Students will work on basic             Students will discover a variety of 2-D and 3-D
  musicianship skills to become more confident on their         projects that express their personal interests and
  instrument. Practice technique, scales, and tuning will       experiences. Fundamental elements and principles
  also be taught. The ensemble will perform in a short          are introduced. Graphite, color pencil, ink, acrylic
  concert at the end of the semester. All instruments           paint, watercolor paint, clay, and sculpture are some
  are welcome! Instruments may be owned, rented, or             of the media explored. Visual journals are utilized
  provided by the school.                                       daily to explore new material, techniques and themes.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                              17
GRADE 8

ADVANCED INTRO TO VISUAL ARTS 8
Grade: 8
Credit: 0.5
  Expand exploration in 2-D, 3-D, and mixed media
  art. Elements and Principles of Art, Art History and
  Art Criticism are reviewed and expanded upon. This
  course focuses on increasing technical skills and
  craftsmanship allowing for more accurate personal
  expression, meaning, and effects in personal artwork.
  Visual Journals are utilized daily to explore new
  materials, techniques and themes.

Pre IB
PRE IB
Grade: 8
Credit: 0.5
  Pre IB is a semester course designed to introduce
  8th graders to the principles of the International
  Baccalaureate program at NDA. By examining
  the IB Learner Profile and reflecting on their own
  habits, students will cultivate skills necessary for
  success in high school, such as time management,
  communication, independent learning, and exploring
  topics from multiple perspectives. The course will
  culminate with a passion project showcase, in which
  students will pursue self-selected topics based on
  their interests. This project will give students the
  opportunity to develop the problem-solving and critical
  thinking skills needed for 21stcentury learners.

Journalism
EXPLORATORY JOURNALISM 8
Grade: 7, 8
Credit: 0.5
  Students learn and employ basic journalistic
  principles in the production of the 7th & 8th grade
  newspaper and yearbook. Students will have specific
  responsibilities to carry out related staff positions,
  as well as the general responsibility of working
  with the rest of the staff to produce high quality
  publications. The majority of class time is devoted to
  photographing, writing, editing, and production tasks.
  Maximum class size of 12.

18                                                          2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 8

GRADE 8 EARLY HIGH
SCHOOL ELECTIVE COURSES
                                                          LATIN I (HONORS)
Modern & Classical                                        Grade: 8-12
Languages                                                 Credit: 1.0
                                                            This course prsents the same grammatical, historical,
FRENCH I (COLLEGE PREP)                                     and cultural material as Latin I, but students will be
Grade: 8-12                                                 required to demonstrate a deeper understanding
Credit: 1.0                                                 of underlying concepts, primarily through the
  This is a beginning course in French during which         completion of additional assignments. Admission to
  the student is introduced to many aspects of French       the course requires the teacher’s approval.
  culture and its language. There is a careful and
  progressive development of all the communication        SPANISH I (COLLEGE PREP)
  skills: listening and reading comprehension, speaking
                                                          Grade: 8-12
  fluency and writing accuracy.
                                                          Credit: 1.0
                                                            This is a beginning course in Spanish in which
FRENCH I (HONORS)                                           students are introduced to Hispanic culture and
Grade: 8-12                                                 language as it is experienced by millions of people in
Credit: 1.0                                                 both hemispheres. As the student progresses through
                                                            the year, she learns to use the language through
  This course is the same as French I but on an
                                                            the progressive development of the four basic
  accelerated scale designed for students who have
                                                            language skills: listening and reading comprehension,
  either had significant previous exposure to French or
                                                            and speaking and writing for accuracy. Cultural
  have scored high on the Math and English language
                                                            awareness and Hispanic customs are integrated into
  sections of the High School Placement test. There is
                                                            the curriculum through readings, projects and videos.
  additional emphasis on conversation, reading and
  composition skills.
Admission to this course requires the approval of the     SPANISH I (HONORS)
teacher.                                                  Grade: 8-12
                                                          Credit: 1.0
LATIN I (COLLEGE PREP)
Grade: 8-12                                                 Admission to this course requires the approval of
Credit: 1.0                                                 the teacher.
  This course provides a thorough study of                  This course is the same as Spanish I but on an
  fundamental Latin grammar and vocabulary. An              accelerated scale designed for students who have
  important goal is the ability to write a coherent         either had significant previous exposure to Spanish or
  translation from Latin into English. Classical            have scored high on the Math and English language
  mythology and the study of aspects of Roman               sections of the High School Placement Test. There is
  life such as the Roman family, schools, religion,         additional emphasis on conversation, reading, and
  and entertainment acquaint the student with the           composition skills.
  civilization that formed the basis for our own.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                          19
GRADE 8

                                                              WEB DESIGN & CODING
Physical Education & Health                                   Grade: 8-12
TEAM ACTIVITIES                                               Credit: 0.5
Grade: 8-12                                                     This course is an entry level programming course
Credit: 0.25                                                    designed to teach students basic programming
                                                                code and theories with an emphasis on developing
  This course is designed to give the students the              logical thinking and problem-solving skills. The focus
  opportunity to learn individual skills, sport- specific       will be on web related languages, but principles can
  fitness, and team strategy while participating in             be applied toward any coding language. Relevant
  aerobics, volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball, field     languages covered are HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
  hockey and gymnastics. Students will also use the             The course will also explore the basics of web design
  NDA fitness center and participate in a variety of            thinking and application.
  fitness activities.
  Please Note: Some courses have minimum
  enrollment requirements in order to run.
                                                              Visual Arts
HEALTH
Grade: 8-12                                                   3-D ART
Credit: 0.5                                                   Grade: 8-12
  This course is designed as an overview of basic             Credit: 0.5
  health related topics with an emphasis on how these           Prerequisite: Introduction to Visual Arts
  relate to women and achieving wellness. Some areas            This is a hands-on class where students will learn the
  covered are understanding the difference between              basic principles of making sculpture and ceramics.
  health and illness; stating behaviors that help to            This course may be combined with another fine/
  develop and maintain physical and mental wellness;            performing arts semester to fulfill the fine/performing
  being able to choose a healthy diet; understanding            arts credit.
  basic human biology and the major disorders of body
  systems; and the effect of smoking, alcohol, and drug
  abuse on the various systems of the body. Students
  will develop strategies to improve self-image, build
  friendships, and achieve goals.

Technology
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
Grade: 8-12
Credit: 0.5
  This introductory course is designed to give the
  student a comprehensive knowledge of MS Office
  and using Google apps (Drive/classroom/docs/sheets/
  forms). Students will learn formatting for various
  business documents. Word and Excel are explored
  thoroughly. Publisher and PowerPoint are also
  covered. Internet safety and current technological
  advancements are discussed and researched.

20                                                                               2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 9

GRADE 9 CORE COURSES
English                                                    Mathematics
ENGLISH I (COLLEGE PREP)                                   MATH FOUNDATIONS
Grade Level: 9                                             Grade Level: 9
Credit: 1.0                                                Credit: 1.0
  English I aims to develop communication skills             Admission to this course is by invitation only.
  through the writing process, and the continued study       Math Foundations builds and enhances math skills
  of grammar and oral expression. The course also            necessary for success in the subsequent Math I
  includes a thematic study of literature.                   course. Along with deepening prior knowledge,
                                                             special emphasis is placed upon the study of
ENGLISH I (HONORS)                                           sets of numbers; writing, solving, and graphing
                                                             equations; percent applications, linear functions,
Grade Level: 9                                               transformational Geometry, Statistics and Data
Credit: 1.0                                                  Analysis, and Probability. Students are expected to
  This is an advanced course of English I. There is          have a solid understanding of all operations using
  emphasis on further development of writing skills,         rational numbers, including integers.
  research, and group discussion.
  The following criteria are the basis for admission to    MATH I (COLLEGE PREP)
  Honors:
                                                           Grade Level: 9-10
   1. A 4/5 on writing sample from placement test
                                                           Credit: 1.0
   2. Scores on HSPT test
                                                             This course is for students who have an
   3. Recommendation of eighth grade teacher                 understanding of the fundamentals of Mathematics.
                                                             It incorporates the study of Number Sense
INTEGRATED ENGLISH I                                         (understanding and application of all sets of numbers
                                                             up to real numbers), Algebra (solving multi-step
Grade Level: 9                                               equations and inequalities, using function notation,
Credit: 1.0                                                  applying and interpreting graphs), Geometry
  Admission to this course is by invitation only.            (similarity, congruence, dimensional analysis,
  This course is designed to strengthen the student’s        circles) and Probability/Statistics (basic probability,
  basic reading, writing, and speaking skills. A variety     data displays, regression lines, predicated values,
  of materials and techniques are used to develop a          correlation). Emphasis will be placed on discovery,
  competence in both oral and written communication.         communication, problem solving, and connections
  The stress in writing is upon clear expression of a        among math topics.
  single thought in a well-organized paragraph.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                             21
GRADE 9

MATH I (HONORS)
Grade Level: 7-9
                                                              Theology
Credit: 1.0                                                   THEOLOGY I
  Admission to this course requires department                Grade Level: 9
  approval.                                                   Credit: 1.0
  This course is designed for students who are                  Jesus Christ: God’s Revelation – one semester
  proficient in the fundamentals of mathematics. Those
  entering this class intend to continue in honors math          This course gives students a general knowledge
  courses. This rigorous course incorporates the study           and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures while
  of Number Sense (understanding and application                 encountering Jesus Christ. Centering on our natural
  of all sets of numbers up to real numbers), Algebra            instinct to seek God, students will explore the
  (solving multi-step equations and inequalities, using          wonderful work of Our Lord in forming a people, giving
  function notation, applying and interpreting graphs),          the Law, and preparing for the Messiah. An overview of
  Geometry (similarity, congruency, dimensional                  Salvation History, its doctrine, people, and events will
  analysis, circles) , and Probability/Statistics (basic         provide a foundation for future Theology courses.
  probability, data displays, regression lines, predicted       Jesus Christ: Mission and Ministry – one semester
  values, correlation). Emphasis will be placed on               While continuing the survey of Salvation History, this
  a deeper understanding and application of these                course focuses on the ministry and mission of Jesus
  topics along with concise and correct vocabulary and           Christ while presenting the Church’s teachings about
  writing.                                                       God the Father, the Trinity, Mary and the Holy Spirit.
                                                                 Students will understand the call of discipleship and
                                                                 that it involves a life of grace and holiness with a
MATH II (COLLEGE PREP)
                                                                 share of God’s everlasting Kingdom.
Grade Level: 9-11
Credit: 1.0
  Admission to this course requires department
  approval.                                                   FAITH BASICS
  This course includes study of Number Sense (radicals,       Grade Level: 9
  imaginary numbers), Algebra (polynomial operations,         Credit: 1.0
  quadratic functions), Geometry (proofs, similarity,           Faith Basics – two semesters
  congruency, polygons, circles), Right Triangle
                                                                 This course is designed for students who have had
  Trigonometry, and Probability (combinatorics, simple
                                                                 little or no exposure to Catholicism. The content of
  and conditional probability).
                                                                 the course is the same as God’s Revelation/Mission
                                                                 and Ministry, while the pace and depth will permit
MATH II (HONORS)                                                 students to achieve a level of competence necessary
Grade Level: 8-10                                                to be successful in subsequent Theology courses.
Credit: 1.0
  Prerequisite for current NDA students: 87% average
  or better in current Math I Honors class at the time
                                                              Science
  of registration and department approval                     BIOLOGY I (COLLEGE PREP)
     Admission for all other students requires                Grade Level: 9
     department approval and additional Math                  Credit: 1.0
     Placement Test.                                            This lab course explores the structural and chemical
     This rigorous course includes the study of Number          basis of life, the uniformity and diversity of life in
     Sense (radicals, imaginary numbers), Algebra               topics such as cell structure and function, genetics,
     (polynomial operations, quadratic functions),              evolution, and ecology. Students will explore these
     Geometry (proofs, similarity, congruency, polygons,        concepts through hands-on activities, labs, and group
     circles), Right Triangle Trigonometry, and Probability     discussions. Test preparation is enhanced through
     (combinatorics, simple and conditional probability).       review activities and worksheets.

22                                                                               2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 9

BIOLOGY I (HONORS)
Grade Level: 9
                                                             Modern & Classical
Credit: 1.0                                                  Languages
  This lab course provides a more in-depth study of
  the same concepts of Biology I with an additional          FRENCH I (COLLEGE PREP)
  emphasis on biochemistry and molecular genetics.           Grade: 8-12
  More emphasis will be placed on laboratory exercises       Credit: 1.0
  and independent and/or group work which involves a           This is a beginning course in French during which
  focus on inquiry-based quarterly projects. The pace of       the student is introduced to many aspects of French
  this course demands highly self-motivated students           culture and its language. There is a careful and
  willing to spend extra time preparing for daily lessons.     progressive development of all the communication
                                                               skills: listening and reading comprehension, speaking
                                                               fluency and writing accuracy.

Social Studies                                               FRENCH I (HONORS)
WORLD HISTORY (COLLEGE PREP)                                 Grade: 8-12
Grade Level: 9                                               Credit: 1.0
  This survey course focuses on the major periods of           This course is the same as French I but on an
  World History from the Enlightenment to the present.         accelerated scale designed for students who have
  The events of history are presented through the              either had significant previous exposure to French or
  lens of human values, attitudes, customs, religion,          have scored high on the Math and English language
  government, and culture, while developing skills to          sections of the High School Placement test. There is
  examine and think critically about the world.                additional emphasis on conversation, reading and
                                                               composition skills.
WORLD HISTORY (HONORS)                                         Admission to this course requires the approval of
                                                               the teacher.
Grade Level: 9
Credit: 1.0
                                                             FRENCH II (COLLEGE PREP)
  Prerequisite: 90% or above on HSPT will be
                                                             Grade: 9-12
  recommended for admission in this course.
                                                             Credit: 1.0
  This survey course focuses on the major periods of
  World History from the Enlightenment to the present.         Prerequisite: French I or French I Honors
  The events of history are presented through the              This second course in French offers the opportunity
  lens of human values, attitudes, customs, religion,          to further develop the communication skills begun in
  government, and culture, while developing skills to          French I. Students will complete the study of the main
  examine and think critically about the world. Students       grammatical concepts of the French language in the
  will move at a faster pace, study concepts on a deeper       context of understanding the French people and their
  level, spend little time on review, may have more            daily lives and interests.
  homework, and different assessments in honors.
                                                             FRENCH II (HONORS)
                                                             Grade: 9-12
                                                             Credit: 1.0
                                                               Prerequisite: B+ average in French I Honors or a
                                                               high A average in French I College Prep
                                                               This course is the same as French II College Prep
                                                               but on an accelerated scale. The class is conducted
                                                               primarily in French. The purpose of this course is
                                                               to complete the study of the main grammatical

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                               23
GRADE 9

     concepts of the French language in the context of       LATIN II (COLLEGE PREP)
     understanding the French people and their daily lives   Grade: 9-12
     and interests.
                                                             Credit: 1.0
     Admission to this course requires the approval of
                                                             Latin II continues and extends the study of the Latin
     the teacher.
                                                             language begun in Latin I. Emphasis is placed on
                                                             acquiring vocabulary and developing translation skills.
FRENCH III (COLLEGE PREP)                                    Roman history and geography are presented along with
Grade: 9-12                                                  continuing study of Greek and Roman myths.
Credit: 1.0
  Prerequisite: French II or French II Honors                LATIN II (HONORS)
  This course is a continuation of French II Honors or       Grade: 9-12
  French II with more emphasis on creative oral and          Credit: 1.0
  written expression. Readings, periodical articles            Prerequisite: Latin I or Latin I Honors
  and short stories serve as a basis for vocabulary            This course presents the same grammatical, historical
  development, cultural awareness and class                    and cultural material as Latin II, but students will be
  discussion. French III students continue their study         required to demonstrate a deeper understanding
  of the major points of French grammar as needed for          of underlying concepts, primarily through the
  development of communication skills. The class is            completion of additional assignments.
  conducted primarily in French.
                                                               Admission to this course requires the teacher’s
  Admission to this course requires the approval of            approval.
  the teacher.

                                                             SPANISH I (COLLEGE PREP)
LATIN I (COLLEGE PREP)                                       Grade: 8-12
Grade: 8-12                                                  Credit: 1.0
Credit: 1.0                                                    This is a beginning course in Spanish in which
  This course provides a thorough study of                     students are introduced to Hispanic culture and
  fundamental Latin grammar and vocabulary. An                 language as it is experienced by millions of people in
  important goal is the ability to write a coherent            both hemispheres. As the student progresses through
  translation from Latin into English. Classical               the year, she learns to use the language through
  mythology and the study of aspects of Roman                  the progressive development of the four basic
  life such as the Roman family, schools, religion,            language skills: listening and reading comprehension,
  and entertainment acquaint the student with the              and speaking and writing for accuracy. Cultural
  civilization that formed the basis for our own.              awareness and Hispanic customs are integrated into
                                                               the curriculum through readings, projects and videos.
LATIN I (HONORS)
Grade: 8-12                                                  SPANISH I (HONORS)
Credit: 1.0                                                  Grade: 8-12
  This course presents the same grammatical,                 Credit: 1.0
  historical, and cultural material as Latin I, but            This course is the same as Spanish I but on an
  students will be required to demonstrate a deeper            accelerated scale designed for students who have
  understanding of underlying concepts, primarily              either had significant previous exposure to Spanish or
  through the completion of additional assignments.            have scored high on the Math and English language
                                                               sections of the High School Placement Test. There is
     Admission to the course requires the teacher’s            additional emphasis on conversation, reading, and
     approval.                                                 composition skills.
                                                               Admission to this course requires the approval of
                                                               the teacher.

24                                                                             2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 9

SPANISH II (COLLEGE PREP)                                    SPANISH III (HONORS)
Grade: 9-12                                                  Grade: 9-12
Credit: 1.0                                                  Credit: 1.0
  Prerequisite: Spanish I                                      Prerequisite: B+ average in Honors Spanish II
  This second course in Spanish is a continuation of           or a high A average in Spanish II + teacher
  Spanish I and its goals, with additional emphasis on         recommendation.
  the use of the oral language and continued learning          This course is the same as Spanish III but on an
  of verb forms, grammatical concepts, vocabulary,             accelerated scale. In addition to grammar study,
  and the traditions and culture of Spanish-speaking           time is spent on the use of the language in oral
  countries.                                                   and written communication. Readings taken from
                                                               Spanish literature serve as a basis for vocabulary
                                                               development, cultural awareness and class
SPANISH II (HONORS)                                            discussion. The class is conducted primarily in
Grade: 9-12                                                    Spanish.
Credit: 1.0                                                    Admission to this course requires approval of the
  Prerequisite: B+ average in Honors Spanish I or a            teacher.
  high A average in Spanish I College Prep                     Minimum class size of 12.
  This course is the same as Spanish II but on an
  accelerated scale. Less time is spent on the drilling of   Music
  the grammatical aspects and more time on speaking
  and writing the language. The class is conducted           ORCHESTRA I
  primarily in Spanish.                                      Grade: 9-12
  Admission to this course requires the approval of          Credit: 1.0
  the teacher.                                                 Orchestra provides students with previous musical
                                                               training an opportunity to grow in their musicianship
SPANISH III (COLLEGE PREP)                                     and performance skills. Students will perform in at
                                                               least two school concerts, as well as optional outside
Grade: 9-12                                                    competitions and ensembles. Classes will focus on
Credit: 1.0                                                    improvement of basic musical skills and technique in
  Prerequisite: B average in Spanish II +                      a group setting. Students will also learn the basics of
  recommendation of current teacher                            independent practice. All instruments are welcome!
  This course reviews some major grammatical                   This group will explore a wide range of musical styles
  concepts from level 2 and continues with advanced            from Baroque to Contemporary. Each student is
  grammar structures. The course is also a cultural/           required to either own her instrument or rent an
  historical survey of the Spanish-speaking world.             instrument.
  Target language reading articles exploring culture,
  history, and customs are included to bridge the gap        ORCHESTRA (HONORS)
  between lower and more advanced levels of Spanish.
                                                             Grade: 9-12
  The class is conducted primarily in Spanish.
                                                             Credit: 1.0
  Admission to this course requires the approval of
  the teacher.                                                 This ensemble is for students who are confident
                                                               in their playing abilities and are able to perform
  Minimum class size of 12.
                                                               at a higher musical level. Class will focus on
                                                               ensemble playing and improvement of basic musical
                                                               technique and skills in a group setting. Students
                                                               will continue to develop independent practice
                                                               skills. The repertoire will explore a wide range of
                                                               musical styles from Baroque to Contemporary.
                                                               Performance opportunities include at least two school
                                                               concerts, chamber groups, musical pit, and outside

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                              25
GRADE 9

     competitions. All instruments are welcome! Students     HISTORY OF POPULAR MUSIC
     are required to own or rent their instrument. Faculty   Grade: 9-12
     signature and/or audition required.
                                                             Credit: 0.5
                                                               This semester-long course will provide an overview
CHORUS I                                                       of the development of popular music in America, and
Grade Level: 9-12                                              the impact these musical styles have had on Western
Credit: 1.0                                                    society. Students will learn about a variety of musical
                                                               styles such as rock and roll, rhythm and blues,
  Chorus is a great course to learn how to sing, read
                                                               country, and modern rock. Current music and current
  music, and polish your performance skills. Students
                                                               music events will also be incorporated into daily
  will participate in four school concerts in addition
                                                               discussions. This course uses a variety of assessments
  to contests, workshops, and assemblies. More
                                                               including creative projects, written tests, listening
  advanced students will be given special performance
                                                               journals, and class discussions. No prior musical
  opportunities in small ensembles. Solo and group
                                                               knowledge is required for this class.
  coaching is available to all choral students. Literature
  includes sacred and secular choral classics, world
  music, vocal jazz, barbershop, standards and musical       PIANO & GUITAR CLASS
  theatre.                                                   Grade: 9-12
                                                             Credit: 0.5
VOICE CLASS
                                                               Students will choose to learn either piano or guitar in
Grade: 9-12                                                    a group setting. The class will use group instruction
Credit: 0.5                                                    and individual practice time. Piano will focus mostly
  Develop your singing voice in a low-pressure                 on simple melodies and easy two-hand songs, while
  environment. Students enrolled in voice class will           guitar will focus mostly on chords and strumming
  learn vocal technique through the performance                patterns. Students are welcome to bring their
  and study of classical literature, jazz, and musical         own acoustic guitars. No prior music experience is
  theatre. Music history, performance practice and             required.
  stage techniques will be incorporated into the               Maximum class size of 15.
  curriculum. Students will participate in a recital and
  stage scenes from musical theatre productions as
  well as learn to identify common vocal problems.
  Outside performances are available, but optional. No
                                                             Theatre
  experience necessary.                                      SPEECH & DRAMA I
                                                             Grade: 9-12
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY I                                           Credit: 1.0 (Full Year includes Semester A&B)
Grade: 9-12                                                    This course is designed to give students a broad base
Credit: 0.5                                                    in communication skills and theater arts. Course work
                                                               includes communication theory, public speaking,
  Learn to create your own mixes, mash-ups, music
                                                               media analysis, choral reading, oral interpretation,
  videos, film scores and original compositions even if
                                                               story-telling, improvisational and prepared
  you have never had any musical experience. Students
                                                               acting experiences, and theatre history. Students
  will learn notation, sequencing, editing and basic
                                                               will get maximum possible experience in both
  keyboard skills using computers, digital recorders and
                                                               extemporaneous and prepared speaking and acting
  electronic instruments. Class projects include a class
                                                               situations in a non-threatening atmosphere.
  album and a podcast.
  Students receive 0.5 credit in fine arts OR technology.

26                                                                              2020/21 COURSE CATALOG
GRADE 9

SPEECH & DRAMA I - A (1st Semester)                         3-D ART
Grade: 9-12                                                 Grade: 8-12
Credit: 0.5                                                 Credit: 0.5
  This one semester class will give students techniques       This is a hands-on class where students will learn the
  to deal with stage fright and public speaking and           basic principles of making sculpture and ceramics. All
  acting fundamentals. Students will write and deliver        grade levels are invited and there is no prerequisite.
  a variety of speeches. They will study theater history      This course may be combined with another Fine/
  and poems, monologues and scenes from plays                 Performing Arts semester course in order to fulfill the
  for oral interpretation and acting. The class will be       Fine/Performing Arts credit.
  structured so that students will be given ample and
  varied experiences in speaking and acting in a non-
  threatening atmosphere.
                                                            Physical Education & Health
                                                            TEAM ACTIVITIES
SPEECH & DRAMA I - B (2nd Semester)                         Grade: 8-12
Grade: 9-12                                                 Credit: 0.25
Credit: 0.5                                                   This course, recommended for grade 9, is designed to
Pre-Requisite: Speech & Drama I- A                            give the students the opportunity to learn individual
                                                              skills, sport- specific fitness, and team strategy while
   This class will offer course work in speaking, acting,
                                                              participating in aerobics, volleyball, basketball, soccer,
   theatre history, media analysis, and use of
                                                              softball, field hockey and gymnastics. Students will
   technology for speeches. It will continue the course
                                                              also use the NDA fitness center and participate in a
   work offered in Speech & Drama A1. Students who
                                                              variety of fitness activities.
   complete both semesters for Speech & Drama 1 will
   be able to go into Advanced Drama or IB Theatre
   with teacher signature.                                  INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES
                                                            Grade: 9-12
MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE                                       Credit: 0.25
Grade: 9-12                                                   This is a grade 10 recommended course. It is designed
Credit: 0.5                                                   to teach basic techniques and fitness in a variety of
  This semester course dance class is for both                individual activities including tennis, golf, archery,
  inexperienced and experienced dancers. Studentswill         fencing, and gymnastics. Students will also use the
  learn dance with a concentration on styles found in         NDA fitness center and participate in a variety of
  musical theatre.                                            fitness activities.

                                                            HEALTH
Visual Arts                                                 Grade: 8-12
ART I                                                       Credit: 0.5
                                                            This course is recommended for grade 9 & 10.
Grade: 9-12
                                                              This course is designed as an overview of basic
Credit: 0.5
                                                              health related topics with an emphasis on how these
  This course is an introduction to the principles,           relate to women and achieving wellness. Some areas
  elements and history of art. The fundamentals of            covered are: understanding the difference between
  drawing, painting, printmaking, and ceramics are            health and illness; stating behaviors that help to
  explored.                                                   develop and maintain physical and mental wellness;
                                                              being able to choose a healthy diet; understanding
                                                              basic human biology and the major disorders of
                                                              body systems; understanding the effect of smoking,
                                                              alcohol, and drug abuse on the various systems of the
                                                              body. Students will develop strategies to improve self-
                                                              image, build friendships, and achieve goals.

2020/21 COURSE CATALOG                                                                                               27
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