PIUS XI CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM GUIDE FOR 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR

Page created by Morris Gilbert
 
CONTINUE READING
PIUS XI CATHOLIC
                         HIGH SCHOOL
    CURRICULUM GUIDE FOR
    2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR

                              PIUS XI CATHOLIC
                                HIGH SCHOOL
                                   MISSION

                          Pius XI Catholic High School exists
                          to prepare a diverse community of
                            students to achieve their unique
                                  and highest potential.
                          Guided by our Franciscan values of
                             dignity, peace, and respect, we
                                nurture students to excel
                              academically, develop moral
                                courage, and live lives of
                                     faith and service.

*Denotes Pathway to AP                                          1
ART and DESIGN
The nationally recognized Pius XI Art Program is designed to be taken all four years. The scope and sequence
of our curriculum develops strong technical and conceptual thinking skills and focuses on personal voice. Our
students are prepared for college admission and scholarship if they choose to pursue it. Pius XI has a one
year fine arts requirement as do most colleges and universities, however, most Art colleges and Universities
with strong art programs require an Art Portfolio for college admission and scholarship. The visual arts
include, but are not limited to, architecture, animation, computer imaging, communication design, game design,
web design, fashion design, industrial design, transportation design, product design, interior design, package
design, toy design, fibers, textile design, photography, film, video, costume design, set design and more. One
credit in either Visual Arts, Performing Arts or a combination is required for graduation.
Credits       Courses                                          Year        Comments                    Page
1.0           Art Fundamentals                                 1-2-3-4     Pathway to AP                9
0.5           Ceramics                                         2-3-4                                    9
0.5           Design: Introduction to Photoshop and            2-3-4       Pathway to AP                9
              Adobe Illustrator
0.5           Figure Drawing                                   2-3-4       Pathway to AP                9
0.5           Experimental Drawing                             3-4         Pathway to AP                9
0.5           Fibers, Fashion Construction & Design            3-4         Pathway to AP                9
0.5           Painting 1                                       3-4                                      9
0.5           Photography 1                                    3-4                                      9
0.5           Photography 2: New Genres                        3-4                                     10
0.5           3D Sculptural Forms and Architecture             2-3-4       Pathway to AP               10
0.5           The Context of Western Culture 1700 to           3-4                                     10
              Present
              AP Summer Portfolio                              3-4         Pathway to AP               36
1.0           AP Art Portfolio Preparation                     4                                       10
1.0           AP Studio Art-11                                 3                                       10
1.0           AP Studio Art-12                                 4                                       11

   ENGINEERING/ PROJECT LEAD THE WAY (PLTW)
The Engineering (Project Lead the Way) Program is designed to be taken all four years. It allows students to
earn college credit for each of the courses and introduces students to the scope, rigor and discipline of
engineering prior to entering college. However, even if a student is not planning to pursue a four-year college
degree, they will benefit greatly from the knowledge and thought processes that result from taking some or
all of the courses provided in this program.
Please note: Project Lead the Way students must have access to a computer with internet access and
Microsoft Office.
Credits        Courses                                       Year        Comments                      Page
1.0            PLTW: Introduction to Engineering and         1-2-3-4     College credit available      12
               Design (IED)
1.0            PLTW: Principles of Engineering (POE)         2-3-4       College credit available      12
1.0            PLTW: AP Computer Science Principles          3-4         College credit available      12
               (CSP)                                                     Offered 2022-2023
1.0            PLTW: Civil Engineering and Architecture 3-4              College credit available      12
               (CEA)                                                     Offered 2021-2022
0.5            Rube Goldberg Machine Design                  2-3-4                                     12

 *Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                    2
ENGLISH
Pius XI’s English curriculum is designed to not only hone students’ analysis and writing abilities, but also
emphasizes diverse perspectives in literature and those problem-solving and social skills critical for success in
today’s changing, global society. Pius XI students are required to successfully complete at least four credits of
English prior to graduation.
Credits       Courses                                         Year        Comments                       Page
1.0           Foundations in Composition and Literature 1                                                13
1.0           Accelerated Foundations in Composition          1           Offered to Freshmen in         13
              and Literature                                              90th percentile on English
                                                                          Entrance Exam
0.5           The Mythology of British Literature             2                                          13
0.5           Genres of Writing                               2                                          13
0.5          Research & Presentation                          3-4                                           13
0.5          Contemporary Literature                          3-4          Pathway to AP                    13
0.5          20th Century Literature and Theory               3-4          Pathway to AP                    13
0.5          Topics: Tragic Literature                        2-3          Pathway to AP; rotates           13
                                                                           yearly; summer trip to
                                                                           Europe required
0.5          Interpretations of Popular Literature            3-4                                           14
0.5          Black Writers and Artists                        3-4                                           14
0.5          Women’s Voices in Literature                     3-4                                           14
0.5          Hispanic Voices in Literature                    4                                             14
1.0          AP English Language and Composition              3-4                                           14
1.0          AP English Literature and Composition            4                                             14
0.5          Poetry/ Creative Writing                         3-4          Summer only; Pathway to AP       37

                             FITNESS AND WELLNESS
The Fitness & Wellness Program is designed to be taken for four years, although only 1.5 credits of Physical
Education and .5 credits of Health are required by state law. We recommend that students
view their coursework not in terms of credit hours, but instead as something they can pursue seven days a
week, developing the skills, creating the routine and acquiring the discipline for a healthy lifestyle. All online
courses for Fitness and Wellness need to be approved through the department chair prior to taking the
course.
Credits      Courses                                       Year          Comments                          Page
0.5          Freshman Co-ed Physical Education             1             Grad requirement                  15
0.5          Contemporary Health Topics                    1-2-3         Grad  requirement; see            15
                                                                           description for requirements
                                                                           for Juniors to take class
0.5          Sophomore Co-ed Physical Education              2             Grad requirement                 15
0.5          Racket Up                                       2-3-4                                          15
0.5          Competitive Team Activities                     2-3-4                                          15
0.5          Bodies in Motion                                2-3-4                                          15
0.5 or 1.0   Female Body Sculpting                           2-3-4         Offered for a semester or year   15
0.5 or 1.0   Body Development                                2-3-4         Offered for a semester or year   15
0.5          Sports Medicine                                 2-3-4                                          16

 *Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                          3
MATHEMATICS
The Mathematics program is designed to be taken for four years. Students must complete a full year of
Algebra, a full year of Geometry and one additional credit of advanced mathematics for graduation. Most
colleges and universities require three or four years of college preparatory mathematics,
therefore students are strongly encouraged to go beyond the minimum graduation
requirement. Placement in all courses is determined by the student’s ability and interest, as well as by
consulting with the student’s Mathematics teacher. ACT preparation is emphasized throughout the math
curriculum.
Credits      Courses                                    Year         Comments                     Page
0.5         Pre-Algebra                                   1            Not a Math credit; see        32
                                                                       supplementary offerings
1.0         Algebra 1                                     1-2          Grad Requirement              17
1.0         Accelerated Algebra 1                         1            Pathway to AP                 17
1.0         Geometry                                      2-3-4        Grad Requirement              17
1.0         Accelerated Geometry                          1-2-3        Pathway to AP                 17
1.0         Honors Math 3                                 2-3-4        Pathway to AP                 17
1.0         Algebra and Trigonometry                      2-3-4                                      17
1.0         Algebra 2                                     3-4                                        17
1.0         Pre-Calculus                                  3-4                                        17
0.5         Trigonometry                                  3-4                                        17
0.5         Statistics                                    3-4                                        18
1.0         AP Calculus AB                                3-4                                        18
1.0         AP Calculus BC                                4                                          18
1.0         AP Statistics                                 3-4                                        18

                                  PERFORMING ARTS
The Performing Arts Program is a K-16 model, offering outreach programs to area grade schools through the
Pius XI Performing Arts Academy and preparing passionate, dedicated high school performers for college
entrance and careers in the performing arts. This program offers a four-year scoped and sequenced curricular
program that empowers students with the technical and interpretive tools to communicate effectively through
their medium of performance. Pius XI has a one-year fine arts requirement, as do many colleges and
universities. One credit in either Visual Arts, Performing Arts or a combination is required for graduation.
Credits     Courses                                       Year         Comments                      Page
CHORAL MUSIC
1.0         Pius XI Choir                                 1-2-3-4                                    19
1.0         Concert Choir                                 2-3-4*       By Audition                   19
0.5         Vocal Jazz Ensemble                           3-4          By Audition                   19
0.5         Madrigal Ensemble                             3-4          By Audition                   19

 *Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                   4
PERFORMING ARTS (cont.)
Credits   Courses                                      Year        Comments                         Page
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
1.0       Beginning Band                               1-2-3-4                                      19
1.0       Percussion Ensemble                          1-2-3-4                                      19
1.0       Symphonic Band                               1-2-3-4     Instructor consent               19
1.0       Beginning Strings                            1-2-3-4                                      19
1.0       Intermediate Strings                         1-2-3-4     Instructor consent or audition   19
1.0       Beginning Guitar                             1-2-3-4                                      20
1.0       Intermediate Guitar**                        1-2-3-4     Instructor consent               20
1.0       Beginning Piano                              1-2-3-4                                      20
1.0       Intermediate Piano                           2-3-4                                        20
1.0       Advanced Piano**                             2-3-4                                        20
1.0       AP Music Theory                              3-4                                          20
1.0       Composition and Technology                   2-3-4       Teacher recommendation           20
DANCE
0.5       Beginning Dance                              1-2-3-4                                      21
1.0       Dance 1                                      1-2-3-4                                      21
1.0       Dance 2                                      1-2-3-4     By audition                      21
1.0       Dance 3                                      1-2-3-4     By audition                      21
1.0       Dance 4                                      1-2-3-4     By audition                      21
1.0       Dance 5                                      1-2-3-4     By audition                      21
THEATER
0.5       Basic Improvisation                          1-2-3-4                                      21
0.5       Advanced Improvisation                       2-3-4                                        22
0.5       Acting 1A                                    1                                            22
0.5       Acting 1B                                    2-3-4                                        22
0.5       Acting 2                                     2-3-4                                        22
0.5       Acting 3                                     3-4                                          22
0.5       Acting 4                                     4                                            22
0.5       Directing                                    2-3-4                                        22
0.5       Technical Theater Fundamentals               1-2-3-4                                      22
1.0       Stagecraft/Set Design                        2-3-4                                        22
0.5       Sound/Lighting                               2-3-4       Offered 2021-2022                23
0.5       Stage Costuming                              2-3-4       Offered 2022-2023                23
1.0       Radio/TV/Film Broadcasting                   1-2-3-4                                      23
          *Freshmen are allowed to join at the discretion of the Choir Director.
          **Only one of these courses will actually exist (one or the other)

 *Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                  5
SCIENCE
The Science Program is designed to be taken for four years. The recommended science curriculum for all
students includes the foundation of the “core three” courses: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Additional
electives and Advanced Placement (AP) courses are also encouraged to enrich students’ science
backgrounds and prepare them for science beyond high school. Students can earn college credits through
our Advanced Placement courses. Successful completion of Biology is a requirement for all students. Each
student must obtain 3 credits in science as a graduation requirement.
Credits Courses                                            Year        Comments                     Page
1.0        Biology                                       1-2        Pathway to AP/ Grad           24
                                                                    Requirement
1.0        AP Biology                                    3-4                                      24
1.0        Chemistry                                     2-3-4      Pathway to AP                 24
1.0        Physics                                       2-3-4      Pathway to AP                 24
1.0        AP Physics                                    3-4                                      24
1.0        Physical Science                              1-2-3-4                                  24
1.0        PLTW: Principles of Biomedical Science        1-2-3-4    College credit available      24
1.0        PLTW: Medical Interventions                   3-4        College credit available      25
1.0        PLTW: Human Body Systems                      2-3-4      College credit available      25
1.0        Students Understanding Principles of                     Application required          25
           Research Education through Medicine,
           Engineering and Science (SUPREMES)
0.5        Laboratory Investigations in Forensic         2-3-4      Rotates with POPE/ Env.       25
           Science                                                  Sci.
                                                                    Offered 2021-2022
0.5        Processes of Planet Earth (POPE)              2-3-4      Rotates with Env. Sci./       25
                                                                    Forensic Sci.
                                                                    Offered 2021-22
0.5        Environmental Science                         2-3-4      Pathway to AP                 25
                                                                    Rotates with POPE/
                                                                    Forensic Sci.
                                                                    Offered 2022-23
1.0        AP Environmental Science                      3-4                                      25

                                   SPECIAL STUDIES
Credits    Courses                                       Year       Comments                      Page
0          Learning Disabilities Program                 1-2-3-4                                  28
1.0        Reading Strategies                            1-2-3-4    Freshmen in this class        28
                                                                    should wait until
                                                                    Sophomore year to take
                                                                    Spanish 1 or French 1

 *Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                6
SOCIAL SCIENCE
The Social Sciences Program is designed to be taken, as required by the State, for a total of 3 credits, with
students opting to take additional coursework based on individual interest. Students must take the one-
semester Foundations of American Government or Honors American Government, the year-long United
States History or AP US History and one semester of Economics. The Economics requirement can be
fulfilled by taking Economics or AP Economics. Every student should take at least one semester of a
course that provides a world focus. All students are encouraged to pursue advanced work in Social
Sciences.
Credits Courses                                          Year         Comments                         Page
1.0         Introduction to Social Science                 1                                             26
1.0         World History                                  1-2           Prerequisite: top 20% of        26
                                                                         testing
0.5         Diversity and Human Rights                     2-3-4                                         26
0.5         Foundations of American Government             2             Does not meet                   26
                                                                         requirement for AP US
                                                                         History; Grad Requirement
0.5         Honors American Government                     2             Required for AP US              26
                                                                         History; Grad Requirement
0.5         Economics                                      2-3-4         Grad Requirement                26
1.0         AP Macro Economics: Principles of              2-3-4         Concurrent College Credit       26
            Macroeconomics                                               possible; fulfills Economics
                                                                         Grad Requirement
0.5         Psychology                                     3-4                                           26
1.0         AP Psychology                                  3-4           Application req.                27
0.5         Sociology                                      4                                             27
1.0         AP US History                                  3-4           Instructor consent              27
1.0         US History: 1800- Present                      3-4                                           27
0.5         Topics in World and American Culture:          2-3-4                                         27
            Holocaust

                                            THEOLOGY
The Theology Department’s four-year curriculum supports students in developing and deepening their
relationship with God, and using that relationship to interpret and guide their life in this world. Pius XI has
a 4 credit Theology requirement for graduation.
Credits Courses                                                 Year       Comments                      Page
1.0         Living Our Faith                                     1                                       29
1.0         Foundations of Scripture                             2                                       29
0.5         Biblical Themes in Literature                        3-4                                     29
0.5         Christian Ministries (Big Buddy)                     4          Application required         29
0.5         Christian Spirituality                               3-4                                     29
0.5         World Religions                                      3-4                                     29
0.5         Justice and Liberation: Catholic Social Teaching     3-4                                     29
0.5         Morality and Ethics                                  3-4        Grad. Requirement            29

*Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                        7
WORLD LANGUAGE
The World Languages Program is designed to be taken all four years for language proficiency. Many
universities require two, or in some cases, three or four years of a single world language for admission.
Opportunities for advanced study in language are offered and students may choose to study more than one
language. The more levels taken at Pius XI, the more likely it is that a student can place higher into a college’s
program, where they would earn college credit for some or all of the prerequisite courses. A program is
available for heritage Spanish speakers to help strengthen and develop their Spanish language skills. Students
must complete two years of the same World Language as a requirement for graduation.
Credits      Courses                                        Year            Comments                        Page
1.0         French 1                                         1-2-3                                         30
1.0         French II                                        1-2-3-4       Pathway to AP                   30
1.0         French III                                       1-2-3-4       Pathway to AP                   30
1.0         AP French                                        2-3-4                                         30
0.5         Introduction to Spanish                          1                                             30
1.0         Spanish 1                                        1-2-3                                         30
1.0         Spanish II                                       1-2-3-4       Pathway to AP                   30
1.0         Spanish III                                      1-2-3-4       Pathway to AP                   31
1.0         Spanish IV : Heritage/ Second Language           2-3-4         Pathway to AP                   31
1.0         Spanish for Heritage Speakers                    1-2-3         Pathway to AP                   31
1.0         AP Spanish                                       4                                             31

                          SUPPLEMENTARY OFFERINGS
In addition to the courses that Pius XI offers in its academic departments, the following are a few
school-wide elective courses that don’t reside in any one specific department.
Credits     Courses                                          Year           Comments                       Page
0.5         Pre-Algebra                                      1                                             32
0.5-1.0     Special Projects                                 3-4            Application Required; see      32
                                                                            counseling
0.25-0.5    Pius XI Yearbook Editors                         1-2-3-4                                       32
0.5         Writing Center Tutor Course                      3-4            Summer course and time         32/37
                                                                            in Writing Center are
                                                                            requirements

*Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                                          8
ART AND DESIGN                                            EXPERIMENTAL DRAWING*                       0.5 credit
                                                          In this one-semester course, students will explore a
                                                          variety of approaches to drawing, both in black and
                                                          white and in color. Students will learn to question the
ART FUNDAMENTALS *                        1.0 credit      very nature of drawing itself, and in turn, develop a
Art Fundamentals is a year-long foundation class and      very personalized repertoire of skills and techniques.
prerequisite class to our program. Here students are      Students will be taught creative thinking skills to help
taught to see, to trust their eyes and to coordinate      them engage in solving open- ended problems.
them with their hand. First semester a variety of         Students will be given many opportunities to choose
exercises build a student’s ability, range and            their own drawing media and surfaces.
confidence with observational drawing. The second                  PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals or Figure
semester is devoted to the development of painting                 Drawing
skills. Students will create a painted realistic self-
portrait or still life by the end of the semester.        FIBERS, FASHION CONSTRUCTION AND
Students are required to document their class work        DESIGN*                                  0.5 credit
and homework assignments weekly. Required                 In this one semester course, students will build
homework for class should take between 30 and 45          wearable art and sculptural fashion pieces using
minutes per assignment.                                   alternative materials and construction methods.
                                                          Experimentation and discovery will drive our
CERAMICS                                    0.5 credit    methods as we work to construct original fashion
In this one-semester course, students will learn the      pieces from found materials. The process may include
basic techniques of working with clay, which include      assemblage, sewing, paper maché and alternative
coil and slab construction. Students will be introduced   connection methods. Conceptual thinking and
to working on the potter’s wheel. Students will begin     creative problem solving skills are developed in this
to study the glaze-making process. By the end of the      class. Ideas and work specific to costume design will
semester, students will have had a “hands-on”             also be introduced. This course is recommended for
experience and basic understanding of both sculptural     students interested in developing or adding to an AP
and functional aspects of working with clay.              3D Design portfolio in fashion.
          PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals or                         PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals,
          Sophomore, Junior or Senior standing                      Ceramics or Design

DESIGN: INTRODUCTION TO                                   PAINTING 1*                                 0.5 credit
PHOTOSHOP AND ADOBE                                       In this one-semester painting course, students will
ILLUSTRATOR*                                0.5 credit    focus on color and surface. Students will learn the
The focus of this one-semester course is to teach         basics of acrylic painting and experiment with a variety
students creative problem solving skills through          of mixed media utilizing realism and abstraction.
design and illustration. Students will learn to employ    Projects will be open-ended and students will be
the elements and principles of design to develop          taught the necessary skills to make their work
effective visual communication skills. Through the use    personal. Experimentation will be encouraged.
of a variety of media and techniques, including Adobe               PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals and
Photoshop and Illustrator along with painting,                      Figure Drawing
drawing, and collage, students will develop the ability
to create strong effective compositions while             PHOTOGRAPHY 1                               0.5 credit
illustrating an idea or message.                          In this one semester course, students will begin to
           PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals                 harmonize the traditional and the digital. Students will
                                                          be taught how to use both a 35mm camera and their
FIGURE DRAWING*                            0.5 credit     cell phone camera as tools in developing images that
In this one-semester course students will have an         transcend the typical snapshot. Students will be
energetic studio experience. Students will learn to       pushed to explore and experiment with moving from
draw rapidly, focusing on gesture, structure, and form.   the traditional, to digital formats, and back again.
Students will become familiar with anatomical             Students will learn how to develop 35mm film and
structures and their place in a visual vocabulary.        images in the darkroom. They will also be asked to
Students will use a variety of media, both two- and       experiment with digital and paper negatives,
three-dimensional, working directly from a model.         transparencies,     and       other        manipulation
This course is a logical step after Art Fundamentals,     techniques. Photoshop will be introduced as a tool
and is a prerequisite for Painting 1 and Experimental     for manipulating and printing images. Students need
Drawing. PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals                   to provide their own SLR 35mm film camera.

*Denotes Pathway to AP                                                                              9
PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals and                  AP ART PORTFOLIO PREPARATION                  1.0 credit
         Junior or Senior standing, application and          Portfolio is a year-long honors course. By the time a
         the instructor’s consent                            student takes this course, they will have a variety of
                                                             skills. It is time for students to choose a focus of their
PHOTOGRAPHY 2/NEW GENRES                   0.5 credit        own, an idea to explore in-depth, and to pull all of
The emphasis of this one semester class is to create a       their skills together. A student’s work is individually
body of work from interacting with digital and               contracted, and the teachers become facilitators. The
experimental media. Students will learn a range of           emphasis is on completing a body of work from their
approaches to photography and fabrication. Students          own voice in any medium including animation and film.
will work with black/white and color photography,            Students will continue to refine their technical skills
digital fabrication and installation based imaging.          as they are presented new conceptual skills. Students
Mixed media assemblage and three dimensional work            will complete an individualized body of work that will
will be explored. Juniors and seniors in this class can      give them the ability to apply to any college or art
prepare an AP submission in photography for AP               school that requires a portfolio (including the UW
college credit. This class is excellent preparation for      system). This body of work can be used to enhance a
students pursuing AP Portfolio in photography,               student’s application to college even if they are
film/video, or sculpture senior year. For this class         majoring in another subject area. Art History is a
students will be able to use the camera in their             critical component to success in this class. Therefore,
phones. A DSLR camera is preferred if available.             Art History is required in conjunction with AP
Students need to have their own phone or DSLR                Portfolio. Attendance at MIAD’s Portfolio Day,
camera for this class.                                       College Presentation Days, and Pius XI Fine Arts Days
          PREREQUISITE: Art Fundamentals                     is mandatory. It is possible to earn between 3 and 9
          and Photography 1                                  college credits by taking this course.
                                                                         PREREQUISITES: Consent of instructor;
3D SCULPTURAL FORMS AND                                                  concurrent enrollment in Context of
ARCHITECTURE*                                   0.5 credit               Western Culture, a Social Science .5 credit.
This course provides students interested in                  In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
architecture the skills to imagine and solve                 AP course, students must complete the AP portfolio. If a
architectural problems through investigation and             student does not complete the AP portfolio they will not
application of 3D design concepts. Through ideation,         receive a weighted grade.
experimentation and discovery students will build
architectural model dealing with design principles that      AP STUDIO ART-11 (AP DRAWING AND
can be applied in product design, environmental              PAINTING, OR AP 2-D DESIGN OR AP 3-D
design and fine art sculpture. Methods and materials         DESIGN)                                     1.0 credit
will vary with each problem and the student’s vision         This is a portfolio course designed for the junior art
for a solution. Concepts covered include, defining the       student who is ready to begin preparing a focused
needs of a space, light, scale, movement, flow and           body of work for college admission and Advanced
structural integrity. This class is beneficial to students   Placement credit. At least two of the junior level
interested in architecture, set design, package design       courses (Painting, Experimental Drawing, Photo 1,
and sculpture. It is recommended for students                Fibers, Sculpture or Design) must be taken as pre-
interested in developing or adding to an AP 3D Design        requisites for juniors in this course. They may be
portfolio.                                                   taken concurrently with this class. Junior students will
          Prerequisite: Art Fundamentals. This course        complete their first AP portfolio. AP credits can be
          is open to sophomores, juniors and seniors.        earned in Drawing and Painting, 2-D Design,
                                                             Photography, and/or 3-D Design. Students will
THE CONTEXT OF WESTERN CULTURE                               continue to refine their technical skills as they are
1700 TO PRESENT                            0.5 credit        presented new conceptual skills. Students will
In this one-semester course students will investigate        complete an individualized body of work that will
contemporary issues in art as well as the historical and     prepare them to enter national competitions and to
cultural contexts in which art is created. Students will     compete for summer scholarships to prestigious art
explore the interaction of art and society with              colleges and universities. Attendance at MIAD’S
emphasis on 19th and 20th century art movements.             Portfolio Day, College Presentation Days, and Pius XI
The Advanced Placement Test is optional. This course         Fine Arts Days is mandatory. This course is not
is required for AP Portfolio students. A class museum        required for a student to take AP Art Portfolio.
visit to Chicago is required.                                          PREREQUISITES: Consent of instructor and
Required as a part of AP Portfolio                                     two Junior-level courses (which may be
                                                                       taken concurrently with AP Studio 11)

                                                                                                                   10
*Denotes Pathway to AP
In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
AP course, students must complete the AP portfolio. If a
student does not complete the AP portfolio they will not
receive a weighted grade.

AP STUDIO ART -12                            1.0 credit
This is a portfolio course designed for the senior art
student who is already taking AP Portfolio and who
wants to extend their potential to earn college credit
from 3 AP credits to 6-9 AP credits. AP credits can
be earned in Drawing and Painting, 2-D Design,
Photography, and/or 3-D Design. In order to have a
successful, complete experience in this AP course,
senior students must complete two portfolios, one in
AP Art Portfolio and one in this class. Students will
continue to refine their technical skills as they are
presented new conceptual skills.          Attendance at
MIAD’S Portfolio Day, College Presentation Days,
and Pius XI Fine Arts Days is mandatory. This course
is not required for a student to take AP Art Portfolio.
          PREREQUISITES: Consent of instructors;
          concurrent enrollment in AP Art Portfolio
In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
AP course, students must complete the AP portfolio. If a
student does not complete the AP portfolio they will not
receive a weighted grade.

                                                             11
*Denotes Pathway to AP
ENGINEERING
                                                          include app development, visualization of data,
PLTW: INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING                         cybersecurity, and simulation.
AND DESIGN (IED)           1.0 credit                             Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of IED
This year-long course emphasizes the development of               and POE.
design and teaches problem-solving skills in a project-
based environment. Teams of students use solid            RUBE GOLDBERG MACHINE DESIGN
modeling computer design software to produce,                                          0.5 credit/2 semesters
analyze and evaluate models of project solutions.         A team of students will follow the Engineering Design
         PREREQUISITE: Concurrent enrollment in           Process to design and construct a complex machine
         Algebra I or higher                              to accomplish a particular task. The team will work
                                                          throughout the year to research, sketch, build, and
PLTW: PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING                           present the device. They will compete in the Rube
(POE)                                     1.0 credit      Goldberg Machine Contest in early March. The
In this second-year course students design and            students and teacher will decide on specific goals,
program robotics devices, build and test various          objectives, and responsibilities for both individuals
machines, and test different materials and systems.       and the team.
Students use math, science and technology to                       PREREQUISITE: One credit of science,
understand, design, and build their prototypes. The                completion of IED, concurrent enrollment
course also addresses concerns about the social and                in mathematics and science.
political consequences of technological change.
          PREREQUISITE: Concurrent enrollment in
          college preparatory mathematics and
          science (Physics encouraged)*. Satisfactory
          completion of IED.

PLTW: CIVIL ENGINEERING AND
ARCHITECTURE (CEA)                       1.0 credit
(2021-2022)
This year-long course offers an overview of the fields
of civil engineering and architecture, while
emphasizing the interrelationship and dependence of
both fields on each other. Students use state of the
art software to solve real- world problems and
present solutions to hands-on projects and activities
in multiple formats, such as PowerPoint, brochures,
posters and oral presentations.
         PREREQUISITES: Concurrent enrollment in
         college preparatory mathematics and
         science. Satisfactory completion of IED and
         POE.

AP/PLTW Computer Science Principles (CSP)
(2022-2023)                               1.0 credit
Using Python as a primary tool, students learn the
fundamentals of coding, data processing, data security,
and task automation, while learning to contribute to
an inclusive, safe, and ethical computing culture. The
course promotes computational thinking and coding
fundamentals and introduces computational tools that
foster creativity. Computer Science Principles helps
students develop programming expertise and explore
the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems

                                                                                                            12
*Denotes Pathway to AP
ENGLISH                                                     RESEARCH AND PRESENTATION SKILLS
                                                                                                         0.5 credit
                                                            This course prepares students for a variety of
FOUNDATIONS IN COMPOSITION AND                              academic and formal situations in which presentations
LITERATURE                                   1.0 credit     or public speaking is required. Students who intend
In this year-long, introductory English course,             on pursuing a career that will require an emphasis on
students will be exposed to a variety of literary           professional communication, such as law, medicine,
classics in multiple genres: short stories, novels, plays   sales, or education would benefit from this class.
and poetry. Students will also master the essential         Students who feel self-conscious about their public
skills necessary to craft complex paragraphs and            speaking skills and are looking to improve before
essays. These fundamental reading and writing skills        graduation would greatly benefit from enrolling.
are an integral and vital component of all subsequent       Topics covered will include reducing speech anxiety,
English courses.                                            interviewing skills, conflict resolution, techniques of
                                                            oral presentation, and tips for writing a college
ACCELERATED FOUNDATIONS IN                                  admissions essay.
COMPOSITION AND LITERATURE 1.0 credit
This foundational course is designed for the freshman       CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE* 0.5 credit
students who demonstrate ability and proficiency in         Juniors and seniors who take this semester-long
reading and writing: the accelerated course is faster-      course will analyze contemporary fiction and apply
paced, with more complex literature studied as              myriad approaches to literary interpretation. Students
compared to the Foundations in Composition and              will also be challenged to fine-tune their digital literacy
Literature.                                                 by interpreting literature through audiovisual writing.
         PREREQUISITES: Top 90th percentile of              Students will depict their close readings and critical
         class on English Entrance Exam                     analysis of texts through sound, lyrics, and fine art,
                                                            ultimately devising a product that blends their visual
THE MYTHOLOGY OF BRITISH                                    and audio interpretations of the feeling and imagery
LITERATURE                                  0.5 credit      of the text into a single product.
In this semester long course, sophomores will study
British literature from a mythical perspective. As such,    20th CENTURY LITERATURE AND
the class will revolve around Epistemology and the          THEORY*                                    0.5 credit
crisis of knowing or not knowing that everyone faces.       In this one-semester course students will examine not
A particular emphasis will be put on the clash between      only literature of the twentieth century, but also the
the “I” and the “Other” and why it is so difficult to       ideas of Modernism and Post-modernism. Students
build tolerance and community. Fundamental                  will also explore other art forms such as music,
questions like “what is the relationship between            painting and architecture, which helped define the
authority and equality? “ and “how can beliefs and          literature, philosophy and culture of the last century.
facts be reconciled?” are posed to the student in           Students will question ideas and systems, make and
hopes of discovering new modes of thought and               break connections, and learn to think for themselves
discourse. The Mythology of British Literature can          in essays, discussions and creative projects.
best be experienced by those taking courses in
Biology and Physical Science classes, as well as Social     TOPICS: TRAGIC LITERATURE* 0.5 credit
Justice curricula and any number of Social Science          In this study-abroad English course, students will
courses. It is through these connections that the           study the origin and historical context of Tragedies
course seeks to enlighten and deepen the student            beginning in Greece and its migration to Rome.
experience.                                                 Students will read works from Greek and Roman
                                                            authors and philosophers, analyzing their influence to
GENRES OF WRITING                            0.5 credit     the genre overall. As a culmination experience at the
In this semester-long sophomore writing course,             end of the course, students will travel to Italy and
students will be given the opportunity to hone the          Greece to experience the monuments and places that
writing skills established during freshman year, while      were so influential to its foundation.
broadening students’ exposure to the myriad styles                   *To take this course, students must travel
and genres of writing. Emphasis will be placed on                    with the class to Italy and Greece.
writing with clarity, voice, organization, purpose, and              *Applications and acceptance into the
audience. Students will become familiar with writing                 program is required.
as a process, with peer evaluations and revision an
integral part of class time.

                                                                                                                   13
*Denotes Pathway to AP
INTERPRETATIONS OF POPULAR                                   AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND
LITERATURE                                 0.5 credit        COMPOSITION                                 1.0 credit
In this one-semester course students examine how             In this AP English Language and Composition course,
popular forms of literature (modern drama, sports            students will study the use of language through
fiction, and short stories) both draw on classic             various forms. The primary goal of this course is to
literature and transform it. Students will be given the      analyze the author’s purpose by engaging in
unique opportunity to study how familiar literary            conversation through texts of various disciplines.
devices such as irony, setting, theme, tone, and             Through the study of rhetoric, students will develop
ambiguity are reinterpreted for the modern era. In           the ability to effectively analyze language in a variety
addition to being reading intensive, Interpretations of      of forms such as argumentative, synthesis, and
Popular Literature will provide several opportunities        rhetorical analysis. While interacting with the author’s
for writing including literary analysis, essay writing,      purpose of the text, the students will also discern how
research papers, and papers which allow students to          the author uses language to convey this message to
compare and contrast elements of texts with their            the audience. Students will be required to brainstorm,
film counterparts.                                           create outlines, revise through several drafts, and
                                                             utilize the Pius XI Writing Center regularly to engage
BLACK WRITERS AND ARTISTS                                    in conversation about their writing. These
(2020-21)                                    0.5 credit      conversations through writing are an integral
This intensive junior/senior-level course focuses on         component of the course and will also be practiced
often overlooked artistic contributions to American          through writing circles, peer conferences, and teacher
culture by black writers, artists, and change-makers         conferences.
from various historical periods. The course is               *Applications and acceptance into the program is
designed for the junior or senior who wishes to delve        required.
into thematically complex texts (both fiction and                       PREREQUISITE: Students must earn an A in
nonfiction) and who has a genuine interest in                           both junior level English courses,
participating in important, respectful discourse on                     sophomore level English courses, and
delicate topics. Students will also reflect on their own                complete an entrance application and essay.
experience and prepare for their futures as members          In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
of a global society.                                         AP course, students must complete the AP English Exam.
                                                             If a student does not complete the AP English Exam they
WOMEN’S VOICES IN LITERATURE                                 will not receive a weighted grade
                                              0.5 credit
This one-semester course examines contemporary               AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND
literature (short stories, novels, memoirs, and poetry)      COMPOSITION                                  1.0 credit
by women writers who come from diverse social,               This year-long course is designed for seniors who
cultural, economic, and personal perspectives.               have shown exceptional interest and ability in the
Students will become acquainted with the                     study of literature and writing. AP Literature and
contribution of these women writers to the English           Composition is a rigorous course which relies on the
literary tradition, with particular focus on literature of   dedication and active participation of each student
dissent. Juniors and seniors who take this course can        involved. The novels, short stories, plays and poems
expect to complete rigorous reading and writing              are college-level texts, as recommended by the
assignments, as well as participate in thoughtful class      College Board. College credit may be earned by
discussions, on a daily basis.                               completing the course and the AP Literature exam in
                                                             the spring.
HISPANIC VOICES IN LITERATURE                                *Applications and acceptance into the program is
                                          0.5 credit         required.
In this Senior-level course, students will read and                     PREREQUISITE: Students must earn an A in
analyze fiction written by authors of Cuban, Puerto                     both junior level English courses and
Rican, South American and Spanish origin. Students                      complete an entrance application and essay.
who take this course may opt to read the texts in            In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
either the original Spanish or in their English              AP course, students must complete the AP English Exam.
translations, with opportunities for literary discussion     If a student does not complete the AP English Exam they
and writing in their preferred language. The course          will not receive a weighted grade.
will be co-designed and co-taught by world language
and English teachers for the most dynamic experience
possible.

                                                                                                                    14
*Denotes Pathway to AP
FITNESS AND                                                  fundamentals, and game/tournament play. Student
                                                             input will be used in selecting units for individual
                                                             classes.
WELLNESS
                                                             COMPETITIVE TEAM ACTIVITIES 0.5 credit
FRESHMAN CO-ED PHYSICAL                                      This course is designed for students interested in
EDUCATION                                     0.5 credit     developing sport-specific leadership, fitness, and
In this semester-long survey course, students will be        sportsmanship goals through different competitive
introduced to a variety of individual and team               team activities. Students will accomplish this through
activities designed to promote interpersonal and             several different units including: Basketball, Flag
social development. Activities will be centered on           Football, Team Handball, Ultimate Frisbee, Floor
lifetime sports, improvement in coordination,                Hockey, Eclipse Ball, Sabaki Ball, Kickball, Soccer,
muscular strength, muscular endurance, and team-             Softball and Volleyball. Student input will be used in
building skills. In addition, students will participate in   selecting units for individual classes and organizing
a weekly fitness class which will enable them to better      tournaments, game play and rule development.
understand the importance of good cardiovascular             This is an advanced class for highly skilled
fitness. Fitness equipment including the use of heart        motivated students.
rate monitors, will enable students to evaluate and
monitor their personal level of fitness.                     BODIES IN MOTION                            0.5 credit
                                                             The goals of this course are to improve muscle
CONTEMPORARY HEALTH TOPICS                      0.5 credit   development, cardiovascular endurance and flexibility.
In this required, one-semester course for freshmen,          Students will accomplish this through several different
sophomores or juniors, students will learn basic             units including: Yoga, Tae Bo, Pilates, Turbo Jam,
wellness information that can be applied throughout          Powerwalk, Plyometric Training, Zumba, Core Body
their lives. Students will study topics such as first aid,   Development and dance. Student input will be used
CPR, substance use and abuse, nutrition,                     in selecting units for classes and lesson development.
relationships, and mental health. Students will learn
current trends and statistics with regard to these           FEMALE BODY SCULPTING 0.5 OR 1.0 credit
topics, and will use this information to weigh options,      This class, designed for women only, will focus on
and help develop behaviors to make responsible               sculpting the major muscle groups of the body.
decisions that promote a healthy lifestyle.                  Through the use of TRX, free weights, resistance
          PREREQUISITE: Students can only take               bands, core body exercises and cardiovascular
          Health in their junior year if they have 7.5       activities, students will sculpt and tone their body in
          or more credits sophomore year.                    relation to their personal goals. Students will monitor
                                                             their progress by keeping a log of their workouts.
SOPHOMORE CO-ED PHYSICAL                                     Individual goals are monitored and adjusted
EDUCATION                                    0.5 credit      throughout the course.         This course may be
The focus of this one semester course will be to             taken for a semester or an entire year.
engage students in a variety of lifetime activities.
Students will acquire a solid understanding of factors       BODY DEVELOPMENT                     0.5 OR 1.0 credit
necessary to maintain a high level of fitness and            This class is designed for students interested in
wellness. In addition, students will participate in a        developing their muscular strength and fitness
weekly fitness class which will enable them to better        through an intensive weight training program. The
understand the importance of good cardiovascular             core program consists of learning and mastering the
fitness. Fitness equipment, including the use of heart       proper techniques for the bench press, squat, dead
rate monitors, will enable students to evaluate and          lift, and hang clean. Students will create attainable, yet
monitor their personal level of fitness.                     challenging goals by tracking and managing their own
                                                             daily workout progress. Athletes and non-athletes will
RACKET UP                                  0.5 credit        benefit from this course. Using peer motivation,
The objective of this course is to introduce students        individuals will also work to achieve personal success
to a number of lifetime activities centered on using         with regard to the Pius XI weightlifting records.
rackets and sticks. The course will be divided into          Students taking this class for repeat credits must carry
units including: Tennis, Pickle ball, Badminton, Table       a minimum level of credits in addition to this class.
Tennis, Softball, Lacrosse, Hockey and Golf. Each            This class may be taken for a semester or an entire year.
unit is covered in three ways: instruction,
                                                             SPORTS MEDICINE                            0.5 credit
                                                             This class is intended to be an introductory course in
                                                             sports science. For those students who are interested
                                                                                                                    15
*Denotes Pathway to AP
in careers relating to sports and sports science, this
course will introduce anatomy, physiology,
kinesiology, effects of exercise on the body, how to
identify and treat sports-related injuries, emergency
preparedness, and taping/wrapping of injuries. The
class will culminate in a project on a career related to
sports along with field hours observing the athletic
teams.

                                                           16
*Denotes Pathway to AP
MATHEMATICS                                                 will study algebra further, and put it in the context of
                                                            functions. The second part of this course focuses on
                                                            trigonometry. Trigonometry directly translates to
PRE-ALGEBRA                                  .5 credit      “the measurement of triangles.” In this class, students
See supplemental offerings page 32                          will use their new knowledge of this topic in many
                                                            real-life applications. This course will prepare
ALGEBRA 1: ACCLERATED* AND                                  students for further study in college preparatory
STANDARD                                   1.0 credit       mathematics, including Pre-Calculus.
This course provides students with the fundamental          PREREQUISITE: Algebra, Geometry and the
mathematical knowledge to deal successfully with            recommendation of the current math instructor.
later math and science courses. Students will study         Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
the real number system through a variety of topics          Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.
including solving equations, graphing, using quadratic
equations and more. There are two levels of Algebra:        ALGEBRA 2                                  1.0 credit
Accelerated and Standard. If students are interested        In this course students will strengthen their
in a very challenging study of math, they should take       mathematical skills and problem-solving skills and
Accelerated Algebra. Standard Algebra covers the            deepen their understanding of algebra.
same topics but with less depth and rigor. Algebra is                 PREREQUISITE: Algebra, Geometry, and the
a graduation requirement. Students will need a                        recommendation of a student’s current math
TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver Edition Graphic                  instructor.
Calculator for this class.                                  Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
                                                            Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.
GEOMETRY: ACCELERATED* AND
STANDARD                                   1.0 credit       PRE-CALCULUS                                 1.0 credit
In this course, students will work with various             This course has multiple objectives, all of which
geometric tools to discover and learn about many            should help prepare students for calculus and/or
geometric shapes, properties and relationships. In          other college- level math courses. Specifically,
the process, students will learn the language of            students will study a wide variety of functions and
geometry and many of its practical applications. There      function behavior. Using their graphic calculators and
are two levels of Geometry: Accelerated and                 other analytical methods, students will learn to
Standard. The student’s Algebra teacher will help the       identify, graph, and transform functions. Students will
student select the appropriate level. Geometry is a         come to see the commonality of all functions and their
Pius XI graduation requirement. Students will need a        connectedness to other mathematical concepts. In
TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver Edition Graphic        the process of exploring the world of functions,
Calculator for this class.                                  students will develop a more solid comprehension
                                                            and mastery of important mathematical skills and
HONORS MATH 3*                               1.0 credit     concepts to which they have already been exposed.
Honors Math 3 is a course designed for students who         Students will also be introduced to new types of
have shown an exceptional interest and ability in           problems, as well as new ways of solving old
mathematics. In this course students will study a           problems.
variety of mathematical concepts unified by the                        PREREQUISITES: An advanced Algebra
function concept. When students are working with                       Class and the recommendation of the
the concepts in this course, the emphasis will be on                   current math instructor.
pure mathematics (theory and structure) rather than         Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
practical mathematics (applications). Since students        Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.
are treating the concepts as a discipline in pure
mathematics, proofs will be emphasized.                     TRIGONOMETRY                                0.5 credit
          PREREQUISITE: Accelerated Algebra,                This course will extend a student’s knowledge of the
          Accelerated Geometry, and the consent of          relationships between sides and angles in a triangle.
          the instructor.                                   Topics include degree and radian measure, defining
Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver   and evaluating the six trigonometric functions, basic
Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.                  trigonometric identities, the unit circle, graphing
                                                            trigonometric functions and solving trigonometric
ALGEBRA AND TRIGONOMETRY 1.0 credit                         equations.
This accelerated course is separated into two parts.                  PREREQUISITES: Algebra 2 or consent of
The first part of the course extends a student’s                      the current math instructor.
knowledge of algebra from freshman year. Students           Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
                                                            Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.

                                                                                                                  17
*Denotes Pathway to AP
STATISTICS                                    0.5 credit      AP STATISTICS                                  1.0 credit
Statistics is a one-semester course in which students         AP Statistics introduces students to the major
will compute, interpret and analyze data from real-           concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and
world situations. Students will learn how statistics are      drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed
used in a wide variety of areas to persuade, inform or        to four broad conceptual themes: Exploring Data,
make predictions.                                             Sampling and Experimentation, Anticipating Patterns,
          PREREQUISITES: Algebra 2 or consent of              and Statistical Reference. AP Statistics is an elective
          the current math instructor.                        course and does not replace any math course in the
Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver     graduation requirements. This course may be taken
Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.                    alone or concurrently with Pre-Calculus or AP
                                                              Calculus.
AP CALCULUS AB                               1.0 credit                  PREREQUISITE: Grade of B or better in
This course covers those topics identified by most                       Algebra 2, Algebra and Trigonometry or
colleges and the College Board for inclusion in the                      Honors Math 3 and/or recommendation of
first semester of college scientific calculus. Students                  your current math teacher.
will focus on solving problems related to the                 Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
mathematical concepts rather than on simply                   Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.
performing isolated mathematical operations.                  In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
Students will view course content from numeric,               AP course, students must complete the AP Statistics Exam.
algebraic and graphic perspectives with an emphasis           If a student does not complete the AP Statistics Exam they
on the communication of mathematical ideas.                   will not receive a weighted grade.
Students enrolled in the course are prepared to take
the Advanced Placement Calculus AB Exam.
          PREREQUISITE: Grade of B or better in
          Honors Math 3 or Pre-Calculus or the
          consent of the instructor.
Students will need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.
In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
AP course, students must complete the AP Calculus AB
Exam. If a student does not complete the AP Calculus AB
Exam they will not receive a weighted grade.

AP CALCULUS BC                                1.0 credit
This course covers topics identified by the College
Board for inclusion in the first and second semester
of college calculus. Students will develop
mathematical knowledge conceptually, and apply this
knowledge to accurately solve diverse types of
problems. Students will cover differential and integral
calculus including limits, derivatives, definite integrals,
the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, and series.
Students enrolled in this course are prepared to take
the Advanced Placement Calculus BC Exam.
         PREREQUISITE: Successful completion
         of AP Calculus AB and consent of
          instructor.
Students still need a TI-84+ (preferred) or a TI-84 Silver
Edition Graphic Calculator for this class.
In order to have a successful, complete experience in this
AP course, students must complete the AP Calculus BC
Exam. If a student does not complete the AP Calculus BC
Exam they will receive a weighted grade.

                                                                                                                    18
*Denotes Pathway to AP
PERFORMING                                                 trumpet, trombone, euphonium or tuba. This course
                                                           offers instruction in fundamental technical skills and
                                                           music reading in a supportive, enjoyable ensemble
ARTS                                                       experience. No prior experience playing an
                                                           instrument or reading music required – we start at
                                                           the very beginning and learn to read and play as we
CHORAL MUSIC
                                                           go. The Beginning Band will perform in concerts
PIUS XI CHORUS                              1.0 credit     during the Pius XI instrumental concert season and
Pius XI Chorus is open to all singers at any grade level   Attendance at these performances is required as is
without audition. Students will learn all of the           daily practice at home.
technical skills they need to be confident about
singing. Pius XI Chorus sings a wide variety of musical    PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE                         1.0 credit
styles. This group participates in the Pius XI concert     This ensemble is for any student with at least one year
season and performs occasionally in the community.         of percussion experience on both mallet instruments
For freshmen, the path to discovering choral music         and drums. This course develops an understanding
begins here. In addition, other performing                 and application of correct performance techniques on
experiences are offered, such as State Honors Choir        all percussion instruments. The percussion ensemble
auditions, Solo and Ensemble Festival, choral festivals    will perform as a drum line, as an ensemble, and as the
and voice master classes.                                  percussion section of the Symphonic Band in concerts
                                                           during the Pius XI instrumental concert season.
CONCERT CHOIR                            1.0 credit
This choir is an advanced ensemble of sophomores,          SYMPHONIC BAND                             1.0 credit
juniors and seniors who have shown exceptional             This ensemble is for any student with prior
musical achievement. Challenging choral repertoire         experience on a wind, brass or percussion
from all major style periods will be studied and           instrument. This course offers instruction in advanced
performed. This group participates extensively in the      playing techniques and repertoire. Students will
Pius XI concert season and performs frequently in the      rehearse and perform music from a wide variety of
community.                                                 styles while honing their ensemble skills. The
                  PREREQUISITE: By audition                Symphonic Band will perform in concerts during the
                                                           Pius XI instrumental concert season, and at the state
VOCAL JAZZ ENSEMBLE                       0.5 credit       solo and ensemble festival. Attendance at the
This class is comprised of sophomores, juniors and         performances is required as is daily practice at home.
seniors who are selected by audition. This group                             PREREQUISITE: Instructor consent
rehearses as a vocal jazz ensemble, and works on solo
jazz singing using repertoire from the Great American      BEGINNING STRINGS                           1.0 credit
Songbook. They participate in the Pius XI concert          This ensemble is for any student interested in learning
season, and perform in community events and more.          how to play one of the following bowed instruments:
To be in this course students must be enrolled a           violin, viola, cello or double bass. This course offers
larger choral ensemble.                                    beginning, fundamental technical skills and music
                   PREREQUISITE: By audition               reading in a supportive, enjoyable ensemble
                                                           experience. No prior playing experience is necessary.
MADRIGAL ENSEMBLE                        0.5 credit        Students will be introduced to different styles of
This chamber ensemble of select singers will               music including folk, jazz and classical. The Beginning
concentrate on music written for smaller ensembles,        Strings will perform in concerts during the Pius XI
from the Renaissance through contemporary choral           instrumental concert season and at the district solo
music. The Madrigals perform frequently throughout
                                                           and ensemble festival. Attendance at these
the year and have regular performances in the
                                                           performances is required as is daily practice at home.
community. To be in this course, students must also
be enrolled in a larger choral ensemble.                   INTERMEDIATE /STRING ORCHESTRA
                   PREREQUISITE: By audition                                                          1.0 credit
                                                           This ensemble is for any student with experience
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC                                         playing an orchestral string instrument (violin, viola,
                                                           cello, or double bass). This course offers continuing
BEGINNING BAND                            1.0 credit       instruction in fundamental and advanced technical
This course is for any student interested in learning      skills and music reading in a supportive, enjoyable
how to play one of the following instruments: flute,       ensemble experience. Students will play in many styles
oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, French horn,           of music including folk, jazz, classical, and

                                                                                                               19
*Denotes Pathway to AP
contemporary, and will hone their ensemble skills.           **ADVANCED PIANO                              1.0 credit
The Intermediate Strings and String Orchestra will            Advanced Piano is a level III or greater class following
perform in concerts during the Pius XI instrumental          Intermediate Piano. Students will learn proper playing
concert season and at the district solo and ensemble         practices within the different musical era style
festival. Attendance at these performances is required       periods. Students will be given advanced pieces of
as is daily practice at home.                                classical music to learn and interpret for a grade. This
Intermediate Strings is for any student with one to          class will be substantially project and practice based.
two years of playing experience. String Orchestra is
                                                             Students will also continue to learn about repertoire
for any student with more than two years of playing
                                                             and basic music theory such as melodies, harmonies,
experience.
           PREREQUISITE: by Audition or Instructor           rhythm, form, textures, voice-leading, notation, etc.
                           consent                                     PREREQUISITES: At least 1-2 years of
                                                                       piano/keyboard skills, ability to read sheet
BEGINNING GUITAR                           1.0 credit                  music, audition which includes solo, scales,
Would you like to learn the guitar? This is a class for                etudes or consent of instructor.
beginning guitarists who will learning the instrument,
technique and basic music theory and music reading.          AP MUSIC THEORY                               1.0 credit
Students will work in a group setting and occasional         AP Music Theory is geared toward the student
individual lessons. Students must provide an acoustic        looking to begin a serious study of music in
or classical guitar in good working condition and have       preparation for the college level. Using written and
it in class each day. No electric guitars.                   recorded musical examples, from classical to
                                                             contemporary, students will start to think about the
**INTERMEDIATE GUITAR                       1.0 credit       patterns inherent in music and discover why music is
This is a class for intermediate guitarists who will         written the way it is. Through these studies, the
extend their music reading and technique. Students           student will further their technical and interpretive
will work to play independently, so as to work               skills to enhance and reinforce their musical intuition.
together to perform musical arrangements made                Current knowledge of music will be studied by
specifically for groups of guitars. A required               exploring notation, rhythms, key signatures, time
performance per semester may be scheduled as well            signatures, melodic and harmonic analysis, part-
as playing assessments. Students must provide an             writing, arranging and composition. In addition, units
acoustic or classical guitar in good working condition       on ear-training and sight-singing will be examined.
and have it in class each day. No electric guitars.          This is an excellent introductory AP course for those
PREREQUISITE: Consent of instructor                          students interested in continuing their music studies
                                                             in college.
BEGINNING PIANO                           1.0 credit                    PREREQUISITE: Students must complete an
This course is designed for any student interested in                   entrance pretest and score a C or better or
learning how to play piano – no prior musical                           consent of the instructor. In order to have a
experience is necessary. Students will learn the                        successful, complete experience in this AP
fundamentals of piano technique as well as music                        course, students must complete the AP
theory in a combination of individualized and group                     Music Theory Exam. If a student does not
instruction. A fun and supportive learning                              complete the AP Music Theory Exam they
environment, this course is the perfect start for a                     will not receive a weighted grade.
student wanting to take a music class! If you are
interested and do not own a piano/keyboard, please
contact the instructor.                                      COMPOSITION AND MUSIC
                                                             TECHNOLOGY                               0.5 credit
INTERMEDIATE PIANO                            1.0 credit     Composition and Music Technology is an advanced
Intermediate Piano is a level II class following             project-based class. Students will study the basics
Beginning Piano. Students will implement proper              of music composition, including melody, harmony
                                                             rhythm, form and texture. Students will also work
playing technique through the use of etudes, scales
                                                             to become fluent with the music notation software
and repertoire. Students will also learn the
                                                             programs known as Finale and/or Musescore.
correlation between repertoire and basic music                        PREREQUISITE: Ability to read music,
theory such as melodies, harmonies, rhythm, form                      knowing basic theory, and basic keyboard
and textures. PREREQUISITES: Basic piano/keyboard                     skills.
skills, the ability to read sheet music, at least one year
worth of piano classes (Beginning Piano) or lessons.

                                                                                                                   20
*Denotes Pathway to AP
You can also read