Marblehead High School- Planning to Graduate

One year of Western Traditions (Alternative: AP world)

*Additional semester social studies elective 

 

This course explores the evolution of the major themes, ideas and beliefs of Western Civilization from the Classical heritage through the Enlightenment and French Revolution.  Students will examine culture, conflict, economics, religion, geography and current events to understand how these themes and ideas have been transformed over time and applied throughout Western history. This course will focus on improving students’ skills in research, non-fiction writing, and oral communication. 

 

One year of Chemistry

 

Chemistry CP1 is a college preparatory course designed to investigate concepts using analytical skills and critical thinking.  Topics covered include properties of matter, atomic structure, nuclear chemistry, chemical bonding and reactions, acid/base chemistry and the interaction of matter with energy.  Conceptual understanding is emphasized, although many key ideas are represented through mathematical modeling.   Scientific inquiry skills such as measurement techniques, unit knowledge and manipulation, data collection and representation, and hypothesis building will be emphasized. Students will conduct laboratory investigations that reinforce analytical skills and support the lecture/class discussions.  Ideas are introduced and reinforced through a variety of methods such as hands-on activities, daily assignments, homework, and class discussions.  Technology is woven throughout the course as a tool to gather and analyze data. 

 

One year of Mathematics (Most  common: Algebra 2 or Geometry)

 

Algebra 2

 

This course is designed to be a continuation of Algebra 1. Concepts that were studied in Algebra 1 will be expanded upon and studied in greater depth. Topics include, but are not limited to: number sense and operations; patterns, relations and functions; geometric problem solving; and statistics, probability and data analysis. A mastery of the major concepts in Algebra is the ultimate goal of this course.

 

Geometry

 

Students will use geometry and measurement strands to focus on developing and proving mathematical arguments while learning the reasoning skills needed to work through logical proofs. This includes creating and analyzing properties of two- and three-dimensional shapes, discussing and exploring spatial relationships using coordinate geometry, applying and combining transformations, using visualization and spatial reasoning and applying techniques to discuss geometric theorems. 

 

One year of English

 

 The literature studied includes Maus, The Catcher in the Rye, Julius Caesar or Macbeth, 1984, A Tale of Two Cities as well as selected poetry and short stories.  Students will also focus on writing essays of various types, strengthening their grammar, usage and vocabulary skills, and preparing for the MCAS English test

 

One year of World Language (French, Spanish, Latin) 

There are various levels and courses depending on the student's interest and experiance. See the course catelog for more information.

 

Semester of Wellness

 

The course will build upon the foundation provided in Wellness 9. The students participate in healthy decision making and time management skills, nutrition education and human growth and development.  Utilizing both cooperative and competitive activities, this course will develop fitness principles including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength/endurance, body composition and flexibility.  Units include badminton, wall climbing, volleyball, and cardiovascular games.  Through Project Adventure, students will engage in activities that will strengthen social skills, self-confidence and critical thinking abilities.

 

Two semesters of Fine/ Practical Arts needed by graduation

 

This can be completed during any year before graduation. There is a wide selection of classes that can be taken to fulfill this requirement. See the course catelog for more information.