STEM

Biology introduces students to habits of observing, critiquing, and relating general biological topics to the living world around them. They begin to see behaviors and attributes as adaptations to survival and reproduction, and then to apply these concepts to vertebrate anatomy, cell physiology, health, and plant biology. Students become familiar with the adaptive strategies of the full range of life forms. Concepts and terminology are perceived as tools for understanding the complexity of their own lives as they exercise their skills in writing, presenting, analyzing, and applying material from the class, the text, research, and their own experiences.

This course provides an opportunity for students to understand the nature of chemistry through exploration, experimentation, student directed projects, and a rigorous study of scientific principles related to the study of matter. Course content will include atomic structure and theory, chemical composition, bonding, and chemical reactions. In addition to gaining knowledge about matter and chemistry, students focus on improving academic skill, as well as developing tools that will be useful for their future as learners.

This advanced, inquiry-based course is designed for students with a strong passion for biology, particularly those interested in careers in medicine, research, or related fields. While covering the core principles of biology, this course goes beyond traditional content, allowing students to explore topics based on their individual interests and career aspirations.

Students will engage in an in-depth study of the major themes of biology, including cellular processes, genetics, evolution, ecology, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and biotechnology. However, the specific focus within each unit will be shaped by student curiosity, emerging scientific discoveries, and real-world applications.

This course emphasizes critical thinking, hands-on experimentation, and independent inquiry. It encourages students to analyze, explore current scientific advancements, and engage in discussions on bioethical issues. A portion of the course will be dedicated to student-driven research projects, where individuals or groups can investigate topics of personal interest, conduct experiments, or analyze real-world biological problems.

Prerequisite: Strong performance in prior Biology coursework and recommendation from a science instructor.

This course is intended to stress the physical aspects of science and the further development of scientific reasoning. The fundamental concepts dealing with mechanics, heat, light, sound, electricity, and nuclear physics are investigated through extensive use of laboratory exercises and computers. Physics course work requires students to demonstrate fairly advanced math skills as the math level is rigorous.

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course.  Students cultivate their understanding of physics by developing models of physical phenomena through inquiry-based investigations.  Students build their understanding of physical models as they explore and solve problems in content areas such as kinematics; forces & translational dynamics; work, energy, & power; linear momentum; torque and rotational dynamics; energy and momentum of rotating systems; oscillations; and fluids.

This course explores the dynamic relationships among individual species, ecosystems, and the planet as a whole. Students will delve into topics such as biodiversity, the composition and structure of Earth’s systems, and strategies for achieving sustainability in a rapidly evolving world. Through a problem-solving approach, the course emphasizes finding a balance between nurturing nature and meeting the demands of modern living. As a discussion-driven class, students will engage in active participation, presenting research, debating environmental issues, and sharing insights inspired by their curiosity. Whether analyzing ecosystems, tackling global challenges, or envisioning sustainable futures, students will develop critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking skills. This course is ideal for those passionate about understanding our planet and driving meaningful change.

This class explores how to produce videos for various types of media outlets, including YouTube, short films, and Instagram. We begin with the history of video and an overview of film and content creation. We examine how media creators from around the world develop engaging videos. Next, we practice the fundamentals of filming and editing, including lighting, composition, audio recording, and the DaVinci Resolve program, which is an industry standard. We then create content for Hyde TV, our class project's YouTube channel. We conclude the year by assembling a digital portfolio. Students also gain insight into the life of a professional artist through field trips and guest speakers.

This class explores the various ways students can apply their creativity across multiple design modes. We begin by learning the elements and principles of design through handmade projects. We then apply those concepts to digital work, covering the basics of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, which are industry-standard tools. We create personal and client-based projects and finish the year by assembling a digital portfolio. Students also gain insight into what it's like to be a professional artist through field trips and guest speakers.

This course blends the art of photography with the motion and storytelling of animation. Students will explore visual communication through hands-on projects using DSLR cameras, smart phones, Adobe Creative Suite, and animation tools. The course covers everything from photo composition and editing to animation history, storyboarding, and final production. Students will build a strong portfolio and contribute to group projects like the yearbook and an end-of-term art book.

In this hands-on and collaborative engineering course, students will explore the fundamentals of engineering design, problem-solving, and teamwork. Drawing inspiration from real-world engineering challenges, students will engage in projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. The class aims to provide a foundational understanding of engineering concepts while fostering a collaborative and exploratory learning environment. Students complete a semester-long design project on AutoCAD in 2-D.

This class explores the fundamentals of music and sound production and engineering. We start by focusing on engineering, learning how to operate soundboards, understand the differences in microphones, and set up equipment for live events. Students can apply this knowledge to our school performances. Next, we delve into music production, covering basic Western music theory and industry programs like Pro Tools and FL Studio, along with a unit on DJing. We conclude the year by assembling a digital portfolio. Students also gain insight into the life of a professional artist/ musician through field trips and guest speakers.

Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to succeed in advanced courses.  In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations.  The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course.  Topics include: operations with real numbers, linear equations and inequalities, relations and functions, polynomials, algebraic fractions, and nonlinear equations.

This course is designed to build on algebraic and geometric concepts.  It develops advanced algebra skills such as systems of equations, advanced polynomials, imaginary and complex numbers, quadratics, and concepts, including the study of trigonometric functions.   This course allows the student to develop a mastery of algebraic techniques and a thorough knowledge of elementary functions and the graphs of these functions.

This course will introduce the study of points, segments, triangles, polygons, circles, solid figures, and their associated relationships as a mathematical system.  Emphasis is placed on the description and use of inductive, deductive, and intuitive reasoning skills.  Powers of abstract reasoning, spatial visualization, and logical reasoning patterns are improved through this course.  Points, segments, polygons, circles, and solid figures are the structures studied.  Algebra 1 skills are used throughout this course.

This course is designed to cover topics in Algebra ranging from polynomial, rational, and exponential functions to conic sections.  Trigonometry concepts such as the Law of Sines and Cosines will be introduced.  This class is important for any student planning to take a college algebra or college pre-calculus class.

This course is designed for students who have completed courses in pre-college mathematics curriculum. Students will cover topics including limits, derivatives, applications of derivatives, definite and indefinite integrals, applications of integration, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.

AP Calculus is roughly equivalent to a first-semester college calculus course devoted to topics in differential and integral calculus. The AP course covers topics in these areas, including concepts and skills of limits, derivatives, definite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. The course teaches students to approach calculus concepts and problems when they are represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally, and to make connections amongst these representations. Students learn how to use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and support conclusions