C O U R S E O F S T U D I E S

TheWillistonNorthampton School

2011

-201

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The academic program at The

Williston Northampton School is

designed to create a rigorous academ-

ic environment that stimulates stu-

dents to develop a wide range of intel-

lectual interests and pursuits. Our

core diploma requirements are

enhanced by a rich and diverse elec-

tive program, enabling students with

varied interests and strengths to find

challenge and inspiration in their aca-

demic and artistic work.

The crucial relationship between the

dedicated and talented teacher and the

eager and interested student forms the

heart of our academic program. This

relationship informs what happens in

our classes, which are designed to

emphasize collaboration and discus-

sion. In the classroom, ideas are scru-

tinized and opinions shared in an

atmosphere that promotes an open

exchange among students and faculty

and emphasizes the value and the

beauty of thinking and creating. Our

most immediate goal is to prepare our

students well for their college careers,

but we recognize that our broader and

more important responsibility is to

establish in our students an apprecia-

tion for the joys and complexities of

learning that we hope will continue

throughout their adult lives.

GregTuleja

Academic Dean

Academicsat Williston

Williston+ 2

General Requirements 3

Academic Policies 4

Academic Honor and Academic Support 6

The Middle School 7

The Upper School 10

English 10

Writers’ Workshop Series 12

Mathematics 14

Science 17

Language 20

School Year Abroad 24

History and Global Studies 25

Fine and Performing Arts 30

Photographers’ Lecture Series 33

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Contents

Above: World Civilizations teachers led students in discussion after they attended a performance of ThreeCups of Tea at UMass and participated in workshops with the performers back on campus. Below: In a continuing collaboration with ThisWorldMusic/UMass Amherst Drum and Dance Cultural FieldStudy, students learned African drumming and dance during the annual Diversity Conference.Williston music lovers attended chamber music concerts at Smith College featuring internationallyrenowned performers such as Chiara String Quartet in the Music in Deerfield series.

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Williston+ enriches the educational experience ofour students by bringing the extraordinary artistic,intellectual, and cultural resources of the Five Col-leges that share the Pioneer Valley with Williston—Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and SmithColleges and the University of Massachusetts atAmherst—into our curriculum. As part of the Willis-ton+ program, Williston students have had the op-portunity to study memory and the brain with Dr.James Chambers from UMass, to do orchestra ses-sion work with graduate students from UMass, andto experience African drumming with Faith Conantfrom Mount Holyoke, to name just a few recent col-laborations. In addition to the resources of the FiveColleges, the exceptional array of resources and op-portunities that exist in the Pioneer Valley fuels ourstudents’ passions and provides a rich backdrop tothe education that students receive here. Directedengagement with the college environment, both thephysical environment and the environment of themind, gained through interactions with faculty andstudents, helps prepare Williston students for suc-cess at the next step on their intellectual journey.

Williston ScholarsThe Williston Scholar program encourages students to pur-

sue their academic and creative passions and to apply their

talents to a specific area of study. Each course offering

within the Williston Scholar program provides a group of stu-

dents the opportunity to engage in rigorous study in an in-

terdisciplinary topic for one trimester, followed by a second

trimester of independent project work. The course compo-

nent of the program is taught by a Williston faculty member

in close collaboration with professors, graduate students,

researchers, and professionals from the surrounding com-

munity. This winter trimester course is graded, and its ex-

pectations are high, as students prepare for the individual

research they will use to complete a comprehensive proj-

ect in the spring trimester. Projects are assessed at the end

of the spring trimester by a faculty committee including the

supervising teacher, collaborating community members,

and the academic dean. Students who successfully com-

plete projects will receive a second academic credit and the

designation of Williston Scholar. Exceptional projects will

receive special recognition.

The Williston Scholar courses offered this year are The 18th

Century in the Connecticut River Valley (6900) and Contem-

porary Art and Culture (7900).

This spring, each member of the junior class visited one of the Five Colleges for campus tours and information

sessions with admission officers.

In order to receive a Williston diploma,

a student must complete 57 academic credits

in courses offered at the 9th through 12th

grade level. A full year course receives 3 credits

and a trimester course 1 credit. The 57 credits

must include:

English 12 creditsEach student must be enrolled in an English course during every trimester of attendance. ELL courses are con-sidered to be part of the English department.

Mathematics 9 creditsThis must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II; moststudents go beyond these requirements.

Science 6 creditsChemistry or Biology is required; 3 credits must be taken atthe 11th or 12th grade level; most students go beyond theserequirements.

Language 6 sequential creditsEach student must complete at least 6 credits in the samelanguage during grades 9–12; most students take at least athird year. Students for whom English is not a first languageneed not fulfill credits in this department.

History and Global Studies 8 creditsThree credits must be taken in U. S. History; many collegesrequire a third year. Three- and four-year students must takeWorld Civilizations in the 9th or 10th grade. At least onecredit must be selected from among the religion and philos-ophy courses (6700 level).

Fine and Performing Arts 3 creditsTwo-, three-, and four-year students must complete threecredits. Students are urged to select from offerings both inthe studio/performance courses and in the humanitiescourses.

Diploma requirements also include:1. a passing grade in all courses taken in the senior year;2. third trimester senior year, enrollment in five courses,each worth 1 credit;3. enrollment at Williston throughout the senior year andthrough graduation ceremonies;4. positive citizenship;5. regular participation in the athletic program;6. satisfactory completion of the Senior Project, for thosewho choose to do one.

Diplomas are granted on the voted recommendation ofthe faculty just prior to graduation, confirmed by the voteof the Board of Trustees. Waiver of any diploma requirementmay be granted only by the faculty upon a recommendationmade by a committee that includes the head of school or hisdesignated representative, the academic dean, the collegecounselor, and, when waiver of a specific course is involved,the department head.

Seniors, including post-graduates, who are in jeopardy of fail-ing a yearlong course, or who have failed a first trimestercourse, may be required to withdraw from the school at theend of the fall trimester.

Senior Spring ProjectsDuring the winter trimester, seniors may apply to the head ofthe appropriate academic department and to the academicdean for permission to pursue independent study in place ofone of their academic courses, if they have satisfied all oftheir departmental requirements, and if they are passing allcourses at the conclusion of the second trimester. Seniorsmay apply for this on-campus program under the guidance ofa knowledgeable faculty member. Once embarked upon, asenior project must merit a “pass” awarded by the depart-ment in order to qualify for the diploma. “Pass” is the equiv-alent of “B” work by the academic standards of the school.A senior project is intended to be the culmination of a studyor interest already acquired and not a pursuit of a new disci-pline. Truly superior performance on a project will result inthe grade: “Pass with Distinction” which is considered oneof the highest honors that the school awards.

N.B. Students, parents, and faculty advisors should check the

distribution requirements of particular colleges in which students

may be interested as requirements and recommended course

programs vary.

General Requirements

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Course LoadStudents in grades 9 through 12 are expected to take fivecourses each trimester, but four is an absolute minimum.Students should expect to be assigned at least 40 minutes of homework in each class every day.

Academic Advising and Course PlacementWhen students enter Williston at the Upper School level,their academic program is designed by the academicdean after review of the student’s records and any notesmade by an admission officer during the student’s inter-view.

For returning students in both the Middle and UpperSchools, the academic program is drawn up initially bythe student and the student’s faculty advisor. Studentsare advised to talk with their teachers about coursechoices and placement, and parents are urged to partic-ipate early in the process through consultation with thefaculty advisor in April and May.

In June, the academic departments and the MiddleSchool faculty provide the academic dean with thenames of those students who are recommended forplacement in honors and/or Advanced Placement (AP)sections. While every effort is made to respond to legit-imate requests for specific courses and to keep studentsand parents informed about the status of requests forhonors and AP courses, placement in these courses isultimately made by the academic dean in consultationwith the academic departments. All AP courses followapproved syllabi, which prepare students for the APexam in May. Students who enroll in an AP course shouldexpect to take the AP exam.

In the Upper School, there are sometimes morecourses offered in a trimester than will actually betaught. For most courses, it is necessary to have a min-imum enrollment.

Add/Drop Upper SchoolAt the beginning of the fall trimester (for yearlongcourses) and at the beginning of each trimester (fortrimester electives), an Upper School student may usethe established course change procedure to withdrawfrom a course. No record of the course will appear onthe transcript if the withdrawal occurs before interimcomments are recorded. With the exception of thesetime periods, all withdrawals are recordedWithdrawn/Passing or Withdrawn/Failing. No requestsfor withdrawal from a course may be considered or approved more than seven days after interim commentsare recorded.

Except under the most unusual of circumstances, stu-dents may not enter a course later than seven class daysafter the beginning of the course. A change in courselevel, for example from French III Honors to French III,would be an exception to this policy so long as the established course change procedure is followed.

Grade Reports Upper SchoolThe school year consists of three trimesters with formalnumerical grades recorded at the end of each trimester.Interim comments for some students may also berecorded at the midpoint of a particular trimester. Allgrades and comments are made available electronicallyto parents, students, and advisors.

Grade Reports Middle SchoolThe Middle School operates on trimesters and reportsacademic comments four times a year. The first com-ments are written for all Middle Schoolers at midterm ofthe first trimester. Thereafter, midterm comments arewritten for those students who are in difficulty or haveshown remarkable improvement. Each student receivesacademic comments at the end of each trimester.

Academic Policies

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Directed Studies Upper SchoolDirected Studies are tutorial courses on special topics not included in the regular curriculum. The student may plan a directed Study with a faculty member but final approval ofthe proposal is granted by the department head and the academic dean. The Directed Study must be a fifth or sixthcourse, and is typically evaluated on a pass/fail basis.

Promotion Standards Upper SchoolFor promotion from 9th to 10th grade, a student must havesuccessfully completed 12 credits, including 3 credits in 9thgrade English. For promotion from 10th to 11th grade, a student must have successfully accumulated 27 credits, including 3 credits in 10th grade English. For promotion from11th to 12th grade, a student must have successfully accu-mulated 42 credits, including 3 credits in 11th grade English.

Academic Probation Upper SchoolAny student whose trimester report includes three gradeslower than 70 or two grades lower than 60 shall be placedon academic probation. If the student’s grades at the end ofthe following trimester are not sufficiently improved for re-moval from academic probation status, the student will bepermitted to continue at Williston only by vote of the fac-ulty. Each student who is placed on academic probation willmeet with his or her teachers, his or her advisor, and the ac-ademic dean, to formulate a plan to assist the student. Thestudent and his or her parents will be notified promptly ofthe probation, as well as the features of any assistance plan.

Academic Probation Middle SchoolStudents’ academic and social lives are carefully monitoredby Middle School faculty and the Middle School director. When concerns arise, contact is made betweenschool and home. In such an environment, academic expectations are high. Any student whose trimester reportincludes two grades lower than 70 shall be placed on aca-demic probation. A student on probation will meet with hisor her parents and teachers, and the Middle School direc-tor. The goal of that meeting will be to formulate a plan toassist the student. If the student remains on academic pro-bation at the end of the next term, the student will be per-mitted to continue at Williston only by vote of the faculty.

Academic HonorsThe passing and college recommending grade at Williston is60. Qualifications for Upper School honor roll are as follows:

Honors: minimum grade point average of 87.

High Honors: minimum grade point average of 92.

Honors designations are based on weighted trimester grade point

averages. All honors and advanced placement courses receive a five-

point bonus in the grade point average only.

Special Academic HonorsCum Laude Society: The highest honor for a student iselection to the Cum Laude Society, a national organizationthat recognizes high academic achievement in independentsecondary schools. Students eligible for election are thoseseniors who, in the judgment of the faculty membership,combine academic excellence and achievement with hon-orable citizenship, sound character, and active participationin school life.

Prizes and Awards: The Upper School awards numerousendowed book prizes for academic achievement at theawards assembly. Also presented at this time are the majorclass prizes for outstanding achievement in all areas ofschool life. These major prizes include:The Bowdoin Book Prize (Grade 9)The Smith Book Award (Grade 9)The Williams Book Prize (Grade 10)The Yale Book Prize (Grade 10)The Harvard Book Prize (Grade 11)The Dartmouth Book Prize (Grade 11)The Holy Cross Book Prize (Grade 11)The Yale/Granniss Book Prize (Grade 11)

Twelve senior prizes are awarded at graduation. The topthree are The Valedictory Prize for the first scholar of theclass, The Archibald V. Galbraith Prize for the outstandingsenior boy, and The Sarah B. Whitaker Award (The WhiteBlazer) for the outstanding senior girl.

PlagiarismPlagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty.Using someone else’s ideas, words, phrasesand/or designs without giving credit is prohib-ited. All work turned in (be it written, oral, artis-tic, or programmed for a computer) is to be thestudent’s own, except where otherwise cred-ited. Students are sometimes encouraged tomake references to other works, but these ref-erences (including individual ideas, words,phrases, and/or designs) must be credited prop-erly. Material used from Internet sites must becredited in the same way as any other referencesource. The use of translation websites is pro-hibited by the Language Department. Any out-side help (sources, proofreading, typing, orcopying by another) that a student has used inpreparation for a written, oral, or artistic workshould be noted as such BEFORE turning it infor a mark. Similarly, any questions that a stu-dent might have about plagiarism should beasked BEFORE a particular work is turned in tobe graded.

CheatingCheating is not tolerated. Students who give orreceive information or otherwise cheat onquizzes, tests, or exams will be disciplined andare subject to suspension or separation from theschool.

Ethics of Computer UseAny student who writes and/or uses a programfor deceitful, malicious, or illegitimate intent oreffect will be considered to be in violation of amajor school rule.

AcademicHonor

Academic Support

The Writing CenterThe Writing Center, located on the second floor of the Robert ClappLibrary, offers one-on-one instruction for students who wish to im-prove their writing skills. Staffed by several members of the EnglishDepartment and a dedicated and well-trained group of student tutors,the Writing Center, through a collaborative and supportive process,strives to improve each student as a writer, rather than focusing exclusively on the paper at hand. The staff is experienced in workingwith a wide variety of writing assignments, from each one of our academic departments. The director of the Writing Center is SarahSawyer.

The Math Resource CenterThe Math Resource Center, located in the Schoolhouse, offers assistance by student tutors selected by the faculty. The cen-ter has regularly scheduled hours each school day.

Parent-school communication is a vital part of the educational support for both Middle and Upper School stu-dents. In the Middle School, parents are strongly encouragedto meet with teachers and faculty advisors as needed to dis-cuss their child’s progress. The small size of the Middle Schoolenables Middle School teachers to stay in very close contactwith parents when a child is not progressing well.

The student’s faculty advisor works with teachers to coordinate appropriate levels of academic support. Some ofthe supports available include:• individual or group meetings with teacher outside of class• reduced course load for a trimester• progress reports obtained from the teachers on a bi-weekly basis• arranging student/teacher/advisor/parent conferences• tutoring by qualified students who volunteer their servicesthrough Areté, a student group that organizes peer tutoring on campus. Areté tutors, most of whom are seniors,are available during the class day, activities periods, andevening study hall hours. Students in need of academic sup-port may email Areté directly to set up an appointment towork one-on-one with a student tutor, or they may drop by theAreté room, located in the basement of the Robert Clapp Library, during an activities period. The faculty advisor to Aretéis Karen Ram.

All academic support plans are implemented with the ultimateaim of increasing the student’s independence and responsi-bility for his or her own learning.

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The Middle School is a important component ofthe Williston community. We share resourceswith the Upper School—the theater, library,

sports and arts facilities, and most of the academicbuildings—and still maintain a separate identity on cam-pus. The Middle School, which consists of grades sevenand eight, has approximately 40 students per grade.With an average class size of 13, Middle School stu-dents know each of their teachers and their peers well.

Our dedicated and experienced faculty are much morethan traditional teachers. They are compassionate andsincere individuals who constantly strive to have theirstudents excel. Faculty are visible and accessible to thestudents. Most are advisors; all are involved in one wayor another with students outside of the classroom.Teachers are concerned with the cognitive develop-ment of their students, but teaching never happens ina vacuum; the faculty are aware that the student’s so-cial, moral, and physical development are crucial aswell. This is why community service plays such an im-portant role in the Middle School curriculum and whycollaborative learning happens all the time. Civility. Respect. Tolerance. Concepts like these are constantlyreinforced in the Middle School.

Middle Schoolers are encouraged to become self-motivated and dedicated students. Faculty help stu-dents succeed by providing them with a foundation ofsubject-appropriate study skills. Faculty hope that theirstudents appreciate (maybe even love) their particularacademic subject. The teacher’s enthusiasm is often infectious. At the very least, students walk away fromeach course with a solid foundation in the subject andthe skills necessary to take the lessons learned in theMiddle School and apply them in the future.

Learning, of course, is not limited to the classroom.Through our relationships with the Five Colleges in ourlocal community, we can provide our students with fieldtrips, community service opportunities, and visitingspeakers that enhance and enrich our academic pro-gram. These opportunities and experiences help ourstudents truly understand that learning happens everywhere.

Each student is assigned to an advisor who monitorsthe student’s academic progress and discusses perti-nent social issues. Advisory groups meet regularlythrough the course of the year to plan community serv-ice projects, discuss schoolwide issues, and periodicallydefine, review, and redefine academic goals.

The Middle School is a place where adolescents arechallenged. The program is demanding, but not over-bearing. Students are amazed at what they can ac-complish at Williston. They will also find the experiencerewarding and fun.

Excellence. Civility.Respect. Tolerance.

The Middle School

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The Middle School’s one-to-one laptop program incorporates tech-nology into learning every day.

Students grew vegetables in the school garden, learned about localand global food concerns, and made hand-crafted symbolic bowls thatwere auctioned off to benefit people in need.

ENGLISH 2000 English 7This course is an immer-sion in reading and writing.By reading, writing, speak-ing, and listening continu-ally, seventh gradersengage all basic skills anddiscover a love for and anunderstanding of readingand writing. Basic elementsof grammar and the me-chanics of reading and writ-ing are introduced formally,and are more fully learnedin the context of eachyoung person’s writing.

2005 English 8This course fosters intellec-tual and personal growth,academic independence,and personal confidencethrough a close study of lit-erature, writing, and speak-ing. Students hone theirskills with a detailed studyof analytical and creativewriting.

In our analyses we focus onhow to write an effectivethesis statement with sup-

porting points to develop apersuasive critical argu-ment. On creative writingassignments students areresponsible for presentingclear and meaningful fictionthrough dialogue, descrip-tion, narration, and point ofview.

Throughout the year thereis continued study of vo-cabulary and grammar, aswell as the mechanics ofclear and effective writing.We challenge students togo well beyond their ownexpectations in the variousfacets of English.

Our study of literature in-cludes close readings ofshort stories, novels,drama, and poetry. The yearculminates with each stu-dent writing a creative “Humanities Project” (supplemented by audio or visual technology) todemonstrate their intellec-tual independence and writ-ten English skills.

LANGUAGEFrench, Latin, and Spanishare each offered as a two-year sequence. Some neweighth graders take theirlanguage course in theUpper School.

5100 French 7 5105 French 8In both the seventh andeighth grade courses, theemphasis is on vocabulary-building and speaking. Thetwo-year sequence coversthe grammar and generalvocabulary of a first-yearhigh school course. The stu-dent then takes French II inthe Upper School.

5700 Latin 75705 Latin 8Latin students pursue thedevelopment of both Latin and English vocabulary. Students also learn someof the fundamentals ofRoman culture and history,with a strong emphasis onmythology in the eighthgrade. The primary aim ofthe sequence is to developstrong skills in reading andtranslating Latin, and gram-mar is emphasized through-out. Most students are theneligible to take Latin II Hon-ors at the Upper School.

5500 Spanish 75505 Spanish 8This course is designed toestablish a foundation in lis-tening, speaking, reading,and writing in both the sev-enth and eighth grades.Stress is placed upon mas-tery of the Spanish soundsystem, basic vocabulary,and fundamental grammat-ical concepts. After com-pletion of the two-year

sequence, the studenttakes Spanish II in theUpper School.

HISTORY ANDGLOBAL STUDIES6000 Geography 7Students in this course de-velop a greater awarenessand appreciation for thescope of physical andhuman geography throughin-depth investigations ofissues affecting differentregions of the world.Throughout the year, stu-dents build study and writ-ing skills, work on creativeprojects, and orally pres-ent information related tothe topics studied.

6005 Civics 8The purpose of this courseis for students to under-stand the concept of andresponsibilities associatedwith citizenship in our soci-ety. To be informed citizens,students will study the his-torical roots of our consti-tutional system and thendetermine how those constitutional principles areexpressed locally and nationally. Students willvisit the Hampshire CountyCourt House and the StateHouse, they will corre-spond with regional and na-tional government officials,and they will be involved innumerous role-playing sce-narios.

SCIENCE4000 Life Science 7In a life science context,students practice scientificmethods of thinkingthrough observation, datacollection and interpreta-tion. The school garden acts

Middle School Program of InstructionEach student’s course of study includes English, global studies or history, language (French, Latin, Spanish), mathematics, science, art, music, and physical education or sports. Brief outlines of each of the required courses follow.

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Health and Wellness Program

This program exposes students to issues that af-fect their physical, intellectual, social, and emo-tional well-being. Topics covered include mentalhealth, social health, nutrition, physical fitness,human sexuality, the human life cycle, substanceabuse, infectious diseases, and environmentalhealth. Classes are lecture and discussion based.The goal of this course is to equip the students tomake informed, well thought-out decisions thataffect their health in an increasingly complex society.

as a living laboratory inwhich students encounterthe cycles of life in an arrayof organisms from everyclassification group: plants,animals, fungi, protists, andbacteria. Students establisha traditional foundation inlife science concepts whilelearning to conduct theirown investigative researchand exploring current is-sues in our world today. Theclassroom aims to be alivewith student interactions aswell as with a variety ofplants and animals for ob-servation and study. Severalfield trips are takenthroughout the year.

4005 Physical Science 8This course examines awide range of topics, in-cluding the basic principlesof meteorology, geology,chemistry, and physics, allwith an emphasis on lab-based, hands-on activitiesdesigned to be both chal-lenging and fun. These ac-tivities include identifying amystery mineral as part ofthe geology unit and build-ing an electric motor as partof the unit on electricity andmagnetism. Students pur-sue an in-depth explorationof the scientific method,while building confidence inlab skills and procedures.All students conclude theyear by participating in the8th grade Science Fair,which affords them the op-portunity to investigate aphysical science topic oftheir choice.

MATHEMATICSPre-Algebra, Algebra Stan-dard and Algebra Honorsare offered. Some seventhand eighth graders will takeGeometry or Algebra 2 ifthey have completed theprerequisite courses. Thegoal of the mathematicsprogram is to prepare stu-dents for future mathemat-

ics courses while providingstrategies for reading,learning, and studyingmathematics.

3000 Pre-Algebra 7 This course seeks to solid-ify and extend basic numberconcepts and to preparestudents for Algebra I. Top-ics will include work with in-tegers, decimals, fractions,equation and inequalitysolving, ratio, proportionand percent, and graphingon the coordinate plane.Emphasis will be placed onthe application of knowl-edge through word prob-lems, labs, and projects.

3100 Algebra 8The 8th grade Algebra Icourse seeks to solidify thefoundation for students toproceed to more advancedmathematics courses. Top-ics will include work with in-tegers, writing and solvingmulti-step equations and in-equalities, graphing linearequations and inequalities,proportion and percentequations, graphing andsolving systems of equa-tions and inequalities, prop-erties of exponents, and anintroduction to quadratics.Emphasis will be placed onthe application of knowledgethrough problem solving.

3105 Algebra 8 HonorsThe 8th grade Algebra IHonors course is offered tostudents who learn at afaster pace, are better ableto handle abstract reason-ing, and are ready to takemore responsibility and ini-tiative for their own learn-ing. The content includes all of the standard Algebra 1 topics as well asan in-depth study of quad-ratics. Emphasis will beplaced on the application ofknowledge through prob-lem solving.

TRIMESTER COURSES(One trimester each year)

7001 Theater 7This trimester course offersstudents an introduction toimprovisation, acting, andplaywriting. Students learnby doing. They are expectedto participate actively in allfacets of the class includingdaily warmup and theatergames. The course beginswith group-building exer-cises that allow the classmembers to gain comfortwith each other and withperforming onstage. Stu-dents then learn to impro-vise, playing numeroustheater games that allowthem to work sponta-neously from their imagina-tions, create vividcharacters and settings,and gain a firm sense ofscene structure. Studentsapply these skills to twomajor class projects, theClown project and StoryTheatre. The assignmentsgive students the opportu-nity to experience the fullrehearsal process culminat-ing in a performance.

7011 Theater 8Eighth grade students willuse playwriting, directing,and acting in order to ex-press themselves and tocomment on the issuesparticular to adolescence.The course begins withgroup exercises that buildtrust and cohesion amongthe students. Once thisfoundation has been laid,the focus of the coursemoves on to playwriting, di-recting, and acting. Learn-ing skills for writing bothcomedic and dramaticwork, students will en-counter basic directorialtechnique including charac-ter choices, beats, and ob-jectives. The main goal ofthe class is to foster thecreative spirit in all stu-

dents, giving them achance to challenge them-selves with each assign-ment. The course alsooffers the unique opportu-nity to see theater as morethan a vehicle for enter-tainment, but as a forum toexamine issues of impor-tance, current events, andhistory.

7002 Art 77012 Art 8The primary goal of theart program is to openstudents to their own cre-ativity by providing an or-ganized, stimulating, andnurturing classroom environment. Assignmentscall for original work, inde-pendent learning, and ex-perimentation withmaterials and concepts.Both seventh and eighthgrade courses include two-dimensional and three-di-mensional work. Studentsalso become familiar withthe nature of the creativeprocess by looking at slidesof the work of prominentartists through the ages atthe introduction of eachnew project. Students areheld responsible for termi-nology and principles of artand, more importantly, theyare encouraged to trusttheir own unique way of ex-pressing themselves.

7003 Music 77013 Music 8 Students explore and expe-rience music by singing asa small choral ensemble.Musical selections aredrawn from a wide range ofgenres and styles. Studentsalso use these selections tostudy basic elements ofmusic theory, form, and his-tory. The work of the classwill be showcased at theend of the term.

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English Department

The narrator of an Isaac Babel short story says about thewriting of fiction, “No iron can pierce the heart with suchforce as a period put just at the right place.” Whether ourstudents write through inspiration or through great ef-fort, we teach them to become more attentive to theforce and nuance of language. At Williston, when weteach students how to look at a text and break down themeaning of an abstract paragraph, or when we helpthem to write a compelling story, we are teaching themhow to connect more deeply with themselves and otherhuman beings.

Williston’s English Department provides students theskills to handle language effectively; to think analytically;to write with originality, clarity, and depth; and to speakwith thought and substance. We design our classroomsas arenas for intellectual risk taking, where a good ques-tion can often take the group further than a good an-swer. In addition, we have the luxury of being able totap into the resources of the Five Colleges and therebyconnect our students with the unparalleled cultural andacademic richness that makes our educational commu-nity distinct. Whether it is attending a poetry reading atSmith College or viewing a Shakespeare and Companyproduction of Hamlet at the University of Massachu-setts, our students appreciate the opportunity to sup-plement their work in the classroom through theresources of the Five Colleges.

In all of our courses, students develop and hone theirskills in reading, writing, speaking, and thinking. Theskills taught in each grade work as a cumulative pro-gression, beginning with literature and composition in

the ninth and tenth grades. The curriculum in thesegrades focuses on developing students’ foundations incritical writing while introducing them to short stories,novels, plays, and poetry. Creative writing projects com-plement the analytical work in both grades. Grammarand vocabulary study are also a regular part of the curriculum.

Juniors and seniors thrive on this strong foundation. Dur-ing the junior year, students in English focus on Americanliterature, which complements the U.S. history coursethat most juniors take. Writing assignments during thejunior year are largely analytical and culminate with a re-search paper in the third trimester. The first trimester ofthe senior year focuses on self-expression, with an em-phasis on the personal essay, and culminates in the sen-ior portfolio, a collection of pieces in a variety of formsthat showcases students’ writing ability and creativity.Second and third trimester senior electives offer stu-dents an opportunity to study literary topics in detail andinclude such subjects as Transcendentalism, poetry,Shakespeare, playwriting, and modern fiction.

At each grade level, we seek to instill in our students alove of literature and to challenge them to grow as writ-ers and thinkers. We want them to continue to “piercethe heart,” even after they have left the bricked class-rooms of Williston.

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The Upper School

YEARLONG COURSES

English as a SecondLanguageStudents whose native lan-guage is not English will begiven a placement testwhen they arrive at Willis-ton. The ELL course is de-signed to prepare studentsfor standard Englishclasses while focusing onproblems inherent to Eng-lish Language Learners.

2101 Advanced ELL (9, 10, 11)The major components ofthis course are improvingspecific reading skills,learning and using aprocess approach to com-position over a variety ofrhetorical modes. Studentsare asked to speak formallyand informally and to studygrammar with an eye to-ward success on theTOEFL.

2200 English 9This introductory level classexposes students to a

broad range of literary gen-res. We read and discussdiverse poems and plays,short stories and novels,essays, biographies, andnonfiction by writers from avariety of cultures. Theninth grade curriculummoves from the detailedstudy of the paragraph intoa focus on the criticalessay. Students write aPaper of Many Parts in con-junction with their readingof Romeo and Juliet. Fre-quent writing assignmentsare supported by ongoingconcentration on grammarand vocabulary skills.Texts may include: Gold-ing’s Lord of the Flies,Shakespeare’s Romeo andJuliet, and Jackson’s WeHave Always Lived in theCastle.

2300 English 10English 10 provides a com-prehensive study of themajor literary genres: shortstories, novels, poetry, anddrama. Students learn howto discern the different

functions and possibilitiesof each of the genres andstudy the terms that facili-tate understanding and discussion.

Central themes of thecourse are coming of ageand identity. While thecourse emphasizes thestructure and compositionof critical essays, especiallyin a three-week project onthe writing process, stu-dents are also exposed toother kinds of writing. Vo-cabulary and grammar arereviewed regularly. Textstypically include: Shake-speare’s Othello, Sopho-cles’ Oedipus, Shelley’sFrankenstein, Ishiguro’sNever Let Me Go, andKidd’s Secret Life of Bees.

2400 English 11Junior English provides stu-dents with a look into thevariety of the American literary scene. The curricu-lum typically includesworks by Bradford, Franklin,Hawthorne, Emerson, Poe, Chopin, Dickinson,Hurs ton , F i t zge ra ld ,Hemingway, and MIller.Teachers are free to designtheir own approaches tothese works, but all stu-dents come away from thecourse with a greater un-derstanding of the evolu-tion of American literature,a greater appreciation forits range and depth, and agreater awareness of influ-ential social and historicalfactors.

Central to the course is thecultivation of independentthinking skills through ana-lytical and creative writingassignments, including amajor critical researchpaper. Grammar and vo-cabulary are reviewed reg-ularly with an eye to theSAT and to increasing stu-dents’ reading and writingfacility.

2490 AP English Language (11)Application requiredThis is foremost an honorsAmerican literature coursethat offers supplementalpractice and preparation forthe AP English exam, whichall students are required totake in May. In addition tothe common American lit-erature texts, AP studentswill read The Scarlet Letterover the summer andBeloved during the year, aswell as three classic Amer-ican novels of their choice.Selections in the past haveincluded The Grapes ofWrath, The House of Mirth,The Sound and the Fury, In-visible Man, On the Road,and All the Pretty Horses.Since this course is re-served for students withadvanced reading and writ-ing skills, all students mustcomplete an applicationprocess that includes atimed essay, submission ofa graded analysis, and therecommendation of thetenth grade teacher.

2590 AP English Literature (12)Application requiredAn AP section is offered forthose students whose read-ing and writing skills are ad-vanced. Readings arelargely drawn from conti-nental and British literatureand in the past have in-cluded Wuthering Heights,Hamlet, King Lear, HeddaGabler, Jane Eyre, Dublin-ers, Rosencrantz andGuildenstern Are Dead, anda generous selection of po-etry. Having already mas-tered the basics ofcomposition, senior AP stu-dents are expected to writea number of substantial crit-ical essays, and to create aportfolio of autobiographicalfiction. The course is con-ducted as a seminar. Stu-dents are expected to takethe AP English exam in May.

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SENIOR ENGLISHTRIMESTER COURSES

All seniors, except those enrolled in AP English Litera-ture (2590), take Senior English (2500) in the firsttrimester and choose an English elective in the secondand third trimesters. A repre-sentative sample of coursesappears below.

2500 English 12First trimester Senior Eng-lish is an intense writingworkshop through whichstudents express them-selves with personal es-says, stories, “snapshots,”and memoirs. The first writ-ing assignment is the col-lege essay, and over the

course of the trimester, stu-dents build portfolios oftheir work. The best seniorportfolios are submitted forprizes, and selected stu-dents read from their workat the annual “senior read-ing.” The main text,William Smart’s Eight Mod-ern Essayists, is supple-mented with otherpertinent resources se-lected by the teacher. Vo-cabulary building andgrammar lessons are usedto prepare seniors for thefall SAT.

2603 Irish LiteratureThis course will provide stu-dents with an introductionto Irish literature. Studentsexamine the ways that liter-

ature has been used to cre-ate and represent the na-tion of Ireland, and whatstories it tells about history,identity, and the Irish tradi-tion. We will explore se-lected Irish novels, shortstories, poems, and amemoir. Authors includeYeats, Joyce, Becket,Heaney, Doyle, and othercontemporary writers.

2604 ContemporaryFictionStudents will explore nov-els and short stories writtenwithin the past severaldecades. They will read, dis-cuss, and write analyticalessays about contempo-rary, primarily American,

fiction. This is not a creativewriting course.

2605 PlaywritingThis course will focus onthe creation of a one-actplay. Students will exploreaspects of playwriting suchas dramatic structure, char-acter development, andsubtext; the three-act struc-ture (within the one-actplay) will receive attention.Revisions will be made inconjunction with the direc-tors and actors from theTheatre Production class.Emphasis will be placed onanalysis of the work of play-wrights such as Miller,Beckett, Pinter, Churchill,and Shepard.

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2510

Writers’ Workshop SeriesFirst trimester senior elective

Prerequisite: students must apply to enroll in this course.

This course is for student writers who want to gaininsight into the writing process. Held in theevening for two hours twice a week, the class re-quires students to write, share writing, and discussways to evaluate constructively their own and eachother’s work. Four or five times during the

trimester, a prominent published author readsfrom his or her work and joins the class for theevening. Students read from and discuss the workof the guest authors—a wonderful opportunity toengage with those who have made the writingcraft a career.

Authors who have visited in recent years includeElizabeth Alexander, Augusten Burroughs, PhilipCaputo, Wally Lamb, Gregory Maguire, Sue Miller,Jodi Picoult, Richard Russo, Curtis Sittenfeld, andJohn Edgar Wideman.

Visiting author Debra Monroe speaks with students during the 2010 Writers’ Workshop class. Twice nominated for the NationalBook Award and winner of the Flannery O’Connor Award, Monroe is the author of short stories and novels, and her recentmemoir, On the Outskirts of Normal: Forging a Family Against the Grain (June 2010) about being the white mother of a blackdaughter in a small, rural Texas town. Monroe teaches in the MFA program at Texas State University.

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2606 Modern AmericanPoetryThe focus of this course willbe to provide students theopportunity to explore theorigins, context, nature, andachievement of Americanpoetry in the twentieth cen-tury. Study will progresschronologically from thelate nineteenth to the earlytwentieth century begin-ning with poets such asWhitman, Dickinson, and T.S. Eliot, who opened thecreative doors for their suc-cessors. They will be fol-lowed by works throughWorld War II from a varietyof poets including Robin-son, Williams, Frost, Millay,Ransom, H. D., and Jarrell.There will also be an intro-duction to numerous con-temporary poets.

2608 ShakespeareThe goal of this elective isto read, study in depthand watch four of Shake-speare’s plays. The playswill be selected in groupsthat lend themselves to acommon theme, for in-stance: four problem plays(The Winter’s Tale, Mer-chant of Venice, Measurefor Measure, and Cymbe-line), four major villains(Much Ado About Noth-ing, Othello, Macbeth,Richard III), androgynous

ladies of Shakespeare(Merchant of Venice, AsYou Like It, Twelfth Night).The plays are carefullychosen to help the classreflect on and understanddifferent perspectives ofthe Bard in the Eliza-bethan period and also inour own era. Students areexpected to read theplays, to watch the videosin class, to take tests, andto write short papers onthe material.

2609 Journey TowardSelfPeople often undergo longand treacherous journeysin order to define and dis-cover their essential na-tures and personalities.This course examinesthese personal journeysas they have been pre-sented in literature. Read-ing selections will includethe short fiction of Updike,D.H. Lawrence, Hesse,and Bradbury.

2610 Madness in LiteratureThis course will exam-ine madness as an extreme form of exis-tence. Selections willbe made principallyfrom the following: OneFlew Over the Cuckoo’sNest, The Awakening,

The Metamorphosis, AStreetcar Named Desire,short stories, poems, andreadings on abnormalpsychology.

2611 TranscendentalismThe readings in this elec-tive will be selected fromthe TranscendentalistsEmerson, Thoreau, andWhitman, as well as sev-eral modern authors whoshare their vision, likeKrakauer (Into the Wild),and Hesse (Siddhartha).Each student will also se-lect one novel that ex-plores some of thequestions raised by thetranscendentalists, suchas, Do the majority of uslead lives of quiet desper-ation, and what should wedo about it? How muchcan we trust intuition andimpulse? Are we morallyobligated to resist anylaws and social expecta-tions that contradict ourinner laws?

In addition to analyzing anovel, students will writeseveral reflective papersarticulating their personalbelief system, along witha series of self-directedcreative pieces culminat-ing in the final portfolio.Since this course places astrong emphasis onethics and philosophy,students must be moti-vated to examine andshare their beliefs, aswell as to entertain freshperspectives.

2613 J.D. SalingerThis course will study thecollected and uncollectedworks of Salinger, includ-ing the early magazine fic-tion and his mature longerworks such as Franny andZooey, Raise High theRoofbeams Carpenter,and others, especiallythose which became theprototypes of Catcher inthe Rye.

2614 Women and LiteratureThis course will examinewomen’s perspective oncontemporary life.Through the reading ofnovels, short stories, andpoetry, as well as creativewriting projects, the stu-dents will explore theunique position of womenin today’s society. Read-ing selections might in-clude the works of JoyceCarol Oates, Barbara King-solver, Toni Morrison, AliceWalker, Amy Tan, andAnne Tyler.

2615 Creative WritingThis course is designed foradvanced students with astrong interest in the writ-ing of fiction and poetry,and who wish to experi-ment with a variety ofwriting styles and genres

Directed Studies on special topics may bearranged with a facultymember, with approvalfrom the departmenthead and the academicdean.

The following coursesrotate and will not beoffered in the 2011-12school year:

2602 Native AmericanLiterature

2607 Latin AmericanLiterature

2612 Modern AmericanDrama

Students visit the Writing Center for one-on-one help with writingprojects in all subject areas, including college essays and long-termresearch papers.

Mathematics may be the most misunderstood subjecttaught in school. Many people learn at an early age to be fear-ful of mathematics; they believe that math is dry and unap-petizing, full of nothing but numbers and arbitrary rules.People who use mathematics in their life’s work—and eventhose who simply come to appreciate mathematics—knowhow false this idea is: it is like thinking that music is nothingbut notes, or that writing is nothing but letters. At its core,mathematics is a process of logical reasoning and problemsolving. It is true that knowledge of the rules of algebra andgeometry is necessary preparation for college, but it is whenstudents learn to think with those mathematical ideas thatmathematics becomes transformed into a lifelong problem-solving tool.

The primary goal of Williston’s Math Department is to helpprepare students for college mathematics. The course sequence—Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II—teaches the foundations of mathematics that all studentsneed. Once they have mastered the foundations, studentscan delve more deeply into mathematics through a varietyof upper-level courses. While the content of these coursesvaries, the primary goal of each course is the same: to helpstudents become more successful problem solvers.

In addition to different course options, students will en-counter various tools and learning situations. Sometimesstudents will use computers to explore mathematics, or cal-culators to assist with graphing and computation. Studentstaking Geometry will participate in laboratories designed toprovide time for extended work. At other times students willwork in small groups to investigate a topic. All of these ex-periences encourage a flexible approach to mathematics.

Whether students dislike math or enjoy puzzle-thinking,have strong backgrounds or weak ones, they will find teach-ers dedicated to supporting their efforts to become betterproblem solvers. Each course offers the opportunity to re-view basic skills and to master the core knowledge of thesubject. Students are challenged to move beyond memo-rized rules to discover the source of rules, to examine whythey work, and to theorize about how they might be used tosolve problems.

As Roger Bacon proclaims, mathematics is a gateway. Likemost gates it must be unlocked; and one cannot be pushedthrough it but must enter with one’s own effort.

“Neglect of mathematics works injury to allknowledge, since he who is ignorant of it cannotknow the other sciences or the things of thisworld. And what is worse, men [and women] whoare thus ignorant are unable to perceive theirown ignorance and so do not seek a remedy.”–Roger Bacon

Mathematics Department

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“Mathematics is the gate and key of the sciences. . . “

3110 Algebra IAlgebra is the language ofmathematics. This coursedevelops the fundamentalsof that language and em-phasizes applications of al-gebra to a wide variety ofproblem situations. An hon-ors section may be offeredfor students who learn at afaster pace and are betterable to handle abstract rea-soning.

3200 GeometryPrerequisite: Algebra I The content of a traditionalgeometry course is cov-ered with strong emphasisplaced on personal andgroup investigations intogeometric relationships onthe plane and in space. Stu-dents use computers to ex-plore and enrich the course.

3205 Geometry HonorsPrerequisite: Algebra IThis course is offered forstudents who learn at afaster pace and are ready totake more responsibilityand initiative for their ownlearning. The content in-cludes all of Geometry3200 and other topics aswell. All are studied ingreater depth.

3300 Essentials of Algebra IIPrerequisite: Algebra I This course will provide anopportunity for students todevelop a strong foundationin algebra. This second yearof algebra emphasizes skillbuilding and problem solv-ing. It is intended for stu-dents who learn best at aslower pace, with time topractice new skills and inte-grate new concepts. Stu-dents will complete anextensive study of linearequations, inequalities, sys-tems of equations, polyno-mials, rational expressions,radicals, and quadratic func-tions. In addition, the classwill provide skills and prac-tice needed on the PSATsand SATs.

3310 Algebra IIPrerequisite: Algebra I The concepts of algebrabegun in Algebra I andGeometry are developedfurther. Topics includegraphing, solving linear sys-tems, quadratic functions,quadratic graphs.

3315 Algebra II HonorsPrerequisite: Algebra I andpermission of the department This honors section is of-fered for highly motivatedand interested students.

The course covers signifi-cantly more material thandoes standard Algebra II(3310) including additionaltopics in graphing, conicsections, and solving equa-tions. In general, all topicsare covered in greaterdepth. This course is re-quired for continuation inmore advanced honorsmath classes.

3400 PrecalculusPrerequisite: Algebra II (3310) This course begins a carefulstudy of functions. Linearand quadratic functions are reviewed. Students are introduced to power func-tions, exponential functions,logarithms, trigonometricfunctions, polynomial func-tions, and rational func-tions. The emphasisthroughout is to create afoundation for the study ofcalculus. The course em-phasizes applications and acareful reading and inter-pretation of mathematicalproblems. Graphing calcula-tors are used extensively tohelp visualize mathematicalrelationships.

Students need a strong andsolid background in algebrain order to do well in thiscourse.

3405 Precalculus HonorsPrerequisites: Algebra II Honors and permission of thedepartmentThis is an advanced and en-riched course for studentswho plan to continue withAP Calculus. The coursecovers significantly morematerial than does standardPrecalculus (3400) includinggraphical analysis, polar co-ordinates, and complexarithmetic. All topics arecovered in much greaterdepth. Emphasis is placedon understanding mathe-matical concepts and com-municating both verballyand through writing.

3500 Probability andStatisticsPrerequisite: Algebra II (3300or 3310) This course will provide thebasis for working with thedata that permeates ourworld, from football statis-tics to economics, from stu-dent grade point averagesto global temperature fluc-tuations. Students will learnhow to collect, display, andanalyze data through origi-nal projects as well as in-class labs.

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Williston faculty members work with students practicing math skillsto solve real life problems in workshops led by Smith College’sWomen and Financial Independence outreach program.

Students taking Beginning Programming through Robotics see theprinciples of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics(STEM) at work.

3510 Topics in MathematicsPrerequisite: Algebra II (3300or 3310) although Precalcu-lus is preferred Students in this course willexplore applications ofmathematics to manage-ment science, operationsresearch, and the social sci-ences. Topics may includegraph theory, statistics, vot-ing strategies, schedulingoptimization, fair division,and coding information. Thiscourse is intended for jun-iors and seniors who haveeither completed Precalcu-lus and are not prepared tocontinue with Calculus, orwho have completed Alge-bra II and are not preparedfor Precalculus.3590 AP StatisticsPrerequisite: Precalculus andpermission of the departmentThis rigorous full-yearcourse acquaints studentswith the major conceptsand tools for collecting, an-alyzing, and drawing con-clusions from data. Fourbroad conceptual themesare emphasized: exploringdata, planning a study, an-ticipating patterns, and in-ferring statisticalinformation. Students workon projects involving thehands-on gathering andanalysis of real world data.This course will have appli-cations for students whowish to pursue studies inlaboratory science, engi-neering, psychology, eco-nomics, or sociology,among others. Students areexpected to take the APexam in May.

3600 CalculusPrerequisites: Precalculus andpermission of the department This course seeks to de-velop the fundamentalideas of calculus. The con-cepts of limits, differentia-tion, and integration aredeveloped through a carefulanalysis of the properties ofgraphs, numerical tables,and algebraic equations.

3690 AP Calculus ABPrerequisites: PrecalculusHonors and permission of thedepartment This college-level coursecovers the required syl-labus for AP Calculus andadditional topics at the dis-cretion of the instructor.This advanced course is in-tended for students whothrive on mathematicalchallenge. The core con-cepts of limit, derivative,and integral are studiedthrough a combination ofdiscovery, lecture, and indi-vidual work.Students areexpected to participate ac-tively in both the wholeclass and small groups. Ex-tensive use is made ofgraphing calculators to helpvisualize functions and theirrelationships. Students areexpected to take the APCalculus exam.

3695 BC MultivariableCalculusPrerequisite: AP Calculus AB This class is intended foradvanced students whoare ready for college levelmathematics. The coursebegins with a study of sequences and series,leading towards the devel-opment of the Taylor Series. Students will com-plete the balance of theBC Calculus curriculum inthe fall. The study of suchmultivariable functionsprovides the central coreof the latter part of thiscourse. These functionscannot be graphed on theplane; rather they form in-tricate three-dimensionalsurfaces. We will use ad-vanced computer softwareto visualize these surfaces.The course will extend theconcepts of limit, deriva-tive, and integral to thesemultivariable functions andwill cover the content ofboth BC calculus and vec-tor calculus. Students areexpected to take the APexam in May.

3700 Discrete Mathematics (Honors)Prerequisite: CalculusThis college-level mathcourse is for advanced stu-dents who love mathemati-cal challenges, and whowork well independently. Discrete Mathematics con-siders a collection of topicsdesigned to provide thebackground for collegework in computer science,operations research, andother related fields. Topicsinclude combinatorics,graph theory, recurrence re-lations, and mathematicalinduction. Additional topicsare chosen at the discretionof the instructor.

3801 Beginning Programming throughRobotics IFirst trimesterPrerequisites: Geometry orpermission of the instructorThe fundamentals of engi-neering and robotics are ex-plored in this introductorycourse. Students will learnthe C++ computer pro-gramming language to pro-gram robots to move invarious situations using mo-tors, servos, encoders, andreal-time sensors. Periodicclass “challenges” will testeach student’s mastery ofcourse topics.

3802 Beginning Programming throughRobotics IISecond trimesterPrerequisite: Robotics I(3801)This course will extend thefundamental programmingknowledge gained in Ro-botics I by introducing tech-niques for advanced robotcontrol. Students will ex-plore the use of data typedvariables, counters, and ac-cumulators while structur-ing programs to use variouscontrol structures includingfunctions with parameters.Problem research andanalysis will be practiced

using program debuggingtechniques. Finally, stu-dents will learn how to pro-grammatically support theuse of joysticks for robotcontrol.

3803 Advanced ProgrammingThird trimesterPrerequisite: Robotics II orprevious computer program-ming experienceThis course introduces stu-dents to the Java com-puter language and theworld of object orientedprogramming. The datatypes, control structures,and analytical skills intro-duced in Beginning Pro-gramming will be broughtinto a new language envi-ronment. Students willlearn to plan, design, andconstruct Java classes andobjects. Programs devel-oped during the trimesterwill utilize simple algo-rithms and control struc-tures, method calling,arrays and array lists, andother advanced topics.

3890 AP Computer SciencePrerequisite: Advanced Programming and permis-sion of the instructor This intensive college levelcourse covers the syllabusfor AP Computer ScienceA. The Java programminglanguage is used to exploreadvanced topics includingclasses, pointers, lists, inheritance, recursion,searching/sorting, and com-plex data structures. Sig-nificant work outside ofclass is required. Studentsare expected to take the APexam in May.

Directed Studies on special topics may bearranged with a facultymember, with approvalfrom the departmenthead and the academicdean.

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The science faculty at Williston strive to instill in theirstudents a passion for science. We encourageinquisitiveness about the natural world and challenge ourstudents to understand what they cannot see.

The core curriculum includes traditional biology,chemistry, and physics courses. Advanced Placementcourses in each discipline are available for highlymotivated students. Through trimester electives, juniorsand seniors can engage in detailed study of specifictopics such as animal behavior, genetics, humanphysiology, ecology, organic chemistry, or astronomy.

The pursuit of science at Williston is not limited to theclassrooms of Scott Hall. It’s not unusual to seeprojectiles flying from windows around campus whenphysics students study velocity and acceleration.Videography gives both physics and chemistry studentsthe opportunity to record their experiences and assistsfaculty when they introduce classes to sophisticatedexperimental design. From our campus pond and fields,biology students gather samples that are subjected to awide variety of analyses. Outdoor labs allow ourstudents to study the environment directly and takeadvantage of open spaces to test theories learned in theclassroom. Through indoor laboratory experience, ourstudents gain confidence in using sophisticatedequipment and analyzing data. Classes in the Science

Department often blend computer-assisted datacollection with established student inquiry and analysisusing cutting-edge technology.Our close proximity to the Five Colleges and theiradvanced science departments means that our studentshave unique access to technologies and educationalexperiences generally available only at the college level,whether it be a biology class’s exploration with electronmicroscopes at Smith College or the examination ofSmith’s aquifer model to enrich the study ofenvironmental science. Through our relationships withthe colleges, Williston students gain a deeperunderstanding of curricular content as well as earlyglimpses into collegiate-level science.

We instill in students an appreciation of the evolution of scientific principles and the fluidity of scientific“facts.” Through close work with faculty, our studentsgain insight into the collaborative nature of scientificinquiry and its role in scientific questioning andexperimentation.

Students gain a solid foundation from the ScienceDepartment’s core courses that they can then sharpenwith electives, which strengthen the sophisticatedinterests of both students and faculty. The sciencefaculty are committed to challenging themselves andtheir students through ever-changing experimentationand demonstration. As reflected in our curriculum andpracticed in our daily lessons, science is an activesubject at Williston.

Science Department

“We are not here concerned with hopes orfears, only with the truth as far as our reason permitsus to discover it.”–Charles Darwin

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YEARLONG COURSES4100 Biology (9, 10)This course is an introduc-tion to the basic biologicalprinciples and methodsused in science. Homeworkand lab work are designedto encourage students tointeract with the materialand to understand how ex-periments explain the inter-relationships betweenorganisms and their envi-ronment. Following anopening section on the en-vironment, we focus on thecell and its parts and func-tions. The rest of the year isspent looking at DNA struc-ture and function, genetics,reproduction, and a closerexamination and compara-tive study of some bodysystems.

4190 AP Biology (11,12)Prerequisite: Biology andChemistryThis course follows the syl-labus approved by the APprogram and the expecta-tions for both daily prepara-tion and laboratory work arehigh. The objectives are tounderstand the essentialprinciples of modern biol-ogy and develop skills nec-essary for scientificresearch. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

4200 Chemistry in theCommunity (11,12)This course uses an ap-proach to the study ofchemistry that focuses onthe effects of chemistry onour daily lives. It begins withthe study of water in the en-vironment. The properties ofsolutions, the treatment ofwastewater, and the envi-ronmental impact on watersupplies are a few of thetopics that are covered. Theinvestigation of petroleumproducts and the organicchemistry surroundingthem is another area ofstudy. The uses and indus-trial production of chemicals

is studied in depth. Thiscourse uses very little mathin its investigation. Its textwas designed for and en-dorsed by the AmericanChemical Society.

4210 Chemistry (10, 11, 12)Designed to give a basicunderstanding of the natureof matter and of its relationto energy, the aim of thiscourse is to explain the pri-mary laws, hypotheses,and theories of chemistry.

4290 AP Chemistry (11, 12)This course is for studentswho have successfullycompleted a year of chem-istry and wish to extendtheir knowledge beyondthe introductory level. Thetopics and lab exercises ofthe approved AP curriculumare followed, and studentsare expected to take the APexam in May.

4300 ConceptualPhysics (11, 12)Prerequisite: Chemistry, enrollment in Algebra II This first-year course willcover mechanics for themajority of the year. Exten-sive time will be spent onlab experiences that aid inthe conceptual develop-ment of the basics of me-chanics. Computer assistedlaboratories will supple-ment the classic experi-ments. This course will alsoinclude units on waves,light, and sound. The classtypically ends with an inde-pendent project on a topicin modern physics, optics,or astrophysics.

4320 Physics (11, 12)Prerequisite: Chemistry, enrollment in Algebra IIHonors or above; recommen-dation of previous scienceteacher requiredThis course concentrateson Newtonian mechanics.During the first two

trimesters the studentslearn about motion, forces,energy, momentum, andcircular motion. The studyof these topics is stronglysupported with hands-onactivities, computer as-sisted labs, and simula-tions. The course iscompleted by a study ofwaves and oscillating sys-tems concentrating onsound and light, includingthe behavior of light withmirrors and lenses. Stu-dents develop problemsolving skills that require asolid foundation in algebraand learn to use right trian-gle trigonometry in order todescribe two dimensionalsystems. The course in-cludes multiple construc-tion projects thatencourage the students tobe creative while demon-strating their understandingof physical principles.

4390 AP Physics B (11, 12)Prerequisites: Physics 4320,enrollment in Precalculus orabove, recommendation offirst-year physics teacher requiredThis second-year coursewill cover the topics re-quired by the AP Physicsexam. Students will studyfluids, thermodynamics,electricity and magnetism,waves, optics, relativity,quantum physics, nuclearphysics, and a review ofmechanics. There will be alab component to thecourse. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

4490 AP Physics C Mechanics, Electricity,and Magnetism (11,12)The mechanics componentof this calculus-basedcourse in introductory col-lege physics prepares thestudent for the AP PhysicsC exam in Mechanics. It isequivalent to the first termof a college level physics

course for engineers or nat-ural science majors, and re-views all the topics coveredin such a course, withgreater level of complexityallowed by adding calculus.The electricity and magnet-ism component of thecourse prepares the stu-dent for the AP Physics Cexam in Electricity andMagnetism. It is equivalentto the second term of col-lege level physics for engi-neers or natural sciencemajors, and includes elec-trostatics with Gauss’ Law,complex circuits, magnet-ism, electromagnetic induc-tion, RC and LR circuits,and Maxwell’s Equations.Students are expected totake both AP exams in May.

4590 AP EnvironmentalScience (11, 12)Prerequisite: Biology andChemistry This course follows a syl-labus approved by the APprogram. The course willprovide students with sci-entific principles, methodol-ogy, and conceptsnecessary to understandthe many interrelationshipsof the natural world. Thiscourse is intrinsically inter-disciplinary and will includeidentification and analysisof natural and man madeenvironmental problems,evaluating the risks associ-ated with such problemsand examine solutions forthe resolution or preventionof them. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

TRIMESTER COURSESStudents must complete twofull-year science courses before enrolling in an 11-12trimester elective.

4501 Animal Behavior(11, 12)Offered each trimesterPrerequisite: Biology The main topics in animalbehavior, including the dif-

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ferent types of innate andlearned behavior are cov-ered in this course. A sus-tained experimentalcomponent includes bothlaboratory and field studiesof different animals. Thecourse concludes with anextensive research projectculminating in a seminarpresentation.

4502 Outdoor Ecology(11, 12)Second trimesterPrerequisites: Biology and ei-ther Chemistry or Chemistryin the CommunityThis course connects thegreater study of ecology tothe local area in which welive. Students will spend agood deal of time outsideinvestigating the variousplants, animals, and soilstructures that surround ourcampus and our part ofwestern Massachusetts.We will study the transitionof seasons from fallthrough winter, and the im-pact that these seasonalchanges have on our localbiotic community.

4503 Genetics (11, 12)Offered each trimesterPrerequisite: BiologyThis course investigates themolecular workings of cel-lular genetics. The specificsbehind DNA replication,protein synthesis, and theregulation of gene expres-

sion will be covered indepth. Chromosome muta-tions and the various ge-netic disorders that theycause will be studied, aswell as genetic engineer-ing, genetic screening, andthe ethical and moral issuesthat arise as a result of newtechnology. Experimentswill be conducted in the lab-oratory and students willcomplete an independentresearch project.

4504 Organic Chemistry (10, 11, 12)First or third trimesterPrerequisites: Biology andChemistryBuilding on the bonding the-ories and on the shapes andstructures of molecules de-veloped in the first year ofchemistry, this course willmove into organic struc-tures, organic reactions, andthe synthesis of organicmolecules. There is a signif-icant amount of hands-onlearning using molecularmodels to stimulate three-dimensional thinking aboutmolecular structures. Thiscourse includes a laboratorycomponent involving thesynthesis, purification, andidentification of some sim-ple organic compounds. Al-though this course does notinvolve any mathematicalproblem solving, it is a chal-lenging course and is ap-propriate for any student

interested in biology, chem-istry, or medicine.

4505 Astronomy I First or second trimesterPrerequisite: Algebra I andGeometryStudents will study the de-velopment of our modernunderstanding of the solarsystem, including theforces that govern the mo-tion of the planets, phe-nomena including eclipses,and phases of the moon.We will also surveycomets, meteors, aster-oids, and the planets of oursolar system.

4506 Astronomy IIThird trimesterPrerequisite: Algebra I andGeometryThis course will concen-trate on the nature of starsand stellar evolution. Inorder to do this we willstudy the nature of light andmatter including the wave-particle duality of both. Wewill also discuss the differ-ent types of telescopes andhow their optics work. As we look at the life ofstars we will consider blackholes, supernovas, and pul-sars. We will also study thecreation and possible fatesof the universe.

4507 Human Physiology I (11, 12)Second trimesterPrerequisite: Biology andChemistryThis course exploreshuman physiology based onthe maintenance of home-ostasis through operationsof complex control sys-tems. Study will encom-pass all levels of thehierarchy of human struc-ture and integrated functionwith emphasis on the integumentary, skeletal,muscle, and nervous sys-tems. Lab activities accom-pany topics and whenpossible, principles are ap-plied to exercise.

4508 Human Physiology II (11, 12)Third trimesterPrerequisite: Biology andChemistry This course exploreshuman physiology based onthe maintenance of home-ostasis through operationsof complex control sys-tems. Study will encom-pass all levels of thehierarchy of human struc-ture and integrated functionwith emphasis on the en-docrine, cardiovascular, res-piratory, and digestivesystems. Lab activities ac-company topics and whenpossible, principles are ap-plied to exercise.

4600 Introduction toPsychology (10, 11, 12)Offered each trimesterPsychology covers the sci-entific study of behaviorand the mind. The coursewill provide a systematic in-troduction to the field of so-cial psychology, with aspecial emphasis placed onhow the thoughts, feelings,and behaviors of a personare influenced by the ac-tual, imagined, or impliedpresence of others. Thefocus will be on both thehistorical development ofthese topics as well as cur-rent research and applica-tion in these areas.

Directed Studies on special topics may bearranged with a facultymember, with approvalfrom the departmenthead and the academicdean.

The following courserotates and will not beoffered in the 2011-12school year:

4690 AP Psychology(11,12)

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The Outdoor Ecology class takes a weekly nature hike, where theyobserve animal tracks and seasonal changes in the local ecosystem.

“One language sets you

in a corridor for life.

Two languages open every

door along the way.”–Psycholinguist Frank Smith

Language Department

Williston’s language program strives to develop the lin-guistic and cultural literacy of our students, allowingthem to be active citizens of our increasingly multicul-tural world. As students learn language through read-ing, writing, speaking, and listening, they alsoexperience how the study of another language opensdoors to a greater understanding of others and of themselves.

We teach language actively and place students in thecentral role. Our teachers blend traditional and con-temporary teaching styles to provide students with avariety of ways to develop and express their oral andwritten proficiency. Latin students read prose in its his-torical and cultural context and learn about the multi-cultural tradition of the Roman world; often this studyculminates with students studying the epic poem theAeneid in AP Latin. Modern language students filmvideos, write newspapers, and complete research proj-ects entirely in the target language. All modern lan-guage courses, whether beginning or advanced,emphasize the students’ oral proficiency in the language.

We encourage our students to examine and understandthe ways of thinking that make each culture unique, inaddition to learning grammatical forms and vocabulary.Students implement their language skills through cul-turally-rooted projects and presentations to foster abroader understanding of the cultures that speak thetarget language.

Williston’s location in the Pioneer Valley and our tieswith the Five Colleges provide our students with in-valuable opportunities. Latin students have attendedClassics Day at Mount Holyoke College and participatedin workshops that deepened their understanding ofRoman culture. Spanish students have attended Span-ish cinema classes at the University of Massachusettsto augment cultural studies. Members of the ToumaniDiabaté Symmetric Orchestra and Malian musicianRokia Traoré have visited French classes to speak abouttheir music and culture, and students later attendedtheir concerts.

The Language Department also supports and encour-ages travel abroad. French students attend the QuebecWinter Carnival and excursions to France have providedstudents with homestay opportunities and travelthroughout the country. Spanish students have bene-fitted from service projects at an orphanage in Hon-duras, lived and studied in Mexico, and participated ineducational tours to Spain. Latin students have takentrips to Greece and Italy to see firsthand the physicalmonuments of classical culture. Language students canalso embrace travel opportunities through School YearAbroad, an interscholastic program that sends studentsto Spain, France, Italy, or China.

Our broadest goal is to help students communicatewith others in our multiethnic world.

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FRENCH5110 French IThis introduction to thebasic elements of grammar,vocabulary, and pronuncia-tion emphasizes the devel-opment of listening andspeaking skills. As the yearprogresses, increased em-phasis is placed upon read-ing and writing skills as well.

5120 French IIThis review of the materialcovered in the first yearwith additional grammar,vocabulary, and idioms em-phasizes strengthening andadvancing the four majorskills of language study—listening, speaking, read-ing, and writing—whilefamiliarizing the studentswith the culture and tradi-tions of French-speakingpeople.

5125 French II HonorsPrerequisite: 90 average in French I and teacher’s recommendationAn honors section is of-fered as an accelerated andenriched version of thestandard course with addi-tional reading and conver-sational demands.

5130 French IIIIn this course, students re-view and complete thestudy of French grammar.Students’ vocabulary aswell as their knowledge ofFrench civilization and cul-ture are expanded throughconversation and composi-tion. Selected readingsserve as an introduction toFrench literature.

5135 French III HonorsPrerequisite: French II Honorsor 90 average in French II and

teacher’s recommendationAn honors section is offeredas an accelerated and en-riched version of the stan-dard French III program withincreased reading and con-versational demands aswell as closer attention tothe finer points of Frenchgrammar.

5140 French IV: Viewsof ContemporaryFranceFirst trimesterPrerequisite: 70 average forthe third trimester of FrenchIII In this predominantly oralclass, conducted entirely inFrench, students work todevelop existing listeningand speaking skills whilebuilding vocabulary and re-inforcing essential gram-mar. The class will focus onmodern culture, television,and music, paying particularattention to levels of lan-guage and familiarity. Classactivities such as role play,debates, exposes, and theproduction and perform-ance of original music pro-mote fluid speaking,confidence, and oral andaural proficiency.

5145 French IV: Contemporary FrenchCinemaSecond trimesterThis class will continue todevelop students’ listeningand speaking skills. Stu-dents will build on vocabu-lary acquired in the falltrimester and enjoy aglimpse of modern Frenchlife through the films of di-rector F. Verber, whose hi-larious main character“Francois Pignon” servesto critique many aspects of

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The winter trip to Quebec gives students an opportunity to practicetheir French; the Chinese Lunar New Year festival celebrated the cul-ture of China.

modern French society.Class activities may includerole play, debates, exposés,and the production of a filmtrailer, film scenes, or anoriginal film.

5150 French IV: Themesin French CultureThird trimesterThis course seeks to de-velop students’ existingskills in spoken and writtenFrench through the interac-tive study of a variety ofmedia, notably film, music,poetry, and short stories.The trimester’s theme,daily life in France under theGerman Occupation andpost-World War II periods,shapes the vocabularystudied. Grammar will bereviewed as needed.

5160 Advanced FrenchReading, HonorsFirst trimesterPrerequisite: French III Honors or 90 average for thethird trimester of French III or IV and teacher’s recommendation.Students work on contin-ued vocabulary develop-ment and readingcomprehension skills. Con-temporary readings providegreater insight into aspectsof Francophone cultures.

5165 Advanced FrenchComposition, HonorsSecond trimesterStudents focus on develop-ing fluent written expres-sion through acomprehensive review ofFrench grammar in conjunc-tion with short and longwriting assignments, suchas letters, journal entries,creative writing,and essays.This class proves especiallyhelpful to students antici-pating the College BoardSubject Tests in French, andto students who want athorough review of gram-matical skills prior to col-lege level French or APcourses.

5170 Advanced FrenchFrancophone Studies,HonorsThird trimesterRepresentative works ofprose, film, poetry, andsongs in French from theMaghreb, West Africa, theCaribbean, and Quebecform the basis for contin-ued development of read-ing, writing, listening, andspeaking skills in prepara-tion for the AP French Lan-guage course and collegecourses.

5190 AP French LanguagePrerequisites: AdvancedFrench Honors courses inReading, Composition andGrammar, and FrancophoneStudies, and a teacher recom-mendationTaken as a fifth year ofFrench, this yearlong col-lege-level course focuseson developing a high levelof competence in speaking,writing, listening, and read-ing. Literary and contempo-rary journalistic textscontinue the study of Fran-cophone culture and serveas the basis for a variety of

advanced speaking and lis-tening activities and a thor-ough review of grammar.Students are expected totake the AP exam in May.

CHINESE5310 Chinese IStudents build a foundationin listening, speaking, read-ing, and writing. Stress isplaced upon the mastery ofthe Mandarin Chinesesound system, basic vocab-ulary and fundamental char-acter-writing concepts.Aspects of Chinese cultureand history are addressedas well.

5320 Chinese IIThis course is a continua-tion of Chinese I with a re-view of grammar and thefurther development ofreading and writing skills inMandarin. An introductionto Chinese culture is in-cluded in every chapter ofthe text. Students are re-quired to comprehend andproduce paragraph-levelChinese, and they are ex-posed to formal and writtenexpressions. Students inthis course will start to ac-cumulate sophisticated vo-

cabularies and grammarstructures, and they willread expository writings ona variety of cultural topics.

5330 Chinese IIIThis course is designed forstudents who have com-pleted two years of highschool-level training in Chi-nese. They will develop theskills of listening, speaking,reading and writing. Thiscourse will help students tosolidify their abilities tocomprehend and produceparagraph-level Chinese. Itseeks to enable students tounderstand face to faceconversations on most fa-miliar topics, to give factualaccounts, to read materialswritten in formal Chineseand to write simple essays,reports and letters.

5340 Chinese IVThis course will continue todevelop Chinese proficiencywith emphasis on composi-tion and reading. Studentswill be introduced to com-plex sentence structures asthey undergo a comprehen-sive study of Chinese grammar and the practiceof formal writing intended

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Latin students participated in workshops and competitions with more than 300 students from area highschools at the 2011 Classics Day at Mount Holyoke College. Williston students regularly participate in thisevent, which is held annually at one of the Five Colleges. This year, Williston students took first place inthree contests and second place in two. Classics Day celebrates the study of Latin and classical culture.

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for various uses. Studentswill also complete readingson broad topics of Chineseliterature and history. Class-room learning will incorpo-rate presentation-basedresearch.

5350 Chinese VThis advanced course inlanguage, literacy, and cul-ture is designed for stu-dents to continue to gaingreater proficiency in read-ing, writing, speaking, andlistening in Chinese. Thefocus is on extensive read-ing, listening to authenticcontextualized material,writing in different genres,and discussing various top-ics related to students’lives. Cultural lessons willprovide students with op-portunities to further de-velop their communicativeskills in Chinese.

SPANISH5510 Spanish IStudents build a founda-tion in listening, speaking,reading, and writing in theSpanish language. Stressis placed upon mastery ofthe Spanish sound sys-tem, basic vocabulary, andfundamental grammaticalconcepts.

5520 Spanish IIMaterial covered in the firstyear is reviewed along with

additional grammar, vocab-ulary, and idioms. Emphasisis placed upon strengthen-ing and advancing the fourmajor skills of languagestudy—listening, speaking,reading, and writing—whilefamiliarizing the studentswith the culture and tradi-tions of Spanish speakingpeoples.

5525 Spanish II HonorsPrerequisite: 90 average inSpanish I and teacher’s recommendationAn honors section is of-fered as an accelerated andenriched version of thestandard Spanish II pro-gram with increased read-ing and conversationaldemands.

5530 Spanish IIIThe third year stresses vo-cabulary development andreviews and expands thestudy of Spanish grammar,with intensive practice ofthe Spanish verb systemand tenses, including theindicative, imperative, andsubjunctive moods. Read-ings provide opportunitiesfor conversation and com-position, while developingthe student’s awareness ofand appreciation for culturaldifferences.

5535 Spanish III HonorsPrerequisite: Spanish II Honors or 90 average in Spanish II and teacher’s recommendationAn honors section is offeredas an accelerated and en-riched version of the stan-dard Spanish III programwith increased reading andconversational demands, aswell as closer attention tothe finer points of Spanishgrammar.

5540 Spanish IV: Principles of ConversationFirst trimesterPrerequisite: 70 average forthird trimester of Spanish III

This course focuses on de-veloping oral proficiencywith a strong emphasis onaural comprehension, read-ing, and vocabulary devel-opment. Part one of the LaCatrina video and novel se-ries is used as a stimulusfor conversation throughoral presentations, aural ac-tivities, and cultural les-sons. A comprehensivereview of basic grammarwill augment the course toprovide the linguistic toolsfor conversation.

5545 Spanish IV: Advanced ConversationSecond trimesterPrerequisite: Principles ofConversation or permissionof the department This course continues todevelop oral proficiencywith a strong emphasis onaural comprehension, read-ing, and vocabulary devel-opment. Part two of the LaCatrina video and novel se-ries serves as a stimulus forconversation through oralpresentation, aural activi-ties, and cultural lessons. Acomprehensive review ofadvanced grammar willaugment the course to pro-vide the linguistic tools forconversation.

5550 Spanish IV: Contemporary SpanishCinemaThird trimesterPrerequisite: Advanced Conversation or permission of the departmentThis course utilizes filmsfrom contemporary LatinAmerica and Spain tostrengthen students’ con-versational, listening com-prehension, and writingskills. Emphasis on thefilms’ cultural and historicalcontexts provides a basisfrom which students reviewadvanced grammar, com-plete oral presentations,and learn more about theSpanish-speaking world.

5560 Advanced SpanishReadings, HonorsFirst trimesterPrerequisite: Spanish III Honors or 90 average for the third trimester of Spanish III or IV and teacher’s recommendation Students continue to de-velop vocabulary, reading,and comprehension skills.Contemporary readings pro-vide a greater insight intoHispanic cultural view-points, including celebra-tions, politics, historicalperspectives, lifestyle,sense of humor, and values.

5565 Advanced SpanishComposition and Grammar, HonorsSecond trimesterStudents develop fluentwritten expression in shortand long pieces such as let-ters and essays. The courseproves especially helpful tostudents anticipating theCollege Board SubjectTests, and to those whowant a thorough review ofgrammatical skills prior tocollege level Spanish or theAP course.

5570 Advanced SpanishHispanic Studies, HonorsThird trimesterRepresentative works ofprose, film, poetry, andsongs in Spanish fromSpain, Mexico, and Centraland South America formthe basis of continued de-velopment of reading, writ-ing, listening, and speakingskills in preparation for APSpanish Language and col-lege courses.

5590 AP Spanish LanguagePrerequisites: AdvancedSpanish Honors courses inReadings, Composition andGrammar, and HispanicStudies, and teacher’s recommendationTaken as a fifth year ofSpanish, this yearlong

Latin students participated inthe costume competition heldduring Classics Day at MountHollyoke College

college-level course fo-cuses on developing a highlevel of competence inspeaking, writing, listening,and reading. Literary andjournalistic texts continuethe study of Hispanic cul-ture and serve as the basisfor vocabulary study, classdiscussions, and composi-tions. The course includes avariety of advanced speak-ing and listening activitiesand a thorough review ofgrammar. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

5710 Latin IStudents are introduced tothe elements of grammar,vocabulary, and pronuncia-tion, with special emphasison the development ofreading and comprehen-sion skills. A considerableamount of attention is paidto English vocabulary build-ing through Latin wordroots. A capsule course inRoman mythology, culture,and history is also included.

5720 Latin IIStudents complete thestudy of Latin grammar,syntax, culture, and historybegun in Latin I. Emphasisis placed on reading con-nected prose in its historicaland cultural context.

5725 Latin II HonorsPrerequisite: 90 average inLatin I and teacher’s recommendationAn honors section is of-fered as an enriched ver-sion of the standard Latin IIprogram in which the demands are dramatically increased.

5730 Latin IIIStudents are introduced tothe rich multicultural tradi-tion of the Roman world inthis literature surveycourse. Grammar reviewand strategies for reading

comprehension are thefocus of the class early inthe year. Later, the focusshifts to the study of West-ern history and culture viaLatin primary sources. Authors include Caesar,Cicero, Pliny, and Eutropius.

5735 Latin III HonorsPrerequisite: Latin II Honorsor 90 average in Latin II andteacher’s recommendationThe honors section of LatinIII is offered as a prerequi-site to AP Latin. A greateremphasis is placed onclose translation and essaywriting as required by theAP exam.

5790 AP Latin VergilPrerequisite: Latin III Honors and permission of the instructor Students study one of themost important works inLatin, and perhaps Westernliterature, at a level compa-rable to college work.Vergil’s Aeneid is studiedaccording to the AdvancedPlacement curriculumthrough translation of se-lected portions of the text,analysis of its grammaticaland rhetorical structure, andthe reading of essays bymodern critics. Studentsdevelop a high level of com-petence in translating Latinand understanding epic po-etry, and develop an under-standing of the historicaland cultural context of theAeneid. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

Directed Studies on special topics may bearranged with a facultymember, with approvalfrom the departmenthead and the academicdean.

School Year Abroad

The Language Department encourages students toconsider participation in the School Year Abroad pro-gram in China, France, Spain, or Italy. School YearAbroad is a reputable program designed for high schoolstudents. At Williston, most participants are juniors, al-though seniors may also apply.

Intensive language study is an integrated part of an on-going college preparatory program and credits may betransferred from SYA to The Williston NorthamptonSchool upon successful completion of course work.

Sophomores interested in a junior year abroad shouldspeak with the academic dean during the first trimesterof the tenth grade. Interested juniors in good academicand social standing may, at the end of the firsttrimester of the eleventh grade, petition the academicdean for permission to attend SYA during the senioryear. These proposals will be reviewed by the Aca-demic Standards Committee. Upon successful com-pletion of the SYA program, the student may expect toreceive a diploma from Williston provided the following two conditions are met: 1) the petitioning stu-dent must have completed at least two years of studyat Williston and 2) the academic diploma requirementsof Williston must be met.

Students interested in more information about the pro-gram should write directly to School Year Abroad HomeOffice, 439 South Union St., Lawrence, MA, 01843, call(978) 725-6828, email mail@sya.org, or visitwww.sya.org.

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History and Global Studies Department

The history and global studies curriculum provides stu-dents with an understanding of the forces which haveshaped the past and continue to influence the worldtoday. Our program encourages the development of thecritical skills necessary to make educated choices thatwill determine the future. In short, we prepare studentsto embrace an ever-changing world.

We examine life in a global community through requiredcourses in World Civilizations and U.S. History, anddeepen that understanding through core electives suchas European History, Comparative Government, and Eco-nomics. In addition, we offer the opportunity to study Eu-ropean, Asian, and African histories. By studying thecultural development of other nations, students learn toappreciate the diversity of our world and recognize thecommonality of the human experience. Furthermore,through our religion and philosophy courses, the depart-ment hopes to introduce students to the ideas, beliefs,cultures, and spiritual writings of the world’s greatest re-ligions and philosophical traditions.

History and global studies faculty aim to foster their stu-dents’ curiosity and help them develop the skills neces-sary to stimulate and facilitate lifelong learning. Studentslearn that history is not a static body of dates and facts,but an evolving series of interpretations of the past.Through the process of reading and writing, as well asproblem-solving discussions, students learn to investigatehistorical questions, analyze sources, and effectively ex-press their ideas. Through the Williston+ program and our

relationships with the Five Colleges, students can takeadvantage of unique opportunities to participate in spe-cial lectures, workshops, and visits to the nearby collegesthat are part of Williston’s vibrant academic community.Recently, for instance, as part of the World Civilizationsclass, students showcased their work in “The Africa Mu-seum,” where they were able to analyze and discusseach other’s work and then listen to a presentation deliv-ered by James Alic Garang, one of the “lost boys” ofSudan, who was earning his PhD in Economics at UMassAmherst. Also, all United States History students en-gaged in a study of the 1704 raid on Deerfield, Massa-chusetts, by the French and their native allies. ProfessorKevin Sweeney from Amherst College, whose recentlypublished books on the raid were used as part of the cur-riculum, visited our campus and delivered a fascinatingpresentation about the raid. Through this presentation aswell as a visit from members of the UMass Archaeologi-cal Field School at Deerfield, students recognized thevaluable contributions of historians, archaeologists, andanthropologists to our understanding of the past. The richacademic culture of the Five College region provides stu-dents with opportunities to enhance their educational ex-perience by connecting to a broader community.

As our students develop a critical understanding of theirworld, we hope to inspire their self-confidence to becomeengaged citizens who exercise both independence ofthought and respect for individual differences in theirsearch for truth and justice.

We examine life in a global community

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6100 World Civilizations (9, 10)Required for three- and four-year students World Civilizations is a one-year survey course that examines major historicalthemes through an exami-nation of three distinct civi-lizations: African, MiddleEastern, and Indian. An im-portant goal of the course isto create a familiarity withthese regions in an effort toprepare students for citi-zenship in a global commu-nity. Students in this coursewill learn the impact of geography on the lives ofthe people in these regions,their cultural traits and val-ues, and an overview of thehistory of these regions.

An important element ofthe course is skill building.Each unit on a major civi-lization will be linked to thedevelopment of a particularskill set. Skills taught in thiscourse include note taking,researching, writing an his-torical essay, oral presenta-tion skills, and analyzingprimary source documents.

6201 European HistoryI (9,10)First trimesterPrerequisite: World CivilizationsThis course presents anoverview of the importantforces that shaped Euro-pean history from the Mid-dle Ages to the eve of theFrench Revolution. Eachunit will emphasize the development of importantskills, including the use oftechnology, writing an his-torical essay, reading pri-mary source documents,analyzing historical litera-ture, oral presentation, and working as a member of agroup. The course will tracethe origins of modern Europe through the influ-ences of the Renaissance,the Protestant Reformation,the Scientific Revolution,

the formation of nation-states, and the commercialrevolution.

6202 European HistoryII (9, 10)Second trimesterPrerequisite: World CivilizationsThis course presents anoverview of the importantforces that shaped Euro-pean history from theFrench Revolution in 1789to the turn of the next cen-tury. Each unit will empha-size the development ofimportant skills, includingthe use of technology, writ-ing an historical essay, read-ing primary sourcedocuments, analyzing his-torical literature, oral pres-entation, and working as amember of a group. Thecourse will trace the originsof modern Europe throughthe influences of the Age ofEnlightenment, the FrenchRevolution, Napoleonic Eu-rope, the Industrial Revolu-tion, Imperialism, andlate-19th century intellec-tual history.

6203 European HistoryIII (9, 10)Third trimesterPrerequisite: World Civilizations This course presents anoverview of the importantforces shaping Europeanhistory from World War I tothe present. Each unit willemphasize the develop-ment of important skills, in-cluding the use oftechnology, writing an his-torical essay, reading pri-mary source documents,analyzing historical litera-ture, oral presentation, andworking as a member of agroup. The course will tracethe history of modern Eu-rope through the influencesof World War I, the RussianRevolution, World War II,the Cold War, and the for-mation of the EuropeanUnion. Students will also be

responsible for monitoringand analyzing the current is-sues that confront contem-porary European society.

6290 AP European History (10, 11, 12)This is a college level sur-vey course that seeks todevelop an understandingof the main themes in mod-ern European history, in-cluding political anddiplomatic, intellectual andcultural, and social and eco-nomic history. Course cur-riculum, materials, andexpectations are designedto prepare students for suc-cess on the AP exam, butthe broader goal of thecourse is to challenge stu-dents to improve their skillsat writing, reading, presen-tation, and analysis, em-phasizing comprehension,comparison, synthesis, andthe formulation of general-

izations with sustaining ev-idence. The course uses acollege-level textbook andprimary source documentsto provide students with anunderstanding of thechronology of modern Eu-ropean history, beginningwith the Renaissance andconcluding with the fall ofCommunism in Eastern Eu-rope, the reunification ofGermany, and the crisis ofglobal terrorism. Studentsare expected to take the APexam in May.

6300 Introduction toUnited States History(10,11)Third trimesterThis course is intended forinternational students withlimited background inAmerican history and gov-ernment. Students shouldenroll in this course duringthe trimester before they

U.S. History students prepared for the state-wide We the People ac-ademic competition in Boston by collaborating with students fromEasthampton High School in a showcase of their research. Groups ofstudents prepared presentations on three different questions relatedto the history, philosophy, and contemporary development of US Gov-ernment. Following their prepared remarks, students responded to aseries of questions from judges and defended their ideas withoutbenefit of notes. Local city and state representatives acted as guestjudges. Williston students have participated in this event since 1998and finished in the top three places four times, including winning thehonor of representing Massachusetts in the national finals in 2000.This year marks the first time that Easthampton High School has participated.

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take United States History(6310). The course willfocus on developing an un-derstanding of the primarythemes in the early historyof the United States and ondeveloping the necessaryskills for success in the ex-isting full-year U.S. Historycourse. The course willbegin with the Colonial Pe-riod and trace the nation’sdevelopment through theAmerican Revolution, theConstitutional Period, andend with a civics-styleoverview of American gov-ernment. The major themesassociated with these timeperiods provide exposure tothe basic American ideas ofgovernment and represen-tation; familiarity with theseideas will provide a valuablegrounding for the conceptspresented in the followingyear.

6310 United States History (11,12)The study of United Stateshistory is designed for stu-dents to develop a criticalappreciation of Americansociety, improved masteryof inquiry and expressionskills and, as well, greaterintellectual curiosity, per-sistence, and responsibility.Students consider thehuman actions and social

forces responsible for so-cial, economic, and politicalinstitutions from colonialtimes to the present. Stu-dents practice exploringhistorical questions, engag-ing in critical thinking, andexpressing their ideas in di-verse ways. These includeparticipating in class dis-cussion, writing essays,and making PowerPoint andPhotoStory presentations.

A main focus of this courseis the creation of a major in-dependent research paper.In that culminating activity,as throughout the course,we encourage students tosee themselves not asmere organizers of factualinformation, but rather asactive producers of knowl-edge who interpret evi-dence in search of thetruth.

6390 AP United StatesHistory (11,12)This course seeks to ac-complish the mission ofstandard United States his-tory course, but with abroader range of sources,discussions in greaterdepth, and the opportunityto submit an independentresearch project to TheConcord Review. In addi-tion to preparation for theAP exam at the end of thespring term, students mayalso participate in the Wethe People academic pro-gram. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

6400 Native AmericanHistory (10, 11, 12)First trimesterIn this course, studentswill examine the develop-ment of American historyfrom the perspective ofNative Americans. We willinvestigate both the devel-opment of various easternwoodland Indian nationsand the process of interac-tion between the first set-

tlers and the subsequentEuropean immigrants. Thethemes of resistance,adaption, and persistencewill be considered.

6402 International Relations (11, 12)First trimesterPrerequisite: US HistoryIn an ever changing post-9/11 world, we are forced toexamine what comes nextfor American foreign policy.The old system of Cold Warideological thinking nolonger applies in an erawhen the traditional nation-state is losing its impor-tance. This course will lookat the lessons of the 20thcentury and explore whatthe future holds for theUnited States in an increas-ingly global society. We willcover important social, cul-tural, political, economic,and military events of the20th century including thecrisis in the Middle East,economic relations amongthe major industrial blocs,and the proliferation of nu-clear weapons.

6403 Classical Greece(11, 12)Second trimesterThe 21st century harksback to the pre-Christianera in Greece for its roots topolitics, literature and thearts. The origins of democ-racy, theater, playwriting,and written history can befound in the traditions andpractices of ClassicalGreece and its Helllenisticsuccessors. An examina-tion of these roots will helpguide students toward abetter understanding of thepresent.

6405 Hitler and NaziGermany (11, 12)First or third trimesterThis comprehensive studyof the personality, deeds,and impact on Europe ofAdolf Hitler examines manand World War II, covers

the Holocaust in detail, andconsiders values and atti-tudes that are importantfor the present as well ascritical for understandingthe past.

6406 Immigration: Pastand Present (11, 12)Second trimesterThis course provides a thor-ough review of immigrationin American history. Stu-dents will explore historicaltrends, movements, andpatterns of global immigra-tion. Topics of study will include: motives for immi-gration; anti-immigrationsentiments and activities;the development of lawsand standards to governthe flow of immigrants; as-similation, acculturation,and nonconformity; and theeconomic impact of immi-gration. Although thecourse will touch on the ex-perience of many immi-grants, we will focus ourstudy on the following peri-ods of immigration: Irishimmigration of the mid-19thcentury; eastern and south-ern European immigrationof the turn of the 20th cen-tury; Asian and Latin Amer-ican immigration of thepost-Vietnam War period.

6408 History of ModernAfrica (11, 12)Third trimesterThis course will help stu-dents to understand thecurrently diverse and com-plex nature of the Africancontinent by examining thehistory of the continent inthe 20th century. Thecourse will begin with abrief overview of the colo-nial period, and then delvemore deeply into the chal-lenges that came with in-dependence. Students willreview the policies andlives of African leaders likeKwame Nkrumah of Ghana,Jomo Kenyatta of Kenya,Nelson Mandela of SouthAfrica, and Gamal Nasser of

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Egypt. Topics will includethe Rwandan genocide,apartheid in South Africanand Zimbabwe, the civil warin Sudan, and the curse ofoil in Nigeria. Students willalso read a memoir or a work of contemporary fiction.

6409 History of ModernJapan (11, 12)First trimesterThe goal of this course is toassist the student’s under-standing of contemporaryJapan by examining the his-torical foundations of thisnation. The course beginswith a brief examination ofgeographic, political, andcultural influences from thefeudal period, and then fo-cuses on the themes,events and personalities ofthe 19th and 20th cen-turies. Major concepts cov-ered include the rise and fallof the Tokugawa shogu-nate, the industrial revolu-tion in Japan, Japaneseimperialism and World WarII, Occupation Japan, andthe Japanese economicmiracle. The course will in-clude a visit to the Tea Gar-den at Mount HolyokeCollege, and will draw fromthe resources of the FiveCollege Center of EastAsian Studies.

6410 History of ModernChina (11, 12)Second trimesterThe goal of this course is tohelp students gain an un-derstanding of modern Chi-nese society by examiningthe historical forces thatcontributed to its develop-ment. The course beginswith an overview of the in-fluences from the dynasticperiod that impacted thecourse of China’s history.The course takes a moredetailed study of events ofthe 19th and 20th centuryincluding the Opening ofChina, the collapse of theQing dynasty, the rise of

Chinese nationalism, Euro-pean and Asian imperialismin China, and Mao’s pro-grams including the GreatLeap forward and the Cul-tural Revolution. The courseconcludes with an exami-nation of contemporary is-sues. In addition to the text,and Liang Heng’s memoirs,the course will draw fromthe resources of the FiveCollege Center of EastAsian Studies.

6501 Comparative Politics (11,12)Second trimesterIn this introductory courseto political science, the po-litical systems of countriessuch as Great Britain, Ger-many, Russia, Iran, Nigeria,and Mexico are examinedand compared. In a step-by-step approach, studentsfocus on the impact of thepast, key national institu-tions, political attitudes, pat-terns of interaction, andcurrent issues of eachcountry. Students will ex-plore such concepts asdemocracy, sovereignty, na-tionalism, ideology, global-ization, and terrorism.Students are expected tocomplete a research paperinvolving a current politicalissue.

6591 AP ComparativeGovernment and Politics (11, 12)A two-trimester course taughtin the first and third trimestersStudents in this course willbe introduced to politicalscience while preparing forthe AP examination. Sixcore countries includingGreat Britain, Russia, China,Iran, Nigeria, and Mexicowill be examined and com-pared. In addition, thecourse explores generalconcepts pertaining to po-litical relationships and theconstitutional features com-mon to virtually all nationalgovernments. As studentsgain a deeper appreciation

and understanding of howgovernments function, wewill explore related con-cepts including regionalism,democracy, sovereignty,pluralism, nationalism, ide-ology, globalization, and na-tional security. Students areexpected to take the APexam in May.

6600 Economics (11,12)Second trimesterThis introductory course fo-cuses on the fundamentalprinciples of an economicway of thinking as well aseconomic history and phi-losophy. The course is di-vided between a study ofmicroeconomics: how amarket economy operatesand the impact of govern-ment intervention, andmacroeconomics: how theeconomy as a whole be-haves in the long run andthe role of fiscal and mone-tary policy. Special atten-tion is devoted tointernational trade and theglobal economy.

6690 AP Microeconomics(10, 11, 12)A two-trimester course taughtin the first and third trimester

The goal of this course is togive the student a thoroughunderstanding of the princi-ples of economics thatapply to the functions of in-dividual decision makers,both consumers and pro-ducers, within the largereconomic system. It placesprimary emphasis on thenature and functions ofproduct markets, and onthe role of government inpromoting greater effi-ciency and equity in theeconomy. Students are ex-pected to take the AP examin May.

6700 Introduction toWorld Religions (9, 10)Offered each trimesterThis course introduces thestudent to the academicstudy of religion by explor-ing the major religions ofthe world through a combi-nation of fiction, film, sa-cred texts, and secondarysources. Along the way, keyconcepts in religion, suchas myth, ritual, and symbolare discussed in depth, andan effort is made to trainstudents in fundamentalskills and terms relevant tothe humanities.

A graduate student discusses her experiences with the UMass Archaeological Field School studying pre- and post-contact NativeAmerican lifeways and history in the Pioneer Valley

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6702 Western Religions(11, 12)Second trimesterThis course offers and in-depth look at the sacred tra-ditions of Judaism,Christianity, and Islam, witha special focus on their sa-cred texts. By reading se-lections from the Bible, theQur’an, and other primarysources. Students will learnhow such writings havebeen, and continue to be,interpreted by adherents ofthose traditions. They mayalso come to appreciatehow these sacred texts arerelevant and meaningful totheir own lives.

6703 Introduction toPhilosophy (11, 12)Second trimesterThis course introduces stu-dents to some of the majorfields of philosophy, such aslogic, epistemology, iden-tity, and ethics. Studentsbegin by learning the ele-ments of critical thinkingfundamental to building acohesive and coherentphilosophical argument.They then progress to theexamination of philosophi-cal treatises written by im-portant figures in thehistory of Western philoso-

phy: René Descartes, DavidHume, John Locke, andJean-Paul Sartre. Much ofthe reading in this class isdrawn from difficult primarytexts.

6704 Eastern Religions(11, 12)Third trimesterAs an introduction to East-ern religious and philosoph-ical thought, this offeringsurveys three families ofAsian religious traditions:Hinduism, Buddhism, andthe Chinese traditions ofConfucianism and Taoism.Students read some of themore enduring writings ofthese traditions, includingthe Bhagavad Gita, and theTao Te Ching.

6706 Ethics and Society(11, 12)Firsst trimesterThis course explores sev-eral of the ethical theoriesin the history of Westernethics, including those es-poused by Aristotle, Im-manuel Kant, John StuartMill, and Philippa Foot. Aftergrappling with the primarytexts of these thinkers, stu-dents learn how such ideashave the power to affecteveryday lives and how

they might apply to moraldilemmas, both ancient andnew. Class discussion, filmanalysis, and thesis de-fense papers are funda-mental to the course.

6900 The 18th Centuryin the Connecticut RiverValley (11, 12)A two-trimester course begin-ning in the second trimester.Prerequisite: application required. With the guidance of fac-ulty drawn from Smith,Amherst, UMass, MountHolyoke, and HampshireCollege, this course will ex-plore and compare similarworks of several scholarsregarding interactions be-tween Natives andColonists in New Englandduring the 1700s. In addi-tion to secondary readingsby the participating histori-ans and other scholars, thecourse will make use ofpublished primary sources,copies of local primarysources, documentaries,and field trips to museumssuch as Memorial Hall inDeerfield. The course willalso focus on the practiceof research and the writingand publishing of scholarlyworks. Students will be re-

quired to complete a multi-faceted portfolio of work inthe spring trimester.

Directed Studies on special topics may bearranged with a facultymember, with approvalfrom the departmenthead and the academicdean.

The following coursesrotate and will not beoffered in the 2011-12school year:

6401 Russian History(11, 12)

6404 Latin AmericanHistory (10, 11, 12)

6407 African AmericanHistory (10, 11, 12)

6502 United States Government (11, 12)

6592 AP US Governmentand Politics (11, 12)

6701 Islam and the Middle East (10, 11, 12)

6705 The Bible as Literature (10, 11, 12)

Amherst College Professor of American Studies and History Kevin Sweeney discussed the different pointsof view that inhabited the historical events of the 1700s in the Pioneer Valley

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The Fine and Performing Arts Department at Willistonhouses the various arts disciplines within a single de-partment. Our faculty, who are practicing artists in theirchosen fields, all bring their professional experiencesto their teaching. We strive to instill in our students abroad respect for learning; to develop in them a respectfor and enduring interest in the arts through knowledgeand experience; to stimulate their awareness of theirown creative potential, not only in the arts but in otherendeavors; and to equip them with the skills and disci-pline necessary for pursuing one or more of the fine orperforming arts.

The arts faculty, while diverse in their own artistic pur-suits, share a common concern for developing humanexpressiveness and a profound commitment to makingthe arts an integral part of their students’ lives and thelife of the entire school community. The arts have his-torically been a strong thread that binds together allhuman endeavors and reveals the human response tothe world and to the sense of self. Such awareness illuminates and gives depth to our own experience. Byengaging in the studio and performing arts—painting,dancing, playing music, and acting—students develop

intellectual and cognitive operations that are central toall experiences in school or in life. Study of the arts pro-vides a meaningful and constructive connection to othercultures and the history of the world. Through the arts,students discover that there is a unique opportunity tocreate community and to share with others, while ex-periencing the excitement of creative realization andself-discovery. It is our mission as well to train the audi-ences of tomorrow, audiences who through their en-lightened perception and understanding of the arts willfind their lives enhanced and immeasurably enriched.

The lives of our students are also enriched by ourclose relationships with the Five Colleges and themany cultural and artistic offerings in the Pioneer Val-ley that Williston calls home. Our students have theopportunity to attend concerts, dance recitals, andtheatrical performances, and to visit the marvelousgalleries and museums throughout the area. In addi-tion, students and professors from the nearby col-leges and universities have enriched the Fine Artsclassroom experience through lectures, workshops,and demonstrations.

Fine and PerformingArts Department

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All courses in this depart-ment are trimester courseswith the exception ofString and Wind Ensem-bles (7741, 7742), and APMusic Theory (7790),which are year-longcourses.

Note: Studio art and photog-raphy courses often do notuse textbooks, but they do re-quire a material fee for class-room supplies. For somecourses the fees are signifi-cant.

7101 Beginning Ele-ments of DesignOffered each trimesterStudio fee $125 The emphasis of this de-manding, foundation-levelcourse is on in-class proj-ects that explore the princi-ples and elements of line,shape, color, texture, com-position, unity, contrast, bal-ance, and proportion.Students will be guidedthrough a sequence of ex-ercises and projects thatwill sharpen their percep-tion and create unity in allforms of visual expression.Projects will be two-dimen-sional compositions usingcut paper for progressiverhythms, repetition series,grid alignments, collages,initial designs, logos, inkpatterns, and low relief constructions.

7102 Intermediate DesignSecond trimesterPrerequisite: Drawing, Begin-ning Design, or Photo IStudio fee $125. The focus of this course ison developing skills ac-quired in previous studiocourses. These principlesand essential componentsof design will be used in acreative plan to developform and structure in three-dimensional and higherlevel two-dimensionalwork. This studio class iscentered around projectsfrom college level founda-tion courses. The in-classprojects will explore indepth 3-D design, book de-sign, foam core construc-tions, low relief clay stilllife, paper mache, and ad-vanced painting composi-tion.

7103 Advanced DesignFirst or third trimesterPrerequisite: Beginning andIntermediate DesignStudio fee $150Combining the principlesused in Beginning and In-termediate Design, stu-dents will create intuitiveand layered surface de-signs with inks, resists,and marbling on receptivesurface papers. These tex-tile designs and patternswill be used in rendering

personal collages and de-signs for topics of choice.Students will discover howdifferent media work to-gether and then they willdetermine the bestprocess for finding theirown distinct, creativevoices. The culminating ex-perience will be to do aportfolio presentationshowing how collaged pa-pers would be used in theworlds of fashion, textiles,interior design, or bookmaking.

7201 Beginning DrawingOffered each trimesterStudio fee $100 The purpose and objectiveof this introductory drawingcourse is not only to ac-quaint students with abroad range of dry and wetmedia but also to explorethe meaning of art andwhat drawing can be. Stu-dents will develop an un-derstanding of the work ofpast and contemporaryartists, as well as theirmethods and materials. Ap-preciation for each stu-dent’s own unique capacityfor expression grows out ofassignments based oncareful observation as wellas those that are expres-sionistic or improvisationaland tap the students’ imag-ination and intuition.

7202 Intermediate DrawingSecond trimesterPrerequisite: Beginning Drawing or permission of theinstructorStudio fee $100. Intermediate drawing is forstudents interested in con-tinuing to explore a varietyof drawing techniques andartistic concepts introducedin Beginning Drawing.Guided and independentassignments will encour-age each student to de-velop his or her artisticvision while building uponfundamental skills. Projectswill be both observationaland intuitive, further inte-grating the internal and ex-ternal artistic voice.Students will engage injournaling, visual research,dialogue, and art viewing.

7203 Advanced DrawingFirst or third trimesterPrerequisite: Drawing or permission of the instructorStudio fee $100In advanced drawing eachstudent will have the op-portunity to explore anddiscover an area of inter-est, investigating the sub-ject matter through visualresearch and a variety ofdrawing methods and ma-terials. Projects will beguided but students willalso create independent

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bodies of work. Group cri-tiques and discussions willaddress individual stu-dents’ work as well as thephilosophy of aesthetics.Each student will completea cohesive portfolio ofdrawings to be exhibitedon campus or within thecommunity at the end ofthe trimester.

7301 Beginning PaintingOffered each trimesterPrerequisite: Drawing, Begin-ning Elements of Design, orpermission of the instructorStudio fee $250.This course starts withovercoming the fear ofpainting with brushes andpalette knives. Through var-ious group and individualprojects, students will learnpainting techniques inacrylics and some oils. Students will work from stilllife and photographs as wellas from observation. Thecourse will stress the ap-propriate use of tools andmaterials, values, high con-trasts, spatial relationshipsand composition on bothcanvas and paper.

7302 Intermediate PaintingSecond trimesterPrerequisite: Beginning Paint-ing, Drawing, or DesignStudio fee $250

For the more advanced student, this course isabout painting as seeing.The course is designed tobuild confidence in colorand paint application. Thefocus is to develop in theserious student an articu-late language in oil and inwatercolors to create amore convincing illusion ofspace. Projects will bemore experimental and avariety of surfaces will beused (canvas, paper, panelboards). Techniques cov-ered include: stretchingcanvases and watercolorpapers, as well as integrat-ing collage materials andmixed media.

7303 Advanced PaintingFirst or third trimesterPrerequisite: Beginning andIntermediate Painting, or Advanced DrawingStudio fee $250This course is designed toincorporate how sight andfeeling are important in allworks of art. All mediumsare covered: oils, acrylics,watercolors, gouache, eggtempera, and mixed media.Students will receive indi-vidual guidance to developand discover a deeper fa-miliarity with independentsubject matter.

7400 CeramicsStudio fee $150 A two-trimester course

beginning in the firsttrimesterStudents will explore vari-ous methods of construc-tion in clay, stressing thequalities of design principlesand problem solving in art.Study of historic clay ob-jects will provide stimuli forthe development of the stu-dents’ personal artistic ex-pression and experience.Students will explore cul-tural and historical connec-tions, write about theprocess, make presenta-tions about their progress atregular intervals, and workindividually and in groups.

7411 Beginning SculptureOffered each trimesterStudio fee $100 This course is intended tobe an overview of basicskills used to create three-dimensional works of art.With an emphasis on studioproduction, this course isdesigned to develop higher-level thinking, art-relatedtechnology, art criticism, arthistory, and aesthetic skills.Through assigned projects,students will explore con-cepts (mass, plane, move-ment, balance, etc.), andfind solutions that are in-triguing, have sculptural in-tegrity, and that can beused as a vehicle for per-sonal expression. Through-out the course students will

also analyze the expressivepotential of sculpturemedia, techniques, andprocesses, examine thefunctions of sculpture, andinterpret three-dimensionalart throughout history andacross a variety of cultures.

7412 Advanced Sculp-tureSecond or third trimesterPrerequisite: Beginning SculptureStudio fee $100 Students will continue toexplore a variety of sculp-tural techniques and artisticconcepts introduced in Be-ginning Sculpture, includingthe fundamental concepts(mass, plane, movement,balance, etc.), while furtherexploring a variety of meth-ods and materials. Throughboth guided and independ-ent projects, students willcomplete a body of workwhile continuing to engagein journaling, visual re-search, and dialogue.

7501 Photography I (10, 11, 12)Offered each trimesterStudio fee $150 In this introductory photog-raphy course students willexplore the traditional pho-tographic image-makingprocess. The emphasis ofthis class will be to acquirethe skills needed to prop-erly expose black and white

Left to right: Students from drawing andgeometry classes joined to-gether to create wall paint-ings influenced by SolLeWitt. The abstract paintingswere the students' represen-tations of a chosen UN Mil-lennium goal.

Photography studentsviewed photographs in thearchives at Smith CollegeMuseum of Art.

Sculpture students made themost of New England’srecord snowfall.

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negative film utilizing anSLR camera. Students willbe taught how to manuallyadjust the aperture, shutter,and light meter which willallow them to gain creativecontrol of their images. En-larged silver gelatin printswill be made in the dark-room utilizing variable con-trast papers. Additionally,students will gain an under-standing of photography asa visual art form and an un-derstanding of the basicprinciples of compositionand design through presen-tations and group critiques.A limited number of cam-eras are available to rent forthe trimester. See instruc-tor for details.

7502 Photography II (10, 11, 12)Offered each trimesterPrerequisite: Photography IStudio fee $175An introduction to colorphotography and digital im-aging, this course exploresthe new realities of thecolor photographic process.Building upon the camerahandling techniques of Pho-tography I, students will ex-plore the use of thecomputer and Adobe Pho-toshop as the digital ‘dark-room.’ The qualities oflight, white balance, filetypes, file sizes, scanners,printer utilities, calibration,and paper options will be

Photographers’ Lecture Series Third trimester evening program

Visiting photographers will talkabout their work as part of anevening lecture series. The seriesfeatures internationally acclaimedphotographers who present theirwork and discuss it with the schooland community. Advanced photog-raphy students have

the opportunity to participate in aclass taught by the photographerspreceding the public lecture. Past vis-iting photographers have includedphotojournalist Yunghi Kim, who isknown for her coverage of interna-tional conflicts; Sean Hemmerle, anarchitectural and landscape photog-rapher; and Pulitzer Prize-winningphotojournalist Ed Keating.

Visiting photographer Michael Itzkoff critiques student work during an advanced photographyclass. Itzkoff is founding editor of Daylight Magazine, a photography publication deducted topublishing in-depth photographic essays on important issues. In 2009, Charta Books pub-lished Street Portraits, Itkoff’s exploration of the artifice of portraiture. He is the recipient ofnumerous grants and fellowships and received an MFA from the ICP-Bard program.

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investigated through discus-sion and demonstration. As-signments utilizing graphicdesign and advertising con-cepts will expose studentsto the use of imaging in themedia. A digital SLR camerais suggested for the course,but the use of a film camerawith the conversion of im-ages to digital files is possi-ble. A limited number ofdigital SLRs and film cam-eras are available to rent forthe trimester.

7503 Photography III(10, 11, 12)First or third trimesterPrerequisites: Photography Iand II or permission of the instructorStudio fee $250This course expands uponthe fundamental techniqueslearned in Photo I and II.Emphasis is placed uponmastering the skills neededto ‘pre-visualize’ the photo-graph and to obtain the tech-nical skills needed to makethat concept a realitythrough extensive lab workand technical exercises instudio and outdoor lighting.Students will learn what ittakes to produce the“proper” negative, digitalcapture, and the archivalblack and white fiber andinkjet / pigment print. Addi-tional assignments exploreaesthetic considerations ofalternative camera typessuch as the Holga, Lensbaby,and pinhole.

7504 Photography IV(10, 11, 12)First trimesterPrerequisites: Photo I, II, andIII, or permission of the in-structorStudio fee $250This course examines thedefinition of what consti-tutes a photograph by ex-ploring beyond both thetraditional B&W and colordigital processes. Utilizing al-ternative methods and a va-riety of camera types we

investigate various methodsfor creating a photographicimage. Some of theprocesses that may be uti-lized are color transparencyfilm and processing, Ink Aidsubstrates, digital printing onmetals and plastics, ‘Purrell’transfers, the use of studio“flash lighting,” 4x5 viewcamera techniques, andCyanotype and Kallitypeprinting. This class will meettwice a week in the eveningto allow maximum lab timefor intensive hands-on explo-ration of these advancedphotographic methods andmaterials.

7505 Photography V (11, 12)Second trimesterPrerequisites: Photo I, II, III,and IV, and permission of theinstructorStudio fee $200This course provides an op-portunity for the most ad-vanced and dedicatedstudents to create imagesthat illustrate their personalaesthetic and technical con-trol of the medium. Studentswishing to refine portfoliosfor submission to collegeswill be given the opportunityto edit, document, publish,and submit their work.Group and individualized cri-tiques will be utilized to in-form the student, of opinionsthat may help them decipherthe complex process of

defining a cohesive body ofwork. Students that do notwish to work on portfolioswill have the option to ex-plore the possibilities fortheir long term project. Allstudents will be expected tosubmit a proposal for a spe-cific project of their designand will be required to pro-duce a display of the imagesin a public space, dedicatedwebsite, self-published book/ magazine, or other venueto be approved by the instructor, as well as partici-pate in the Photographer’sLecture Series and associ-ated workshops. Mediumand large format cameraswill be available for loan tostudents. A limited numberof digital SLRs and film cam-eras are available to rent forthe trimester.

7511 Introduction toFilm Making (10, 11, 12)A two-trimester course begin-ning in the second trimesterStudio fee $250 This is an introductorycourse in the art and processof film making; an overviewof the history, basic princi-ples, and technical skills in-volved in creating a film. Thecourse will examine a varietyof film and video sourcesand discuss their conceptsand structure to help gain anunderstanding of the com-plex framework required inthe process of creating an

original film. Students willwork to gain the fundamen-tal technical skills needed tocreate an actual film projectthrough group and individualexercises. Lighting, color bal-ance, camera movements,camera angles, sound cap-ture, hardware, editing andsoftware are just some ofthe areas that will be ex-plored. The second half ofthe course will be spent con-ceptualizing, writing, andcreating story boards, lead-ing to the creation of individ-ual films. Students will berequired to participate in theannual Williston Film Festivaland encouraged to submitprojects throughout thetrimester for consideration.

7601 Introduction to Acting and the TheaterFirst trimesterThe focus of this course is tointroduce students to thepivotal movements in thehistory of Western theater,and to explore diverse actingtechniques used to build arole. The course begins withan introduction to improvisa-tion and theater vocabularybefore moving onto scenework. Working from theirimaginations, students utilizethe techniques of UtaHagen, Stella Adler, and San-ford Meisner to craft theirroles. Scene selection isdrawn from the major move-ments in Western drama,

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including works from an-cient Greece and the canonof realism, modernism, andpost-modernism. Alongwith their scene work, stu-dents explore the social andhistorical forces that pro-pelled these artistic move-ments forward.

7602 Intermediate ActingSecond trimesterPrerequisite: Theater 7601,7621, or permission of the instructorThis course will expandupon the introductorycourse by allowing studentsto dig deeper into mono-logue work and scene work,while studying more ad-vanced techniques andmethods for developingcharacter and collaborationonstage. Students will ben-efit from more frequent pre-sentations of their materialand reading of a diverse cat-alogue of plays. This coursewill give students the op-portunity to grow in theirwork and prepare them forAdvanced Acting and fur-ther study in the future.

7603 Advanced ActingThird trimesterPrerequisite: Theater 7601,7621, or permission of the instructor This course provides stu-dents with further tech-nique to hone their craft as

actors. Working with sys-tems inspired by AnneBogart, Jerzy Grotowski,and Michael Chekhov, stu-dents will be exposed todiverse methods for creat-ing a role through theimagination and the physi-cal life of the character.Scene work is drawn fromthe Italian comedy (com-media dell’arte), Shake-speare, and the modernand post-modern theatricalcanon. The course will bedesigned to address theneeds of individual stu-dents. Scene selection willbe made by addressingspecific areas where stu-dents are struggling orneed to be challenged.

7611 Introduction toTheater Design: ScenicFirst trimesterThis course introduces theprinciples of design, themethods of creating a de-sign concept, and the me-chanics of scenic drafting.Students will learn how adesign is inspired by textanalysis and discover how adesign evolves and maturesthrough process and cre-ative discussion. At theconclusion of the trimester,students will have com-pleted a set of portfolio-quality drawings of a scenicdesign for a play of theirchoosing.

7612 Introduction toTheater Design: LightingThird trimesterThis course introduces theprinciples of lighting design,the mechanics of draftingfor lighting design, and thepractical applications and in-stallation of theatrical light-ing instruments. Studentswill learn how the inspira-tion for a lighting designconcept is born through un-derstanding and creativeutilization of technology. Atthe conclusion of thetrimester, students willhave completed a set ofportfolio-quality drawings ofa lighting design for a playof their choosing.

7702 The Body in MotionFirst trimesterOpen to all upper school students, this courseteaches understanding ofhow movement supportsall of the body’s systems.Through the study of thespine, central nervous sys-tem, joints, connective tis-sues, and muscle groups,students will gain a deeperunderstanding of how togain strength, increase flex-ibility, prevent common in-juries, and move throughspace and life with a unifiedbody. Study of breath sup-port, anatomical vocabulary,

and range of motion willalso be stressed.

7713 American Music:History of Rock andRollThird trimesterThis course studies the ef-fect of the social, politicaland historical events of the1950s - 1970s on the popu-lar music of the time, andconversely, the music’s ef-fect on these events. Thecourse covers the an-tecedent music of Rhythmand Blues and Gospel, thecrossover effects of ElvisPrelley and others in the1950s, and later, in the1960s, the combination ofthe “British invasion” andthe emergence of Soul andMotown, both of which be-came central to our popularculture. The course will alsoexamine the influence ofAmerican Roots Music.

7721 History of Classi-cal Music IFirst trimesterIn this course students willhave the opportunity tolearn about and listen to abroad spectrum of WesternArt Music, known as "Clas-sical" music. Although his-torical perspectives andcontemporary sociopoliticalcontexts will be discussed,the emphasis will be on lis-tening to examples ofmajor works within four

genres: choral, orchestral,operatic and chambermusic, and on understand-ing how each genreevolved. There will be dailylistening assignments,tests, a final written andoral presentation, as well asa requirement to attendthree live concerts andwrite concert critiques in re-sponse to the concert ex-perience. A class trip to liveperformances will beplanned. This course beginswith the Medieval periodand moves through theRenaissance, Baroque, andClassical.

7722 History of Classical Music IISecond trimesterIn this course, students willhave the opportunity tolearn about and listen to abroad spectrum of WesternArt Music, known as "Clas-sical" music. Although his-torical perspectives andcontemporary sociopoliticalcontexts will be discussed,the emphasis will be on lis-tening to examples ofmajor works within fourgenres: choral, orchestral,operatic and chambermusic, and on understand-ing how each genreevolved. There will be dailylistening assignments,tests, a final written andoral presentation, as well asa requirement to attendthree live concerts andwrite concert critiques in re-sponse to the concert ex-perience. A class trip to liveperformances will beplanned. This course beginswith the Classical periodand moves through the Ro-mantic and Modern.

7732 Male Chorus (Caterwaulers)7733 Female Chorus(Widdigers)Offered each trimesterAll-female and all-malechoral ensembles with aneclectic range of material

and an emphasis on closeharmony and a capellamusic. These ensemblesare trained and educatedusing professional stan-dards of rehearsal and per-formance with vocaltechnique, sight singing,and ear training. They areauditioned (or with permis-sion of the instructor)groups of up to 16 mem-bers. All members of theWiddigers and Cater-waulers also perform withthe Teller Chorus.

7741 String EnsembleThe Chamber Orchestraand the Upper SchoolChamber Ensemble re-hearse and perform a widevariety of pieces from theBaroque, Classical, Roman-tic, and Contemporaryrepertoire. All participantstaking the class for creditmust attend both orchestraand chamber ensemble re-hearsals. Students are ex-pected to practice theirparts outside of class re-hearsal time, and to partici-pate in all performances.

7742 Wind EnsembleThe Concert Band re-hearses and performs awide variety of pieces fromthe Baroque, Classical, Ro-mantic, and Contemporaryrepertoire, and the JazzBand draws on many differ-ent styles from the 20thcentury. All participantstaking the class for creditmust attend both the Con-cert Band and Jazz Band re-hearsals. Students areexpected to practice theirparts outside of class re-hearsal time, and to partici-pate in all performances.

7790 AP Music TheoryThe Advanced Placement(AP) Music Theory course isdesigned to prepare stu-dents to take the AP examin Music Theory and to re-ceive college credit. Em-phasis is placed on the

development of skills nec-essary to recognize, under-stand, and describe thebasic materials andprocesses of music that areheard or presented in ascore. Fundamental aural,analytical and composi-tional skills are used withboth listening and writtenexercises. More creativetasks include harmonizationof a melody, composing amusical bass line to providetwo voice counterpoint, andthe realization of figuredbass notation. Students willneed to be experienced insome musical discipline, beit choral or instrumental.Students are expected totake the AP exam in May.

7802 Art History BSecond trimesterThis course will examinethe history of art from theEarly Renaissance andDutch Masters to theBaroque and the Enlighten-ment. We will examineworks of art, write compar-ison essays, read related ar-ticles and visit a local artmuseum.

7803 Art History CThird trimesterThis course will examinethe art of the Early Impres-sionist period through theModern period. We will ex-amine works of art, writecomparison essays, readrelated articles and visit alocal art museum.

7900 Contemporary Art and CultureA two-trimester course beginning in the secondtrimesterApplication requiredStudio fee $150This course focuses on con-temporary art in the contextof social, economic, politi-cal, and scientific eventssince the mid-20th century.Students will explore thefunctions of the artist in so-ciety, and the effects that

globalization, technology,and diverse social move-ments and phenomenahave had on contemporaryart. Students will investi-gate how historical eventsand social and political con-flicts have informed artfrom the 1950s through thepresent, including how var-ious themes in contempo-rary art have been informedby popular music, theater,and dance. This course willinclude visits to the FiveCollege art galleries andmuseums, as well as studiovisits to student artists inthe Five Colleges. A signif-icant portfolio or researchproject will be required inthe spring trimester.

Directed Studies on special topics may bearranged with a facultymember, with approvalfrom the departmenthead and the academicdean.

The following coursesrotate and will not beoffered in the 2011-12school year:

7621 Introduction toPlay Production

7701 Choreography

7711 American Music:History of Jazz A

7712 American Music:History Jazz B

7801 Art History A

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Arts Alternative

The Arts Alternative exists to

provide opportunity and support for

the serious musician, visual artist, or

theater technician. In instances of

demonstrated commitment, a stu-

dent may opt to spend one term

engaged in arts activities, in lieu of

after school sports.

Dance Ensemble

Students have opportunities to

choreograph and perform in a vari-

ety of dance styles for two major

dance productions each year.

Teller Chorus

Teller Chorus is a repertory choral

ensemble which rehearses and per-

forms vocal/choral music written for

mixed (female and male) voices.

TheWillistonTheatre Ensemble

Opportunities to act or work in a

variety of backstage capacities are

available. Three major productions

a year are mounted for public

performance.

Private Instruction

Private instruction in voice and

instrumental music is available for

additional hourly fees. Regular

attendance and practice are expected.

E X T R A C U R R I C U L A R A R T S P R O G R A M

TheWilliston Northampton School19 Payson Avenue, Easthampton, MA 01027 | 413.529.3000 | www.williston.com