mcds high school course guide · functions, trigonometry, statistics, and probability. course name...

MCDS High SchoolCourse Guide

My high school focuses on the “why”, not the “what” . . . much like the real world, I’ve learned to question, think, and not simply accept things for the way they are.

—MCDS Graduate

2018–2019

MCDS 9th Grade Academy Have a voice. Make an impact. Create your path.

Community | Leadership | Confidence

Build the foundation for a fulfilling high school experience.

Orientation Retreat Begin your high school career with a three-day, two-night retreat

designed to build confidence, self-acceptance, and appreciation for your fellow classmates.

Career Exploration Discover potential careers through personality and learning-style inventories, career research,

and job-shadowing experiences.

Community Jobs Explore your leadership style while building community

through a daily opportunity to work with lower school students.

Advisory Stay connected and feel supported,

no matter what your academic, social, or life situation, through Advisory and Academy sessions.

Modesof Writing

WorldCivilizations

Biology/Chemistry/

Physics Laboratory

Science I

Biology/Chemistry/

Physics Laboratory

Science II

HonorsI

HonorsII

Spanish3

Spanish1

Spanish2

Spanish4

Japanese1

Japanese2

AmericanHistory

Rhetoric & Literary Analysis

IBHistory I—SL

IBJapanese I—Ab Initio

IBJapanese II—Ab Initio

IBMusic I—SL

IBMusic I—HL

IBMusic II—SL

IBMusic II—HL

IBJapanese I—SL/HL

IBJapanese II—SL/HL

IBHistory II—SL

IBEnglish II—SL

IBEnglish I—SL

IBEnglish I—HL

IBHistory I—HL

IBBiology

I—SL/HL

IBBiology

II—SL/HL

IBChem

I—SL/HL

IBPhysics I—SL/HL

IBSpanish I—HL

IBSpanish

I—SL

IBSpanish II—SL

IBSpanish II—HL

IBPhysics

II—SL/HL

IBChem

II—SL/HL

IBHistory II—HL

IBEnglish II—HL

English History

GeometryGrade Level or Honors

Algebra IIGrade Level or Honors

IB Math Studies I—SL

IB Math Studies II—SL

IB Math I—SL

IB Math II—SL

IB Math I—HL

IB Math II—HL

AP Calculus

BC

Multivariable Calculus

Math* Science Spanish MusicJapanese

FineWorld Language

9

10

11

12

The African Voice in

American Music

The History of Rock and

Roll

Ensemble(Band, Choir, or Orchestra)

Ensemble(Band, Choir, or Orchestra)

Choose one

Choose one Choose one Choose oneChoose one Choose one **Choose one Choose one

* Chart shows typical math progression; however, each student’s pathway will be customized according to proficiency and math background.

Arts

Art Foundations

The Actor’s Toolbox

Scene Work:

The Art of Acting

Creative Thinking:

Concepts in Design

PE&

Health

Your Choice

Your Choice

Your Choice

Your Choice

PEor equivalent

PEor equivalent

PEor equivalent

IBVisual Arts

I—SL

IBVisual Arts

II—SL

IBVisual Arts

I—HL

IBVisual Arts

II—HL

Visual Art Theater PE

IB Core

Non-Credit Elective1 per wk

Choose one

For many years, we have considered the full IB Diploma to be the ‘gold standard.’ Unlike an AP program, in which students can pick and choose which AP courses to take, sometimes playing to their strengths and avoiding their weaknesses, the full IB diploma is consistent, coherent, rigorous, and takes two full years to complete. It takes a tremendous amount of intellectual effort and academic commitment.”

— Richard Vos, Vice President/Dean of Admission,

Claremont McKenna College

“

** A second science in lieu of Fine Arts in grades 11 and 12 is possible.

CAS: Creativity,

Action, Service

Extended Essay

TOK: Theory of

Knowledge class

MCDS High School: Multiple Pathways for SuccessFind your own unique path.

Course Name Brief Description

English 9Modes of Reading and Writing

1 credit

Students read, analyze, and discuss works by Sandra Cisneros, Aldo Leopold, William Shakespeare, Homer, and Michel de Montaigne, among others. Using literature inspiration for discussion and composition, students write in a variety of genres and modes including the personal narrative, descriptive poem, science essay, romantic poetry, short fiction, and analytical essay. This course offers a framework for students to develop reading, writing, and research skills important to success in high school and beyond.

English 10Literary Analysis and Rhetoric

1 credit

Put simply, this is a course in rhetoric: the art of finding the most effective way to communicate well-developed ideas. In addition to reading rhetorical theory, such as Aristotle’s Rhetoric and Plato’s Gorgias, students will research a variety of topics and write their own arguments. They will also read and analyze speeches, essays, letters, plays, and literature that explore the concept of civil disobedience.

IB English I—SL/HL

1 credit

In the first year of IB English, students develop their reading, speaking, thinking, and writing skills through understanding how form and context construct meaning in texts. In this course, “text” refers to any type of expression, whether verbal, written, or visual: speeches, advertisements, plays, podcasts, websites, novels, and cartoons all count as texts, and students develop the skills and knowledge to understand the value of each text in its original context. Students will develop their skills through seminar discussions, formal presentation, and written work. HL work includes higher-level assignments and assessments.

IB English II—SL/HL

1 credit

In the second year of IB English, students continue to develop their reading, speaking, thinking, and writing skills and enhance their ability to contextualize a variety of texts. Students approach texts in a more thematic manner, looking at themes such as how gender is presented and constructed in popular media and how politicians use language to persuade and shape public opinion. Students also explore literature’s place within society and culture, as well as the distinguishing features of literary genres (drama, fiction, poetry, and prose). HL work includes higher-level assignments and assessments.

Course Content Tools and Tactics

Cre

ativ

e w

ritin

g

Expo

sito

ry w

ritin

g

Poet

ry

Rhe

toric

Crit

ical

read

ing

and

anal

ysis

Inte

rpre

tive

and

criti

cal e

ssay

s

Fict

ion

Non

-fict

ion

Con

tem

pora

ry li

tera

ture

Peer

feed

back

Writ

er’s

Wor

ksho

p

Gre

at W

orld

Tex

ts C

onfe

renc

e

NY

Tim

es c

ompe

titio

ns

Stud

ent-l

ed d

iscu

ssio

ns a

nd p

rese

ntat

ions

Socr

atic

Sem

inar

English 9

English 10

IB English I—SL

IB English I—HL

IB English II—SL

IB English II—HL

Elective Name Brief Description

Student Newspaper

Elements is the MCDS student-run newspaper. Students write and edit stories as part of a monthly publication.

English Electives

2

MCDS High School: English CoursesLearn to understand an author’s perspective, not just read.

Mark Childs Katherine DallandEnglish Department Chair

Evelyn Lasky

Steve Firchow Brittany Judkins Erica Kost Laura SodenMath Department Chair


Geometry

1 credit

Geometry helps students develop a strong spatial understanding as they explore two-dimensional shapes in Euclidean geometry. Congruence, similarity, transformational geometry, circles, constructions, and three-dimensional solids are the core topics of this course. Deductive reasoning is motivated by investigations using GeoGebra, and both direct and indirect proofs are utilized throughout the course. Algebra I skills are integrated into all applications of the concepts studied.

Honors Geometry

1 credit

This course leads students to investigate complex geometric concepts and proofs, and develop a foundation in deduction and problem-solving. Congruence, similarity, transformational geometry, circles, constructions, and three-dimensional solids are the core topics of this course. Honors Geometry assumes that students possess strong problem-solving skills and are ready to think and work independently.

Algebra II

1 credit

Algebra II continues with the study of algebraic concepts learned in Math 7 and Math 8. It develops understanding of advanced Algebra concepts such as functions, simultaneous equations, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, absolute value, and complex numbers. Students will factor, describe and translate functions, and represent algebraic ideas on the coordinate plane. Students will be expected to read, write, discuss, and understand mathematical proofs.

Honors Algebra II

1 credit

Honors Algebra II builds upon the concepts studied in mathematics the three years prior and has a strong component of mathematical proof. Core concepts of Honors Algebra II include functions, simultaneous equations, inequalities, absolute value, and complex numbers. While the concepts of this course are similar to those in Algebra II, students approved for Honors will have demonstrated strong technical and analytical skills, as well as an ability to work and learn independently.

IB Mathematical Studies I & II—SL

2 credits

IB Mathematical Studies SL is a two-year course. Year A and Year B may be taken in either order. Year A topics: Sets and Venn diagrams, logic, probability, descriptive statistics, the normal distribution, two-variable statistics, right triangle trigonometry, and preparation of the Internal Assessment (a statistics project). Year B topics: Algebra, coordinate geometry, functions (linear, quadratic, exponential), sequences and series, right triangle trigonometry, and introduction to differential calculus. Right triangle trigonometry is included in both years in May, in order to accommodate juniors who wish to take the June ACT or SAT.

IB Mathematics I—SL

1 credit

IB Mathematics I—SL is the first course in a two-year progression. The SL level is designed for students who already possess knowledge of basic mathematical concepts and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply these techniques accurately and efficiently. The core topics of IB Mathematics I—SL are algebra, functions, trigonometry, statistics, and probability.


IB Mathematics I—HL

1 credit

IB Mathematics I—HL is the first course in a two-year progression. The HL level is designed for students with a strong mathematical background and a proven record of success in a range of technical and analytical skills. Students taking the HL level should be prepared for a rigorous and fast-paced course that requires independent learning. The core topics of IB Mathematics I—HL are Algebra, functions, trigonometry, statistics, probability, and vectors.

IB Mathematics II—SL

1 credit

IB Mathematics II—SL is the second course in a two-year progression. The SL level is designed for students who already possess knowledge of basic mathematical concepts and who are equipped with the skills needed to apply these techniques accurately and efficiently. The core topics of IB Mathematics II—SL include vectors, as well as differential and integral calculus.

IB Mathematics II—HL

1 credit

IB Mathematics II—HL is the second course in a two-year progression. The HL level is designed for students with a strong mathematical background and a proven record of success in a range of technical and analytical skills. Students taking the HL level should be prepared for a rigorous and fast-paced course that requires independent learning. The core topics of IB Mathematics II—HL are limits, derivatives, integrals, differential equations, and infinite series.

AP Calculus BC

1 credit

AP Calculus BC is a full-year course in the calculus of functions of a single variable. This course will build off of students’ prior knowledge of differential and integral calculus that was developed in IB Mathematics II—HL. Students will study vector functions, parametrically defined functions, the area bounded by polar curves, logistic growth functions, and Taylor polynomials. The course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Calculus BC exam at year’s end, but also to expand upon and connect the various areas of mathematics that students have studied in previous years.

4

MCDS High School: Mathematics CoursesLearn the power of numbers in everyday life.


Alg

ebra

Func

tions

Plan

e ge

omet

ry

2D a

nd 3

d co

ordi

nate

geo

met

ry

Trig

onom

etry

Stat

istic

s

Diff

eren

tial c

alcu

lus

Inte

gral

cal

culu

s

Para

met

ric a

nd v

ecto

r cal

culu

s

Indi

vidu

al w

ork

Gro

up w

ork

and

disc

ussi

on

Ora

l pre

sent

atio

n

Mat

hem

atic

al p

roof

writ

ing

Gra

phin

g ca

lcul

ator

Inte

rnal

ass

essm

ent a

nd e

xplo

ratio

n

Geometry

Honors Geometry

Algebra II

Honors Algebra II

IB Mathematical Studies—SL

IB Mathematics I & II—SL

IB Mathematics I & II—HL

AP Calculus BC

“Whatever your goal is beyond high school, the MCDS math department seeks to give you the mathematical foundation needed to flourish. Your four years at MCDS will help you build a strong understanding of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics. If you are motivated to push forward, there are opportunities to continue your study of calculus through the discussion of polar and parametric functions, series, arc length, and multivariable differentiation and integration. Regardless of what course you are taking or the level you are in, our teachers will support you and challenge you to be a competent and confident mathematician who can read, write, and discuss mathematics.”

—Laura Soden, Math Department Chair

6 7

MCDS High School: Mathematics CoursesLearn the power of numbers in everyday life.

Laramie WiesemanMichelle KramerRaymond NallJake EatonScience Department Chair


Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Laboratory Science I

1 credit

In Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Laboratory Science I, students explore the building blocks that make up matter, from nuclear reactions to macromolecules. With a basic understanding of matter, they investigate forms and flow of energy. They discover forces, motion, and show how human body mechanics can be compared to simple machines. Finally, they investigate the role that organization in biological organisms and systems plays in the cycling of matter.

Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Laboratory Science II

1 credit

In Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Laboratory Science II, students explore these topics with more depth. Students investigate waves and energy transfer. They see them in a whole new light as the physics of waves informs us about biology, chemistry and our physical world. They investigate types of bonds and how they influence biochemical and intermolecular reactions. Momentum, collision theory, and chemical reactions are studied conceptually and mathematically. Students apply their knowledge of bonds and chemical reactions as they examine DNA and the role genetic variation plays in evolution. Finally, they catapult into their junior year by ending with the kinematics of projectile motion.

IB Physics I & II—SL/HL

2 credits

Physics is the most fundamental of the experimental sciences and it strives to understand the essence of matter and energy that transcends everything between the microscopic and the macroscopic universe. Learning through experimentation is stressed so that students construct meaning by designing, conducting, and reflecting on scientific investigations. Understanding the scientific process through collaboration, hands-on experience, inquiry, and critical thinking, enables students to connect science to other areas of life. IB physics covers measurements and uncertainties, newtonian mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic, nuclear and particle physics, energy systems and production, and a choice of one of the following options: relativity, engineering, imaging or astrophysics. Students may take the IB Physics exam possibly earning college credits and/or placement.

IB Biology I & II—SL/HL

2 credits

This two-year, pre-university biology course includes classroom study and 60 hours of laboratory work. In the first year, students study cell size, cellular structure, biochemistry, cellular processes, DNA, genetics, and genetic engineering. In addition, students select a research and laboratory project of their choice and pursue it in depth. In the second year, students study ecology, evolution, plant science, human anatomy and physiology. Students also complete their “group four” research and laboratory project. Sitting for the IB Biology exam may earn college credits and/or placement.


Advanced Science Research

The advanced science research program aims to place highly-motivated, self-disciplined, and inquisitive MCDS students with science researchers at partnering institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison for the summer before their senior year. From this experience, students experience authentic research and careers in science, dig deeper into topics of interest, and pursue academic passions that extend beyond current MCDS offerings.

Science Olympiad

Science Olympiad is an academic decathlon of science and engineering prowess. Students compete in up to 23 different events that involve building, learning, and testing. MCDS competes at the regional and state level depending on interest and qualification.


IB ChemistryI & II—SL/HL

2 credits

IB Chemistry SL is an advanced, two-year, lab-based chemistry curriculum. Students complete a study of the IB Chemistry curriculum (SL) which builds on concepts discussed in their first-year chemistry. The course focuses on the study of chemical reactions and the different branches of chemistry. This course culminates with students taking the IB Chemistry exam (SL) for which colleges may award credits and/or placement. In addition, students select and pursue an in-depth “group four” research and laboratory project of their choice.

Science Electives

8

MCDS High School: Science CoursesLearn how to think and experiment like a scientist, not just follow directions.

Course Content

Intr

oduc

tory

bio

logy

Intr

oduc

tory

che

mis

try

Intr

oduc

tory

phy

sics

Cla

ssic

al m

echa

nics

Ther

mod

ynam

ics

Elec

tric

ity &

mag

netis

m

Opt

ics

Org

anic

che

mis

try

Inor

gani

c ch

emis

try

Ana

lytic

al c

hem

istr

y

Phys

ical

che

mis

try

Bio

chem

istr

y

Cel

l bio

logy

Mic

robi

olog

y

Gen

etic

s &

evo

lutio

nary

bio

logy

Ecol

ogy

Ana

tom

y &

phy

siol

ogy

Integrated Laboratory Science I

Integrated Laboratory Science II

IB Physics I & II—SL

IB Physics I & II—HL

IB Biology I & II—SL

IB Biology I & II—HL

IB Chemistry I & II—SL

IB Chemistry I & II—HL

“The growth of our high school has led to exciting new offerings for science. The integrated science courses for freshman and sophomore students, the Group 4 IB Project, advanced science research, and more create an engaging program of study for our students.”

—Jake Eaton, Science Department Chair

Tools and Tactics

Lab

tech

niqu

es

Socr

atic

sem

inar

Engi

neer

ing

desi

gn

Inde

pend

ent a

sses

smen

t

Gro

up 4

Pro

ject

Inde

pend

ent r

esea

rch

10 11

MCDS High School: Science CoursesLearn how to think and experiment like a scientist, not just follow directions.

Lydiette Clariz Calderon‑Cancel

Ana Bañomera Karen Hendrickson Natalia Navarro Albaladejo

Patricia JaumeWorld Language

Department Chair


Spanish 1

1 credit

The primary goal of this class is the development of the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students learn the essential tools to communicate successfully in simple daily-life situations. An exciting element of this course is learning about different Spanish-speaking countries and appreciating the richness of their culture.

Spanish 2

1 credit

This course provides the students with the necessary skills to communicate in a variety of topics related to their daily life. Students continue to learn about the culture expanding an awareness of the world and its diverse cultural perspectives. At this level, students are able to synthesize learned material in order to express their ideas. They can ask and answer simple questions and can handle short conversations.

Spanish 3 & 4

2 credits

This two-year transitional course reinforces the skills students bring from middle school in order to be ready for the IB Standard Level, which is an intermediate high language level.

Honors Spanish I

1 credit

This course is conducted entirely in Spanish and focuses on encouraging students to communicate orally beyond the here and now. Paragraphs become the minimum unit of writing. The material to which students are exposed in class is increasingly more complex and authentic, including news, literature, and current events discussions. An in-depth revision of grammar is completed in levels 3 and 4 with assessment in productive and receptive skills.

Honors Spanish II

1 credit

Students continue to review thoroughly complex grammatical structures, gaining knowledge about the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world through readings and discussions of current events and literary texts, including essays, short stories, and poems.

IB Spanish I & II—SL/HL

2 credits

This two-year course helps students as they prepare for the Spanish IB exam. There is an emphasis on the writing process when communicating and effectively organizing more complex ideas. Likewise, students are requested to orally present in formal and informal settings with prepared scenarios and also more improvised ones. At this point, language is used in the classroom as a means of communication, not as an end in itself. Additionally, HL students engage more in depth in literary texts.

Japanese 1

1 credit

Students develop conversational skills and gain Japanese vocabulary, kanji, writing skills, and cultural knowledge. Students learn to read and write 46 hiragana characters, 46 katakana characters, and 60 kanji characters. Students make connections between Japanese language and culture, and use Japanese within the context of personal hobbies.


Japanese 2

1 credit

Students in this course continue their study of Japanese language and culture while also further developing skills to enable them to talk about their own culture, likes, families, and so on. Students can expect to learn to use 180 additional kanji characters.

IB Japanese I & II—SL/HL(with the option for Ab Initio)

2 credits

IB SL/HL (with the option for Ab Initio): Students in this course continue their study of Japanese language and culture, and prepare for their IB assessments. As they cover a wider variety of topics such as traditional arts, traveling and health, they learn to state and support opinions with increasing persuasiveness, produce more in-depth writing, and read excerpts from newspapers and other sources. Students can expect to review and further solidify their understanding of kanji characters.

Exchange opportunities to Ecuador, Spain, and JapanAre you interested in studying abroad? Immersing yourself in the culture of another country can be an effective and fun way to improve your language acquisition. MCDS is proud to support global connections through exchange programs that range from a couple of weeks to a full semester. Travel to Ecuador, Spain, or Japan learning the language, enjoying the food and culture, and meeting new friends.

12

MCDS High School: World LanguageLearn how to be a global citizen.


Sim

ple

com

mun

icat

ion

on fa

mili

ar to

pics

in a

ll fo

ur s

kills

Con

vers

atio

n on

eve

ryda

y si

tuat

ions

Con

vers

atio

n be

yond

fam

iliar

topi

cs p

rom

otin

g or

al, w

ritte

n an

d cu

ltura

l flu

ency

Gra

mm

ar fo

cus:

Pre

sent

tens

e.

Gra

mm

ar fo

cus:

Pas

t and

futu

re te

nses

Gra

mm

ar fo

cus:

Sim

ple

stru

ctur

es, c

over

ing

all t

ense

s

Gra

mm

ar fo

cus:

Com

plex

str

uctu

res

Cul

tura

l aw

aren

ess

on p

rodu

cts,

pra

ctic

es, a

nd p

ersp

ectiv

es

Dev

elop

ing

cultu

ral a

war

enes

s us

ing

auth

entic

or s

emi-a

uthe

ntic

mat

eria

ls

Dev

elop

ing

cultu

ral a

war

enes

s us

ing

auth

entic

mat

eria

ls in

clud

ing

liter

atur

e

Gro

up d

iscu

ssio

ns

Writ

ing

proj

ects

Ora

l pre

sent

atio

ns

Inte

rpre

tive

task

sSpanish 1

Spanish 2

Spanish 3 & 4

Honors Spanish I

Honors Spanish II

IB Spanish I & II—SL

IB Spanish I & II—HL

Japanese 1

Japanese 2

IB Japanese I & II—Ab Initio

IB Japanese I & II—HL/SL

“At MCDS, students have the opportunity to embark on their own language learning journey, regardless of their level, being supported along the way, in order to discover other worlds through their language and cultures.”

—Patricia Jaume, World Language Department Chair

14 15

MCDS High School: World LanguageLearn how to be a global citizen.

Bob CamosyHistory Department Chair

Drew Ciancia


History 9World Civilizations

1 credit

Students explore the culture, economics, foreign affairs, politics, and religions of the world as they study world history from prehistoric hunter and gatherer communities about 60,000 years ago to the birth of the modern era in 1500 CE. They practice geography skills throughout the year and read primary sources for each unit of study.

History 10 American History & World Civilizations

1 credit

Students study early American history, beginning with pre-Columbian native cultures and finishing with the Jacksonian Era in the early 19th century. This course also incorporates world history, with the understanding that American history was heavily shaped by international actors, events, and ideas, especially during the colonial period and early republic.

IB History I & II—SL

2 credits

This two-year course integrates US and 20th century world history, stressing depth over breadth. Students study IB Prescribed Subject 3, “The Move to Global War” (1931–1941), causes, practices and effects of wars (WWI, WWII, Russian Revolution), and the origins and development of authoritarian and single-party states (Hitler, Stalin, Castro). Students develop an understanding of history as a discipline, including the nature and diversity of its sources, methods, and interpretations.

IB History I & II—HL

2 credits

IB History I & II, plus additional topics of: (1) The American Civil War: Causes, Courses, and Effects, 1840–1877; (2) Development of Modern Nations, 1865–1929; (3) Emergence of the Americas in Global Affairs, 1880–1929; (4) World War II and the Americas, 1933–1945.


Model UN

Model UN is an educational simulation and academic competition in which students learn about diplomacy, international relations, and the United Nations. Model UN involves research, public speaking, debating, and writing skills, in addition to teaching critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership abilities.

History Electives


Wor

ld H

isto

ry to

150

0

U.S

. His

tory

177

6–18

40

Wor

ld H

isto

ry 1

500–

1840

Civ

ics

and

the

Con

stitu

tion

U.S

. His

tory

184

0–19

20

20th

Cen

tury

Eur

opea

n H

isto

ry 1

900–

1945

Can

adia

n H

isto

ry 1

914–

1945

Mod

ern

Day

/Cur

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Eve

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Fide

l Cas

tro

and

the

Cub

an R

evol

utio

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OPC

VL S

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His

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Writ

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Wor

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p/Pe

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ditin

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Inte

rnal

Ass

essm

ent

Sem

inar

s an

d D

ebat

es

History 9

History 10

IB History I—SL/HL

IB History II—SL/HL

16

MCDS High School: History CoursesLearn to analyze information, not just memorize facts.

Julia TaylorArt Department Chair

Zachary Combs


Visual Arts & Theory I1 credit

In this foundational course for the high school art program, students continue to work with a variety of two- and three-dimensional media. They explore the role of the building blocks of artwork—the art elements (shape, form, space, line, texture, and color) and examine the principles of design (unity, harmony, repetition, proportion, balance, rhythm, and movement)—to hone their knowledge of balanced composition. Students learn to recognize and examine various art forms from different cultures and times, building their understanding of the connection among artworks, artifacts and objects, and the cultural context in which they were created. Students also learn to write short reflections and evaluations of their own and other artists’ work, both strengthening their analytical skill and expanding their art vocabulary.

Visual Arts & Theory II

1 credit

This studio course continues the journey from Visual Arts & Theory I and further explores traditional and experimental art techniques and approaches to create two- and three-dimensional pieces. Studio work focuses on refining both students’ craftsmanship skills and application of the art elements and design principles to effectively convey their ideas. Students continue to expand their analytical skills through written evaluations of their own and other artists’ work. They delve deeper into the cultural context in which selected artworks were created that helps students interpret the purpose and function of the works. Students develop informed ways of viewing and examining the work of other artists to better understand how critical investigation underpins the art-making process.

IB Visual Arts I—SL/HL

1 credit

In the first year of IB Visual Arts, students develop a cohesive portfolio of artworks that illustrates their personal interests and involvement. Students independently select art materials, techniques, and styles to experiment with and apply in their studio work, thoughtfully considering the connection between the design and idea. Students use their visual arts journal to support and inform the development of their artwork through focused contextual, visual, and artists’ research. Together, the students’ research, creative work, and evaluations help students develop their own artistic voice, place their own work into a wider context, and consider its effect on an audience.

IB Visual Arts II—SL/HL

1 credit

During their second year of IB Visual Arts, students prepare for the IB final exam by completing the comparative study project, creating an electronic portfolio with research and critical reflections, and exhibiting a body of works supported by a cohesive artist statement. HL requires advanced research and additional projects for completion at this level.


Offered in the past:

Comic Book & Sequential Art

Students explore ideas of visual storytelling, storyboarding, character creation, and drawing fundamentals. They may also have the opportunity to explore the basics of stop-motion, cel animation, and video.

Drawing ClubStudents have the opportunity to explore their own ideas through drawing. The instructor also offers short workshops on drawing figures, making comics, and strategies for collaborating with other artists.

Offered in the past:

Card Making, Book Making, and Photoshop

Students explore various printmaking techniques such as monotype and monoprint to make hand-printed images. Using decorative papers, stamping techniques, glitter, beads, feathers, buttons, stickers, and other craft supplies, students will create a variety of images that can be a part of card, book, and journal designs. Students learn how to edit and create new digital images using Photoshop, a photo-editing program. Initial lessons focus on cropping, resizing, adjusting brightness and contrast, and colors of the image, creating simple digital paintings, as well as preparing images for printing.

Art Electives

18

MCDS High School: Art CoursesLearn a creative lens by which to view the world.


Dra

win

g

Pain

ting

Scul

ptur

e

Prin

tmak

ing

Des

ign

Dig

ital m

edia

and

pho

togr

aphy

Mix

ed m

edia

Res

earc

h: v

isua

l, cu

ltura

l, an

d ar

tist

Des

crip

tive

writ

ing

Ref

lect

ion

and

eval

uatio

n

Com

para

tive

stud

y

Cur

ator

ial p

ract

ice

Art

his

tory

not

es

Elec

tron

ic p

ortfo

lio

Art

por

tfolio

for c

olle

ge s

ubm

issi

on

Han

ds-o

n ex

erci

ses

Cla

ss p

rese

ntat

ion

Indi

vidu

al w

ork

Gro

up a

nd in

divi

dual

crit

ique

Fiel

d tr

ip: a

rt m

useu

m o

r gal

lery

Visi

ting

artis

t: pr

esen

tatio

n an

d w

orks

hop

WI S

tate

Fai

r: Y

oung

Peo

ple’

s A

rt E

xhib

it

Con

gres

sion

al A

rt C

ompe

titio

n

IB A

rt E

xhib

ition

Fine

Art

s W

eek

Stud

ents

’ Exh

ibiti

on

Visual Arts & Theory I

Visual Arts & Theory II

IB Visual Arts I—SL/HL

IB Visual Arts II—SL/HL

“The MCDS high school visual arts courses encourage the development of well-rounded and erudite artists. Students learn to recognize that the art-making process embraces inquiry, investigation, reflection, and creative application”

—Julia Taylor, Art Department Chair

20 21

MCDS High School: Art CoursesLearn a creative lens by which to view the world.

Jon SchipperMusic Department Chair

Philip TietzeMaggie Stansfield


Music 9African Voices in Western Music

1 credit

Students are introduced to the music of West Africa and its influence on many genres of music in the Western hemisphere. Students explore the music of West Africa (including native rhythms and dance), Caribbean music, and the evolution of American Jazz and Hip Hop. Music theory concepts include chord inversions, jazz chord notation, and harmonization.

Music 10The History of Rock and Roll

1 credit

This course will allow students to learn and appreciate how the evolution of American Rock and Roll has changed the world in the last 75 years through freedom and expression of music (social/cultural connections), the development of the “hit” song, innovation in the technology of recording music, and new sounds in instruments.

IB Music I—SL/HL

1 credit

A basic survey of Western European eras covers the music of the Renaissance and the early Baroque, Classical musical forms, Romantic Program composers, 20th century composers, tonal and atonal music, performance media, and social context.

IB Music II—SL/HL

1 credit

Students continue to study Western music history, world music, and fusion from the 20th century. The music theory instruction is tailored to individual cases. Students study the prescribed works (J.S. Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto #2” and Zoltán Kodály’s “Dances of Galanta”), review for IB exams, and work on the Musical Links Investigation paper.

Band

.5 credit

Band gives the student the opportunity to study, learn, appreciate, rehearse, and perform various forms of music in a large instrumental group setting. The ensemble will work on many genres of music including 20th century jazz music, contemporary concert band selections, and Latin music. Throughout the year, the group performs at various events including concerts, assemblies, mini-tours, and graduations.

Orchestra

.5 credit

Orchestra explores many skills that will increase the student’s level of performance ability on their instrument. Using a varied repertoire, students will explore music and rhythm games, audiation exercises, and traditional technical exercises. Students gain skills that will make learning an instrument more pleasurable and guide them to be independent learners. They rehearse and perform together in both small and large group settings at various events throughout the year.

Choir

.5 credit

As a member of high school choir, students will study, prepare, and perform 4-part repertoire from a variety of genres, especially works of historical or cultural significance. Through their work in preparing these pieces, singers will improve their understanding of singing technique and gain confidence in their voices. These student-musicians will also acquire and reinforce the skills, knowledge, and habits of working together in a cooperative ensemble.


Ense

mbl

e Te

chni

que

Inst

rum

ent P

edag

ogy

Mov

emen

t/Dan

ce

Afr

ican

Mus

ic

Car

ibbe

an M

usic

Am

eric

an J

azz

Fusi

on M

usic

Blu

es M

usic

Am

eric

an R

ock

Folk

Mus

ic

Wes

tern

Mus

ic

Wor

ld M

usic

Mus

ic T

heor

y

Perc

eptiv

e Li

sten

ing

His

toric

al/C

ultu

ral/S

ocia

l Con

nect

ions

Com

posi

tion/

Arr

angi

ng

Smal

l Ens

embl

e W

ork

Publ

ic P

erfo

rman

ces

(WSM

A, C

omm

unity

Out

reac

h)

Music 9

Music 10

IB Music I—SL/HL

IB Music II—SL/HL

Band

Orchestra

Choir

22

MCDS High School: Music CoursesLearn to express one’s self and culture through music.

Interested in theater? Join the casts of the Fall Musical and Spring Play; also see the Theater page of this guide.


The Actor’s Toolbox

1 credit

The course introduces the beginning actor to the fundamental vocabulary, skills, and concepts required to perform in theater, film, and television. The focus is on individual acting, voice, and movement skills necessary for solo performance, auditions and monologues. Each element is explored with practical applications in an environment encouraging creativity, focus, discipline, and control. Using improvisation, observation, exercises, theater games, text analysis, and monologue work, each student creates their own “actor’s toolbox” and lays the foundation for future performance courses. The course explores the actor’s role in making compelling and engaging theater.

Students build on innate talents and capacities to become more mentally flexible, emotionally fluent and controlled, physically expressive, as well as more articulate, disciplined, and self-confident.

Scene Work: The Art of Acting

1 credit

The tenth grade theater class centers on working in space with others by developing ensemble and scene work. Theater explorations focus on teachings of Uta Hagen, Stanislavski, and Michael Chekhov. Scene work actively explores the theater of ancient Greece, Shakespeare, Commedia dell’ Arte, Modern Realism, and World Theater. The actor’s work is coordinated with voice and movement training applicable to each style and genre. Students emerge from the class with a comprehensive understanding creating a physically and physiologically complex character while becoming a more mentally flexible, emotionally fluent, and physically expressive human being.

Theater Electives


Theater Elective

Theater Department offers a middle school and high school elective. The elective courses are designed as stand-alone workshops in voice and speech, improvisation, monologues, stage combat, the International Phonetic Alphabet, auditioning, and public speaking.

Improv Comedy

The improv team, through exercises, games, and performances, will take their improvisation skills to a new level. The improv company elective may have an opportunity to perform with other area improv troupes off-campus and host a informal open mic on campus.

James WagonerTheater Department Chair


Voic

e an

d sp

eech

Mov

emen

t

Cor

e ac

ting

tech

niqu

es

Impr

ovis

atio

n

His

toric

al c

hara

cter

pro

ject

Text

ana

lysi

s

Con

cept

s an

d vo

cabu

lary

Ref

lect

ion

and

eval

uatio

n

Ense

mbl

e bu

ildin

g

Mon

olog

ues

Scen

e w

ork

Han

ds-o

n st

udio

env

ironm

ent

Gro

win

g th

e ac

tor’s

inne

r res

ourc

es

Shar

peni

ng s

kills

of c

once

ntra

tion,

obs

erva

tion,

risk

-taki

ng, a

nd h

ones

ty

Dev

elop

ing

self-

disc

iplin

e in

the

use

of th

e w

hole

bod

y in

stru

men

t

App

roac

hing

a d

ram

atic

text

inte

llige

ntly

and

rigo

rous

ly, w

ith a

utho

rity

and

mat

urity

.

Drama & Theater 9

Drama & Theater 10

Fall Production

Spring Production

24

MCDS High School: Theater CoursesLearn to express the human condition through acting.

Eric CookeJeremy ClementsAthletics Director,

Athletic Department Chair


PE Grade 9Health & Fitness

.5 credit

Students participate in an array of fitness and leadership activities to build camaraderie and communication within their ninth grade peers. Students receive an overview of strength training in our fitness center as well as First Aid/CPR/AED certification. In Health, students cover the seven dimensions of wellness while creating a better understanding of their personal wellness. Discussions revolve around the wellness dimensions including: intellectual, physical, social, environmental, occupational, spiritual, and emotional health. The topics of nutrition, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, healthy relationships, and sexually-transmitted infections are included.

PE Grades 10–12

.5 credit/year

Students participate in a variety of fitness activities including but not limited to strength training, aerobics, and yoga.


Fitness Students experience a broad range of physical activities in a group fitness setting.

Weight TrainingStudents participate in various strength training opportunities within our fitness center while learning the key principles of strength training.

Physical Education Electives


Nut

ritio

n

Fitn

ess

Stre

ngth

trai

ning

Wel

lnes

s

Ana

tom

y

Indi

vidu

aliz

ed fi

tnes

s pr

ogra

mm

ing

Gro

up p

roje

cts

Lead

ersh

ip/c

oope

rativ

e ga

mes

Res

earc

h

Rol

e pl

ay

Health & Fitness 9

Physical Education 10–12

26

MCDS High School: Physical EducationLearn how a healthy body mirrors a healthy mind.

Boys BasketballGirls BasketballCross Country

Golf Lacrosse

Boys SoccerGirls SoccerSpirit SquadTrack & Field

Girls Volleyball

CrewCross Country Skiing

DanceDownhill SkiingSnowboarding

TennisUltimate Frisbee

MCDS Athletic tradition is strong and growing . . .

MCDS High School AthleticsTeamwork. Perseverance. Self-confidence. Sportsmanship.

MCDS Varsity Sports(WIAA Co-op with ALCS)

MCDS Club Sports (Sponsored by MCDS)

• Each year MCDS evaluates new sports, programs, and ideas to expand opportunities for our students. These are authentic trailblazing opportunities for students who want to take initiative and help us grow the athletic program.

• The MCDS student-athlete also participates in sports outside of the school including: Swimming, Baseball, Tennis, Karate, Judo, Taekwondo, Dance, Ice Skating, Cheer, Horseback Riding, Fencing, and Aikido.

Mark ChildsIB Coordinator

Drew CianciaCAS coordinator

James Wagoner


Theory of Knowledge I & II

.75 credit

In this 18-month course, students step back from the relentless acquisition of knowledge, beliefs, and opinions from academic studies and life outside the classroom in order to reflect on the questions: How do I know? What counts as knowledge? How do I gain knowledge? What knowledge do I have? How do I use this knowledge? Students will gain awareness of different perspectives and the disciplinary, ideological, and personal assumptions that underlay human knowledge, including one’s own. Students will think critically by analyzing causes and limitations of knowledge, linking ideas from different knowledge areas, and developing an appropriate flexible framework for approaching complex situations. Students explore several areas of knowledge, including: the arts, mathematics, natural sciences, human sciences, history, and ethics.

CAS: Creativity, Activity, Service

As a requirement to earn an IB Diploma, students will complete 150 hours of integrated creativity, activity, and service components; examples include everything from creating an elective course for middle school students to competing in WIAA athletics to volunteering at a non-profit organization.

Extended Essay

Students write a 4,000-word original research paper with the guidance of an MCDS high school faculty member as a requirement to earn an IB Diploma. After completion, students are exceptionally well prepared for the rigors of college research and writing on an academic topic of their choice.

28

MCDS High School: IB DiplomaLearn to think critically and communicate effectively.

Multiple Pathways for success at MCDS High SchoolFind your unique path.

MCDS Diploma: Earned by completing the necessary coursework and credits for an MCDS diploma.

IB Credits: Earned by taking relevant IB Exam after completing an IB course. Can be worth college credit and/or placement.

IB Diploma: Earned by completing IB coursework (3 HL + 3 SL), extended essay, TOK, and CAS. IB students can earn up to sophomore status in college plus the ability to place into higher-level classes faster.

Subject Credits

English 4

Mathematics 4

Science 4

World Language 4

History 4

Ensemble 1

Fine Arts (Music, Visual Arts, Theater) 4

PE 1.5

TOK 0.75

Total 27.25

“The MCDS high school program is designed to provide a comprehensive college preparatory experience for every student. The graduation requirements reflect our mission’s steadfast commitment to educating students in the liberal arts and sciences. By the time students graduate from MCDS, they will have engaged in a rigorous course of study across the curriculum, while having the opportunity to develop and further pursue specific areas of interest.”

—Steve Soden, Head of High School

29

MCDS High School: Credits Required for Graduation

MCDS Founding Philosophies:

Every child has an extraordinary capacity to learn.

Effort is generally more important than ability.

mcds high school course guide · functions, trigonometry, statistics, and probability. course name...

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