The curriculum at College Prep includes the
student’s full complement of courses and activities. Everything the student does at school builds a sound foundation for college and for
becoming an educated, thinking, and responsible person in the modern
world.
All of the programs at school encourage students to develop
creativity, intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and ethical
sensitivity and behavior.
Through the four-year curriculum, we
want students to:
- develop powers of clear expression in writing and speech
-
extend their knowledge of great literature of the past and
present, together with the habit of critical reading
-
acquire broad historical and cultural perspectives
-
deepen their appreciation for and understanding of mathematics and
the natural world while improving their ability to solve problems and to think
logically and abstractly
-
develop facility with and cultural understanding of at least one
additional language
-
refine the aesthetic sense through the study and practice of the
performing arts
-
recognize ethical and social challenges and respond to them
through service to the community
-
build character and improve physical fitness through participation
in physical education and team sports
- become familiar
with the uses of technology throughout the curriculum
Diploma Requirements
A minimum of 17 units is required
for graduation; in actual practice, most students graduate with unit credits in
excess of the minimum. Courses are offered and given credit
on a semester or yearly basis. Most year-long courses receive one unit of credit. Semester academic courses earn 1/2 unit, while
most arts courses earn 1/4 unit per semester. Additional details on the specific requirements can be found in the school's Curriculum Guide 2011-12.
| Course |
Units |
English
|
4
|
Fine Arts
|
1
|
World Language (through level III)
|
3
|
History
|
3
|
Math (through level III)
|
3
|
Science
|
3
|
Total Units
|
17
|
Freshman Foundations
The freshman program “Transition to High
School” addresses the various issues that students may
face when they begin high school, and prepares them
to deal with some of the challenges that lie ahead. The
class meets once per week throughout the year.
Discussion-based activities are led by seniors and by the
Health Educator/Counselor.
Sophomore Health
The sophomore program of “Informed Decision Making”
gives students concrete information about a wide range
of health topics that help them to make safe and healthful
choices regarding alcohol, drugs, sex, and other pertinent
issues. Students are also given tools useful in dealing
with difficult situations and in helping friends who may
be making difficult decisions. Sophomore year is a time
when these issues often become real, so discussion at
this time is particularly relevant. This course meets once
a week during the second semester and is taught by the
Health Educator/ Counselor with the assistance of trained
and supervised senior TAs.