updated (3.8.21) final lp course catalog 2021-2022

ACADEMIC COURSE CATALOG

2021-2022

2933 Poni Moi Road, Honolulu, HI 96815 ~ 808-922-2744 ~ [email protected]

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

SUBJECT CREDITS PAGE

English 4 3

Fine ArtsVisual or Performing Arts

2 7

World LanguagesThree years of the same language

3 14

Mathematics 3 19

Physical Education 2 23

Science 3 26

Social Studies 3.5 30

Women’s and Gender Studies 1.5 33

ElectivesTechnology & LearningCollege & Career

23537

TOTAL MINIMUM CREDITS 24

LA PIETRA COURSE CATALOG 2021-2022 1

2021-2022 REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

All information for registering for the 2021-2022 school year is included in thiscourse catalog. Follow the checklist below before meeting with the Academic Dean toregister for the upcoming school year.

Note: Summer program courses and registration process will be available by March 2021.

❏ Step 1. Read the entire course catalog and description for all departments andfill out the registration form given at Co-Curr. Choose your courses carefully.The classes o�ered during the year are based on your requests and availability.Requests to change classes after the registration period are usually not able tobe fulfilled.

❏ Step 2. Discuss your choices with your teachers. Teachers must sign o� onadvanced course options (AP® level courses) and select upper level classes asnoted in the course description.

❏ Step 3. Discuss with your parents and have them sign the registration form.

❏ Step 4. 6th & 7th Graders will submit their signed form to the front o�ce by Jan19. 8th-11th Graders should submit their course requests to Naviance by Feb. 1,2021.

❏ Step 5. 8th-11th graders will have a zoom meeting with Dr. Dolan to discuss andregister for courses. Check your email, Dr. Dolan’s door, and the daily bulletinto see when your appointment is scheduled. If you miss your appointment youwill be rescheduled during make-up days at the end of the registration period.

Please do not miss your appointment with your Academic Dean!

Due to prerequisites, scheduling conflicts and/or limited enrollment, not all coursesare available to all students each term. Although every e�ort is made to schedulestudents' first choice classes, all student schedules inevitably must rely on alternativechoices.

Finalized student schedules will be available in the spring and accessible via your MyBackPack account. Any changes made after schedules are finalized are subject to a$40 change fee. Schedule changes are not allowed after seven days once the term hasstarted. Please email Dr. Dolan with any questions at [email protected]


mailto:[email protected]

ENGLISHThe English Department's goal is to foster the development of lifelong learners whoare confident and competent readers and writers.

Middle School Upper School

English 6English 7English 8

Intro to Literature 9World Literature 10American Literature

AP® English Literature*Gender & CultureCollege CompositionPage to StageRomanticism in Lit

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ENGLISH 6Grade Level: 6Sixth grade English is designed to promote creative and analytical skills in reading,writing, speaking, and the study of the English language. Close reading strategies andthe metacognitive process are applied to promote independent self-monitoring andevaluation. Throughout the course students will gain experience and proficiency withwriting narrative, persuasive, creative, descriptive, and expository texts.

ENGLISH 7Grade Level: 7Students begin the year with science-fiction. This study focuses on utopias anddystopias, and the e�ect of technology on society. Throughout the two terms,additional novels and plays from varying genres are woven in with reading andwriting workshops in which students make their own reading selections and are givennumerous ways in which to respond creatively and analytically. A strong emphasis isplaced on vocabulary and grammar skills throughout this course to strengthenstudents’ ability to express themselves accurately and articulately in both written andoral assignments.

ENGLISH 8Grade Level: 8The essential question that guides 8th grade English is “Who am I?” Students read thegraphic novel Persepolis to explore life during the Iranian Revolution. Students performscenes from Romeo and Juliet and to transform our classroom into Verona. We examineTo Kill a Mockingbird and Denby Fawcett’s Secrets of Diamond Head to learn aboutneighbors and our neighborhood. Students respond to contemporary news articles toexpand their views about the world. Students write personal narratives to explore the


influences that shape their identity. They write poems to help them find their literaryvoice. Students also develop study and organizational skills they need to succeed inhigh school and beyond. In this class, students continue to grow in their mastery ofgrammar and vocabulary.

INTRO TO LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION 9Grade Level: 9 1 credit, core courseAs an introduction to the high school English program, students explore short storiesfrom around the world, plays from William Shakespeare to modern classics,twentieth-century novels, non-fiction writing, and poetry. This course emphasizesthesis-based writing with both formal drafts and rewrites but also includes projectsfor creating poetry and more imaginative personal writing. Students are given theopportunity to expand their vocabulary and review grammatical principles.

WORLD LITERATURE 10Grade Level: 10 1 credit, core courseThis core course explores literature from across the globe and through the centuries toanswer the essential question “Who am I in the world?” We read Homer’s epic poemThe Odyssey and select Greek tragedies. Students read Chinua Achebe’s Things FallApart and Mark Haddon’s The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Studentswork to develop as critical thinkers, observant readers, rigorous writers, andmeticulous editors. They expand their knowledge of literary devices and practice usinglanguage to examine and discuss ideas. Students grow as independent, self-directedlearners through projects and formal presentations. In this class, students continue togrow in their mastery of grammar and vocabulary.

AMERICAN LITERATUREGrade Level: 11-12 1 credit, core courseIn this core course, students explore the concept of “American Identities,” as theguiding theme of the course. Through literature and nonfiction novels, poems, essays,personal narratives, speeches and stories drawn from Colonial times to present day,students discover how literature has shaped and given voice to the various Americanidentities of this country. The literature ranges from novels such as Girl in Translationto the poetry of Emily Dickinson and Langston Hughes, and the short stories of ZoraNeale Hurston and Maxine Hong Kingston. Students learn about the American literarycanon and critically assess which literary works belong, and why. Students focus onfurther developing critical thinking, close reading, and analytical writing skills.Students use both writing and formal presentations to sharpen and refinecommunication skills. They continue to expand their vocabulary, become familiarwith more sophisticated grammatical structures, and incorporate both into theirwriting.


PAGE TO STAGE*Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit (*Theater & English Credits)

In this two term, interdisciplinary course students will write, revise, and workshoporiginal scenes and one act plays. We will read and analyze di�erent kinds of playsand attend theater productions around the island. As students are writing andrevising, we will begin to set roles and organize rehearsal processes. Our goal is for theclass to work as an ensemble, with the playwrights, directors, and actors collaboratingto create an original performance project to culminate by the end of the term.

AP® ENGLISH LITERATURE*Grade Level: 12 1.0 credits (3 terms, 0.33 credits per term)*Prerequisite: Requires teacher approval, additional cost involvedIn Advanced Placement English, students read, debate, and analyze literature acrossthe genres of fiction, drama, and poetry as they further develop critical thinkingabilities, college-level analytical vocabulary, and writing style. This course focuses ona wide spectrum of voices, characters, and issues. Greek and Shakespearean tragedy,nineteenth-century narrative, postmodern fiction, and poetry from the 15th through21st centuries o�er students the opportunity to explore concepts such as identity,power, class, culture, community and communication. Learning to recognize textualcomplexities and mastering sophisticated close rhetorical analysis of both prose andpoetry complement the broader perspectives on the texts. Students must take the APEnglish Literature exam in May.

GENDER & CULTURE+Grade Level: 11-12 ½ credit+Part of required Women’s & Gender StudiesThis interdisciplinary elective course explores the role of gender, race, class, andsexuality through popular film, television, music, literature, and performance. Ourcase studies draw on various cultural productions from the U.S. and around the world,focusing on the early 1900s to the present. We address how culture-making can bothexpress and inform gender, and how ideas about gender and sexuality shape culturalenvironments. The course examines representations of women and gender in film,literature, and music, as well as cultural productions by women writers and artists.Part of required Women’s & Gender Studies.

COLLEGE COMPOSITIONGrade Level: 10-12 1/2 credit

Become a more sophisticated writer! English Composition is a non-literature basedcomposition class designed to develop students’ abilities to think, organize andexpress their ideas clearly and e�ectively. This course incorporates reading, researchand critical thinking. Emphasis is placed on the various forms of expository writing


such as process, description, narration, comparison analysis, rhetorical analysis,persuasion and argumentation. Numerous in-class writing activities are required inaddition to extended essays written outside of class. This course will prepare studentsfor AP U.S. History, AP Literature, SAT and ACT writing, and college composition. Thiscourse is highly recommended to seniors by the college counselor.

ROMANTICISM IN LITERATUREGrade Level: 10-12 1/2 credit

The Romanticism elective is an interdisciplinary journey into the literature, ideas, art,and prominent figures of the movement. An enduring influence from the 1700s up tothe present, Romanticism encompasses a wide variety of elements. It directs us toexperience the thrill of exploring old ruins, walking in forests, and seeking the divinein nature and ourselves; it involves writing poetry and making art about love,cemeteries, the seasons, self-examination, and mysticism; it demands that we cometo terms with industry, cities, and urban problems; it includes travel to mountains, farseas, and remote places; it establishes modern ideas of celebrities and geniuses; and itchallenges governments and leaders. In this class, we examine concepts like theSublime and the "spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings", as well as the turbulentbiographies of figures like Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, and contemporary creativesfrom around the world. The study and creation of literature, art, and music is a corepart of the class.


FINE ARTSIt is the goal of the Fine Arts Department to stimulate creativity, curiosity, personalgrowth, and joy through the teaching of drama, music, and visual arts. The curriculumaddresses di�erent learning styles through the use of a variety of techniques andmedia.


Art 6Music 6Theatre 6Middle School TheatreMiddle School ArtMiddle School Music

Digital Imaging & PhotoshopArt HistoryCeramics 1Ceramics 2 / 3Fiber Arts 1Fiber Arts 2Graphic DesignJewelry 1 & 2Painting 1 & 2

Photography 1Photography 2YearbookSelect Choir*Acting Workshop 1Production WorkshopSpeech and Public SpeakingImprovisationMixed Media Studies

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MIDDLE SCHOOL FINE ART ELECTIVES

ART 6Grade Level: 6 Pass/FailArt 6 is a class in which students have the opportunity to express themselves visuallywith an emphasis on narrative art. They will learn to draw, paint and sew. Studentswill become familiar with basic art vocabulary as well as some Hawaiian Art Historyand the importance of Kumulipo. This course develops student’s visual skills,appreciation for their environment and Hawaiian art.

MUSIC 6Grade Level: 6 Pass/FailOur new students learn school songs, musical theatre/pop standards and music forour Holiday and Spring Concerts. In class, they perform scenes/songs from suchmusicals as Annie, Cinderella, and The Sound of Music. Other classes observe us andgive audience feedback. Students will also become familiar with the music andbackground of Beethoven, Mozart and Gershwin. These experiences increase theirmusical knowledge, strengthen their stage presence and professionalism, teach themto work as a group and help them to conquer stage fright. They learn the importanceof listening to and matching pitch, and focusing on their conductor. They begin tounderstand the patience, cooperation and dedication needed in order to present apolished performance.


THEATER 6Grade Level: 6 Pass/FailTheater 6 introduces students to theater terms and the elements of the theatricalprocess with emphasis on performance, observation, and focusing skills. Studentsbuild confidence and imagination as they practice the fundamentals of acting,individually and as an ensemble, through theater games and improvisation. Theclass rehearses and presents a culmination performance for an invited audience atthe end of the term.

MIDDLE SCHOOL THEATERGrade Level: 7-8Middle School Theater students explore elements of the theatrical process by buildingimagination, confidence, poise, and ensemble skills. They also learn the basiclanguage used in theater and create material that they perform. Students can expect tohave fun while learning voice, movement, observation, focusing, and characterizationtechniques. Units of curriculum include: theater games, improvisation, soloperformances, and group performances.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ARTGrade Level: 7-8Middle School Art classes introduce students to basic visual art skills with anemphasis on understanding and applying the elements of art and the principles ofdesign. Students work in a variety of media and techniques including drawing,painting, photography, ceramics, and sculpture in addition to learning visual artvocabulary and how to critique a work of art. Projects rotate from year to year toprovide an enriching hands-on learning experience for middle school students.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICGrade Level: 7-8Students in Middle School Music class study basic music theory, including note andrest values and dynamics. Students learn to di�erentiate the periods of music andbecome acquainted with the lives of various composers and the sounds of orchestralinstruments in addition to learning the history of musical theater and Americanpopular music. Making a serious e�ort to learn these musical aspects will helpstudents grow in their understanding and appreciation of music and its importancein a well-rounded life. This course will create the Middle School Choir, allowingstudents to learn to sing in a choral setting. Within the choir setting, students willpractice blend, harmony, enunciation, breath support and become familiar withdi�erent genres of choral works. Depending on the term, the Middle School Choirwill perform in either the holiday or spring concert.


UPPER SCHOOL FINE ART ELECTIVESVISUAL ART ELECTIVES

DIGITAL IMAGING & PHOTOSHOPGrade Level: 9-12 ½ creditThis is an introduction to the basics of digital imaging using the Adobe Photoshopprogram. Students learn about copyright issues, scanning, digital cameras, makingselections, compositing and using filters for special e�ects. Projects include photorepairs, portrait retouching, and simple collages. Limit of 10 students per class.

ART HISTORYGrade Level: 11-12 ½ creditThis course fulfills a requirement for the Fine Arts track.Art History provides students with the opportunity to explore the history of westernart from antiquity to the present. Students examine how history influenced the artand how art illustrated the history. Students also critique artwork and write aboutaesthetics and values of the time. Images of women artists, women’s role in the artsociety, and women as patrons of the arts are also woven into the discussion. Studioprojects and a field trip to the Honolulu Museum of Arts to view antiquities allowlearning to occur outside of this lecture-based class.

CERAMICS 1Grade Level: 9-12 ½ creditThis course o�ers students the basic knowledge and skills with regard to clay, glazes,and firing technique. Beginning with hand building, coil, pinch, and slab techniquesand culminating with the use of the wheel in techniques such as wedging, centering,lifting, and trimming, students experience various approaches to working with clay.Students also learn about making glazes, recycling clay, and loading and unloading ofthe kiln. In addition to direct work with clay, learning in this course also occursthrough various readings, guest artist visits, gallery and museum visits, and critiques.Limit of 12 students per class. Please note that additional study hall or other time maybe required should a student not complete their work in class.

CERAMICS 2/3Grade Level: 9-12 ½ creditPrerequisite: Ceramics 1 or 2.This course extends the Ceramics 1 experience for students who wish to refine andenhance their skills with various approaches to working with clay. Students workclosely with the instructor in a studio experience. Learning in this course alsoincludes various readings, guest artist visits, gallery and museum visits, and


critiques. Limit of 12 students per class. Please note that additional study hall or othertime may be required should a student not complete their work in class.

FIBER ARTS 1 & 2Grade Level: 9-12 ½ creditIn this course, students learn about di�erent types of fibers and forms of textileswhile covering various traditional techniques and non-traditional approaches usedin the field today. Topics covering Folk Art, the textile revolution, natural vs.synthetic fibers, shibori, warp, and weft are covered in this curriculum. Studentslearn how Feminist Art and Installation Art have changed the shape of contemporaryfiber art and create a variety of art projects utilizing their new skills andunderstanding. Limit of 12 students per class.

GRAPHIC DESIGNGrade Level: 9-12 1/2 creditIn this intermediate course, students focus on the elements of design. A variety ofgraphic products are created, using technology and traditional methods. At theconclusion of this course, students produce an individually themed graphic collection.Limit of 10 students per class.

JEWELRY 1 & 2Grade Level: 10-12 ½ creditThis course in Jewelry covers not only the art of jewelry making but also a historicallook at the adornment of early civilization. Students begin by building skills in wireworking, measuring, linking, and making jump rings. Techniques such as sawing,etching, cold connecting, soldering, and polishing are addressed; problem solvingskills and personal expression by students are also emphasized. Learning in thiscourse is enhanced through participation in various readings, guest artist visits,gallery and museum visits, and critiques. Limit of 10 students per class.

PAINTING 1 & 2Grade Level: 10-12 ½ creditPainting 1 & 2 are advanced art electives that span two terms. Students will use bothtraditional and non-traditional art materials, including but not limited to acrylicpaint, water-color paint, ink and spray paint. In Painting 2, students will continue tobuild their portfolio, learn about oil paint on canvas and polyester resins. The courseemphasizes experimentation with the paint medium with an understanding of 20thand 21st century Art History. Students will develop their creativity, a portfolio of work,along with their visual literacy and critical thinking skills.


YEARBOOKGrade Level: 9-12 1/2 creditThis course uses the school’s yearbook as the primary vehicle through which studentsgain an authentic introduction to the three main areas of journalism: reporting,photography, and graphic design. Through the process of meeting each term’sdeadline, students learn publishing terms, interviewing techniques, use of digitalcameras, maintenance of a photo archive, Photoshop fundamentals, editing skills,and time management. Students also learn the importance of creating an accuratehistorical document for the school’s present community as well as its future archives.

MIXED MEDIA STUDIESGrade Level: 9-12 1/2 creditFocusing on thematic inquiry, this class will utilize mixed media and multidisciplinaryapproaches including painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture. Students willlearn how artists respond to various themes while building their portfolio, practicingstudio habits of mind, and strengthening critical thinking skills. Themes and essentialquestions will rotate to provide new perspectives and opportunities each term.Themes may include identity, race, gender, place, celebrity, activism, and nature.

MUSIC ELECTIVES


SELECT CHOIR*Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit*Prerequisite: Teacher approval, and audition requiredSelect Choir is La Pietra’s premiere performance ensemble. Singers in grades 9-12audition and are selected on the basis of musicianship, personality, personal integrityand maturity. There are opportunities for solo features. Though we have sung on themainland and in Europe, performances are usually within the Honolulu community,and Spring and Holiday concerts take place at school. Students memorize 10-14choral arrangements in each season. Tests consist of singing alone and in groups.While participation in all concerts and performances is mandatory, excused absencesare considered on an individual basis. Participation in auxiliary choir rehearsals isoften necessary. These are scheduled as needed and at the best times for allparticipants.

THEATER ELECTIVES

ACTING WORKSHOP 1Grade Level: 9-12 ½ creditActing Workshop is a project-based acting course that builds upon students’performance skills learned in Intro to Theater. Students improve their voice,movement, observation, focusing and performance skills while gaining confidenceand poise. Students can expect to practice improvisation and character development,eventually participating in solo and group performances. Students learn to make aprofessional first impression at auditions and how to engage and win over audiencesusing techniques such as sensory imagination and emotional recall. This courseculminates in a staged performance.

PRODUCTION WORKSHOPGrade Level: 9-12 ½ creditThis course focuses on what is involved in the process of creating a theatricalproduction from start to finish. Students study each element involved in producing atheatrical work, and are given the opportunity to think like a producer, a director, adramaturg, and set/light/costume/sound designers. Students are expected to beactively involved in the spring drama production.

SPEECH AND PUBLIC SPEAKINGGrade Level: 9-12 ½ creditThis course uses studies of communications as the basis for students to improve theirpublic speaking skills and gain proficiency in their abilities to find their own voices,speak with confidence, and communicate e�ectively with an audience. Over the courseof the term, students learn how to create and present a wide variety of speeches.Students improve their command of rhetorical techniques, practice how to designe�ective visual aids, and rehearse how to think and speak on their feet every day.


IMPROVISATIONGrade Level: 9-12 ½ creditImprovisation is a project-based acting course that builds upon students’on-the-spot performance skills learned in Introduction to Theater. Students will beintroduced to the tenets of improvisation through the use of drills, exercises andgames. Over the course of the term, the class coalesces into an ensemble, and willculminate with a presentation of short form improvisation.

WORLD LANGUAGE


As people become increasingly connected with others across the globe, it is the WorldLanguage Department’s goal to educate our students to become global citizens whocan communicate with people of other cultures and countries.


Introduction to Languages Chinese 2Chinese 3Chinese Culture: Modernity in

an Ancient Country

French 2French 3French 4*French 5*

Spanish 1Spanish 2Spanish 3Spanish 4*

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INTRODUCTION TO LANGUAGESGrade Level: 7In this introductory course, students learn basic vocabulary such as greetings, colorsand numbers as well as simple grammatical patterns. Students are also introduced tothe cultures of their chosen languages. The purpose of this course is to encourage thestudents to build confidence and enjoy the learning of a new language. Throughprojects and other hands-on activities, students acquire a basic knowledge of a newlanguage. This course runs over two terms with students gaining exposure to all threelanguages o�ered: Spanish, French, and Chinese. At the conclusion of this course,students select the language they wish to focus upon beginning with Level 1 in the 8thgrade.

CHINESE PROGRAM

CHINESE 2Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: Chinese 1This course is a continuation of Chinese 1 and reviews the fundamentals of Chinese 2.Through Chinese 2, more characters, grammar, and sentence patterns are introduced,allowing students to read, write, listen and speak with greater confidence. The coursecovers additional aspects about Chinese culture and history in the supplementalmaterials.

CHINESE 3


Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: Chinese 1 & 2This course is designed to continue building students’ daily communication skillswith more vocabulary, expressions, sentence patterns and grammar. Students arechallenged to read and write using Chinese characters. Listening and speaking skillsare also sharpened in this course.

CHINESE CULTURE: MODERNITY IN AN ANCIENT COUNTRYGrade Level: 9-12 1 creditPrerequisite: No Chinese language experience requiredThis course provides an overview of Chinese culture; it is designed for both studentswith a particular interest in China and for those with little prior knowledge of thecountry who want to increase their global awareness. Topics covered in this classinclude: geography and political divisions, history, philosophy, religions, traditionalvalues, cuisine, medicine, art, language, economics, current events, andcontemporary society. Students develop a rich understanding of Chinese culture aswell as a heightened awareness of the power of language. No prior exposure toMandarin is required as the course is conducted in English.

FRENCH PROGRAM

FRENCH 2Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: French 1French 2 is an interactive class in which students continue practicing their speaking,listening, and writing skills. In addition, students are exposed to more complexgrammatical patterns allowing them to read, write, listen and speak with greaterconfidence in conversations concerning everyday activities and news events. By theend of this class, students narrate events and express themselves in di�erent tensesusing a broader vocabulary.

FRENCH 3Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: French 1 & 2This class reinforces the skills learned in Level 2. At this level, students are exposed ingreater depth to culture through music, theater, short stories, and projects. Newgrammatical skills include the subjunctive and conditional mood. Vocabulary becomesmore challenging and includes topics such as health/illness, traveling, environment,and technology. By the conclusion of this course, students are able to interpret oral


and written information through creative and critical thinking skills and engage inconversation with an advanced level of recall and vocabulary.

FRENCH 4*Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit*Prerequisite: B- or better in French 3 and teacher approvalIn Level 4, students read di�erent genres of literature and review them orally and inwriting, learning about subjects such as French history from the Middle Ages to thepresent and French art, literature, and music. Students are required to givepresentations and research the literature and movie clips presented in class.Previously learned grammar is reinforced through the writing of both subjective andobjective essays.

FRENCH 5Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit*Prerequisite: B- or better in French 4 and teacher approvalStudents at this level of language study focus on acquiring more di�cult vocabularyrelated to ideology, economics, and politics in order to engage in more complex levelsof conversation and written communication. In addition, students also understandmore refined grammatical points of the language. Experiences in this course tend tobe advanced in nature, such as reading and analyzing films, literature, short stories,and newspaper articles. By the conclusion of French 5, students generally test well oncollege placement exams, allowing them to enter advanced levels of this language atthe college level.


SPANISH PROGRAMSPANISH 1Grade Level: 8-12 1 credit, core courseAs a beginning level course, students learn the fundamentals of the language such asthe alphabet, numbers, the date, telling time, colors and basic conversations. Studentsalso learn more sophisticated grammar such as the present and past tenses, verbconjugations and adjective agreement. A study of geography and culture of theSpanish-speaking world is included.

SPANISH 2Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: Spanish 1As an intermediate level course, Spanish 2 reviews the fundamentals of Spanish 1 andprovides exposure to more complex linguistic patterns allowing students to read,write, listen and speak with greater confidence. New grammatical skills include thesubjunctive mood and various types of verbs. By the end of this course, students areable to express themselves using a broader vocabulary.

SPANISH 3Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: Spanish 1 & 2Spanish 3 reinforces the skills learned in levels 1 and 2. In addition, there is a focus onmore advanced topics that reflect the nuances of the language. Vocabulary alsobecomes more challenging as students hone their grammatical abilities. By the end ofthis course, students are comfortable with written and spoken Spanish.

SPANISH 4*Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit*Prerequisite: B- or better in Spanish 3 and teacher approvalAs an advanced course, Spanish 4 reviews fundamentals of the language and coversmore sophisticated topics such as global citizenship. Culture is further studiedthrough authentic texts and student presentations in Spanish.

SPANISH 5*Grade Level: 9-12 1 credit*Prerequisite: B- or better in Spanish 4 and teacher approvalIn Spanish 5, key grammatical concepts are reviewed and students deepen theirunderstanding of the language through literature, film, and current event analysis. Bythe conclusion of Spanish 5, students generally test well on the Advanced PlacementSpanish exam, allowing them to enter advanced levels of this language in college.


MATHEMATICS

The Mathematics Department develops students to become competent and confidentwomen with a strong number sense, logical reasoning skills, and problem solvingskills.


Math 6Math 7Pre-Algebra

Algebra 1GeometryAlgebra 2Algebra 2/Trigonometry

Pre-CalculusAP® Calculus*Personal FinanceData Science

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MATH 6Grade Level: 6Throughout the Math 6 course, students learn how to think critically about mathconcepts, practice math skills, and learn how to e�ectively share ideas orally and inwritten work. Students begin each unit by predicting and exploring engaging mathproblems. Students create and keep math notebooks to summarize and highlight mathconcepts learned. Major focus areas are number theory, concepts and computationwith fractions and decimals, percentage concepts, two-dimensional geometry, anddata collection and display in preparation for Math 7.

MATH 7Grade Level: 7In this course we explore mathematical concepts that are foundational for success inAlgebra. Students work on engaging problems both individually and in groups,learning how to e�ectively verbalize math concepts during group discussions.Technology and manipulatives are used to help students explore math concepts.Topics covered include creating and interpreting graphs and tables, using variablesand expressions, proportional reasoning, working with integers, probability,statistics, two-and three-dimensional measurement, and applying decimals,fractions, and percents.

PRE-ALGEBRAGrade Level: 8This course is designed to help students bridge from Math 7 to Algebra. Using aproblem- centered approach, students master and apply computational andproblem-solving skills. Students are introduced to algebraic concepts such as linearrelationships, direct and inverse variation, linear systems and inequalities, andexponential relationships. Units on three-dimensional geometry and the Pythagorean


Theorem prepare students for their future course in geometry. Students areencouraged to verbalize their understanding through class discussion, writingassignments, and group work.

ALGEBRA 1*Grade Level: 8-9 1 credit, core course*Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra 1 or Math 7 and department approvalThe first course in our sequence of college preparatory courses, Algebra 1 is a rigorousstudy of algebraic topics including linear and quadratic equations, proportionalreasoning and variation, systems of equations and inequalities, and rational andirrational numbers. In addition, students learn about the relationship betweenalgebraic functions and their graphs and are introduced to exponential functions andbasic operations with polynomials. Extensive problem solving and data explorationare integrated throughout the course. Students learn through direct instruction,working in groups, participating in discussions, and using graphing calculators.

GEOMETRYGrade Level: 9-10 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: Algebra 1Students develop an awareness and appreciation of two and three-dimensionalgeometry through visualization, analysis, and deductive and inductive reasoning.Through a variety of activities with angles, polygons, circles, parallel and intersectinglines, congruent triangles, similar figures, and solid figures, students learn thenecessary skills and concepts to apply their knowledge to the real world. Specialattention is given to hands-on and cooperative learning in an e�ort to develop thestudents’ ability to reason, test conjectures, solve problems, and communicategeometric understanding.

ALGEBRA 2Grade Level: 10-11 1 credit, core coursePrerequisite: Algebra 1 and GeometryAlgebra 2 provides a review and extension of the concepts taught in Algebra 1. Topicscovered include linear equations, recursive formulas, inequalities, transformations,general functions and their inverses, quadratic functions, polynomial and rationalfunctions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and conic sections. Students usetechnology such as graphing calculators and online resources to explore mathconcepts more fully. Situations are analyzed verbally, numerically, graphically, andsymbolically while applying mathematical skills to make meaningful connections tolife experiences.


ALGEBRA 2/TRIGONOMETRY*Grade Level: 10-12 1 credit*Prerequisite: B or Better in both terms of Algebra 1, Geometry and department approvalIn Algebra 2 with Trigonometry, students develop an understanding for the purposefor trigonometry and learn to use both algebraic equations and trigonometry to solvereal-world problems. Concepts developed in the course include irrational andcomplex numbers, conics, and analytic geometry with extensive use of the graphingcalculator. Topics also include exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometricfunctions and their graphs, trigonometric identities, matrices, probability andstatistics.

PRE-CALCULUSGrade Level: 11-12 1 creditPrerequisite: Algebra 2This course serves as a bridge from advanced algebra to calculus. Students areintroduced to the need to move beyond standard algebraic problem-solving forcertain concepts and how many real-world problems use vector or polarcoordinates. Students learn how to draw vectors, graph polar equations, deal withcomplex numbers, solve advanced exponential and logarithmic functions, analyzesequences and series, and use combinatorics in common situations. At the end ofthe course, students have a thorough understanding of all the concepts necessarybefore starting the calculus sequence of classes at the next level of study.

AP® CALCULUS AB*Grade Level: 11-12 1.0 credits (3 terms; 0.33 credits per term)*Prerequisite: B or better in both terms of Pre-Calculus and departmental approvalThis course is a comprehensive introduction to calculus. It includes a thorough studyof limits and di�erentiation and the fundamentals of integration. Students learn tofind the equation of a tangent line, analyze motion, solve related rates problems,determine the area under a curve, and compute the volumes of various shapes.Students work collaboratively and utilize their graphing calculators extensively. Atthe end of this course, students understand the connections between derivatives andintegrals and the practical applications of calculus. Students must take the APCalculus AB exam in May.

PERSONAL FINANCEGrade Level: 10-12 1/2 creditPrerequisite: Algebra 2 (may be taken concurrently)By combining algebraic and graphical approaches with practical business andpersonal finance applications, this course shows students how mathematical patternsare essential in finance and business. The course includes a strong review of basic


algebra formulas with variables, equations, functions, graphs, and statistics. Inaddition, students use regression analysis and exponential growth while learningabout investments, credit, income taxes, and household budgeting.

DATA SCIENCEGrade Level: 10-12 1/2 creditJo Boaler has said "90% of the world's data has been accumulated within the past 2years." As society has become more technology driven, it is important we prepare ourstudents for the growing demand for data analytics in the workforce, as well as dataliteracy in society. In this course, students will develop the competencies to interpret,extrapolate, and express (via infographics) data representations. Topics will beselected relative to local and global current events, social justice, and women andgender issues. Through the term, students will engage in activities, culminating in afinal project presentation.


PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The goal of the Physical Education Department is to expose students to a variety oftraditional and non-traditional sports and physical activities in individual, smallgroup, and team settings.


PE 6PE Middle SchoolElements of Movement

PE Upper SchoolIntro to DanceIntermediate DanceAdvanced DanceSelf Defense & Fitness

PE 6Grade Level: 6 Pass/FailPhysical Education 6 introduces students to a variety of traditional andnon-traditional team and individual sports and physical activities. Studentsexperience a wide range of skills, activities, and lead-up games in variousenvironments. Assessment for this course is based on seven components of physicalfitness and student consistency in e�ort to improve each: cardiovascular andmuscular endurance, speed, agility, power, strength, and flexibility.

PE MIDDLE SCHOOLGrade Level: 7-8The Physical Education Middle school class will introduce students to a variety oftraditional and non-traditional team and individual sports, fitness activities, andgames. The students learn about strategies, history, rules, safety, and goodsportsmanship relative to each activity in a variety of environments. The gymnasium,outdoor court, swimming pool, great lawn area, and Kapiolani Park will be utilizedduring the term. Over the course of the term, students will gain self-awareness,competence, and confidence while developing their skills and fitness. Our hope thatthis wide range of experiences will encourage students to select, get involved in, andenjoy a variety of activities in our after school athletic program or physical activitiesand sports outside of school.

ELEMENTS OF MOVEMENTGrade Level: 7-8Middle School Elements of Movement will explore the foundational steps of multipledance styles along with investigating patterns of rhythm and introduce basic yoga.Students would work on motor development and coordination while having fundancing and moving to upbeat music and creating a unique end of term showcase. Theobjective of the course is to allow students to experience other realms of physical


activity that promotes lifelong fitness. Students would need their basic PE attire forclass each day.(Option to wear jazz or ballet slippers are allowed).

PE UPPER SCHOOLGrade Level: 9-12 ½ creditThe emphasis of the Physical Education Upper School class is to experience andparticipate in a variety of traditional and non-traditional team and individual sports,activities, and skills. The students will continue to learn strategies, history, rules,safety, and good sportsmanship relative to each sport or activity being covered. Avariety of environments will be utilized to teach each unit. It is our hope that the widerange of experiences will encourage students to select, get involved in, and enjoy avariety of activities after school and outside of school. This knowledge shouldencourage students to select activities that are best suited for their skills, strengths,needs, and liking. In addition, students will gain more competence and confidence asthey learn and participate in the lead-up drills/activities, fitness training, andcompetitive scrimmage games with their classmates.

INTRO TO DANCE (Level 1 & 2)Grade Level: 9-12 1 creditIntroduction to Dance o�ers the basics of ballet, jazz, and hip hop along with thefundamentals of body awareness, technique development and choreography. Studentslearn about the roots of dance and how it has developed while physically working toexecute techniques found in various dance genres. We use classical and current musicto fuel our creativity in class, and students have an opportunity to self choreographand perform an original piece at the end of the term. No textbook is required,however, dance shoes (jazz or ballet slippers) are an optional purchase for class.

INTERMEDIATE DANCE (Level 3 & 4)Grade Level: 9-12 1 creditPrerequisite : Dance 1 & 2Intermediate Dance builds upon the skills, techniques, and terminology gained inDance 1/2 and Introduction to Dance. Dancers will begin learning to refine their skillsalong with building upon this foundation and applying more advanced concepts andelements to their class performance. Dancers will explore the styles of lyrical, musicaltheater, hip hop and salsa / social dance. They will also create a portfolio of workdemonstrating their ability to conceptualize and create a dance from lighting tomake-up, music and costume selection. No textbook is required, however dance shoes(jazz or ballet slippers) are an optional purchase for class.


ADVANCED DANCE (Level 5 & 6)Prior to students enrolling in advanced dance, they would have completed Intro toDance and Intermediate Dance. Advanced dance serves as a class to help elevate thedeveloping students into more confident dancers, performers and choreographers.The course would utilize their advanced skills by incorporating opportunities forimprovisation, choreography composition workshops, and dance portfolio building.The skills they learned throughout their Introduction and Intermediate classes wouldbe called upon and they would be asked to contribute original ideas to create a studentrun showcase.

SELF-DEFENSE & FITNESSGrade Level: 11-12 .5 creditThe Women’s Self Defense and Fitness Course is designed to teach young women to besafer now and in the future. This class will focus on the mental skill of fearmanagement as it pertains to a self-defense situation (and in life.) This includesdetecting dangerous situations (situational awareness), deescalating situations, andthe ability to mentally decide to defend oneself if absolutely necessary. It will alsoincorporate simple and e�ective physical self-defense skills training that relies on thebody’s natural reflexes base on the methodology of Tony Blauer(https://blauerspear.com/). Fitness training and practical skills drilling will beincorporated for physical health and to promote self-confidence.


https://blauerspear.com/

SCIENCEThe Science Department endeavors to enhance each student’s creative and criticalthinking processes with a focus on inquiry, hypothesis, and experimentation.

Middle School Upper School Science

Science 6Science 7Science 8Middle School AppliedSTEM

PhysicsChemistryBiologyAP® Environmental Science*

Marine BiologyAstronomy

Bold is core course

SCIENCE 6Grade Level: 6Students will explore the world through an Earth Systems Science lens. First, throughweather and water and how both cycles influence each other and the Earth system as awhole. After this students will explore Earth’s History, all 4.5 billion years of it. Next,students will dive into Planetary Science and will understand Earth’s place in thelarger solar system and the universe beyond. Throughout this course, students willengage in hands-on science lab investigations..

SCIENCE 7Grade Level: 7Science 7 explores phenomena related to many di�erent aspects of life on Earth. Thecourse is an introduction to di�erent life forms, ecosystems types, heredity,adaptation, and anatomy and physiology of the human body. Students engage inseveral hands-on investigations of cell structures and functions and explain theinteractions between the living and non living world. The class is designed to create aninterest in the natural world and in the human body as a system through applicationof scientific principles, inquiry through creative and critical thinking, and hands-onexperience.

SCIENCE 8Grade Level: 8This class will introduce middle school students to the study of physical science.Topics will include chemical interactions, electromagnetic force, kinetic energy,gravity and waves. Students will build their skills through application ofscientific principles, inquiry based lessons and critical thinking and will engagein hands-on experiential opportunities.


MIDDLE SCHOOL APPLIED STEMGrade Level: 8This class provides students with the opportunity to participate in scienceinvestigations that incorporate and build on previous learning from a number of othercore science classes. Class time is spent advancing engineering skills throughhands-on building projects and developing in-depth knowledge of various sciencesubjects.

PHYSICSGrade Level: 9-12 1 credit, core course(or students whom have not previously met a physics course requirement)Physics is designed as a fundamental science course and the foundation for chemistry,biology, and advanced science classes. The course will use conceptual models andbasic mathematical and algebraic application to describe physical relationships.Topics include describing motion, forces and Newton’s Laws, energy and itsconservation, basic thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and electromagneticwaves. Energy and the environment will be explored as a special topic.

CHEMISTRYGrade Level: 10 1 credit, core courseThis course is taught within the context of real- world applications. Within the units“Alchemy,” “Smells,” and “Toxins,” students learn about topics including theperiodic table, electron configurations, molecular functions, chemical reactions,stoichiometry, and acid-based chemistry. Students spend time making observationsand recognizing patterns, then discussing and refining their ideas within a scientificcommunity. The development of critical thinking skills and understanding of thescientific process are heavily focused upon.

BIOLOGYGrade Level: 11 1 credit, core courseBiology is a dynamic and ever-changing science. This course is designed to givestudents a taste of some of the diverse topics and an appreciation for the many waysbiology impacts their own lives. Students study the diversity of life on Earth,evolution, cellular biology, energy transformations (like photosynthesis and cellularrespiration), basic principles of genetics and molecular genetics. Lab work is stronglyemphasized with particular emphasis on the use and care of microscopes and thescientific method.


MARINE BIOLOGYGrade Level: 11-12 1 creditIn this course students will learn about the diversity of organisms that encompass themarine environment, which include: microbial, algal, and animal life forms. They willexamine how these organisms interact with abiotic (salinity, nutrients, currents andtides) and biotic factors (competition, predation, and symbiosis). Other topicsinclude: geological processes behind the formation of marine ecosystems, primaryand secondary production, rocky intertidal biodiversity, estuaries, subtidalcommunities, coral reefs, pelagic and deep-sea communities, impacts of humans onthe ocean, and conservation.

AP® ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCEGrade Level: 11-12 1.5 credit (3 terms)*Prerequisite: Physics, Chemistry and department approval required.The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with thescientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand theinterrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmentalproblems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated withthese problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventingthem. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topicsfrom di�erent areas of study. Yet there are several major unifying constructs, orthemes, that cut across the many topics included in the study of environmentalscience. In May students will take the AP Environmental Science exam.

ASTRONOMYGrade Level: 11, 12 ½ credit courseAstronomy is an introductory course in physical science pertaining to the study ofeverything about and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere. The study of planets, stars,exotic remnants, galactic structure, and cosmological outcomes are among the manytopic that are covered. Basic physics principles are investigated to understand howthings work on Earth, the nature of gravity, and how orbits work. These concepts arethen expanded upon to explain how the planets formed, what makes them di�erent,and possible future scenarios for Earth’s development as well as our Sun, stars, andthe Milky Way. Throughout the course, discussions about the history and future ofspace science are explored. Last, a broader view of the size and grandeur of theuniverse is presented with big questions posed, such as: How did the universe begin?What will be the fate of the universe? Are we alone?


SOCIAL STUDIESThe Social Studies Department expects its students to become lifelong learners,critical thinkers, and responsible, informed global citizens.


Social Studies 6World GeographyCivics in Hawai’i

World CulturesEuropean HistoryUS HistoryAmerican Government

EthicsGlobal Issues

Bold is core course

SOCIAL STUDIES 6Grade Level: 6Students in sixth grade social studies explore major ancient civilizations and howgeography influences life and culture. Civilizations studied include Ancient Egypt,Greece, Rome, India, China, and Hawaii. Coursework includes projects, homework,and tests.

WORLD GEOGRAPHYGrade Level: 7

Students in World Geography “travel” the world to learn about the globe’s peoples,places, cultures, history, governments, and geological features. Basic geographyterms and concepts as well as mapmaking skills and interpretation of graphs andcharts are incorporated into the learning process, along with current events andclass debates. Coursework includes projects, homework, and tests.

CIVICS IN HAWAI`IGrade Level: 8This two-term class introduces students to the study of civics, with a particular focuson what it means to be an ethical and engaged resident of Hawai'i. Students willbuild their knowledge of state and local governments, and learn how to claim a placewithin those systems, and in other public venues. Students will work on developingtheir political and historical writing and thinking skills in direct action projects thatrequire them to join conversations about social issues relevant today.


WORLD CULTURESGrade Level: 9 1 credit, core courseThis two-term course is an introduction to the history of the global world and to theanthropological study of diverse cultures. Emphasis is placed on the interactionamong world cultures, the influence of geography, and the link between the past andthe present. Ideas and concepts, which explore the relationship between the ancientand the modern world, are stressed, including the growth of art, philosophy, andreligion. Through term projects, current events, and class debates, students honetheir writing, researching and public speaking skills to become e�ective and criticalhistorians and engaged global citizens.

WORLD HISTORY (formally European History)Grade Level: 10 1 credit, core courseEuropean history begins with an investigation of the causes, significant figures, ande�ects of the Renaissance and progresses through the events that resulted in thediverse region that is Europe today. Long-term e�ects of those events are discussed,with an emphasis on how they may be seen today in governments, customs, andmodern-day Europe. Reading comprehension assessments require students tosynthesize pertinent information from primary source materials, teacherpresentations, as well as from the textbook. For each chapter covered, students eitherindividually or as part of a group examine a variety of historical topics.

U.S. HISTORYGrade Level: 11 1 credit, core courseThe United States History course emphasizes historical concepts that have shapedAmerica. Students acquire historical knowledge of past historical events then analyzeto create a deeper understanding of their relevance to modern day society.Assessments and classwork require students to synthesize pertinent informationfrom various sources including primary source materials, teacher presentations, aswell as from the textbook. For each chapter covered, students either individually or aspart of a group examine a variety of historical topics helping students increase theircultural literacy.

AMERICAN GOVERNMENTGrade Level: 12 1/2 credit, core courseThis one-term course provides an introduction to American politics. It centers on thefundamental role played by the institutions of American government includingCongress, the Presidency, and the Judiciary in order to understand political dynamicsin the United States. Similarly, this course explores the origins and functions of ourstate and local government so that connections can be made between politics at thefederal level and the political institutions of the state of Hawaii. Further considerationis given to the role of public opinion and participation as inputs to the institutions of


American government, and the mediating role of organizations such as interestgroups, the news media, and political parties. In addition to mastering basic factsabout American government, theories of political science are used in examiningbroader questions of democratic government and comparisons to other politicalsystems.

ETHICSGrade Level: 10-12 1/2 creditThis course enhances students’ understanding of the medical, legal, and media worldsand the moral quagmires of each whether it be doctor-assisted suicide, invasion ofprivacy, manipulation by the press, or the defense of a mass killer. Through readingthe ideas and philosophies of Immanuel Kant, John Stuart Mill, Noam Chomsky,Niccolo Machiavelli, Albert Schweitzer and others, students learn both the historicaland present day ins and outs of these three interesting fields. Medicine and law arecovered in the first term; the American right to privacy and the media in the second.Critical thinking, analytical reading and writing, active discussion, and knowledge ofcurrent events are key elements of this class.

GLOBAL ISSUESGrade Level: 11-12 ½ credit courseGlobal Issues is a one semester elective course examining how the contemporaryglobal system is being dramatically transformed as the processes of globalizationtranspire across political, economic, cultural, environmental, and military arenas.From human rights and terrorism to global inequality and environmental issues, thecourse focuses on global a�airs that transcend and are transforming states andinternational relations.


WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDIESThe Women’s and Gender Studies Department guides its students to understandcurrent and historical issues related to women and gender studies and become activeleaders in their community.

Upper School

Intro to Women’s and Gender Studies*Health and Society*Perspectives in Women’s History*Gender & CultureWays of Leading: Igniting Positive Change in the Community

INTRO TO WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDIES (SOCIAL STUDIES)Grade Level: 9-10 1/2 creditRequired courseThis introductory course to La Pietra's Women's and Gender Studies programexplores how gender is a significant factor in shaping our identity, our perspectives,and our life experiences. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students examine thediversity of attitudes, events, and issues that continue to shape the lives of 21stcentury women. What forces and conditions inform our gender and roleidentification? What can we learn from women in other societies around the world?These are a few of the questions that drive student engagement and critical thinkingin this class.

HEALTH AND SOCIETY (PE/HEALTH)Grade Level: 9-10 ½ creditRequired courseThis class equips students with knowledge and skills necessary for living a healthylife. Topics include nutrition and exercise, human anatomy of the reproductivesystem, mental health, substance use and abuse, and relationships. Students learnabout the body, and its anatomy and functions, within a social context. Specifically,students investigate cultural values and views about various health topics andconditions to better understand how we navigate our health in society. Throughactivities and group discussion, students develop positive communication skills, learnto manage stress, and learn how to advocate for themselves.


PERSPECTIVES IN WOMEN’S HISTORY (SOCIAL STUDIES)Grade Level: 10-11 1/2 creditRequired courseThis Women's and Gender Studies course gives a historical perspective on women'sexperiences while also drawing on global and transnational perspectives. The courseis an interdisciplinary approach to the history of women in the U.S. and abroad. In thisclass, we look at the significant cultural, socioeconomic, and political conditions thathave shaped the lives of women while centralizing the dynamics of gender, race, andclass. Students critically analyze how the stories of women’s lives are told and howgender shapes the ways in which narratives are constructed, reproduced, andcirculated throughout history. This course places particular emphasis on women’sexperiences from several di�erent backgrounds, and social and geographic locations.

GENDER & CULTURE (ENGLISH)Grade Level: 11-12 ½ creditThis interdisciplinary elective course explores the role of gender, race, class, andsexuality through popular film, television, music, literature, and performance. Ourcase studies draw on various cultural productions from the U.S. and around the world,focusing on the early 1900s to the present. We address how culture-making can bothexpress and inform gender, and how ideas about gender and sexuality shape culturalenvironments. The course examines representations of women and gender in film,literature, and music, as well as cultural productions by women writers and artists.

WAYS OF LEADING: IGNITING POSITIVE CHANGE IN THE COMMUNITYGrade Level: 12 ½ creditThis course, the final class in the Women's and Gender Studies program, will allowstudents to pursue an independent study in partnership with a communityorganization or business. Students will partner with an organization or business threedays per week and meet in a seminar twice per week. The seminar will include topicssuch as women in the workplace, leadership and partnership, community impact,teamwork, and finding your way in the world. The focus of this course will be todevelop individual student leaders in the areas of responsible citizenship,communication, goal setting, group processes, as well as social justice, business,organizational and managerial skills. Students in this course will present theirexperiences and knowledge learned to the La Pietra community at the end of the term.These hands-on experiences and reflection seminars will enable them to becomehighly successful in college, in their chosen career, and in future communityinvolvement.Prerequisites: Students must have their own transportation to and from the job site.Students must understand that this is a time commitment and therefore schedulesneed to be considered prior to registering. They also must be on-track to complete allother required courses at La Pietra.


TECHNOLOGY AND LEARNING SKILLS

La Pietra students use technology to communicate their ideas through a variety ofmedia.


Success in Middle School 1Success in Middle School 2Middle School STEM

Design Thinking

SUCCESS IN MIDDLE SCHOOL 1Grade Level: 6 Pass/FailIn this course, students learn keyboarding and computer skills, note taking, studystrategies, oral presentation skills, vocabulary, learning preferences information,character education and other pertinent strategies and skills that contribute to astudent’s success in middle school. A variety of techniques and software is exploredto organize ideas, concepts, and information using documents, charts, andpresentation software. The course also includes an emphasis on ethics, etiquette, andsafety. Success in Middle School supports content, skills, and strategies learned insixth grade core classes. Self-awareness, problem solving, planning andorganizational skills, and leadership are also addressed through class projects andactivities.

SUCCESS IN MIDDLE SCHOOL 2Grade Level: 6 Pass/FailSuccess in Middle School 2 continues to prepare students for their upper schooljourney in their study strategies, character development, and research/successtechniques. Students experience and choose topics of interest to research, learn goalsetting, and understand a variety of research methods, guidelines for use of onlineresources, technology, and other creative methods along with other activities thatemphasize critical thinking, problem solving, peer collaboration. They also learnpresentation and self-evaluation. Success in Middle School 2 is taken in the 6thgrade year upon successful completion of Success in Middle School 1.

DESIGN THINKINGGrade Level: 7This course is designed to expose students to a wide range of digital applications tosupport creative problem solving and gain lifelong learning skills. Design Thinkingcontinues the learning process, skills and strategies introduced in Success in MiddleSchool 1 and 2 while introducing concepts like citizenship within a globalized


context, storytelling within digital and traditional methods, as well as other studyskills that will continue students’ academic success. Students will understand thetools of various applications and how to use them to enhance their learning, increaseproductivity, and promote creativity. Students will utilize the tools available todesign new products and processes.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STEMGrade Level: 7-8, 9-12 1/2 creditThis class provides students with the opportunity to participate in scienceinvestigations that incorporate and build on previous learning from a number of othercore science classes. Class curriculum is organized in a broad range of science topics(Life, Personal, and Social Science, Earth and Space Science, Chemistry and Physics,Technology and Engineering, Inquiry and Nature of Science). Class time is spentadvancing project-based skills through hands-on building and developing in-depthknowledge of various science subjects.


COLLEGE AND CAREERIn addition to rigorous academic preparation, La Pietra students gain valuable lifeskills through the Counseling Department courses.

Upper School

Junior SeminarStudent Internship*Independent ProjectOne Schoolhouse (Online School for Girls)

JUNIOR SEMINARGrade Level: 11 ½ credit Pass/FailJunior Seminar is a required class for 11th graders, focusing on academic wayfinding,college guidance and post-secondary goal setting. Students prepare for the senioryear college application process and for choosing colleges into which they are bestsuited for and interested in attending. Topics stem from information on the collegeselection experience through financial aid. This class will also host on-campus visitsfrom college admissions representatives as scheduling permits.

STUDENT INTERNSHIP*Grade Level: 10-12 ½ credit Pass/Fail*Requires Departmental ApprovalThis student internship opportunity is designed to provide on-site experiences inschool-to-work skills, personal responsibility, and community relationships.Students may be enrolled for one term (1/2 credit) or its equivalent over the summerprogram o�erings. Requirements for this class include a grade point average of 3.0 orgreater, parent permission, faculty/administration recommendation, and approvalfrom the Academic Dean. Students are assessed using input from InternshipSupervisor, self-evaluation, journal and a final reflection paper, and participation andattendance. Credits during the school year are attached to the term in which they areearned; credits earned during the summer are attached to the upcoming fall term ofthe year the student will be entering.

INDEPENDENT PROJECTGrade Level: 11Juniors embark on a self proposed Independent Project during their Junior Year. Withthe help of an out of school and in-school advisor, students will complete 40 hours ona project of their choosing, culminating in a schoolwide presentation of learning inthe Spring of their Junior year.


ONE SCHOOLHOUSE- ONLINE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS*Grade Level: 10-12 1 credit*Requires Departmental ApprovalLa Pietra is proudly partnered with One Schoolhouse- Online School for Girls (OSG),an organization with elite membership from top schools for girls around the nation.This partnership o�ers students access to additional classes during the school year invarious core subjects. As an integrated element of our curriculum, these courses areconsidered La Pietra courses and are reflected in student GPAs and on transcripts.OSG tuition fees are included in the regular tuition when OSG courses are takenduring the fall and spring terms of the academic school year. An administrativeprocessing fee per class registration is required, and additional tuition fees areassessed for summer courses. To register for classes, students must contact theAcademic Dean; registration is coordinated through La Pietra. To view the 2021-2022OSG Course Catalog click here or visithttps://www.oneschoolhouse.org/school-information.html.

Prerequisite: Completion of OSG Constract and approval by Academic Dean● Regular Course: Approval by Academic Dean required● A.P. Courses: Minimum 3.3 GPA and approval by the Academic Dean and

department teacher● ***All students enrolling in a One Schoolhouse course must complete a

Learning Contract and submit payment of $150 before May 1, 2020. See Dr.Dolan for a copy of the Learning Contract.

● Withdrawal Policy: If the student withdraws after the add/drop window, thestudent will be billed for the entire cost of the course ($1585).


https://www.oneschoolhouse.org/school-information.html

AP® & ONE SCHOOLHOUSE EXPECTATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)® COURSESStudents enrolled in AP® courses with La Pietra or The Online School for Girls arerequired to take the AP® exams in May. The cost is $94 (subject to change) for each APexam course taken and will be billed to your La Pietra account. AP® exams arescheduled during the first two weeks of May.

ONE SCHOOLHOUSE ONLINE COURSESIn order to enroll in a One Schoolhouse- Online School for Girls (OSG) Course for the2020-2021 school year, all students must receive approval from the Academic Dean.Any students who wish to take an online AP® Course must have earned at least a 3.3GPA at the time of enrollment, received approval from the department teacher and theAcademic Dean. Additionally, students must complete the One Schoolhouse AcademicContract available from Dr. Dolan.

Cost for OSG class registration is born by both the family and the school. The studentwill submit a non-refundable payment to register and the school will subsidize theremainder of the course. The parent/guardian is responsible for half of theregistration fee and La Pietra will subsidize the other half. If a student withdraws,then the family is responsible for the full cost of enrollment ($1585).

Students are required to fill out an application with Dr. Dolan.


UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMIC PROGRAMThe following program will serve as a general guide for students entering 9th grade in 2021-2022.

GRADE 9:1. Intro to Literature 92. Algebra 1 or Geometry3. World Cultures4. Physics5. World Language6. Intro to Women’s and Gender Studies7. Health and Society (PE/Health)8. Visual Arts/Music/Theater Course9. PE Upper School or Intro to Dance

GRADE 10:1. World Literature2. Geometry or Algebra 2, Trigonometry3. World History (Previously European History)4. Chemistry5. World Language6. Introduction To Women’s and Gender Studies**/Health and Society(PE/Health)**7. Perspectives In Women’s History (Social Studies)8. Visual Arts/Music/Theater**9. PE Upper School or Intro to Dance10. Electives

GRADE 11:1. English: American Literature, British Literature, Creative Writing2. Algebra 2/ Pre-Calculus/Math Elective3. US History or AP US History4. Biology or AP Environmental Science/AP Physics5. World Language (optional after level 3)6. Junior Seminar7. PE Upper School or Intro to Dance8. Electives

GRADE 12:1. American Literature, British Literature, Creative Writing or AP English2. Math Core or Elective3. American Government4. Physics, AP Environmental/AP Physics/ Science Electives5. World Language (optional after level 3)6. PE Upper School or Intro to Dance7. Electives

**Should a student not take these courses in grade 9, these courses would be taken in grade 10.


MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMIC PROGRAMThe following program will serve as a general guide for entering students:

GRADE 61. English 62. Social Studies 63. Math 64. Science 65. Art 66. Music 67. Theater 68. PE 69. Success In Middle School 1 & 2

GRADE 71. English 72. Math 73. Science 74. World Geography5. Intro To Languages6. Middle School Art7. Middle School Music8. Middle School Theater9. Design Thinking10. PE Middle School/ Elements of Movement

GRADE 81. English 82. Pre-Algebra Or Algebra 1*3. Science 84. Civics in Hawai’i5. Middle School Art, Middle School Music, Middle School Theater6. Middle School STEM7. PE Middle School/ Elements of Movement8. World Language 1 (Chinese, French, or Spanish)*

*Algebra 1 and World Language 1 are counted towards the cumulative GPA for astudent’s upper school academic coursework. Students are required to take a finalexam for both Algebra 1 and World Language 1. See Student-Parent Handbook formore information.


updated (3.8.21) final lp course catalog 2021-2022

Documents