Course Descriptions
	Minimum Upper School requirements for graduation from St. Andrew’s are: English/Literature 4 credits (to include English levels 9,10,11, and 12) History 4 credits (to include World I, World II, and United States) Mathematics 4 credits (to include Algebra 1, which can be taken in eighth grade, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus) Science 3 credits (to include Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) Foreign Language 3 credits (in the same language) Fine Arts 3 credits Speech 1/2 credit (10th grade) Service Learning Health and Wellness 100 Approved hours 1/2 credit (9th grade)  Each Upper School student is required to take a minimum of 6 approved courses each semester.

	English
	Courses offered by the English department provide an opportunity to read and discuss literature and to write on a range of topics in a variety of ways. Through the study of composition and grammar, students learn to express themselves clearly and correctly, to define abstract concepts and to organize their ideas. English Course Descriptions

	History
	The history curriculum encourages students to think as an historian. Through the use of primary and secondary sources, students learn how to read, write, and communicate about the critical study of change over time and its impact on our world today. By enhancing the skills of historical writing, reading, discussion, research and, above all, critical thinking, a student at every level is encouraged to study history with a questioning and empathetic approach. History Course Descriptions

	Mathematics
	Courses offered in Mathematics provide students opportunities to understand and use the language of mathematics; to develop and demonstrate a logical approach to problem solving; and to become increasingly more independent in his or her learning. Students will use tools of technology to solve problems, analyze data, and promote better understanding of graphical displays. Mathematics Course Descriptions

	Science
	Because we live in a world that is dominated by the influence of science and technology, the ability to make informed decisions as voters and consumers requires an understanding and appreciation of the nature of science. Since science is both a body of knowledge and a process of investigation, these two components are an integral part of each science course offering. Students should expect a rigorous course of study that encourages higher-level reasoning, incorporates the use of technology and involves laboratory inquiry. The science curriculum emphasizes reading, writing, discussion, analysis, synthesis, scientific reasoning, and research skills. Reference works include texts, primary sources, and current science news publications. Since all students have their own laptops and every classroom has wireless network connection, frequent use is made of current scientific information available through Internet access and web tools. Science Course Descriptions

	World Languages
	The World and Classical Language Departments at St. Andrew’s offer various levels of six languages: Mandarin, Spanish, French, Latin, Italian, and German. In each language and at each level, emphasis is placed on oral/aural communication. Students develop proficiency in several contexts: communication, culture, connections, comparisons, and communities, while meeting the National Standards for Foreign Language Education. Students begin studying Mandarin and Spanish in the Lower School, and then broaden their exposure to languages in the Middle School, including with a new sequence of quarter-long courses in grades 5 and 6 -- Introduction to the Study of World Languages.  In grades 7 and 8, students select one of four languages (Mandarin, Spanish, French, or Latin) to study for the two years.  In the Upper School, students can continue with the study of the same language, change languages, or study two languages; but Upper School students must study at least one language for three years in high school in order to graduate.  In addition to these extensive offerings, which include Advanced Placement courses in Spanish, French, and Latin, advanced Upper School students also can study German and Italian, which are offered as year-long electives.     World Language Course Descriptions

	Fine Arts
	The Upper School Fine Arts Department at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School strives to provide all students with numerous opportunities for meaningful self-expression and creative exploration. In addition to involving the students intellectually, personally, and emotionally, the knowledge of the content learned assists students in developing skills that will transfer to other disciplines and life situations. Fine Arts Course Descriptions

	Speech Communication
	The Department of Speech Communication aims to help equip St. Andrew’s students with the tool of public speaking, probably “the single most studied skill in history.” While many aspects of a St. Andrew’s education are designed to provide students with significant ideas and the desire to inquire about life’s most important issues, experiences at St. Andrew’s in public speaking and debate intend to help students express themselves orally about those vital issues with comfort, clarity, force, and grace. Speech and Debate Course Descriptions