Precalculus – studies definitions and applications of trigonometric functions and vectors and introduces matrices. Linear transformations and their connection to matrices are explored. Probability and the study of conic sections conclude the year.

Chemistry – studies the structures, properties and reactions of substances at the atomic and molecular levels. Small-scale labs and demonstrations provide the physical experience of chemistry. Topics in the first semester include the periodic table, bonding, stoichiometry, reaction rates and equilibrium, states of matter, and redox and acid-base reactions. The second semester is devoted to organic chemistry and biochemistry, with an emphasis on understanding the structures of proteins and DNA.

Humane Letters Seminar – studies the history, literature and political philosophy of England and Europe from 1066 through the early 20th century. Students continue to work on writing coherent analytical essays and on developing more sophisticated organizational and stylistic techniques. Reading list: T.S. Eliot, Murder in the Cathedral; Robert Bolt, A Man for All Seasons; Hobbes, Leviathan (selections); Locke, Of Civil Government (selections); Rousseau, Essay on the Origin of Inequality; Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities; Burke, Reflections on the French Revolution (selections); Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice; Engels, Socialism: Utopian and Scientific (Part III); Marx and Engels, The Communist Manifesto; Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment; George Orwell, Animal Farm; British poetry.

Scripture (Old Testament) – introduces students to the vocabulary, grammar, imagery, literary forms and other devices used by Old Testament authors in order that they can understand what these authors were saying to their contemporaries. A particular emphasis is placed on understanding the story of creation, the fall, the formation of Israel and God’s work of restoring creation and establishing his kingdom. The students read selections from Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy, 1-2 Samuel, 1-2 Kings, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, the Psalms, Job, Ecclesiastes, Sirach, 1-2 Maccabees, Daniel and the Wisdom of Solomon. They also study portions of Enuma Elish, The Gilgamesh Epic and The Jewish Wars by Josephus.

Latin IV – begins with a short review of grammar. Students translate Caesar’s De Bello Gallico (The Gallic War), Cicero’s Oratio Prima in Catalinam Habita (First Oration Against Cataline) and Virgil’s Aeneid. The goal is for students to translate fluently (with the aid of vocabulary lists, grammar notes and historical commentary) and to grow in appreciation for the subtleties, beauty, complexity and precision of language.

Music IV – focuses on composition and theory through a study of 16th-century counterpoint techniques, culminating in the composition of an original work. Several of these are chosen to be performed in the Spring Fine Arts Concert. Students also continue to study and perform choral music.