AP Catalog

AP 2-D Art and Design is an introductory college-level course where students refine and apply 2-D design skills to develop personal ideas. Through creating a complete portfolio, students focus on producing high-quality art, exploring specific visual interests, and gaining a broad experience in formal, technical, and expressive art-making. They engage in creative investigations, practice informed decision-making, and develop technical skills and understanding of visual elements.

AP 3-D Art and Design is an introductory college-level course where students develop and refine 3-D design skills. They complete a portfolio focusing on high-quality art, exploring specific visual interests, and broadening their technical and expressive skills. Students engage in creative investigations, make informed artistic decisions, and deepen their understanding of visual elements and 3-D techniques.

AP Drawing is an introductory college-level course where students refine drawing skills and develop ideas through art-making. They complete a portfolio focused on producing high-quality work, exploring specific visual interests, and broadening technical and expressive skills. Students engage in creative investigations, make informed artistic decisions, and deepen their understanding of visual elements and drawing techniques.

AP Art History is an introductory college-level course where students learn to analyze and understand art within its historical context. They explore architecture, sculpture, painting, and more, examining how politics, religion, culture, and materials shape art. The course emphasizes critical viewing and thoughtful analysis of artworks.

AP Music Theory is an introductory college-level course that deepens students’ understanding of music through analysis of performed and notated works. Covering pitch, rhythm, form, and musical structure, the course develops skills in analysis, composition, ear training, and sight-singing. Creative tasks include harmonizing melodies, composing bass lines for counterpoint, and realizing figured-bass notation.

Prerequisite: Prospective students should be able to read and write musical notation and have basic performance skills with voice or an instrument.

The AP English Language and Composition course focuses on developing evidence-based analytic and argumentative writing, analyzing nonfiction texts, and understanding writers’ choices. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support arguments, and analyze rhetorical elements in diverse nonfiction works.

Prerequisite: Students should be able to read and comprehend college-level texts and to express themselves clearly in writing.

The AP English Literature and Composition course emphasizes reading, analyzing, and writing about fiction, poetry, and drama from different periods. Students engage in close reading to explore how writers use language to convey meaning and evoke pleasure. They examine a work’s structure, style, themes, and use of literary devices. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays focused on literary analysis.

Prerequisite: Students should be able to read and comprehend college-level texts to express themselves clearly in writing.

AP Computer Science A teaches programming and problem-solving using Java. You’ll learn to design solutions, work with data, create and use algorithms, and explore the impact of computing on society. The course focuses on object-oriented programming and designing efficient systems.

Prerequisite: Completed first-year high school algebra, mastering linear functions, function composition, and collaborative problem-solving strategies.

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to computer science by teaching them to design solutions, develop algorithms, and create programs. Students use data, understand computing systems, and explore the impact of computing innovations. The course promotes collaborative and ethical computing, with flexibility in programming language choice.

Prerequisite: Completed first-year algebra, with skills in linear functions, function composition, and collaborative problem-solving. They should be comfortable using a Cartesian coordinate system. Strong math reasoning is essential, but prior computer science experience is not required.

AP Calculus AB prepares students for calculus, covering limits, differential and integral calculus, and problem-solving at the calculus level. Following the AP Calculus AB syllabus, it uses a multi representational approach—graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal—to deepen understanding. Emphasis is placed on clear communication of methods and reasoning, and technology is regularly used to explore functions and validate results.

Prerequisite: Grade “C” or better in AP Pre-Calculus. Grade “B” or better in Precalculus/Trigonometry

AP Calculus BC expands on Calculus AB by adding vector functions, polar areas, volumes, sequences, and series, with greater emphasis on limits and proofs. Using a multi representational approach—graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal—students connect concepts to understand calculus principles. Clear communication of methods and reasoning is emphasized, and technology is used to explore functions, validate work, and interpret results.

Prerequisite: Grade “B” or better in AP Pre-Calculus or grade “A ” in Pre-Calculus

AP Statistics introduces key concepts and tools for data collection, analysis, and conclusion-drawing. The course covers exploring data, sampling, probability, and statistical inference, using technology and problem-solving for conceptual understanding. Topics include probability, descriptive statistics, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, contingency tables, correlation, and regression, with emphasis on technology for data analysis.

Prerequisite: Grade ”B” or better in Algebra II or Algebra II, Intensified, Probability & Statistics, or Algebra III

AP Biology is a college-level course covering major biology areas: Molecules and Cells, Heredity and Evolution, and Organisms and Populations. It includes a rigorous lab program, follows the College Board syllabus, and prepares students for the AP exam, potentially earning college credit.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intensified Science sequence or first level courses in Biology and Chemistry and permission of the instructor.

AP Chemistry is a college-level course focused on the major areas of chemistry, emphasizing chemical calculations, principles, and lab work. Students explore atomic structure, compound properties, mixtures, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermochemistry, equilibrium, acids and bases, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry, building a foundation for advanced chemistry studies.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intensified Science sequence or first level course in Chemistry and permission of the instructor.

AP Environmental Science is a college-level course that teaches students the scientific principles and methods to understand the natural world and analyze both natural and human-made environmental problems. Students evaluate the risks of these issues and explore solutions for prevention or resolution. The course is interdisciplinary, covering topics from biology, chemistry, geology, environmental studies, and geography. It prepares students for further education in environmental science and can earn college credit based on AP exam performance.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of two lab sciences (one life and one physical); however, students may be concurrently enrolled in Chemistry IF they have completed 2 lab sciences (one life and one physical); satisfactory completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II or an equivalent class, concurrent enrollment in Selected Topics in Environmental Science and permission of the instructor

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level course that covers topics like kinematics, forces, energy, momentum, rotational dynamics, oscillations, and fluids. Through inquiry-based investigations, students build physical models and solve problems, preparing for further physics studies and the opportunity to earn college credit based on their AP exam performance.

Prerequisite: Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus or Algebra III or completion of Physics or Intensified Physics. Concurrent enrollment in Selected Topics in Physics I, AP is required.

AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level course that focuses on thermodynamics, electric force and circuits, magnetism, optics, waves, and modern physics. Through inquiry-based investigations, students develop physical models and solve problems to deepen their understanding of these topics.

Prerequisite: Completed AP Physics 1 or a comparable introductory physics course and should have taken or be concurrently taking Pre-Calculus or an equivalent course.

AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism is a calculus-based, college-level physics course,especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in one of the physical sciences or engineering. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study and activities as well as hands-on laboratory work as they explore concepts like change, force interactions, fields, and conservation.

Prerequisite: Completion of AP Physics C: Mechanics and AP Calculus BC.

AP Physics C: Mechanics is a calculus-based, college-level physics course covering Newtonian mechanics. The curriculum includes topics like kinematics, forces, work, energy, linear momentum, rotational dynamics, and oscillations. Students use calculus to develop models and solve problems, complemented by a rigorous laboratory program. The course is part of a two-semester university-level sequence in physics, with the second semester focusing on electricity and magnetism.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intensified Science sequence or first level course in Physics andpermission of the instructor. Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in Calculus AB, AP or BC, AP.

The AP French Language and Culture course focuses on communication skills, including understanding and being understood, through interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational activities. It emphasizes vocabulary, language control, communication strategies, and cultural awareness, with less focus on grammatical accuracy. Taught mostly in French, the course explores both contemporary and historical cultures, helping students appreciate cultural products, practices, and perspectives.

Prerequisite: Grade of ”B” or better in the preceding level or teacher recommendation

The AP Latin course focuses on studying selections from Vergil’s Aeneid and Caesar’s Gallic War. Students translate, analyze, and discuss these texts, exploring themes through debates and presentations. The course is designed for students with strong Latin skills, preparing them for the AP exam. It includes both poetry and prose, emphasizing critical reading, analysis, and connections to other disciplines and personal experiences.

Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in the preceding course or teacher recommendation

The AP Spanish Language and Culture course focuses on communication through interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational skills in real-life situations. Taught almost entirely in Spanish, the course emphasizes vocabulary, language control, and cultural awareness, without overemphasizing grammatical accuracy. Students explore both contemporary and historical cultures, studying products, practices, and perspectives. Designed for fluent students, the course prepares them for the AP exam by developing skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing through various tasks, including summaries, essays, and analysis of texts on literature, life, and culture.

Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in the preceding level or teacher recommendation

The AP Spanish Literature and Culture course is designed for fluent students who can understand both concrete and abstract material, including literary texts from various genres. It prepares students for the AP Spanish Literature exam by exploring a wide range of literature from Spain, Latin America, and U.S. Hispanic cultures. Students focus on critical reading, analytical writing, and understanding texts within cultural contexts. The course includes short stories, novels, poetry, plays, and essays, and develops proficiency in the interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational modes of communication. It also incorporates media and artistic comparisons to deepen cultural understanding.

Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in the preceding level or teacher recommendation

The AP Chinese Language and Culture course focuses on communication skills in Mandarin, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing, through real-life situations. It emphasizes vocabulary, language control, and cultural awareness, with less focus on grammatical accuracy. Taught mostly in Chinese, the course explores both contemporary and historical Chinese cultures, covering various themes and developing students’ global perspectives.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chinese IV with a grade of B or better in the preceding level or teacher recommendation

AP African American Studies is an interdisciplinary course that explores the diversity of African American experiences from early African kingdoms to contemporary issues. Students develop skills in history, literature, visual analysis, and data analysis, studying the experiences of Black communities in the U.S. within the broader context of Africa and the African diaspora.

AP European History covers key events, individuals, and developments from 1450 to the present. Students analyze primary and secondary sources, develop historical arguments, and explore themes such as Europe’s global interaction, economic development, cultural progress, political institutions, social organization, identity, and scientific innovations. The course emphasizes analytical thinking and writing, preparing students for college-level work through document-based essays, discussions, and debates. Students learn about major historical trends and movements that shaped modern Europe.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation; “B” or better in previous Social Studies course.

AP Comparative Government and Politics examines the political systems, policies, and challenges of six countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Students compare how different governments address global issues and develop skills in data interpretation, comparison, and evidence-based argumentation.

AP Human Geography introduces students to the study of human patterns and processes that shape the Earth’s surface. Students analyze spatial concepts, landscapes, and socioeconomic organization, exploring topics like population, migration, culture, political organization, agriculture, industrialization, and urbanization. The course develops skills in interpreting maps, analyzing data, and understanding global patterns and connections.

Prerequisite: Recommendation of current Social Studies teacher

AP Macroeconomics is a college-level course that helps students understand how the economy works on a large scale. You’ll learn about topics like national income, inflation, economic performance, financial systems, and international economics. The course teaches you how to use graphs, charts, and data to analyze and explain economic concepts.

AP Microeconomics is a college-level course that explores how individuals and businesses make economic decisions. You’ll learn about how markets work, how income is distributed, what happens when markets fail, and the role of government in improving the economy. The course also helps you use graphs, charts, and data to understand and explain these concepts.

AP Psychology introduces students to the study of human behavior and mental processes. Topics include the brain, sensation, learning, memory, development, personality, psychological disorders, and treatment. Students also learn research methods and apply psychological concepts to evaluate evidence and communicate ideas effectively.

Prerequisite: Recommendation of current Social Studies teacher

AP U.S. Government and Politics is a college-level course that introduces key political ideas, institutions, and behaviors in the U.S. Students will study important documents, Supreme Court decisions, and other materials to understand how political systems and institutions work together. Throughout the course, students will focus on big ideas that help connect different topics. They will also develop skills to analyze data, compare ideas, and make evidence-based arguments. As a final project, students will complete a political science or civics research project.

In AP U.S. History, students explore key events, people, and developments from 1491 to today. They use historian skills like analyzing sources, creating arguments, and making connections between different time periods. The course covers eight themes, including identity, politics, migration, and culture, to help students see how history shapes the present.

AP World History: Modern is a college-level course that covers key events and people from 1200 to today. Students will use historian skills like analyzing sources, making arguments, and understanding connections between different time periods. The course explores six main themes: environment, culture, governance, economy, social organization, and technology. These themes help students connect historical events across time and place.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation; “B” or better in previous Social Studies course