Academics Program
The curriculum for Grades 9 and 10 is designed as a structured program of basic studies for all students. Topics in world history (gr. 9) and modern European history (gr. 10) offer unifying themes integrating literature and the arts. In English classes, teachers stress the development of writing and oral skills as well as the analysis and appreciation of literature. The Latin Studies program is designed to introduce the students to basic Latin grammar and vocabulary, build their English vocabulary by studying words of Latin derivation, and extend their knowledge and appreciation of classical mythology and Roman culture. Courses in mathematics develop thinking and reasoning skills, while science courses foster keen observation and analysis. Modern language courses stress proficiency in communication and provide cultural perspective.
The Grade 9 creative arts program involves each student in experiences that lead her to find or develop a talent, grow in self-confidence, and recognize outstanding achievement in theater, visual arts, music, and dance. Grade 9 teachers take particular responsibility for helping students master the study skills that pertain to each subject area. Teachers in all subject areas, with the assistance of the school's librarian/media specialist and her assistant, help students to become proficient in utilizing the extensive research resources available in the school library. Also in Grade 9, students learn basic keyboarding, word processing, and computer application skills and are introduced to formatting reports and research papers.
Students in Grades 11 and 12 continue to take courses in core areas, but also have the opportunity to discover and pursue a particular area of interest through electives in art, theater, music, language, science, mathematics, literature, history, and social studies.
Throughout a student's four-year program, religious studies classes foster personal reflection, moral awareness, a deeper understanding of Christianity, respect for all religions, community building, a commitment to justice, and dedication to service. Each class plans and participates in a day-long spiritual retreat each year. The retreat program focuses on elements that are common to all religions. Presenters for these reflective days are chosen as representatives of different creeds, professions, and life-styles to promote and broaden student awareness.
Students participate each year in physical education classes that involve them in activities that develop an appreciation for the benefits of recreation and team-work while instilling a life-long commitment to activity and fitness. In Grade 10, a health class enhances each student's knowledge of behaviors and choices that lead to achieving an optimal level of well-being.
Teachers at Notre Dame promote active learning in an atmosphere that stresses social interaction and cooperation. Students work together to solve problems, to prepare presentations, or to carry out assigned projects. This not only promotes learning, but helps students develop self-confidence and mutual respect.
The school day begins at 8:05 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. Each day comprises four ninety-minute class periods. Full-credit courses meet for one class period every other day; partial-credit courses meet for one-half of one class period on a designated number of days over a ten-day cycle. Ninety-minute classes in major subjects allow for a more relaxed pace, a wider variety of teaching methods, a deeper processing of material, fuller participation in class discussion, less fragmentation in project-oriented courses, enhanced attention to individual students, greater incorporation of video and computer technology, more complex laboratory experiments in the sciences, directed research in the library, and opportunities to invite guest speakers or to go on one-period field trips. With this schedule, both students and teachers have fewer classes to prepare for each day. Student concentration increases and each student learns to use her free time well and plan responsibly. Grade 9 and 10 students remain on the school campus during the entire school day. Grade 11 and 12 students may leave campus during their free periods.
Academics
Overview
Academic Program
Requirements
Grading & Evaluation
Advanced Placement
Course Descriptions
Arts Department
Visual Arts
Music
Theater
English Department
Health & Physical
Education
History and Social
Studies Department
Keyboarding/ Computer
Applications
Language Department
Latin
French
Spanish
Mathematics Department
Religious Studies Department
Science Department
On-Line Classrooms
Virtual School
Summer Assignments
English
History
Language
Arts
Books
Library
Notre Dame Academy
425 Salisbury Street, Worcester MA 01609
Phone: 508-757-6200/ FAX: 508-757-1888