Saint Michael the Archangel
High School
2015-16 Course Catalog
Curriculum
Culture of Life
St. Michael the Archangel High School develops the
full potential of each student: spiritual, academic, athletic, and
artistic. Our academic program is a classical college predatory
program that is rigorous as well as comprehensive. The faculty
and staff are committed to assisting each student in reaching
their personal level of success. The school strives to offer
students a variety of leadership and volunteer activities that
will encourage each student’s success personally as well as
spiritually.
Saint Michael the Archangel High School, with a
foundational emphasis upon the sacraments and concern for the
salvation of souls, is striving to prepare students to promote a
Culture of Life within our world. Saint Michael the Archangel
High School is firmly committed to the teachings of the
Catholic Church in this regard.
The academic focus offers the student every possible
advantage for success at the University level. St. Michael the
Archangel High school believes in the classical approach to
education incorporating the Culture of Life throughout the
curriculum which gives the student the best Catholic education
in the area. This approach is tried and true as it prepares the
student to excel in and out of the classroom. College
Preparatory, Honors, and Advanced Placement courses are
offered based on each individual student’s aptitude.
Schedule
The schedule that is used at St. Michael’s is a rotating block
schedule. Each class is 85 minutes with alternating periods.
There are four periods each day. This allows for over one
hundred and twenty one hours per class for classroom
instruction every school year.
Some of the issues our young people will face include
personhood, abortion, artificial human reproduction (in vitro
fertilization, surrogacy, cloning), embryonic stem cell research,
contraception, genetic manipulation, abnormal pregnancies,
the death penalty, pain management, redemptive suffering,
end-of-life medical care, euthanasia, assisted suicide, organ
donation, and brain death. By the careful integration of faith
and reason, our students will learn the true teachings of the
Catholic Church in these matters and how they can live out
these teachings in order to promote a Culture of Life.
Above all, we believe that it is through participation in
Holy Mass and the Sacrament of Penance and through their
devotional life, especially praying the Rosary and Chaplet of
Divine Mercy that students best understand what Our Savior
Jesus Christ is calling them to do to build up a Culture of Life
in this world and help save souls for eternity.
St. Michael the Archangel
A.M.D.G.
Course Level Definitions
Curriculum by Year
th
9 Grade
Theology 9
English 9
Math
Chemistry
Western Civilization I
Foreign Language
Fine Arts
Physical Education
11th Grade
Theology 11
English 11
Math
Science
US History
Elective
Elective
Elective
Grading Scale
College Preparatory
A+
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
D-
4.25
4.00
3.75
3.25
3.00
2.75
2.25
2.00
1.75
1.25
1.00
.75
100-97
96-93
92-90
89-87
86-83
82-80
79-77
76-73
72-70
69-67
66-63
62-60
High School
th
10 Grade
Theology 10
English 10
Math
Biology
Western Civilization II
Foreign Language
Fine Arts/ Geography
Physical Education
12th Grade
Bioethics
English 12
Math
Government
Elective
Elective
Elective
Elective
College Prep: College Prep courses use a standard high school
text book. The student is expected to complete the majority of
the text.
Advanced Placement (AP): Advanced Placement courses are
taught at college level using a college level textbook. AP
courses have pre-requisites at the high school level. (For
instance, to take AP Biology, a student would need to have
completed high school biology and chemistry.
*requires extra fee to take the exam that is paid to the College
Board
Honors: Honors courses are advanced courses offered in the
core subject areas (science, math, history, English.). They are
also offered in the third level of any other course except for
Physical Education (e.g. Spanish 3 could be designated as
honors). The requirements for honors courses are greater than
for college prep courses. Textbooks and/or other course
materials must be differentiated and more rigorous than those
used in college prep courses. An honors course must have a
published syllabus that verifies rigor that is sufficiently beyond
the college prep or tech prep requirements.
Advanced Placement
A+
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
D-
5.25
5.00
4.75
4.25
4.00
3.75
3.25
3.00
2.75
1.25
1.00
.75
100-97
96-93
92-90
89-87
86-83
82-80
79-77
76-73
72-70
69-67
66-63
62-60
GPA: A GPA is the student's grade point average for all the
high school level courses he has completed. In order to produce
a transcript for college applications and in order to do a class
ranking, students' grades should be given in numerical form not as letter grades.
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Graduation requirements and diplomas
Summa Cum Laude diploma
The Summa Cum Laude diploma is for the student who wishes
to pursue the most challenging course of study for all four
years and requires four years each of math, science, literature,
English, theology, history and foreign language. Additionally,
of the core subjects of literature, English, theology and history,
one honors course must be taken as a freshman, two as a
sophomore, two or three AP courses as a junior two or three
AP courses must be taken as a senior. The Summa Cum Laude
exceeds the requirements for college entrance and is based
upon the graduation requirements at St. Michael the Archangel
High School.
*student may substitute completing 2 seasons on SMHS sports
teams for PE II, with a coach’s approval.
Graduation Requirements
Theology
4 credits
English
4 credits
Math
4 credits
History
4 credits
Science
4 credits
Foreign Language
4 credits
Fine Arts
1.5 credits
Geography
0.5 credits
*Physical Education/Health
2 credits
Electives
6 credits
High School
Magna Cum Laude diploma
The Magna Cum Laude is the college preparatory diploma, and
is designed to exceed the admission requirements of most state
universities. It provides an academically rigorous course of
study Students are required to take four combined classes in
English and literature, theology, math, science, history and
three in foreign languages. The Magna Cum Laude is the
perfect diploma for the student who is preparing for college.
Theology
English
Math
History
Science
*Foreign Language
Fine Arts
Geography
Physical Education/Health
Electives
4
4 credits
4 credits
4 credits
4 credits
4 credits
3 credits
1.5 credits
0.5 credits
2 credits
7 credits
St. Michael the Archangel
A.M.D.G.
Standard diploma
The Standard Diploma exceeds the State of Virginia High
school graduation requirements, and is designed for the student
who needs to make significant changes to the course of study,
or who may not be planning on attending a four-year college
immediately after high school. It is important to note that the
minimum graduation requirements for the Standard Diploma
may not meet the admission requirements of many four year
colleges.
Theology
English
Math
History
Science
*Foreign Language
Fine Arts
Geography
Physical Education/Health
Electives
4 credits
4 credits
3 credits
4 credits
3 credits
2 credits
1.5 credits
0.5 credits
2 credits
7 credits
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High School
St. Michael the Archangel
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High School
categories drawing, 2D, and 3D. Each portfolio will consist of
18 to 29 pieces and the student is expected to have completed
25% of those before taking the class. The student will learn
about the creative process from planning their pieces to editing
their final portfolio. The guidelines set for the College Board
Advanced Placement are adhered to and a portfolio is
submitted.
Fine Arts
Art I
Freshmen Level Course
1 Semester. Prerequisite-None Course content - project based.
This course is an exploratory studio art course that covers a
range of media using the elements of design as a guide. There
are also required sketchbook assignments throughout the
semester.
*Advanced Placement Art History
Junior or Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite-Art I. Couse Content: Lecture
This course is designed to engage students at the level of a
college level art history survey class. The course aims to
develop critical thinking as well as an understanding diverse
historical and cultural context of a variety of artistic media.
This includes examining and analyzing major forms of artistic
impressions from cultures around the world as well as
understanding and interpreting the context in which these
works were created.
Art II
Sophomore thru Senior Level Course
1 Semester. Prerequisite- Art 1. Course content- lecture and
project based. This course is designed to introduce students to
the styles and media of a group of artists from different periods
of art history. There are also required sketchbook assignments
throughout the semester intended to develop the student’s
creative process.
Art III
Sophomore thru Senior Level Course
1 Semester. Prerequisite- Art 2. Course content- lecture and
project based. This course is intended to help the student
discover a personal style inside of a preferred media by
experimenting with different techniques and media. There are
also required sketchbook assignments throughout the semester
intended to develop the student’s creative process.
Art IV
*Advanced Placement Art
Junior or Senior Level Course
2 Semesters, Art 3 is a prerequisite
Course content is project based. This course is intended to
guide the student in the process of building a portfolio of
college level art pieces. The student can choose one of three
Choir
Freshman-Senior
2 Semesters, Prerequisite, None. Course content-This course
provides an opportunity for students to participate in a vocal
performance ensemble. Students will learn basic vocal and
choral techniques, sight-singing skills and music theory. A
variety of choral music and musical styles will be
explored. Students will be expected to participate in choir for
weekly Mass, Graduation, and Baccalaureate Mass. Other
performances may be added during the year.
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improvisation, pantomime, creating characters, and monologue
work and scene study. Students will also be learning about the
foundations of theater leading back to threshing floor rituals
and morality plays. A discussion of the relationship between
the Church and theatre will be analyzed. This is a college
preparatory course with a standard high school textbook
Theater II
Sophomore, Junior, Senior Level course
1 Semester, Prerequisite: Theatre I. Course Content: Lecture
and Laboratory. This is a studio class for those interested in the
art of acting. Students will explore both acting and directing.
Script analysis will be taught as part of this course. The class
will also be required to write a critical review of a production.
Students will also engage with the history of Greek and Roman
theatre. The class will culminate in an evening showcase of
directed scenes. This is a college preparatory course with a
standard high school textbook.
Theatre III
Junior - Senior
1 Semester, Prerequisite: Theatre I, Theatre II. Course Content:
Lecture and Laboratory. This is a studio class for those wishing
to further their craft. Students will explore both acting and
directing. Script analysis, theatre critique, and theatre history
will play key roles in this class. The class will culminate with
an evening showcase of one-act plays. This is a college
preparatory course with a standard high school textbook.
Ensemble
*Instrumental Ensemble
Freshman-Senior
2 Semesters, Prerequisite- prior experience playing an
instrument through private lessons, group lessons, band or
orchestra. Course content-Students will explore playing
together in both small and large groups. A variety of
instrumental and musical styles, music theory and sight-reading
skills will be included. Students will be expected to participate
in Mass, Graduation, and Baccalaureate Mass. Other
performances may be added during the year.
*Students must provide their own instrument.
Music 1
Sophomores/Freshman
1 Semester. Prerequisite. None. Course Content- Music 1 is a
course in which students will explore, compose, listen, and
perform music. Students will develop and expand skills in
singing, reading music, and music notation. Students will
develop a basic understanding and skills needed to play the
keyboard and guitar. Included in the course be listening,
analyzing, music theory, music history, and appreciating the
music of Western Civilization both secular and sacred.
Theatre I
Theatre I
Freshman course
1 Semester. Prerequisite: None. Course Content: Lecture
and Laboratory. This is a fast and furious introduction to
Theatre that will go over a variety of skills such as
Studio Theatre
Junior -Senior
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1 Semester, Prerequisites: Theatre I, Theatre II, and Theatre III.
Course Content: Laboratory. This is a studio class devoted
entirely to the art of acting. Students will be directed by the
teacher on auditioning, monologues, and scenes. The focus of
this class will be on creating an audition package. The class
will culminate with the performance of a full-length play. This
is a college preparatory course with a standard high school
textbook.
Theatre Shakespeare
Sophomore, Junior, Senior Level course
1 Semester, Prerequisite: Theatre I, Theatre II (preferred).
Course Content: Lecture and Laboratory. This is a studio class
for those interested in the art of Shakespearian acting.
Acting Shakespeare is designed to develop the students' unders
tanding and practice of the challenges of performing
Shakespeare by building upon acting skills and knowledge.
Through scene study, the course will focus on identifying the e
mbeddedtextual clues of rhythm, syntax andrhetoric in order to
align their verbal, vocal and physical expressions to reveal
the emotional life of the character. Credence will also be given
to the historical setting in which Shakespearian plays were
written, including a major discussion of religion during this
time period. This is a rigorous college preparatory course with
a standard high school textbook.
High School
2 Semesters. Course content: Lecture; integrates grammar and
vocabulary, introduction of analytical writing and reading
comprehension. This course is a college preparatory required
course that incorporates classical literature, Shakespeare, and
in-depth analysis of poetry.
English I Honors
Freshman level course
2 Semesters. Placement is based on Middle School transcripts.
Course content: Lecture; integrates grammar and vocabulary.
This is a college preparatory course that is a survey of the
literature and takes a chronological approach, designed to
parallel Honors Western Civilization I. The focus is on
European literature, both fiction and non-fiction, from Ancient
Greece through the Middle-Ages. Students will begin to learn
textual analysis, and demonstrate their understanding through
research projects, creative writing, short essays, and class
discussion.
English II
Sophomore level course
2 Semesters. Course content: Lecture; integrates grammar and
vocabulary. This is a college preparatory course that is a survey
of the literature of the Middle Ages through the Renaissance
(500-1600). Beginning with the Rule of Saint Benedict and
continuing with Elizabethan literature of Shakespeare and
Marlowe and the Metaphysical poets (John Donne) of the late
Renaissance, students will focus on the Medieval concepts of
love, chivalry, honor and glory and how they are manifested in
English
Creative Writing
English I
Freshman level course
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the selected texts. Further students will examine how these
ideals change in the course of our study, if they are still valid,
and if they are not, why and what has replaced them. This
class will also examine the role of the Church and man's view
of God and himself within the Church and how this role and
worldview has changed with the divisions of
Christendom. This course will also develop students' writing
skills and critical thinking skills as well as offer opportunities
for creativity and free expression.
High School
The course will seek to answer the following question: What is
the American Dream and what are the consequences of trying
to fulfill its goals? In applying critical thinking to this question
the student engages and analyzes American literature utilizing
an understanding of the Catechism. This is a college
preparatory class which utilizes standard high school texts.
English III Honors
Junior level course
2 Semesters, Prerequisite: English 9 and English 10. Course
Content: Lecture. This is an honors course in which the
emphasis is on analytical writing, critical reading, and
recitation. The study of literature will be American authors
and will include British colonialism, Native American
Literature, Puritan literature, Transcendentalists, and modern
era literature. Students will be reading and writing about
American authors and their own unique American experiences.
The course will seek to answer the following question: What is
the American Dream and what are the consequences of trying
to fulfill its goals? In applying critical thinking to this question
the student engages and analyzes American literature utilizing
an understanding of the Catechism. This is an honors level
course. May be used as a prerequisite for AP English with a
semester average of 90 or higher.
English II Honors
Sophomore level course
2 Semesters., Prerequisites- recommendation from the English
Department. Course content: Lecture; integrates grammar and
vocabulary. Sophomore Honors English takes a chronological
approach, designed to parallel Honors Western Civilization II.
This college-prep course is open to sophomores, with the
recommendation of the English Department. Particular
emphasis is placed on the great works of British literature from
the Renaissance to the Modern period. Students learn to
analyze literature in class discussions and literary essays.
English III
Junior level course
2 Semesters, Prerequisite: English 9 and English 10. Course
Content: Lecture. The study of literature will be American
authors and will include British colonialism, Native American
Literature, Puritan literature, Transcendentalists, and modern
era literature. Students will be reading and writing about
American authors and their own unique American experiences.
*Advanced Placement English
Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites; Honors English 11 with a 90 or
above and instructor recommendation. Course content: students
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analyze and interpret imaginative literature through the careful
reading and critical analysis of representative works from
various genres and periods.in Honors English but additional
reading and writing is required as per the College Board Exam
AP English.
High School
rhetorical strategies, diction, and figures of speech. The student
is required to produce a well-researched argumentative paper.
*Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition
Senior level course
2 semester course: Prerequisite: Referral from Junior English
instructor. Course content; Lecture, critical thinking, analyzing
and evaluation of literature rhetorical analysis and
argumentative writing. The genres include the epic, drama,
novel, novella, short stories, and a major focus on poetry. This
course prepares students for the College Board Advanced
Placement English Literature and Composition Exam
English IV
Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite: English 9, English 10, and English
11 Course content: Lecture Senior Level course
The study of literature will be diverse and will encompass
literature from Canada, South America, Africa, The Middle
East, India, and Japan. Worldviews present in each of the
cultures will be addressed and contrasted with traditional Holy
Roman Catholic values. The course will seek to answer the
following question: What does it mean to be human? In
applying critical thinking to this question the student engages
and analyzes American literature utilizing an understanding of
the Catechism. This is a college preparatory course which
utilizes standard text books.
Electives
Basic Media Communications
Sophomore thru senior level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, none. Course content: Lecture;
integrates concepts and skills from journalistic writing,
photography, web and video documentation. This course is a
college preparatory elective that will require the student to
produce a variety of written products. *Laptop computer with
internet access required
*Advanced Placement English Language and Composition
Senior level course
2 semester course. Prerequisite, referral from Junior level
instructor. Course content; rhetorical analysis and
argumentative writing. The course is an AP course that trains
the student in analyzing texts for tone, purpose, syntax,
Creative Writing
Junior or Senior level course
2 semesters. Prerequisite: Sophomore English. Course
content: An introduction to the major genres of creative
writing, including fiction, poetry, drama, and personal essay.
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This is a college preparatory course in which the student will
compose stories, poems, and dramatic scenes.
High School
will participate in cultural activities associated with French and
francophone holidays. E-pal program continued.
French III
Sophomore – Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite French II with a 70 or better. Course
Content: Lecture, conversation, writing, and listening. Students
acquire and use information from a variety of authentic French
language sources. They demonstrate a better understanding of
more advanced grammar structure and vocabulary, thus
allowing them to comprehend and communicate a variety of
topics on a more sophisticated level. A final project will be
assigned and presented to the class during the week before the
final exam. “E-pal” program.
Foreign Languages
French I
Freshman throughout
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, none. Course Content. Introduction
to basic French grammar and vocabulary with a concentration
on present and past tense, gain an understanding of French and
Francophone cultures. This is a college preparatory course in
which the student will focus on proficiency in reading, writing,
speaking, and listening comprehension. Students are provided
the opportunity to participate in the “e-pal” program, in which
each student is assigned a French student as an e-pal and
encouraged to maintain (teacher monitored) communication
throughout the school year.
French IV
Junior – Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, French III with a 70 or better.
Course Content: Lecture, conversation, writing, and listening, a
continuation and expansion of French III. The major
grammatical structures of the French language are intensified .
includes and goes beyond grammar and vocabulary by
introducing authentic French literature as part of the course
study. French classics such as Cyrano de Bergerac (by
Edmond Rostand ), La Belle et la Bete (by Gabrielle-Suzanne
Barbot de Villeneuve ), Le Fantome de L’Opera ( by Gaston
Leroux ), and Les Miserables (by Victor Hugo). Students
utilize authentic French reading material (modern media) and
French II
Freshman- Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, French I with 70 or better. Course
content. Lecture, reading, and expansion of the skills
developed in French I. The course is a College preparatory
course that will intensify the study of the grammar tenses;
future, conditional, and subjunctive, while engaging in
conversation, provide and obtain information, express feelings,
and communicate emotions in the target language. Students
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High School
comprehend, with greater confidence, phrases and idiomatic
expressions. Students demonstrate/solidify their knowledge of
French grammar by engaging as a mentor/teacher in one-to-one
tutor sessions with French III students.
classical civilization to the Western world and broaden the
perspective on life and language. This is a college preparatory
course in which the student will prepare and sit for a nationally
recognized examination.
Latin I
Freshman-Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, none. Course content: lecture,
examination of ancient roman culture; history, religion,
literature, architecture, and philosophy. This is a college
preparatory course in which the student will begin to
comprehend the impact of Ancient Rome on the present.
Latin IV
Junior-Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Latin III and recommendation.
Course content: lecture, exploration of Latin literature and
culture as students explore various literary styles and become
acquainted with several Latin authors through a survey of Latin
literature, a review of major grammatical forms, and continued
study of English derivatives. This course will prepare the
student for the AP Latin Literature course. This is a college
preparatory course in which the student will prepare and sit for
a nationally recognized examination.
* Students who take this course cannot miss more than 4
classes.
Latin II
Freshman-Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisites: Latin I with a grade of 75 or better.
Course content: lecture, continued examination of Latin II
continues the study of Latin grammar, and introduces students
to short original texts. Authors may include Bede, Cicero, and
Ovid. The class is open to all students who have completed
Latin I with a grade of 75 or better.
Spanish I
Freshman or above
2 semesters: Prerequisite Spanish I, with a grade of 70 or
above. Course content: Lecture, dialogue, and vocabulary.
Spanish 1 serves as a basic introduction to learning,
understanding, writing, reading, and speaking a new language.
Classroom instruction starts from “Hola” and progresses
through basic conversation and grammar forms. The student
will begin to learn the basics of Spanish, such as primary
vocabulary, noun-adjective agreement, and verb conjugations.
Latin III
Sophomore-Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, recommendation. Course content:
lecture, strengthen comprehension and translation skills,
enhancing oral and written language to enrich English vocab
and increase the understanding of the history of the GrecoRoman civilization and the awareness of the contributions of
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authentic sources as well as produce compositions containing
well developed ideas. Students will continue to study the
Hispanic culture. Communication in the language will be
essential for this class.
*Advanced Placement Spanish
Senior
2 Semesters. Prerequisite 85 or better in Spanish I, II, III, IV: A
teacher recommendation
This course is designed for students who wish to develop their
knowledge of the Spanish language skills through listening,
speaking, reading, and writing. Content: World of literature,
and current events of Spanish speaking countries through
authentic writing materials such as magazines, newspapers,
short stories or legends, and Spanish videos will be
incorporated into the practice of Spanish. The AP course is
designed for the student to reach proficiency level that will
prepare them for the Advanced Placement Exam. Students will
improve their culture knowledge of the Spanish Countries by
exploring and presenting the art, history, holyday, food,
traditions, and types of government, etc.
* Students who take this course cannot miss more than 4
classes
Spanish II
Freshman or above
2 semesters. Prerequisite Spanish I, with a grade of 70 or
above. Course content; speaking, writing, reading, listening,
comprehension of preterit, imperfect, future tenses as well as
complex sentence structure and grammar. Hispanic culture
projects aid in the further education, the course is taught in
Spanish and English.
Spanish III
Sophomore or above
2 semesters. Prerequisite Spanish II, with a grade of 75 or
above. Course content; major grammatical structures of the
Spanish language and learn the remaining verb tenses, such as
the future and the conditional. Students will read more
complicated text and literary pieces, and write more complex
essays. The course is taught in Spanish and English
Spanish IV
Junior or above
2 semesters. Prerequisite Spanish III, with a grade of 75 or
above and acquired a solid level of proficiency in the Spanish
Language. Course content; literary selections, international
newspapers and authentic materials will be used in class
discussions. Projects and oral presentations, essays and
informal writings in Spanish are also an integral part of the
program. Students will be able to exchange and support
opinions on a variety of topics in Spanish. They will
comprehend spoken and written Spanish texts form a variety of
Humanities
*AP Macroeconomics
Junior/Senior Level Course
2 semesters. Prerequisite: Algebra I; Teacher
Recommendation. This course is a College Level AP course.
Macroeconomics introduces students to basic economic
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concepts then explores economic decision-making on a
national and global scale. Topics included are national
accounts, international trade, and macroeconomic policy.
begin by learning various geographic tools and how to use
them; students will then review the regions of the world,
learning the physical and political aspects of each.
Consumer Science
Junior or Senior Level Course
1 Semester, Prerequisite, none. Elective. Course content is
lecture and project based. This course is designed to teach the
student core skills needed for successful life planning and
management. This includes nutrition and foods, family and
parenting, resource management, housing and living
environments, and sewing and apparel as well as leadership
development and career preparation.
History
Western Civilization I
Freshman
World Civilization I
Freshman
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, 70 or better in 8th grade History.
Course Content: Lecture and discussion. The time period
covered in this course is from pre-history, river valley
civilization, Greece, the Roman Empire, the Dark Ages, and
the Renaissance.
Philosophy
Junior or Senior level course
2 semesters. Prerequisite, none. Course content- Lecture,
discussion, projects, papers. This is a college preparatory
course. The discipline of Philosophy has shaped the course of
human intellectual development for over 2,500 years.
Philosophy is the systematic study of ideas and a reasoned
pursuit of fundamental truths. Introduction to Philosophy
serves as a historical introduction to the heritage of Western
philosophical tradition, from the Ancients to contemporary
philosophical movements.
World Civilization I Honors
Freshman
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, 90 or better in 8th grade History.
Course Content: Lecture, discussion and writing.
World Civilization I Honors is a challenging course designed
to increase the student understanding and appreciation of
World Civilization. It is an intense course that focuses on the
cultural, economic, intellectual, political, and social
development from pre-history to the Renaissance. Solid
reading and writing skills are necessary to succeed.
Western Civilization II Honors
Sophomore level course
2 Semesters, Prerequisite: Western Civilization I. Course
Content: Lecture and Term Papers
Geography
Sophomore Level Course
1 Semester. Prerequisite. None. Required Course. This course
focuses on physical and political geography. Students will
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This course is an Honors class using extensive outside reading
and writing. The student will learn the history of Western
civilization from the fall of Rome to the present day,
concentrating on the Middle Ages and the World Wars.
High School
United States History
Junior
2 semesters. Prerequisites, Western Civ. I and II. Course
content-Lecture, discussion, essay writing. This is a college
preparatory course in which the study of American history
begins with the colonization of North America, move towards
independence and the establishment of a new gov't. The course
continues with the growth of the nation and the Civil War. The
course concludes with the study of our rise as a major power in
an interdependent global society.
WESTERN CIVILIZATION II
Sophomore-Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Western Civilization 1. Course
content; lecture, discussion, in class assignments. This College
preparatory course that is a continuation of Classical
Civilizations introduced in Western Civilization I which
introduces the geopolitical factors and matters of faith in the
development of our civilization from the Middle Ages through
the tumultuous 20th century to the present
Government
Junior or Senior level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, US History. Course Content: Lecture
This course is a College Prep class of average difficulty. The
student will learn the structure of American government under
the Constitution, the history of Constitutional interpretation,
current Constitutional crises, the workings of electoral politics,
and how policy is made.
*AP United States History
Junior
2 semesters. Prerequisites, Western Civ. I and II. Course
content-Lecture, discussion, essay writing. A freshmen college
course and can earn students college credits. Survey’s
American history from the age of exploration and discovery to
the present. Solid reading and writing skills, along with a
willingness to devote considerable time to homework and
study, are necessary to succeed. Emphasis is placed on critical
thinking, essay writing, interpretation of original documents,
and historiography. Students will take the advanced placement
exam for this course.
Life Sciences
*AP Biology
Junior or Senior level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Chemistry I and Biology I with a
grade of 87 or better in Honors Biology or a 91 or better in
College Prep Biology. Course Content: Lecture and laboratory.
College Level text with online text . The equivalent of a twosemester college introductory course usually taken by biology
majors their first year. The textbook, Principles of Life, is used
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for AP Biology is one used by many college biology majors.
Preparation for the Advanced Placement Biology examination.
* Many colleges give credit for introductory biology to
applicants with a score of 3 if they are non-science majors, but
few will accept a score of 3 for credit or advanced placement if
the student is a science major. Many colleges DO NOT accept
AP Biology Exam scores for credit for Biology/ Pre Med.
majors. Please visit the College Board web site for more
information.
High School
Biology
Sophomore course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Chemistry I. Course Content:
Lecture, Laboratory, Prerequisite to Anatomy and Physiology
or Advanced Placement Biology with a 91 or better semester
average. The student is expected to pay attention to the detail
of chemical and biological processes. The student is expected
to complete a semester a bio-ethical analysis thesis paper
incorporating Biotechnology of current bioethical issues.
*AP Environmental Science
Junior/Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Chemistry I; Biology. This is a
College Level AP course. This course introduces to humanenvironment relations, problems that arise through this
relationship and various solutions to these problems. Students
will conduct experiments and research to test theories
regarding certain environmental issues.
Honors Biology
Sophomore course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Chemistry I. Course Content:
Lecture, Laboratory, Latin prefix and suffix quizzes.
Prerequisite to Advanced Placement Biology with an 87 or
better semester average. Course is designed to prepare the
student to take the Advanced Placement Biology Course. The
student is expected to pay attention to the detail of chemical
and biological process and required to complete the content at
an accelerated rate moving through Kingdom Animalia to the
study of systems in Homo sapiens, The Honors student is
expected to complete a quarterly a bio-ethical analysis thesis
paper incorporating Biotechnology of current scientific
bioethical issues.
Anatomy and Physiology
Junior or Senior Level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Chemistry I and Biology I. Course
Content Lecture and Laboratory. May be used as a prerequisite
to Advanced Placement Biology with a 90 or better semester
average. This course is a difficult College Prep course that
requires the student learn in depth Anatomy and Physiology of
the Human. Each body system includes a bio-ethical analysis
incorporating Biotechnology of current scientific
advancements.
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High School
Marine Biology
Junior or Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Chemistry I and Biology I. Course
Content Lecture and Laboratory. This is a college preparatory
course. May be used as a prerequisite to Advanced Placement
Biology with a 90 or better semester average, or may be taken
concurrently with AP Biology.
Projects include: research and design of a marine environment.
quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square,
graphing, and by applying the quadratic formula. The course
will also include the study of monomial and polynomial
expressions, inequalities, exponents, functions, rational
expressions, ratios, and proportions. Algebraic skills will be
applied in a wide variety of problem-solving situations. All
students are required to have a graphing calculator, the goal
being for students to learn and recognize the powerful ways in
which computing technology can aid in solving problems.
Mathematics
Pre-Algebra
Freshman or Sophomore-Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites, 8th grade Math. Course content:
Lecture, problem solving. This course is the prerequisite of
Algebra I. Essential concepts as operations involving positive
& negative integers, fractions & decimals, work with the
Cartesian coordinate grid, and solving for variables in algebraic
equations. Students are also required to memorize the squares
& square-roots of integers from 1-20, and the cubes & cuberoots from 1-10, to better equip them for subsequent work in
Algebra.
Geometry.
Freshman/Sophomore/Junior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Algebra I. This course will have
students apply methods and knowledge gained in Algebra I to
theoretical and practical geometric problems. Covered topics
include angles, triangles, polygons, circles, and threedimensional figures.
Algebra II
Freshman - Senior level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Algebra I, Geometry, Course
Content: Lecture Individual problem solving
This course is a College Prep class of above-average difficulty.
The student will learn the elements of trigonometry,
logarithms, linear and quadratic equations, and systems of
equations.
Algebra I
Freshman or Sophomore Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, None. Course Content: Lecture.
This required College Prep course involves writing, solving,
and graphing linear and quadratic equations, including systems
of two linear equations in two unknowns. Students will solve
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High School
Advanced Placement Calculus AB Exam in the spring. It is a
challenging full-year course covering functions and graphs,
limits and continuity, differentiation, applications of the
derivative, the definite integral, integration, and applications of
integration to geometry, additional applications of integration,
Riemann Sums, and differential equations. All students are
required to have a graphing calculator, the goal being for
students to learn and recognize the powerful ways in which
computing technology can be used to experiment as well as aid
in solving problems.
Consumer Math
Junior/Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Algebra II. This course introduces
students to mathematical concepts and practical applications
encountered in day-to-day life. Includes resume-writing,
mortgage and loan calculations, taxes, and stocks and bonds.
Pre-calculus
Sophomore, Junior, or Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites, Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra
2. Course Content: Lecture. This elective College Prep course
will make connections between mathematics and real-world
situations by integrating technology, science, and math in the
classroom. Pre-calculus topics will include major algebra
topics, trigonometric and circular functions, trigonometric
identities, exponents and logarithms, polar coordinates, vectors,
conics, matrices, higher degree polynomials, rational and
irrational algebraic functions, sequences, series, and the
binomial theorem. Pre-calculus will demonstrate the
connections between other academic disciplines and math.
Mathematical modeling, practical application problems, and a
graphing calculator will illustrate the use of and the
connections between the concepts learned.
*Advanced Placement Statistics
Junior – Senior Level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites-Algebra II. Course Content: lecture,
which is designed to present strategies for collection
organizing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data.
Student driven projects. This is a college level non calculus
based course in introductory statistics.
Physical Education
*Equestrian
*Lifesaving
*Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus
Junior or Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2,
and Pre-calculus. Course Content: Lecture. This elective
course is intended for students who are preparing to take the
Physical Education and Health I
9th grade.
2 semesters. Prerequisite, None Course Content: Kinesthetic
participation and lecture. The purpose of Physical Education
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and Health program is to provide the student the ability to
further his/her physical, mental, and emotional
development. PE 9 deals with team sports, recreational sports,
physical fitness and wellness. Required health units include
wellness, first aid and safety.
High School
Chemistry II
Junior or Senior level
2 semesters. Prerequisite, Algebra I and Chemistry I with a 70
or better. Course Content: Lecture and Laboratory
This course is a College Prep class of above-average difficulty.
The student will learn to name organic compounds, predict
chemical reactions, and perform standard lab procedures such
as titration.
Physical Education II
Sophomores
2 Semesters. Prerequisites, PE I. Course Content, Kinesthetic,
Lecture. This course is a more advanced course geared toward
sophomores and upperclassmen. Students are provided the
opportunity to earn Red Cross certifications in first aid,
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),* life guarding, and water
safety instruction. *Lifeguarding requires an extra fee
Physical Science
Freshman level
2 semesters. Prerequisite, 8th grade science. Students who are
currently test into pre algebra are placed in this entry level
science course.
PE III
1 semester. Prerequisites, PEII. Course content: Mentorship,
This course is a sports management program. The student will
assist a previously identified coach, design workouts
Physics
Physics
Junior/Senior Level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, Algebra II. This course introduces
students to physics with concepts ranging from velocity and
momentum, to the different forms of energy, to sound waves
and electricity. Students will use various formulas to solve
problems involving these topics...
Physical Sciences
Chemistry I
Freshman or Sophomore level
2 semesters. Prerequisite, Pre-Algebra, currently in Algebra I
Course Content: Lecture with Lab, extensive laboratory
reporting. May be used as a prerequisite for Chemistry 2. This
course is a College Prep class of average difficulty. The student
will learn how chemical elements combine and how to write
lab reports.
Social Sciences
*AP Psychology
Junior or Senior Level course
2 Semesters, Prerequisite, Biology I and Anatomy and
Physiology are encouraged. Course content- Lecture,
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discussion, and projects. The AP Psychology course is
designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific
study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings.
Students learn about some of the explorations and discoveries
made by psychologists over the past century. Students assess
some of the differing approaches adopted by psychologists,
including the biological, behavioral, cognitive, humanistic,
psychodynamic, and sociocultural perspectives. An interaction
of psychology and the Catholic Church is also offered as part
of this course. Students are urged to apply a biblical worldview
to the critical analysis of psychological thinking. This is a
college level class utilizing a college level textbook. Additional
readings will also be assigned.
High School
Sacred Studies 9
Mass and the Sacraments
2 semesters. Prerequisites, none. Course content, Lecture on
the seven sacraments the order around the Eucharist.
Sacramental theology equips the young Catholic to understand
moral relativism and the importance of upholding the dignity
of human life.
Sacred Studies 10: Faith
2 Semesters. Prerequisite, none. Introduction to the Bible.
Course content lecture, theological readings and
discussion. This course is a moderate in difficulty, college prep
level course that looks with greater depth at the seven
sacraments recognized in official Catholic teaching and the
development and structure of the Divine Liturgy and its many
different expressions found among the different Eastern and
Western Rites of the Church. Sacraments are tied to biblical
roots as instituted by Christ in the Gospels or the evidence
thereof in the NT epistles and early Church Fathers. Religion
variations are also analyzed.
Human Geography
Junior or Senior Level Course
2 semesters. Prerequisites, none. Course content, lecture,
culture analysis, analytical writing. Human Geography is a
collect preparatory course, it is the study of civilized
development in the modern world by examining both the
place that is inhabited and the people inhabiting it. Human
Geography seeks to instill in the student a
deeper understanding and appreciation of the global factors
both current and historical that influence
where people live and operate throughout the world.
Sacred Studies 11:
Junior level course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites, Sacred Studies 10Course content:
Lecture; critical reading, analytical writing. This is a college
preparatory course.
This is an introduction class into Sacred Scripture. This class
introduces the 14 historical books of the Bible to give students
a general knowledge and appreciation of Sacred Scripture by
Theology
Transfer students knowledge and placement in sacred studies
will be determined upon entrance to SMAHS.
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introducing the people, places and events that will show
students how we get from Genesis to Jesus. Through the study
of the Bible, the students in ninth grade will come to encounter
the living Word of God, Jesus Christ with the goal that they
will be inspired to seek the Word who became flesh and dwelt
among us in all that they say do in their lives as Catholic
Christians. In this course, the student will learn not only about
the Bible, but how to properly read the Bible, how the Church
interprets the Bible but also how to apply the Bible to their own
lives. Saint Michael the Archangel High School adheres to the
United States Conference of Bishops' curriculum framework
for high school students.
Sacred Studies 12: Morality
Bioethics
Senior level Course
2 Semesters. Prerequisites, Transfer students may take course
with no prerequisites. Course Content: Biweekly Bioethical
current events, lecture, discussion, group project, twelve page
thesis paper and end of the year “Make a Difference” project
required for course completion. The course examines major life
issues faced today in Christian medicine and health care, with
attention to common ethical dilemmas concerning the all stages
of life. The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic
Health Care Services and several encyclicals offer a particular
moral evaluation of the bioethical issue that the course covers.
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High School