BRIDGES ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM GUIDE by Bridges Education Group

High School Curriculum Guide 2024 - 2025 BRIDGES ACADEMY

CORE CURRICULUM

ENGLISH ENGLISH 9

In Monsters, Madness, and Mayhem, we’ll explore possible answers to our essential question for the year: in the face of monsters, madness, and mayhem, what makes life worth living? As this is an English course, we’ll turn to literature for our answers, but we’ll also consider how lived experience provides some clues about how our individual search for meaning is connected to and dependent upon the good of society as a whole. You’ll learn to employ the techniques of ﬁction and narrative writing to not only express yourself with creativity and ﬂuidity, but also to ask profound questions about the world in which we live. Instruction in the course utilizes a personalized coaching model, in which you and I will meet frequently to discuss your work and set goals around skill development. Editing is an essential and expected component of progress in the class. You’ll select your own texts and read a variety of short stories, essays, and articles by authors such as James Baldwin, Kelly Link, Roxane Gay, and George Saunders. In this course, you’ll learn how to write with purpose, read for joy, and comfortably coexist with monsters.

ENGLISH 10/11

English 10/11 focuses on the critical analysis of literature (primarily, but not limited to, fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry and drama). The course will include the close reading of texts by diverse authors, class discussion/debate, research and composition. Students will first learn about the foundational literary elements and poetic devices that will anchor their critical thinking by reading specific texts (centered upon literary elements such as characterization, central theme and so forth), and then hone their critical abilities through a variety of writing exercises, essays, research assignments and the occasional creative writing piece. This course will also teach and reinforce MLA format, grammatical concepts, mechanics, word choice, language and a variety of rhetorical strategies necessary for persuasive academic writing about literature. Additionally, students will develop their listening and speaking skills (about literature) throughout the year.

ENGLISH 12

Why do advanced civilizations collapse? What patterns contribute to their downfall? This course explores Modern Europe’s trajectory, beginning with its expansion into Africa and Asia during the late Imperialist era, moving through the nationalistic tensions leading up to World War I, and examining a brief, vibrant cultural renaissance in Berlin between the Wars. It then investigates how this cultural pause dissolved into fascism, totalitarian regimes, and the Holocaust. By analyzing these periods and events, students will seek to understand the factors that propelled Europe to artistic heights only to descend into barbarism. The course will challenge students to question notions of “progress,” history, and Western Civilization, and to consider what insights can be gained from thinkers and writers who have grappled with these issues.

Throughout the course, historical periods will be paired with literary studies. Students will read novels, poems, and examine paintings that correspond to the historical themes and eras being studied. This interdisciplinary approach will provide additional perspectives on the time periods and enhance students' discussion and interpretive skills. By engaging with literature, students will explore fine prose, fiction, imagination, symbolism, and metaphor. They will also undertake short formal writing assignments that incorporate figurative language and reflect class discussions. In the second semester, students will focus on writing an Academic Research Paper. Building on the interdisciplinary topics covered in the first semester, students will select a research topic, formulate a research question, and use academic databases like JSTOR to gather high-quality sources and take detailed notes. They will then organize their findings around a thesis statement, with an emphasis on presenting and contrasting different perspectives.

HISTORY

WORLD HISTORY

World History 9 is organized by themes and addresses the ways leadership, trade, innovation, religion and philosophy impacted ancient and medieval societies. There will be a clear and consistent inclusion of non-western cultures so that the cultural pluralism of our present world can be better appreciated.

US HISTORY

This course explores the historical development of the United States from the founding of European settlements to the present day. Rather than a survey of momentous events, we trace the formation of American society through the lenses of

power, institutions, resources, gender, religion, and class. We pay special attention to the role of material scarcity in shaping the long history of the United States.

ECONOMICS + GOVERNMENT

This course oﬀers a comprehensive exploration of the principles of economics and the United States government. Through a blend of guided readings, class discussions, and collaborative projects, students will enhance their reading, writing, organizational, and critical thinking skills. Ultimately, this course equips students with the knowledge and tools necessary to become informed, engaged, and responsible citizens in an interconnected world.

ACADEMIC RESEARCH IN MODERN

EUROPEAN HISTORY

MATH

STUDENTS PLACE INTO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING COURSES:

INTEGRATED MATH 1

Integrated Math 1 will focus on the key topics of Algebra 1. We will combine traditional teaching methods alongside project based learning in order to reinforce lessons taught in the classroom. There will be ﬁve units, each broken down into roughly six week sections to cover the entire year. Each unit will focus on a diﬀerent area of Algebra.

ALGEBRA 1

Algebra is often called a gatekeeper course because it opens the door to all other areas of study in mathematics. This course provides a comprehensive teaching of the fundamental aspects of problem solving. Major topics of study include evaluation of algebraic equations, exponent rules and manipulation, polynomials, solving and graphing linear equations, solving and graphing two variable inequalities, solving systems of equations, radicals, word problems, solving and graphing quadratic equations, and factoring.

INTEGRATED MATH 2

Integrated Math 2 will focus on the key topics of Geometry. We will combine traditional teaching methods alongside project based learning in order to reinforce lessons taught in the classroom. There will be six units, each broken down into roughly ﬁve week sections to cover the entire year. Each unit will focus on a diﬀerent area of Geometry.

GEOMETRY

The focus of Geometry is for students to understand the core mathematical concepts of the discipline by learning vocabulary, signs, expressions, and applications in preparation for advanced high school mathematics. Additionally, students will learn to ask appropriate and insightful questions; develop resourcefulness and problemsolving skills across the curriculum by using multiple methods; and become more comfortable with expressing their ideas through using the language of mathematics.

INTEGRATED MATH 3

Integrated Math 3 will focus on the key topics of Algebra 2. We will combine traditional teaching methods alongside project based learning in order to reinforce lessons taught in the classroom. There will be six units, each broken down into roughly ﬁve week sections to cover the entire year. Each unit will focus on a diﬀerent area of Algebra.

ALGEBRA 2

This course is designed to build on algebraic and geometric concepts. It develops advanced algebra skills such as systems of equations, advanced polynomials, imaginary and complex numbers, quadratics, and includes the study of trigonometric functions. It also introduces matrices and their properties. The content of this course is important for students’ success on both the ACT and college mathematics entrance exams.

INTEGRATED MATH 4

Students will pursue advancing their understanding of the field of statistics, primarily as applied to direct research projects to achieve high level, real world comprehension. This course will have reasonable cohesion with the “Science Research” senior science course, ideally allowing students to work with data sets that they themselves have collected with intentionality as both courses progress. The course covers all primary components of HS Statistics as well as several collegiate level versions of applied math with statistics for individual research elements, as appropriate. Students will present their findings from their research with a statistically oriented final presentation.

PRECALCULUS

Pre-Calculus is designed to prepare you for Calculus, either in high school or college. Topics include understanding algebraic and polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and conic sections. Students will also study applications of trigonometry, trigonometric identities and equations, mathematical induction, and the concept of limits. In addition to content mastery, the course goals are to further develop students’ problem solving and critical thinking skills. The diﬃculty level of the material increases signiﬁcantly throughout the year. Students should be prepared to be challenged and work hard. Technology will be incorporated throughout the curriculum.

CALCULUS

A typical problem-solving technique involves formulating a problem, simulating it with a mathematical model, solving it in the context of the model, and then reinterpreting the solution in the original context. Mathematical models often take the form of functions or equations and solutions are often accessible by using the techniques of calculus. The fundamental tools of calculus are the derivative and the definite integral. Derivatives are used to solve problems involving rates of change, e.g., problems dealing with velocity, acceleration, or marginal cost. Definite integrals are used to solve problems involving entities that can be subdivided into infinitesimally small but tractable parts. In this course students are expected to develop a working knowledge of differential calculus, an understanding of the basic principles of integral calculus, and an appreciation of the significance of the surprising relationship that exists between these two segments of calculus.

CALCULUS 2

The great importance of calculus is quickly noticed by taking a look at the number of fields that use calculus to solve important problems. Calculus is used to solve everything from biology problems to economy problems. Problems monitoring the dynamic changes of biological samples, all kinds of optimization problems, and economic problems involving the interest rate need calculus to be solved. Besides the significant aspect that this part of mathematics helps in development of an analytical mathematical thinking, calculus proves its effectiveness by solving real, practical problems. Calculus II will introduce students to a variety of new techniques of integration, to some applications of integration, and to sequences and series. Students will be expected both to become proficient with basic skills and to demonstrate an understanding of the underlying principles of the subject. Students should expect to make appropriate use of technology in this course. Knowledge of Calculus I will be assumed, in particular knowledge of the rules and concepts behind differentiation and basic integration.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

PHYSICAL FITNESS

Physical education is an integral part of the total education of every student. Physical activity helps develop health-related benefits such as fitness, physical competence, and cognitive understanding of body movement. Ultimately, students learn that they are extremely capable of adopting healthy and physically active lifestyles. Other benefits of physical activity in school include improved mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning, as it pertains to the development of physical skills. Being active improves self-

conﬁdence and self-esteem, reduces stress, improves judgment, and strengthens peer relationships. In addition, young people generally like physical activity because it is fun; they do it with friends; and it helps them develop skills, stay in shape, and look and feel better.

SCIENCE CONCEPTUAL PHYSICS

Physics is the most fundamental scientific discipline. It is the rigorous examination of cause and effect. It is the application of mathematical language and theoretical models to the physical world. The explanation of the properties and behavior of all observable and measurable natural phenomena are deduced, induced, and produced. This course will serve as a deep-dive inquiry into the meaning, nature, and practice of physics. This class will be driven by a few simple questions: What is the language of physics, and how are rigorous physical principles and concepts developed, defined, and then used in their respective fields? We will approach this in a couple different ways. Students will read selections from Richard Feynman's famous lectures on physics concerning the nature of science, and begin to learn what it means to think like a physicist. They will be exposed to the conventional practice of learning classical mechanics where they’ll apply the definitions to describe the behavior and causes of motion. On another front, students will perform investigations into the history of science, ancient and modern, and will examine through their research the process of how theories, laws, and ideas are and have been developed throughout the course of time. One area students will learn about is the history of the field of modern cosmology, and about why this field of research is a perfect case study for the way in which scientific theories and fields advance into from older to newer

paradigms of knowledge and understanding. In addition, students will have the opportunity to learn the application of various physics concepts through an assortment of hands-on engineering projects.

BIOLOGY

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental concepts of biology. Students will explore the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution of living organisms. Through a combination of lectures, laboratory experiments, and interactive activities, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of life.

CHEMISTRY

With an emphasis on developing skills in reading, writing, research, and problem solving, students engage with chemistry-focused learning prompts, questions, readings, laboratories, and challenges. The majority of students’ written work is in the form of a reﬂection upon the learning process with an emphasis on applied chemistry. At least six laboratories are conducted per term in this course. The laboratories are held on Fridays.

RESEARCH SCIENCE

Students will take a research oriented approach towards HS science concepts across the duration of this course, culminating in an original research project of their own design and intentions. We will start by setting a solid foundation and applying the scientiﬁc method as a reliable backbone for eﬃcient evolutionary progress as well as covering some basic systems engineering concepts crucial for appropriately setting lab report writing protocols/expectations. From there we’ll dig deeply into a neuroscience/neuroanatomy unit to

provide an engineering based perspective on how to optimize learning by understanding the brain itself, as well as studying several useful specific brain/body interfaces and the underlying systems therein. Many of our fledgling scientific researchers will have the option of engaging in experimentation utilizing live animal subjects, so we will first cover bioethics and the consequences thereof. We’ll then work on several imperative concepts from science, ideally positioning students to springboard into their own investigations: logic (as applied to scientific research/ experimental design with an emphasis on cause and effect) with focus on two clause claims; aka converse, inverse, and contrapositive; Newtonian physics lower dimensional kinematic problems and underlying theorems/applied equations, and several topics from biology, with a particular emphasis on the central dogma. Finally, students will wrap up the year focusing on a capstone research project of their own design. Together, we will identify appropriate learning targets for each individual/project as well as mandate a formal final presentation of all findings for each student, resulting in a tangible product they can use to advance their academic and scientific futures.

PHYSICS

A calculus-based approach to understanding classical mechanics and electricity/magnetism is taken for honors students. Remaining students will apply concepts from algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to approach and solve physics problems. Prior knowledge of calculus isn’t required before taking this course; students are introduced to applications of derivatives, integrals, and differential equations in problem solving and describing physical phenomena. The topics range from translational kinematics, static and dynamic equilibrium, conservation of energy and momentum to electric forces and fields, basic circuits, and magnetic forces and fields. At least four laboratories are

conducted per semester to further reinforce the learning of theory. Weekly problem sets will help bolster students' understanding of the concepts discussed in class and students are invited to collaborate with one another on these.

WORLD LANGUAGE

JAPANESE 1

Japanese 1 course is an introductory course for students with little or no background in the Japanese language. The goal of this course is to help students to develop the ability to communicate in Japanese and understand basic Japanese as well as develop an understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture. A strong emphasis is placed on using the language in a practical situation. Students will learn two sets of alphabets and basic Kanji as well as basic Japanese grammar and vocabulary.

JAPANESE 2

This course is intended for students who have completed Japanese 1. Japanese 2 is a more challenging course designed for students who are already familiar with two sets of alphabets, basic Kanji, fundamental grammar, and a certain amount of vocabulary. The primary objective of this course is to assist students in developing the ability to eﬀectively communicate in Japanese, comprehend basic Japanese, and cultivate an appreciation for Japanese culture. Students will be provided with opportunities to actively use Japanese, along with the introduction of various self-teaching methods.

JAPANESE 3

This course is intended for students who have completed Japanese 1 and 2. Japanese 3 is a more challenging course designed for students who are already familiar with two sets of alphabets, 50 or more Kanji, fundamental and advanced grammar, and a good amount of vocabulary. The primary objective of this course is to assist students in developing the ability to eﬀectively communicate in Japanese, comprehend advanced Japanese, and cultivate an appreciation for Japanese culture. Students will be provided with opportunities to actively use Japanese, along with the introduction of various self-teaching methods.

JAPANESE 4

This course is intended for students who have completed Japanese 1, 2, and 3. Japanese 4 is an advanced course designed for students who are already familiar with two sets of alphabets, 100 Kanji, advanced grammar, and a good amount of vocabulary. Class will be taught mostly in Japanese.The primary objective of this course is to assist students in developing the ability to eﬀectively communicate in Japanese. We will try comprehensive reading, talking or writing about the story we read in Japanese. We will watch news or TV shows and talk about it. Students will be provided with opportunities to actively use Japanese, along with the introduction of various self-teaching methods.

JAPANESE 5

This course is intended for students who have completed Japanese 1, 2, 3 and 4. Japanese 5 is an extended course designed for students who are already familiar with advanced Japanese. Class will be mostly in Japanese. The primary objective of this course is to assist students in developing the ability to eﬀectively communicate in Japanese

in practical situations. We will try comprehensive reading, talking or writing about the story we read in Japanese. We will watch news or TV shows and talk about it. Students will be provided with opportunities to actively use Japanese, along with the introduction of various self-teaching methods. This course includes some independent work and communication.

SPANISH 1

Spanish 1 is an introductory course for students with little or no background in the Spanish language. The goal of this course is to help students to develop the ability to communicate in Spanish and understand basic Spanish as well as fostering an understanding and appreciation of the diversity of the Spanish-speaking cultures of the world. A strong emphasis is placed on using the language in practical contexts, while also helping students to grasp the basics of Spanish grammar, syntax, and morphology. Students will be exposed to basic grammar and vocabulary and cultural facets of Spanish/Latin cultures.

SPANISH 2

Spanish 2 is a class designed for students who are at an early intermediate level or students who have had one year of Spanish classes. The emphasis in this class is on speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Spanish through different hands-on projects and activities. Throughout the school year, students will gain comprehension and practice of basic vocabulary, cognates, sentence formation, and general grammar structure such as regular and irregular verb conjugation and different forms of past, present, and future tenses. In this project-based class, students will be using the Socratic method to share information, learn from each other, and discuss different aspects of the Spanish speaking culture.

SPANISH 3

Spanish 3 is an intermediate to advanced course for students with approximately 2 years background in the Spanish language. The goal of this course is to help students to strengthen the ability to communicate in Spanish, while at the same time continuing to experience the richness of the Hispanic culture. A strong emphasis is placed on using the language in any given practical situation, while also adding more complex grammatical structures to their oral and written speech. Subjunctive and indicative mode will be used interchangeably as well as present, past and future tenses.

SPANISH 4

Spanish 4 is an advanced course open to students who have obtained a B grade in Spanish 3. The course is in the form of literature survey and taught exclusively in Spanish. Students are expected to read fiction, poetry, and non-fiction works by noted Spanish and Latin American authors. It is assumed that they have already learned grammar and have acquired skills in speaking, writing, reading, and understanding Spanish. Therefore, the curriculum for this course is designed to refine, perfect, and enhance these skills as well as to instill in them a love of modern Hispanic literature while aiding them in their very real desire for self-expression.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT BADGES/YOUNG EXPERT PROGRAM

The Young Experts Program (Badges) is a highly personalized learning model that invites students to explore a chosen topic as they develop skills in critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. The scope of all Badges work is interdisciplinary and asks students to: gain comprehensive knowledge of a topic; consider sources; replicate experiments, make logical connections, and verify results; and synthesize points of data to create new theories or inventions.

SEMINARS FRESHMAN SEMINAR

The 9th Grade Forum is designed to give students the opportunity to develop academic skills that are critical to success in high school. A signiﬁcant aspect of the forum will be examining ways in which social and emotional wellbeing impact our mental and physical health. Two days a week students will meet and participate in activities that are designed to engage, inform and provide speciﬁc strategies.

SOPHOMORE SEMINAR

The 10th Grade Forum is designed to give students the opportunity to develop academic skills that are critical to success in high school. A signiﬁcant aspect of the forum will be examining ways in which social and emotional wellbeing impact our mental and physical health. 1 day a week students will meet and participate in activities that are designed to engage, inform, and provide speciﬁc strategies.

JUNIOR SEMINAR

In Junior Seminar, students will earn important life and adulting skills while discovering more about themselves and each other through career exploration, social-emotional guidance, and Socratic discussions. Further, students will begin the college and/or job application process, discuss college essay(s), resumes, and work permits. Lastly, students conceptualize their post-secondary transition, college, and gap year applications.

SENIOR SEMINAR

In Senior Seminar, students are supported in their postsecondary transition, college and gap year applications. They’ll learn important life and adulting skills and discover more about themselves and each other through socialemotional guidance and exploration. Finally, we’ll advance through the college and/or job application process, completing applications, college essay(s), resumes, and learning to interview.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT + ADVISORY

Academic support and advisory is a daily block when a small group of students gathers with an advisor to catch up on work, meet with teachers, or seek counsel on any issues that have arisen during the day. Advisors are members of faculty, who cultivate both a safe space for decompression and a sense of belonging.

ELECTIVES AVIATION

In this class, students will have the opportunity to explore, learn, and pursue the world of aviation through understanding the fundamentals of flying and airplane systems. Together, we will investigate different areas that come together to create this world, from what it takes to make airplanes physically fly, to what it takes to become a pilot, air traffic controller, or airframe and powerplant mechanic, all the way to what it takes to engineer an aircraft and the role of the Federal Aviation Administration. There will be various labs and engineering opportunities provided throughout the year that will allow both the creative and technical application of both old and recently acquired knowledge on the variety of subjects involved. This course will attempt to teach the foundations of how aerospace and aviation have evolved over the course of the previous century through technological advancement and innovative engineering practices. Additionally, throughout the course of the year, students will be introduced to numerous career

opportunities in the aerospace and aviation sector they may want to pursue that will ﬁt their strengths.

BASIC COOKING

This class is designed to help students develop basic cooking skills in order to shelter future independence. In this inquiry based class, students have a voice on what to cook while having the instructor’s guidance. Special emphasis is placed on planning, prepping, cooking, and cleaning. Assigning activities so everyone equally works at making a nutritious meal is essential for the success of this class.

BRIDGES BROADCAST NEWS

In the Bridges Academy Broadcast News elective, students will explore the broadcasting and Podcasting world through practical hands-on training. This course focuses on foundational filming techniques, sound design, writing, interviewing, and anchoring for broadcast production. Through engaging projects, students will refine their storytelling abilities, enhance communication skills, and gain insights into the Bridges community and broader global perspectives. This course offers a unique opportunity to develop practical skills in broadcasting while fostering creativity and collaboration.

ADVANCED COMPUTER PROGRAMMING:

VIDEO GAME DEVELOPMENT

Students will learn more advanced programming concepts including Object Oriented Programming (OOP) principles. Students will apply these concepts to several video game projects assigned throughout the course. Students will use Python and the GD script languages for their projects. The Godot game engine will also be used throughout the game development process.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER PROGRAMMING

Students will learn the fundamental concepts of computer programming and software development and how to apply them. The programming language used in the course will be Python. Although Python will be used throughout the course, the concepts being taught apply to all modern programming languages.

CURRENT EVENTS

This elective course explores and analyzes the contemporary issues that shape our world. Current Events cultivates critical thinking, sharpens media literacy, and fosters responsible citizenship by examining the latest local, national, and global news. Students will delve into a diverse array of topics including politics, economics, military conflicts, education, technology, climate change, and cultural trends. Through guided readings, group discussions, and research projects, students will learn to critically evaluate sources, identify biases, and grasp the complexities of current affairs. In addition, the course offers students the freedom to pursue their interests through independent research and class presentations. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills to navigate the challenges and opportunities in these interesting times.

ENGINEERING + 3D DESIGN

Engineering and 3D Design is a yearlong course that introduces students to engineering concepts and teaches problem-solving skills that students apply to real world situations. Many disciplines of engineering are introduced, including Structural, Mechanical, 3D prototyping, Transportation, Aviation, Aerospace, and Electrical. The use of computer-aided drafting is a core skill that is developed in the course, as students prepare presentations of their solutions and designs for engineering problems. Students will be introduced to CAD software common to the engineering disciplines such as Sketchup, AutoCAD, and Solidworks.

ESPORTS ROCKET LEAGUE

This course will be dedicated to studying, analyzing, and training the skills needed to excel in Esports oriented Rocket League play. Students will engage in consistent disciplined practice advancing all of the skills necessary for measured growth in a competitive environment ranging from daily mindfulness/patience building exercises to rigorous practice of currently appropriate mechanical skills. We will be studying, practicing, and playing the game in countless ways. We’ll be listening to professional analyses of gameplay, applying physics or neuroscience lessons to gain a permanent edge, learning new mechanical neurological subroutines, analyzing students’ gameplay tapes, designing and creating trainer packs, and of course enjoying some serious competition throughout.

We will be teaching the practice of prioritizing informed decision making at all times, prioritizing outcome over ego without exception. We will be facing the truth, as veriﬁed by reliable data, and using that clarity to teach our students to hold their performances accountable, creating relentless improvement as an instinctive habit.

FASHION DESIGN

This class is designed to help students express themselves through the language of fashion arts. Students will learn the basics of fashion sketching, color theory, value, shape, perspective, and proportions in order to design garments and costumes for school plays and musicals. Also, students will learn to use domestic single-needle sewing machines as well as their functions for diﬀerent stitches. Each student will create an album with sewing samples of their own work and stitches, including embroidery. With those skills, students can upcycle garments, alter clothing, and cosplay. Guidance will be provided through diﬀerent projects including making a

pillowcase, a tote bag, pajama pants, t-shirts, and other simple everyday pieces as well as upcycling garments.

HISTORY OF LOS ANGELES

This course explores the rich history of Los Angeles through the lens of community, examining how diverse groups have shaped and inﬂuenced the city’s growth and identity. From its origins as the homeland of the Tongva people to its transformation into a vibrant metropolis, Los Angeles has been built by the contributions of Indigenous, Spanish, Mexican, and immigrant communities. We will explore how waves of migration, cultural exchange, and shared struggles have created the unique neighborhoods, traditions, and social movements that deﬁne the city today.

Students will examine key moments in L.A.’s history, such as the development of Hollywood, the civil rights movements, and the evolution of its diverse neighborhoods. The course will emphasize how community resilience, cooperation, and identity have driven the city’s evolution and continue to shape its future. By understanding these interconnected histories, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural fabric that makes Los Angeles a global city.

MATERIALS SCIENCE RESEARCH

The Materials Research class oﬀers students an opportunity to explore the depths of science research with respect to the various applications of materials science: Medical sciences (stents, prosthetics, sensors), Metallurgical sciences (brazing, welding, special alloys), Biologically Inspired structures (wing membranes, porous materials, wood structures), Piezoelectric Materials, Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs), Shape Memory Polymers (SMPs), Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA), and Magneto-Mechanical response. This course exposes students to the ideas of proposing projects, evaluating resources, interacting with peer-reviewed journals, conducting experiments, processing data, presenting ideas, and presenting ﬁndings from research.

ADVANCED MUSIC THEORY

Students in this class will study theory, composition, production, engineering, and scoring techniques and approaches. Over the course of this class, students will apply those skills and concepts by writing for and overseeing the production of a wide variety of instrumental, vocal, acoustic, and electronic combinations. Students will explore contemporary concepts and techniques of arranging and sound production and will gain valuable experience by being able to create, arrange, and produce projects using Logic Pro on MIDI workstations in the Music Room. Interpersonal and other situational skills will be developed as the students work with performers and "clients" (i.e., instructors and other students) in a variety of creative settings as music writers and producers.

INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC THEORY

MUSICAL THEATRE

In this elective, students will engage intensively with the core components of musical theatre: acting, vocals, and dance. Drawing upon intelligence, curiosity and imagination, this course will train students to combine their raw talent with performance techniques. The course integrates renowned acting methods, such as those by Stanislavsky and Strasberg, with vocal training focused on pitch and range, along with foundational ballet and jazz dance techniques. Students will apply these skills in a high school musical, participating in rehearsals, auditions, and live performances. The curriculum is designed to produce well-rounded 'triple threats' — performers proﬁcient in acting, singing, and dancing. The course will foster collaborative dynamics as students work together in ensembles and will also engage in self and peer evaluations, thus honing both their interpersonal, situational, performance, and critical assessment skills. This hands-on and immersive approach ensures that students emerge as well-rounded performers, capable of shining in any performance.

PHILOSOPHY + FILM

Have you ever wondered what the meaning of life is? Why do we exist? What’s real, and what’s an illusion? In this “Philosophical Inquiry Through the Movies” class, students will engage in philosophical debates by viewing and discussing the ﬁlms. Students will examine three central questions. With The Matrix or The Truman Show, students will learn about Plato and what is real. Through Blade Runner or Ex Machina, students will examine the question of how we know that we exist. With I Heart Huckabees or The 7th Seal, students will discuss Kierkegaard’s question of how we create meaning out of life given the uncertainty about ourselves and the world.

While watching the films, students will be guided in seeing the connections between the philosophers and these questions, and they will be able to analyze how these films dramatize these ideas and enrich the conversation. As a product, students will choose one film, perform an analysis of it, and create and publish a podcast that analyzes the film.

In “Philosophy and Film,” students will hone their creative thinking skills and their ability to articulate complex ideas, have fun, and share their wonder and curiosity with their peers.

PHOTOGRAPHY

This class is designed to introduce students to a range of foundations in Photography. Students will work with both digital and film cameras, and will learn digital editing and printing as well as darkroom printing and manipulation. Students in this class will learn about photography as it bridges both artistic and scientific disciplines, and they will receive a thorough overview of the history of photography and how it has played an important role in many spheres, ranging from fine arts, to journalism, cinema, and science. We will begin by studying and experimenting with some very early photographic techniques, such as photograms and pinhole cameras, and we will cover all the basics of camera work, lighting, and composition. Later in the year students will have the opportunity to work on independent projects, develop personal portfolios, and to serve as contributing photographers and editors for the school yearbook.

ROBOTICS

Robotics is an introductory course that will explore, via FIRST robotics equipment, relationships between the ﬁelds of science, mathematics, engineering, arts, and technology. The class is designed to introduce students to basic concepts in robotics. The class will give students the opportunity to work in small groups of students in lab experiments. In these experiments, students will work together in building and testing a FIRST-based mobile robot by implementing the engineering design process.

SHORT FILMS

In this elective, students create short films, learning every step of filmmaking, from storytelling to editing. They'll explore roles like director, cinematographer, and editor, collaborating to bring their creative visions to life. Finished films will be showcased at Bridges Academy and can be submitted to film festivals, making this a unique chance for imaginative minds to thrive together.

STRATEGIC GAMES

We will examine various strategic board games and card games. These games will range from classic games like chess to more modern games like Magic: the Gathering. In doing so, we will learn skills like probability and strategic thinking that can be applied to areas outside the classroom. We will also work on important aspects of sportsmanship as well as other social skills.

STRENGTH + CONDITIONING

This course has been designed to help students become more aware of their personal fitness levels and how to make small changes in their lifestyle to promote better overall health/wellness. Taking a scientific approach, participants should view their body as a laboratory and that trying new workout protocols are experiments loaded with many variables. Not every trial produces results that we were looking for, but with proper documentation we all can build a meaningful, repeatable experiment that can support our hypothesis or in this case achieve a measurable goal. Being well rounded is not only something we focus on physically, but mentally, as well. Looking at the approach from fitness professionals shows there isn’t just one road and inevitably there will be a detour. Actively engaging with new exercises leads to having a full pantry of exercises to choose from and will help identify what works for them. It is beneficial to have an open mind to try something new and embrace the idea of “being comfortable while being uncomfortable” because growth requires a willingness to expand beyond the normal demands. However, there is more to this elective than just working out. In addition to the daily physical component, the class will be presented with topical lessons throughout the year to educate students about muscle groups, the skeletal system, and the physiological adaptations the body goes through when we challenge ourselves. I encourage students to learn and utilize proper fitness terminology when asking questions/responding and when we have open discussions about their program design. The content has been built from over 15+ years of teaching courses such as Anatomy/ Physiology, Athletic Training and Adapted Therapeutic Exercise and is modified yearly based on the interests of each class. Strength and Conditioning was created due to the persistent requests from Bridges students and the success is due to the effort they choose to put in.

STRENGTH OF MATERIALS

Strength of Materials is a course that delves into the various properties of solid matter. An overview of stress analysis and experiment design is treated. Crystal structure and its eﬀect on large scale deformations is explored in detail. In addition to the intrinsic behavior of diﬀerent solids, the production of structural members (bars, beams, membranes, shells, and strings) and the processes used to fabricate them determine their strength. Simple structural components are explored under 1D loading conditions as well as combinations of these components in mechanisms and supports. Static equilibrium is explored and students learn to draw free-body diagrams and make “cuts” to analyze the internal forces in structural components. An introduction to polymers is given in which their fabrication (condensation and addition polymerization), chemistry, and various mechanical properties are analyzed.

STUDIO ART

High School Studio Art introduces students to a variety of artistic media, and is designed to increase a student’s observational skills as well as their abilities to imagine and create imagery from a variety of sources. This class provides a strong foundation in drawing, painting, three-dimensional art, and it encourages explorations of other media and techniques, including printmaking, photography, digital art, installation art, etc. Within each unit, students will have the opportunity to learn and discuss relevant topics and art examples from art history and theory, helping each student to take a more informed and critical approach to the arts and visual communication.

THEATRE TECH

In this class we will focus on the backstage portions of a show. We will build, paint, laugh, cry, and overall build trust with one another as we will have lots to do in little time. You will learn how to use power tools for building the set and your everyday life. The number one priority of the class will be safety. Always.