BRIDGES ACADEMY ONLINE
CORE CURRICULUM
ENGLISH ENGLISH 9
“We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.” – Kurt Vonnegut
This class will examine how we define identity both personally and socially. We will explore creative and academic commentaries on class, culture, disability, gender, sexuality, religion, race, technology, politics and more. Additionally, we will investigate the timing of these commentaries and their relevance in the lives of their readers/viewers. What draws us to these creative and academic mediums, and how can we use these mediums to enact change?
ENGLISH 10
In English 10, we will read epics from a number of different traditions. We’ll start with the Sumerian Epic of Gilgamesh, the first written story in human history, followed by R.K. Narayan’s Ramayana. We’ll look at film/television adaptations of the Odyssey and the Iliad. Then we’ll dip into a “modern”
epic, Milton’s Paradise Lost; we’ll end with one of the first known Romances, Montalvo’s Las Sergas de Esplandián.
As we grapple with these texts we’ll be thinking and talking about the role of storytelling to us humans: how we use stories to explain our societies and ourselves, and the ways foundational stories persist into the modern day.
ENGLISH 11
In this course, students will engage with a diverse array of texts, including fiction, memoirs, essays, historical documents, as well as visual art, music, and films. While the course covers a broad spectrum of American literature, it places particular emphasis on the works of African American writers. This focus is essential for several reasons:
- The Black experience is foundational to American history and identity, though it is often overlooked or only briefly acknowledged.
- African American writers have produced some of the most powerful and significant contemporary literature in the United States.
- Questions surrounding the role of Black Americans in politics, culture, and law remain some of the most pressing and contentious issues of the 21st century, even more than 150 years after the abolition of slavery.
We will explore why these topics continue to generate debate, encouraging students to think deeply about their historical and cultural significance. This course will challenge students to engage with complex issues, fostering a deeper understanding of both American literature and the society in which it is created.
ENGLISH 12
In this course, we will lean into academic writing in preparation for students’ transition to college. Students will read and analyze visual texts, short stories, poems, and essays; learn about the new uses (and misuses) of AIenhanced writing and web-based writing tools; and learn about research methods and citation conventions.
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
In US History students will be examining the story of the United States from a number of perspectives. Starting with foundational documents to utilize as a lens, students will trace the history of this great and complex nation, and observe the shifting social, economic, and political frameworks implemented. What are the promises of this nation, what are the lessons learned, and how can our students, as future actors on the world stage, learn from our history to shape our shared future?
ECONOMICS + GOVERNMENT
In Economics and Government, students will be examining two of the largest intersecting systems that impact everyday life. This course will be focusing on foundational principles of Economics, how material resources move through our society, and Government, the system that determines the distribution of said resources, and so many other facets of our lives. From cowrie shells to crypto, and from warlords to district administrators, we’ll examine how humans have bartered, bargained, and sometimes swindled their way to accumulation of power and resources; and how you can go about securing your own financial assets.
ART OF WAR
In The ART of War, students will look at the utilization of media through Western History. This class will be focusing on hierarchies of power and systems of information, and how said powers have used information in order to influence the behaviors of populations. Through media such as government propaganda, religious doctrines, and fine arts, all the way to commercial advertisements, a war of information is being waged as an undercurrent to human history. Understanding this battlefield, and the influence it has had on our society, is key in navigating our contemporary, information driven world.
MATH
STUDENTS PLACE INTO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING COURSES:
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.
GEOMETRY
In this course, students will understand the core mathematical concepts of Geometry through learning their vocabulary, signs, expressions, and applications in preparation for advanced high school mathematics. They’ll learn to ask appropriate and insightful questions that will facilitate classroom learning while also developing resourcefulness and problem-solving skills across the curriculum. Finally, students will become more comfortable with expressing their ideas through using the language of mathematics.
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 concepts 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.
PRECALCULUS
This course will focus on key topics of Precalculus. It will introduce high level algebra concepts as well as covering trigonometry. The primary focuses will be a deep dive on trigonometric functions, and the resulting proofs and properties that can be shown because of them.
CALCULUS 1
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.
CALCULUS +
This is an introductory course on linear algebra. The course introduces students to both the theory of vector spaces and linear transformations and techniques such as row-reduction of matrices and diagonalization.
SCIENCE BIOLOGY
Students will cover a variety of Biology concepts including cell biology, organism taxonomy and physiology up to and including human biology, and interactions those organisms have with each other. This class also includes a physical lab portion where students learn lab procedures and how the scientific method applies to real life situations. The class will culminate with the presentation of a year-long project on a species of the student’s choice.
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. To that end the explanation of the properties and behavior of all observable or 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. Here, they will use and then apply the mechanical definitions of motion and of forces to describe the behavior of moving objects and the causes of their 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.
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 four 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; 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 constantly self-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 later in the course, so we will first cover BioEthics and the consequences therein w/re experimentation outcomes. 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, ideally resulting in a tangible product they can use to truly further advance their academic and scientific futures.
WORLD LANGUAGE
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 a practical situation, 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 noted by 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-exp
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; synthesize points of data to create new theories or inventions; generate recommendations.
SEMINARS
JUNIOR SEMINAR
In Junior Seminar, students will learn important life and adulting skills. They will discover more about self and each other through career exploration, social-emotional guidance, and Socratic discussions. Further, they’ll start preparation for college and/or job applications, discuss college essay(s), recommendation letters, resumes, work permits, and other important information about employment. Lastly, students will begin to plan for 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 will discuss SEL topics related to post-secondary plans (selfadvocacy, roommates, scheduling) and will advance through the college and/or job application process, completing applications, college essay(s), resumes, and learning to interview.
ELECTIVES
CREATIVE WRITING
In this course, students will be given the time and constructive encouragement to develop their own creative writing. The instructor will review weekly progress. Occasionally, students will read aloud in class and the group will discuss the potential of the work and offer positive feedback.
DRAMA + SCREEN MASTERY
In this comprehensive course, students will explore the depth of Method Acting while mastering essential screen acting techniques, with a focus on self-taping—the industry’s mostused audition format. Rooted in Stanislavsky's "System," the course unifies major American acting techniques into a holistic approach, enabling students to harness genuine emotion and deliver truthful, spontaneous performances. Students will engage in a wide range of activities, including paired and group acting exercises, in-class performances, and independent projects like monologue practice and selftape creation. They will learn the historical evolution of acting techniques, gaining insights into how these methodologies have shaped modern acting. The course includes multimedia components, such as watching interviews and clips of masterclasses with industry professionals, providing students with valuable context and inspiration.
Collaboration and feedback are integral to the learning process. Students will act as "readers" for each other during
self-tape sessions, offering and receiving constructive feedback to refine their performances. The course will culminate in a final project, where students will demonstrate their mastery of Method Acting, screen acting, and historical understanding through a polished self-tape.
FILM STUDIES
Welcome to Film Studies, where we’ll be doing a deep dive into the structure of cinema. In this class students will gain aesthetic literacy skills, dissecting the stories they love, learning to recognize tropes, cues, and indicators in film, and how those relate to the context in which the piece was created. We’ll be examining how film connects to human psychology, influences culture, and helps us grow as individuals. Also, it’s just a ton of fun, let’s watch some movies!
HORTICULTURE
Students will learn how to cultivate and manage plants for use by humans. Throughout the class, students will work on a plan for a small food, wildlife, or decorative garden appropriate for their area and conditions. As the class progresses, students will apply the principles they learn to develop the plan into a more comprehensive design. These will range from the purpose of the garden, to environmental and space constraints, to problem-solving and managing their garden in its mature state. By the end of the class, students will have an actionable plan that they can use in the coming spring and the knowledge to adjust or make a new plan for new conditions.
MUSIC + THE SELF
Music and the Self is a class exploring our personal experiences of music. We will look at the ways that different styles of music can resonate with us both as individuals and as a group. Over the course of the semester, we will focus on investigating and learning about specific genres, but the class will also follow the threads of interest unique to you (the students in the class). The class will be built around listening to music and exploring our experiences through selfreflection, sharing, research, and interactive creative activities. The semester will be split up into three main segments: 1. Music Foundations / The Self; 2. Survey of Music; 3. Final Project
NARRATIVE DESIGN
In Narrative Design, students will take a deep dive into the structure of stories. In this class students will gain aesthetic literacy skills, dissecting the stories they love, and then apply those new skills to the construction of making more stories, for others to love. We’ll be examining how stories connect to human psychology, influence culture, and help us grow as individuals, and working with intent to bring our own sentiments to life on the screen or page.
SUPPORT
ACADEMIC SUPPORT + ADVISORY
All students need support. Whether it is to promote growth in a specific area, to help navigate complex social interactions, or to cultivate strengths, interests, or gifts, our Academic and Advisory (ASA) program provides students with the support they need to reach their full potential. Students meet in ASA with their advisor regularly each week for guidance related to their workload, social and emotional development, and other critical aspects of their educational experience.
AFTER-SCHOOL MATH SUPPORT
After school math support offers personalized assistance and skill development in mathematics for all BAO students. Held Monday through Thursday, this ungraded class provides oneon-one support tailored to individual needs, including homework assistance, concept clarification, and reinforcement of fundamental skills. Students benefit from dedicated time to address math assignments, strengthen their understanding of key concepts, and enhance their problem-solving abilities.