The Putney School: do by The Putney School

a curriculum should be a call to action

here students do

At Putney, there’s no such thing as extracurricular. We view everything as curricular.

rogressive educator Carmelita Hinton founded The Putney School in 1935. In 1954 the school established eight goals for students and faculty: To work not for marks, badges, honors, but to discover truth and to grow in knowledge of the universe and in the understanding of men, to treasure the hard stretching of oneself, to render service. To learn to appreciate and participate in the creative arts, where man gives expression to his struggle for communication of his inner life and for beauty, and to grant these arts great prestige.

To believe in manual labor, be glad to do one's share of it and proud of the skills learned in the doing. To play just as wholeheartedly as one works, but watching out a bit for the competitive angle, remembering that play is for recreation and an increased joy in living. To want to lend a hand to the community at large, not to live in an “ivory tower." To combat prejudices caused by differences in economic, political, racial, and religious backgrounds; to strive for a world outlook, putting oneself in others' places, no matter how far away or how remote. To have old and young work together in a true comradeship relation, stressing the community and its need for the cooperation of all. To wish to live adventurously though not recklessly, willing to take risks, if need be, for moral growth, so that one definitely progresses along the long slow road toward achieving a civilization worthy of the name.

You are going to be learning all of the time—inside and outside, with teachers and fellow students, through your jobs and leadership roles, in independent study, at campfires and in classrooms. This book is a menu of choices, but it is also a call to action: a call to be creative and work hard. At Putney you will learn to be bold and innovative, to work and to lead, to consider yourself and others, to live at home and out in the world and to build sustainability into all of your efforts. 2

Expectations & Pathways

Schedule

Support

Grading

Academic Curriculum

24 Afternoons 28

Evening Arts

32 Jobs 33

Leadership Positions

E d u c at i o n f o r C r e at i v i t y a n d I n n ovat i o n

Education that fosters creativity is crucial to your ability to be useful in the world. Twice a year you will design and carry out lengthy independent projects you will design yourself. Independent study

and exhibitions will require you to dig deeply into an area of interest and create new questions and connections. See page 22 for more on Project Weeks, Tutorials, and Senior Exhibitions.

E d u c at i o n f o r L e a d e r s h i p

At Putney, you will practice leadership and learn through experience. You will help to run work crews, lead dorms, sit on committees. You will find yourself in lengthy debates about how to run a community in which individual freedoms must mesh with responsibility to the group. There are more than 50

leadership positions in which students are responsible for getting work done with other student labor, or in which students are part of the decision-making processes that make the community run. This work is vital to the school. See page 32–33 for more on Jobs & Leadership

E d u c at i o n f o r S u s ta i n a b i l i t y

Putney stands for a way of life, and we realize that this life must be an environmentally sustainable one. Throughout our history, the land use program has been a key element of a Putney education. New technology and old are combined to find ways to live more lightly on the land. Our science program includes Biodiversity,

Physiological Ecology and Complex Systems, as well as biology and chemistry classes that use the natural world as their laboratories. You will be required to work on the farm, in the gardens and in the woods in order to graduate. For more on sustainability at Putney, visit www.putneyschool.org/sustainability

expectations & pathways 2

expectations & pathways

In order to receive a Putney diploma, you must fulfill academic requirements, as well as live up to your responsibilities in all areas of our program. You will be expected to participate fully in the Evening Arts Program, the Land Use Program, Project Week, the Work Program, afternoon activities, dorm life, assemblies and special events. The Putney faculty votes on each student’s eligibility for a diploma. W h at Yo u ’ ll Nee d f o r a D i p l o m a

A diploma from The Putney School reflects four years of planned study, which will typically include 20 or more credits. A student must earn at least 5 credits per year, and satisfy the following distribution requirements:

[

3 credits of science

[

1 credit of English each year

[

1 additional humanities class in senior year

[

2 ½ credits of history or social sciences

[

Level 3 in a modern language

[

1 credit of math in at least 3 years

[

1 credit of arts

Pathways Here are some examples of student pathways: 9th Humans in the Natural World (3) Spanish 1 (1) Geometry (1) Sculpture 1 (½) Evening Arts: Figure Drawing, Afro-Cuban Drumming Seminars: Health 1, Technology, Music

10th English: Composition & Literary Analysis (1) Chemistry & Microbiology (1) Independent Topics in Science (½) History of the Modern World (1) Spanish 2 (1) Algebra 2 (1) Painting 1 (½) Evening Arts: Printmaking, Book Arts Seminars: Health 2

11th American Studies (1 ½) Writing & Research (½) Physics (1) Biodiversity & Conservation Ecology (1) Spanish 3 (1) Precalculus (1) Evening Arts: Printmaking, Latin Dance Seminars: College Planning

12th Introduction to Media Studies (½) Existentialism (½) Revolutions: A Comparative Study (½) Molecular Biology & Genetics (1) Calculus (1) Painting 2 (½) Printmaking 1 (½) Evening Arts: Animation, Stained Glass Seminars: College Application

9th Humans in the Natural World (3) Chinese 1 (1) Algebra (1) Music Theory 1 (½) Music Intensive (½) Evening Arts: Jazz 1, Digital Film Making Seminars: Health 1, Technology, Music

10th English: Composition & Literary Analysis (1) Chemistry & Microbiology (1) History of the Modern World (1) Chinese 2 (1) Geometry (1) Music Theory 2 (½) Evening Arts: Jazz Combo, Ceramics 1 Seminars: Health 2

11th American Studies (1) Writing & Research (½) Complex Systems: Agroecology (½) Winter Trimester in China (1) Algebra 2 (1) Chinese History (½) Music Composition (½) Evening Arts: Jazz Combo, Digital Photography Seminars: College Planning

12th Feminist Perspectives in Literature (½) Contemporary Short Fiction (½) American Studies (½) Anatomy & Physiology (½) Introduction to Economics (½) Revolutions: A Comparative Study (½) Comparative Religions (½) Statistics (½) Introduction to Investment & Finance (½) Music Intensive (½) Adv. Music Composition (½) Ceramics 2 (½) Evening Arts: Music Production & Recording, Meditation Seminars: College Application

student entering in 10th grade

Land Use The Land Use Program is designed to

10th English: Composition & Literary Analysis (1) Chemistry & Microbiology (1) History of the Modern World (1) French 2 (1) Geometry (1) Elements of Theater (½) Theater Workshop (½) Evening Arts: Theater, Ceramics 1 Seminars: Health 2

11th American Studies (1 ½) Writing & Research (½) Theater Workshop (1) Physics (1) Algebra 2 (1) Photography 1 (1) Evening Arts: Digital Photography, Theater Seminars: College Planning

develop a sense of stewardship. We feel that experience working the land

12th Creative Writing (½) Philosophical Themes in Literature (½) Astronomy (½) Independent Study: Astrophotography (½) Comparative Religions (½) French 3 (1) Social Documentary Studies (½) Elements of Modern Dance (½) Movement, Sound & Vision (½) Survey of Computer Science (½) Evening Arts: Traditional Photography, Theater Seminars: College Application

cultivates a good work ethic, fosters a respect for all life and develops practical

student entering in 11th grade

skills. Students are required to do one

11th American Studies (1 ½) Writing & Research (½) Physics (1) Conservation Biology (½) Spanish 2 (1) Precalculus (1) Evening Arts: Figure Sculpture, Weaving Seminars: College Planning

trimester of work on the land before graduation. Afternoon activities such as gardening, farming, woods crew, trail maintenance and landscaping, as well as maple sugaring over spring break, fulfill this requirement.

12th Feminist Perspectives in Literature (½) Contemporary Short Fiction (½) Molecular Biology & Genetics (½) Advanced Molecular Biology & Genetics (½) Calculus (1) Spanish 3 (1) Existentialism (½) Sociological Impacts of Food (½) Fiber Arts (½) Evening Arts: Blacksmithing, Weaving Seminars: College Application

schedule

support C o n f e r e n c e Bl o c k s

7 am

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Breakfast

Block 1

Block 3

Block 2

Milk Lunch

Milk Lunch Assembly

Milk Lunch Sing

Milk Lunch Assembly

T h e Ce n t e r f o r Te a c h i n g a n d L e a r n i n g Breakfast

Block 3

Milk Lunch Assembly

Conference Block

12 pm

Conference Block

Block 2

Milk Lunch

Conference Block

Conference & Advisory

specific challenges meeting the demands of their academic work. We do not treat those with learning differences as “other”; we understand that students have a variety of learning styles, capacities and strengths.

Block 4

Block 3

Lunch

Block 1

Block 4

Afternoon 1

L i b r a ry

Block 1

Lunch

Block 3

Block 2

Afternoon 1

Afternoon 2

Dinner

Evening Arts

Afternoon 1

The Center for Teaching and Learning is a resource for all students and teachers. It provides academic support, organizational help, study skills and math workshops. The director and experienced tutors are available for students with

Block 4

Block 2

Lunch

individual homework time. Seminars, music lessons, tutoring, health appointments and college meetings are also scheduled during conference blocks.

Lunch

Afternoon 1

At Putney, students gain varied and authentic experience using the library. Because of the project-oriented nature of much of the curriculum, students are required to develop research strategies and make informed decisions about the types

and quality of resources used. The faculty expect students to be able to understand and use a variety of resources: the library’s online catalog, database subscriptions, high quality Internet sources, as well as book and periodical collections.

In Dorms

For a current school calendar, visit: putneyschool.org/calendar

In Dorms

C o lle g e Pl a c e m e n t

The Putney School offers a comprehensive college counseling program that begins formally in the 11th grade. We believe, as Frank Sachs writes, that “College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won.” We actively assist students as they research colleges, investigate careers and begin to make decisions about where they would like their lives to head after graduating. We offer individual meetings with students and parents, a weekly College Planning seminar for juniors, a weekly College Applications seminar

for seniors, online accounts to access Naviance—a nationally recognized college counseling software resource, email updates to parents with reminders about the application process timeline, campus visits from representatives of more than 60 colleges and universities, financial aid and scholarship workshops, and all PSAT, ACT, TOEFL, AP and SAT registration and testing. For a list of recent college acceptances, visit www.putneyschool.org/acceptances

support

schedule

Block 4

SATURDAY

We have four blocks each week to allow time for student-teacher meetings, collaborations on projects, extra help sessions, student study groups and

I n s t r u c t i o n a l Te c h n o l o g y Ce n t e r

Technology is an increasingly integral part of what we do here at Putney. From Moodle courses, to Google Apps for Education, to robotics, geographic information systems, and science lab data collection, technology provides opportunities for project-based and hands-on learning. The Instructional Technology Center (ITC) is where teachers and students learn new technologies, improve their skills and get help from the technology staff.

A wide variety of resources are available, including video production equipment, digital video cameras, digital still cameras, MIDI controllers and music composition applications, ProToolsbased digital recording equipment, scanners and printers. ITC computers have a variety of software titles for video production, web page design, graphics, digital photography, video conferencing, document scanning and desktop publishing.

grading We believe that students should learn to work for the love of knowledge, the excitement of discovery and the joy of using their minds effectively. All students and their parents receive a full set of detailed written reports six times a year. Written evaluations are specific and intended to indicate to the student her level of achievement. The college office shows the transcript including grades to Juniors during their winter trimester.

Effort Marks

In addition to letter grades, students receive effort marks for their work during each marking period. Effort marks range from 1 = excellent to 4 = unacceptable. Effort marks are important in determining the list of seniors eligible for special privileges E n g l i s h f o r S p e a k e r s o f Ot h e r L a n g ua g e s ( E SO L )

The English for Speakers of Other Languages Program (ESOL) is designed for international students who want to achieve a high level of English proficiency for academic work. Classes develop a variety of language skills—speaking, listening, reading and writing. They also develop capacities necessary for success in an American high school, such as the ability to communicate clearly, work independently, think critically, act cooperatively and effectively contribute

to discussions. Students must have an intermediate knowledge of English in order to enter the program. Typically, there are six full-credit courses at two levels, with gradual mainstreaming into non-ESOL courses. Also included in the ESOL program are specific courses in English Composition and US History, and a support section for Humans in the Natural World. For more on ESOL classes at Putney, see www.putneyschool.org/esol

and in identifying students about whom the deans should be concerned. Students in good standing are expected to maintain consistent effort. Students are given their effort marks at the same time they receive their reports.

Pa r t i c i pat i o n

Of the core values of The Putney School, participation is perhaps most essential to the success of our daily endeavors. All of our programs—from classes to assemblies, Evening Arts to Sing, and

sports to work—are designed to be most enjoyable and most effective with everyone present. Students are expected to participate fully.

Transcripts

The Putney transcript records course grades for each trimester as well as the final grade for each course. The student’s record of participation in the nonacademic programs of the school is also recorded. During the winter trimester, juniors receive an unofficial copy of their transcript as part of the

college planning course. In the fall or early winter of the senior year, students request that an official copy of the transcript be sent to colleges to which they have applied. We’ve compiled a list of readings and research on progressive education and grades at www.putneyschool.org/findings

grading

support

At the end of each marking period, the academic dean and class deans will evaluate students’ academic standing and determine whether a student should be moved onto Academic Warning or Academic Probation based on grades and effort marks. Before grades are submitted to the academic office, seniors and second-trimester juniors have the opportunity to meet with their teachers to discuss their grades and academic standing.

academic curriculum 8

academic curriculum

The academic program is rich in opportunity for intellectual exploration and discovery as well as creative expression. The study of history is steeped in primary sources, and students, like historians, learn to create historical narratives, conduct research and interpret events. Science classes are investigative and students are encouraged to view the campus as a laboratory for discovery and to develop an appreciation for the complexity and fragility of the environment. Math is taught as a language where phenomena can be expressed in numbers and problems solved elegantly. Spanish, French and Chinese are taught with an emphasis on speaking, writing and gaining a nuanced, cultural understanding. The arts and the cultivation of the imagination permeate the Putney curriculum. Discipline and vision are emphasized. On the following pages you'll find the courses, activities and opportunities planned for the year ahead.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Although Putney gave me both academic and creative preparation for post-Putney school and work, I think the most useful thing it provided me with is the ability to remain confident in an independent path.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Putney Alum

Integrated Classes Humans in the Natural World

American Studies Grade 11

3 credits: 1 in English, 1 in Science, 1 in History

1 ½ credits

This required course for all freshmen

This course is a year-long, interdisciplinary

integrates English, social science and natural science. The class is collaboratively

American Studies

course that asks the fundamental question: “What does it mean to be an American?” The

developed, and each section is taught, by a

course is arranged around a series of thematic

teacher from the English, science and history

explorations: Natur'e, American Political

departments. The year-long course begins

Thought, Slavery and its Legacy, Conflict

by asking “How do we know what we know?”

and Work, Labor and Industry. Courses are

Starting with things we can observe locally,

taught by teachers in both the English and

we expand our perspective to connect to the

History departments, and readings from both disciplines provide the essential backdrop for dynamic class discussion. Fundamental skills

and synthesize information about their world

of independent thought, reading for meaning,

from historical, scientific, artistic and literary

oral expression, and creative and analytical

English 10

Feminist Perspectives in Literature

writing are central to the class.

10th grade English is comprised of two ½

½ credit

sources. Each student undertakes several long-

credit classes. In Forms of the Essay, students

Studying influential and iconic women’s

write nonfiction: summaries, descriptions,

writing, feminist theory, and historical

½ credit

longer analyses, profiles and narratives. In

context helps students understand the call

This course is taken concurrently with

Foundations of Literary Analysis, students

and response of the woman’s voice in our

American Studies and meets for one trimester.

continue developing their voices as writers,

literary world.

It is designed to facilitate the writing of a

moving from the personal to the analytical.

term projects, including detailed studies of a plot of land, a country, and a commodity. After completion of this integrated course, Putney students are expected to accurately sketch the world around them, critically observe and analyze their environment, collect and use GIS (Geographic Information Systems) data, write in both analytical and imaginative forms, synthesize scientific and historical facts into meaning and be fearless enough to embrace uncertainty, ambiguity, and the benefits of failure. In addition they learn some basic tools and vocabulary of economics, data analysis, and political science, as well as the rudiments of epistemology. Mathematical thinking is an integral part of our study.

ESOL: English Language Support for Humans in the Natural World An ESOL teacher is available to international students in HNW who need language support. This teacher provides modified readings and assignments for English learners. She also reviews written work to help students make corrections before handing in essays and helps them rehearse presentations. Each trimester of HNW follows a theme: Observation, Systems & Society, and Globalization & Climate Change. For a detailed look at the skills and content covered in each trimester, visit www.putneyschool.org/humans

Writing and Research: Humanities Thesis

substantial research paper. Recent topics

Readings include plays, novels, short stories,

Introduction to Media Studies

include: The Rise and Fall of Copyright in the

and poetry by such authors as Tim O’Brien,

½ credit

United States, The Psychology of Video Games,

Chinua Achebe, Marjane Satrapi and

Cinematography, television, video games,

Sugar’s Impact on the Americas, Assassinating

Adrienne Rich.

Facebook and other media are explored as

Socialism: US Covert Operations in Chile,

All freshmen are required to take Humans in the Natural World, a full-year course integrating English, Science, and History. See page 10.

The Influence of Psychoanalysis on American Culture: Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, “Lift Every Voice and Sing”: Slave Spirituals as a Form of Rebellion.

English

ll juniors are required to take American Studies, a A full-year course integrating US History, English, and Political Science. See Page 10.

Contemporary World Poetry ½ credit

We strive to help students express

This class focuses on how to appreciate and

themselves with clarity and power orally as

understand poetry in a cultural context.

well as in writing. We want them to be able to generate authentic, nuanced questions and original ideas. Reading literature with sensitivity and exploring varied cultural perspectives are also critical.

Creative Writing: Poetry, Prose and Creative Nonfiction ½ credit

Students write daily in this course, experimenting in genres that may include poetry,

Students write frequently. Readings range

short story, microfiction, plays, and creative

from the canonic to the contemporary and

nonfiction. We focus on the process of

roam over a wide landscape of cultures

revising their creative work, culminating

and voices both in original English and in translation. Most genres are represented,

in a portfolio.

including novels, short stories, essays,

Existentialism

poetry, plays, graphic novels, and film.

½ credit

Classes are taught seminar-style. Lecture

Students don the heavy two-way lens of

is rare. Class participation is essential as

Existentialism, which turns us as deeply

students try out their ideas aloud.

inward as it does broadly outward.

students question how these and other forms influence the way they see and live in the world. Philosophical Themes in Literature ½ credit

This course examines literature that raises fundamental philosophical questions about meaning, metaphysics, the nature of knowledge and ethics. Reading Contemporary Short Fiction ½ credit

This course is an exploration of short stories by contemporary masters of the form. Shakespeare ½ credit

This course focuses on three or four of Shakespeare’s plays in-depth. Discussion, acting, and writing serve as tools for interpretation.

academic curriculum

global community. Students are expected to collaborate with each other, make connections

Physics

Complex Systems: Agroecology

Topics in Molecular Biology and Genetics

1 credit

½ credit

1 credit

This course explores kinematics, Newton’s

Local farms and the Putney farm are used

This two-trimester course is for students

This course is for non-native speakers of

Laws of Motion, momentum, energy,

to explore the sustainability—ecological, eco-

interested in participating in long-term,

English. Students learn and practice a range

rotational motion, and planetary systems,

nomic and social— of agricultural systems.

collaboratively designed experiments.

of writing skills to improve their ability

followed by electricity and magnetism. We

Students study the history of farming in

Prerequisites: Successful completion of

end with a brief survey of topics in modern

our area, investigate how past and current

Molecular Biology and Genetics and permis-

physics. While this class is best taken in

practices affect the land and economy and

sion of instructor.

ESOL for Advanced Literature and Composition

to express complex ideas in English. This course is open to advanced non-native speakers of English. For more on our English Department, contact English@putneyschool.org

Science 12

The study of science at Putney revives,

with the habits of mind needed to ask and answer questions using the scientific method. Courses introduce fundamental biological, chemical and physical principles through active inquiry, experimentation, direct instruction and exercises in problem solving. Advanced tutorials in the sciences are available and common. Upon graduation, students will have developed an understanding of essential methods and content sufficient for lifelong learning, responsible citizenship and for further study of science at the university level. Biology 1 credit

In this sophomore-level course, students study the characteristics of living systems: biochemistry, molecular interactions at the cellular level, the structure and functions of cells, tissues and organs within organisms, inheritance and mutation, and interactions between animals, plants, and the environment. Chemistry and Microbiology 1 credit

Using an understanding of the essentials of chemistry: atomic structure and functions, periodic trends, chemical bonding, intermolecular forces and reactivity. Students also explore fundamental biochemical pathways such as photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

familiarize ourselves with soil and plant

two years of Algebra is a prerequisite.

ecology and how nutrient cycles determine

Ornithology

how and what we can grow.

½ credit

All freshmen are required to take Humans in the Natural World, a full-year course integrating English, Science, and History. See page 10.

This is an advanced biology elective that uses Complex Systems: The Built Environment

the world of birds to explore scientific ideas

½ credit

and practices in depth. We practice identifi-

Independent Topics in Science

Using the campus as a laboratory to learn

cation, learn the taxonomy of common and

½ credit

about sustainable building systems and

rare birds of the campus and explore avian

This course is designed to give highly

practices, students come away with a

anatomy and behavior to learn the evolution-

motivated and independent students the

knowledge of how certain cycles impact life

ary adaptations that make birds unique.

opportunity to pursue scientific questions of

on our planet, how we can intentionally and

their own design, or for students to take on a

unintentionally change these cycles and what

challenge such as entry in a science contest. It

we can do to live more sustainably.

is open to students at any grade level.

Physiological Ecology ½ credit

This elective uses the 320 acres of the school’s Introduction to Astronomy

forests to understand the distribution,

Advanced Chemistry

½ credit

adaptations and interconnections of organ-

½ credit

This class explores planetary motion, stars

isms in a New England wooded ecosystem.

In this upper level chemistry elective,

and their life cycles, galaxies and cosmology.

Prerequisite: Biology.

students use laboratory-based inquiry to

We use our observatory to view, image,

explore complex chemical systems. Students

measure and make inferences about the

will design an independent research project.

objects we find. A chemistry background

Prerequisites: Chemistry and Algebra 2.

is preferred. Completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 is required.

Anatomy and Physiology ½ credit

Molecular Biology and Genetics

This biology course explores the natural

½ credit

history of the human body, the anatomy of its

This investigative course is an introduction

parts and the processes of our physiology.

to molecular biology and genetics. We touch on the four core pillars of science: under-

Biodiversity and Conservation Ecology

standing principles, designing experiments,

½ credit

analyzing data, and clearly disseminating

In this introduction to community ecology

knowledge, while learning standard labora-

and how ecosystems give rise to biodiversity,

tory techniques such as gel electrophoresis,

we examine local ecosystems, observe special

transformation, protein extraction, chroma-

habitats that enhance biodiversity and look at

tography, and tetrad analysis. Prerequisites:

ways to protect them. Emphasis will be placed

Biology, Chemistry and Algebra 2.

History History students are asked to create meaning from our past and present, developing an ability to understand a historical framework for the world evolving around them. Classes emphasize discussion and oral skills, writing with an emphasis on analytical essays and critical thinking. Students are asked to write history—to formulate, support and document their own views of the past. The use of primary texts is critical in all courses, and student research builds from primary document analysis. History of the Modern World 1 credit

on field methods. Prerequisite: Biology. Advanced Molecular Biology and Genetics

This course focuses on the major themes in

½ credit

the development and “modernization” of

In this class, students have the option to

western society and culture and its relation-

assist in the instruction of introductory

ship to the world at large.

molecular genetics and hone their skills

All freshmen are required to take Humans in the Natural World, a full-year course integrating English, Science, and History. See page 10.

through teaching peers what they have learned. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Molecular Biology and Genetics and permission of the instructor.

All juniors are required to take American Studies, a full-year course integrating US history, English, and political science. See page 10.

academic curriculum

instills and encourages curiosity about the natural world by equipping students

conjunction with Precalculus or Calculus,

Social Documentary Studies ½ credit

Geometry 1 credit

This course, intended for juniors and seniors,

½ credit

is an opportunity to study how art reflects

This course examines the ebb and flow of

erties of plane geometric figures. Students

the world around us. Students can take this

unity and disunity throughout ancient

study the general properties of polygons,

course for humanities credit.

Chinese history and the modern age.

African Studies

Comparative Religions

Geometry introduces students to the prop-

parallel lines and circles, and develop a basic understanding of trigonometry.

½ credit

Algebra 2

Students unpack the challenges of building

In this class we explore and understand the

1 credit

African economic and social structures in the

traditions of religious belief and the nature

Algebra 2 covers the understanding of

wake of European control and exploitation.

of the divine in history and across cultures,

functions. Students begin by furthering their

The Middle East Cauldron 14

Topics in Ancient and Modern Chinese History

½ credit

The goal of this class is a greater understand-

emphasizing religious texts in their historical

study of linear functions and systems from

and cultural context.

Algebra and then move on to studying qua-

ESOL: Themes in US Culture and History

dratic functions/equations and more general

1 credit

look at the political, economic, cultural and

This class is an additional course for

Precalculus

religious influences in the region, from the

international students, which strengthens

1 credit

collapse of the Ottoman Empire to the present,

their knowledge of United States cultural and

Precalculus helps students further their

using both primary and secondary sources.

political history.

understanding of the fundamental concepts

Introduction to Economics

Sociological Impacts of Food ½ credit

How does economics govern our lives, includ-

Food is an ever-present part of our daily expe-

ing our political institutions? We consider

rience and a medium through which we can

and relationships of functions. Students expand their knowledge of quadratic and polynomial functions and move on to study exponential, logarithmic, rational and trigonometric functions.

Calculus 2 1 credit

Calculus 2 picks up where its predecessor left off by reviewing the basic concepts of calculus and then moving on to integration techniques and more applications of the integral, ultimately leading to power series expansions of functions. Please note that

how economic actors (ourselves included)

examine our individual and collective heritage.

make decisions.

The course is broken into several units: Food

Introduction to Investment and Finance

Putney does not teach to the AP curriculum

and Meaning; Food and Ethics; Food and

½ credit

and that this course is not intended to

Latin American History

Justice; and, lastly, Food and Culture.

This one-trimester elective course addresses a

½ credit

For more on History, contact history@putneyschool.org

While we use spreadsheets extensively,

This course introduces some of the major

previous experience with spreadsheets is not

forces and events that have shaped Latin America: conquest and colonization, economic imperialism, racial and ethnic integration, religion and political upheaval. Revolutions, a Comparative Study ½ credit

This course is an exploration of a number of large-scale revolutions in the context of selected theoretic models. Revolutions referenced include the English Civil War, the American Revolution, the French Revolution, the Russian and Bolshevik Revolutions and the Chinese Maoist Revolution.

variety of investment and financial questions.

Mathematics Our math courses cover fundamentals for college preparation while encouraging our students to explore the beauty of mathematics and its connection with other subjects. Students are expected to take three years of high school mathematics and finish Algebra 2 before they graduate. Students who have finished Algebra 2 are encouraged to take advantage of our more advanced courses such as Statistics, Precalculus, Calculus and Survey of Computer Science. Algebra 1 credit

Algebra begins with the investigation of mathematical functions. From there, students move on to the study of linear equations and inequalities, rational numbers (fractions, ratios, probability), irrational numbers (powers, roots), statistics and, finally, quadratic functions and more general polynomial functions.

prepare students for the AP exam. Advanced Topics in Mathematics 1 credit

required. Prerequisite: Algebra 1.

This full-credit seminar presents a broad

Statistics

mathematics, offer an opportunity for the

½ credit

This one-trimester course examines statistics both as a rigorous study of data analysis and as a bridge to numeracy. Prerequisite: Algebra 2. Survey of Computer Science ½ credit

In this one-trimester introduction to the study of computer science, students explore how computers work, from low level architecture to high level application scripting and data analysis. Prerequisite: Algebra 2. Calculus 1 1 credit

Calculus 1 is based on the concepts of limits, derivatives, and integrals, studied through a mixture of computer and graphing calculator activities and labs, investigative lecturediscussions and problem-based instruction.

survey of college and graduate-level students to learn to write rigorous mathematics and provide a window into beautiful mathematical topics that exist outside of the traditional sequence embraced by secondary school curricula. Students may elect to take this course concurrently with Calculus 2. For more on Mathematics, contact mathematics@putneyschool.org

academic curriculum

ing of this complex and volatile region. We

½ credit

polynomial and radical functions/equations.

Modern Languages Learning a modern language and gaining insight into its culture(s) are important routes both to increased self-awareness and cross-cultural understanding. Putney currently offers three modern languages: Chinese, French and Spanish. From the start, students are immersed in speaking, listening, reading and writing; they learn by doing. Students learn about culture through readings, discussions, movies, visiting speakers, songs and occasional trips. The 16

Chinese program is entering its third year with three levels. In both French and Spanish, advanced classes offered, as needed, in each

Spanish 3

ESOL: Structure and Use

1 credit

Students will be able to use basic French in

The goal of this course is for students to

This course presents advanced grammar

speaking, listening, writing and reading, and

sharpen their skills in speaking, listening,

structures, varied reading and writing tasks,

to acquire study skills necessary to learn a

reading and writing, as well as to increase their

discussion tactics, conversation strategies and

new language. They are expected, by the end

knowledge of Spanish-speaking cultures. The

lots of new vocabulary.

of the course, to understand French spoken

class is conducted entirely in Spanish.

at a measured pace and to learn strategies to cope with the gaps in their comprehension.

Spanish 4

French 2

The focus of this course is on understanding

1 credit

the language as spoken and written by and

1 credit

This course builds on students’ skills in

for native speakers, and on making oneself

speaking, listening, writing and reading

understood in daily interaction with them.

basic French.

Class is conducted entirely in Spanish.

French 3

Spanish 5 or 6: Advanced Topics in Spanish

1 credit

1 credit; ½ credit by advance permission only

The goal of this course is for students to

These courses are an advanced reading,

sharpen their skills in speaking, reading,

writing, and discussion class, focusing on

To graduate, students who are native

writing, and listening as well as to increase

specialized content areas such as “African

speakers of English must successfully

their knowledge of French culture and

and Arab Heritage in the Spanish World,”

complete either through level three of a

literature. Students are expected to communi-

modern language, or three years of modern

cate in French at all times.

of the three languages, either as independent study or as additional classes.

language study at Putney.

“Spanish Soap operas” or “Spanish for the business/scientific/economic/medical world.” Translation and writing assignments will

French 4

provide formal opportunities for focusing

Chinese 1

1 credit

on accuracy, creativity, and the mechanics

1 credit

This course is a reading, writing and

of language.

This introduction to Mandarin Chinese

discussion class. The grammar focus is on

Arts Involvement in the arts is one of the central Putney experiences, and the academic arts program, encompassing a diverse range of disciplines in the visual and performing arts, forms the core of the arts program. Studio visual art courses seek to increase a student’s awareness of the visual world, to support the controlled development of a student’s unique imagination and emotion into visible form, and to promote an intellectual understanding of the basic formal elements and technical processes of a discipline. Music courses introduce students to the language and art of music, from both an academic and an aesthetic viewpoint. A full range of theater classes are offered during the academic day, as is a modern dance class with a focus on building both a technical and creative foundation from which to move.

language and culture features the phonetic

perfecting the use of the indicative and

Fall Trimester in México

Students in arts courses have the opportunity

system (pin yin), Chinese characters, vocabu-

subjunctive tenses as well as the small details

1 credit

to continue and expand their interest by

lary and structures. We explore Chinese arts

of good usage. Students function entirely in

Putney students spend a trimester living and

participating in the Evening Arts program.

and culture, calligraphy, songs, feature films,

French throughout the class. Evaluations are

learning in Cuernavaca Morelos, México.

In theater, students rehearse, produce and

based on class participation, written and oral

This program is open to students who have

perform a fully staged production twice

exams, oral presentations and interviews.

completed Spanish 2 and higher.

a year. Various vocal and instrumental

1 credit

French 5 or 6: Advanced Topics in French

Winter Trimester in China

This course builds on students’ skills in

1 credit; ½ by advance permission only

1 credit

hip hop classes and Dance Ensemble. Studio

speaking, listening, writing and reading.

These courses include advanced reading,

Putney students spend a trimester living and

art classes meet at this time, as well as other

Content includes vocabulary, idioms, struc-

writing and discussion, focusing on

learning in Chongqing, China, with visits to

non-academic classes such as blacksmithing,

tures, email and telephone conversation.

specialized content areas such as “The

other places of interest nearby. This program

jewelry and stained glass. Many students

We explore Chinese arts and culture, calligra-

heritage of French colonization in Africa,”

is open to all students, though priority will

continue their work in the arts during Project

phy, songs, feature films and documentaries,

“French cinema” or “French for the business/

be given to students who have taken or are

Week, and seniors often choose independent

documentaries and t’ai chi.

ensembles meet during the evening. Dance

Chinese 2

Tang Dynasty poetry and t’ai chi.

scientific/economic/medical world.” Classes

currently taking Chinese classes.

authentic materials.

1 credit

Spring Trimester in France

concentration. Please note: some courses

1 credit

(particularly visual) require a materials fee.

The goal of this course is to communicate

Spanish 1

in a variety of day-to-day experiences in

1 credit

and learning in Pont-Aven in Brittany, with

Mandarin Chinese with increasing complex-

Students will be able to use basic Spanish in

visits to Paris and other localities nearby.

ity, sharpening skills in speaking, listening,

speaking, listening, writing and reading, and

This program is open to all students, though

writing and reading.

to acquire study skills necessary to learn a

priority will be given to students of French.

new language. Spanish 2 1 credit

This course builds on students’ skills in speaking, listening, writing and reading basic Spanish.

study and Senior Exhibitions in the arts, to delve into their media in greater depth and

will be conducted entirely in French and use Chinese 3

is represented by Afro-Modern, Latin, and

Putney students spend a trimester living

For much more on Putney’s trimester abroad programs and other opportunities off the hill, visit www.putneyschool.org/world

academic curriculum

classes are offered at six levels, with more

French 1 1 credit

Fiber Arts I, II

History and Language of Art

½ credit

This is a studio art course, using textiles to

Through study of Western art from the late

explore structure, function, color and design.

medieval period to the 20th century, students

Through individual projects, students learn

learn to see art clearly and relate what they

about a wide range of techniques, leading to

see to its cultural context, with the aim of

the development of an idea into a finished

fostering a lifelong pleasure in looking at art.

product. The primary focus is on weaving, but felting, basketry, dyeing, sewing and

Movement, Sound and Vision

quilting may be covered. Prerequisite for

½ credit Offered in Alternate Years

Fiber Arts II: two trimesters of Fiber Arts I or

Students who have already developed skills

permission of the instructor.

in one or more areas of artistic expression are invited to go beyond learning technique

Photography I 18

Drawing I ½ credit

Students develop their ability to perceive the world around them and skillfully translate their perceptions to paper. Students will become fluent in expression of the basic elements of visual experience: light, gesture, edge, mass, texture and space. Drawing II, III ½ credit

Students learn to express the perceived world with greater skill and clarity as they develop the expressive elements of a personal style. Students are encouraged to explore new media and approaches and to develop their fundamental skills more fully. Students also develop a portfolio on a single theme consisting of many extended studies and variations in approach. Prerequisite: Drawing I or permission of the instructor. Painting I ½ credit

This course focuses on developing the expressive and structural elements of painting. Students come to understand and control color through the expressive application of acrylic, oil and watercolor paint. Participants create a cohesive body of work related to a specific theme. Prerequisite: Drawing I. Painting II, III ½ credit

This course, intended for those with a strong foundation in drawing, allows students to pursue ideas of color and painted form with emphasis on the head, figure and landscape.

works collaboratively to formulate concepts,

Using traditional film cameras, students

design projects that express the concepts,

Printmaking I, II

explore design elements such as light, line

then implement them with a high level of

½ credit

and symmetry in building expressive

craftsmanship and polish.

This course focuses on learning various

compositions. In addition, the class focuses

printmaking techniques as well as developing

on narratives, series building and editing.

students’ individual creative processes and

Students learn how to process their own

Visual Arts in the Evening Arts Program include:

imagery. Students explore intaglio (etching,

film and print black and white photographs.

Animation, Blacksmithing, Ceramics,

drypoint and aquatint) and relief (lino-

Cameras are available on loan from the

Comics, Diplomas, Painting, Figure Drawing,

leum cut and letterpress). Prerequisite for

school, though it is always helpful if students

Jewelry, Knitting, Photography, Printmaking,

Printmaking I: Drawing I, or one class of

have their own. Students can purchase film

Sculpture, Sewing, Spinning, Stained Glass,

Printmaking evening art activity. Prerequisite

and paper at the school store. The cost of

Weaving and Woodworking.

for Printmaking II: Printmaking I class.

supplies is $50–$80. Music

Sculpture I

Photography II, III

½ credit

This course guides students in exploring

Building upon the foundations provided

the skills and techniques of sculpture using

in the Photography I class, students create

various materials and approaches. Students

self-generated portfolios. Prerequisite for

learn the processes of modeling, carving, and

Photography II, III: Photography I, II or

welding using clay, wax, plaster, wood, stone

permission of the instructor. Supplies can be

and metal. Drawings and three-dimensional

purchased online or through the school store.

models are used to create designs for sculpture. Digital Filmmaking Sculpture II, III

½ credit

This hands-on course explores the use of

This course allows students with previous

digital filmmaking as a means of self-ex-

sculpting experience to delve into sculptural

pression and as an art form through both

materials of their preference to create a

narrative and documentary styles.

cohesive series of sculptures or one or two larger single works. Prerequisite: Sculpture I

Social Documentary Studies

or permission of the instructor.

½ credit

This course is an opportunity for students Ceramics I, II, III

to study the history of social documentary pho-

½ credit

tography as well as to do their own independent

This course exposes students at all levels of

work. Each student completes their own project

experience to the wide array of techniques

as a capstone piece to the course that combines

that are possible for the means of expression

photography with another discipline. This

with clay. Prerequisite for Ceramics II, III:

course is open to juniors and seniors.

Ceramics I, II or permission of the instructor.

Music Theory I ½ credit

Music Theory I is intended to take musicians with some basic knowledge of the mechanics of music (note reading, beginning familiarity with the keyboard or other pitched instrument) to a deeper understanding of the way music works. Music Theory II ½ credit

In Music Theory II we delve into deeper topics of music writing and analysis: harmonic progressions, non-chord tones, melody writing, advanced harmonies, modulation and musical form. The course is open to students who have completed Music Theory I or the equivalent. Music Composition ½ credit

This course explores the creation and notation of musical ideas for acoustic and electronic media. It is designed to be a natural progression from Music Theory II and continues the process of learning to create and notate musical gestures and

Prerequisite: Drawing I, Painting I, or

ideas. Prerequisite: Music Theory I and II or

permission of the instructor.

equivalent with permission of the instructor.

academic curriculum

V i s ua l A r t s

and focus on developing ideas. The group

½ credit

Music Intensive

Theater in the Evening Arts Program

Music Seminar

½ credit

The play during the fall term is performed

9th Grade

Designed for musicians who would benefit

the last days of the winter Project Week and a

This trimester seminar is intended to give

from a focused and individualized setting in

musical is performed at the end of the spring

all Putney students the basic skills they need

which to develop their skills, the curriculum

Project Week.

collaboration with the course instructor, but

Elements of Theater

is subject to approval by the private lesson

½ credit

music reading.

Music in the Evening Arts program includes:

Students work on monologues and improvi-

Technology and Research Seminar

mission of the instructor. Students enrolled

sations and then move on to scene study.

9th Grade

in private music lessons receive priority.

African Drumming, Encountering Music,

They explore a range of acting styles and

This one-trimester seminar is designed to

performance skill, and during the second

provide students with the basic technology

part of the trimester write short plays that are

and research skills they will need throughout

presented and critiqued during class meetings.

their career at Putney and beyond.

Dance

Health Seminar

instructor. Admission to the class is by per-

Music Production and Recording Arts,

to be effective participants in the all-school Sing, by focusing on vocal production and

for the course is developed by the student in

Chamber Music

Songwriting, and Electronic Music Studio

½ credit

as well as the Music Ensembles: Putney

This academic class is open to advanced

Community Orchestra, Madrigals, Jazz

instrumentalists, primarily string, woodwind

Combo, Jazz Ensemble, Celtic Music.

intensive coached rehearsal of chamber

Support for the Music Program

Elements of Modern Dance

music leading to improved individual and

In addition to the academic program, the

½ credit

collaborative playing skills, as demonstrated

following non-academic programs exist to

This course provides students with a chance

in performances. Entrance to the class is by

support student musicians.

to explore this evolving art form, examining

informal audition. Voice Basics ½ credit

Voice Class empowers students to begin exploration of their individual singing voices. Students work on breathing technique, vocal articulation, and resonance, while basic ear training, sight singing, and musical literacy

the development of modern dance and Afternoon Practice

placing it in its historical context.

With the permission of the music faculty and the director of afternoon activities,

Elements of Ballet

students may sign up for Afternoon Practice

½ credit

during afternoon activity time one or two days

Students learn the basic building blocks of

per week in up to two of the three trimesters

the art form through movement and practice,

each year.

preparing them for more advanced afternoon classes. In addition, students study anatomy

exercises strive to build musical confidence.

Private Music Lessons

from an experiential perspective, learn basic

This single trimester course is intended

Private music lessons in a wide variety of

elements of injury prevention and how to

for students with little to no formal voice

instruments and voice are offered on campus

training or singing experience.

for an additional fee billed to student accounts. Scholarships are available to students

Piano Basics

receiving financial aid for tuition. Music

½ credit

lessons may be taken for academic credit.

This piano-based class helps students build

(See Music Intensive course above).

comfort, ability and basic functionality at the keyboard. This single trimester course is

T h e at e r

intended for students with little to no formal

Theater Workshop

piano training or experience. Guitar Basics ½ credit

This guitar-based class provides a comprehensive introduction: playing technique, basic chords and their structure and voicing. English Diction ½ credit

Students in Diction are introduced to the International Phonetic Alphabet as a practical tool for consistency in pronunciation of the English Language. English Diction is a single trimester course.

½ credit/1 credit

Students taking Theater Workshop study the art of theater through acting in exercises, improvisations, monologues and scenes. Through character development, scene study and play analysis, students develop and apply the necessary skills to create a variety of characters and perform in a wide range of acting styles. Theater Intensive ½ credit

This course is designed for advanced theater students interested in pursuing an aspect of theater. Students may choose to direct, perform or write a play. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.

“listen” to their innate physical intelligence. The Dance Program offers both Modern Jazz

10th Grade

In this class, students focus on a series of relevant questions: “Who am I in community?” “What is a healthy response to peer pressure?” “What are healthy limits for me and how do I stand firm?” “What is a healthy response to substance abuse?” “What is a sexually healthy response to sexual activity?” College Planning Seminar 11th Grade

In this two-trimester seminar, juniors learn about the elements of the college application process. College Applications Seminar 12th Grade

In this fall-trimester seminar, seniors finalize

and Contemporary Ballet during Afternoon

their college lists, complete the Common

Activities and Afro-Modern, Dance Ensemble,

Application, identify recommenders, and

Hip Hop, and Latin Dance in the Evening

prepare portfolios and audition pieces

Arts program.

as applicable. One weekend in October is ded-

For more on the Arts, contact arts@putneyschool.org

one to two personal essays suitable for use on

icated to helping seniors generate and revise college applications.

Seminars A grade-level seminar is required while students are studying on campus. The student’s life is enriched in many areas in the seminar that meets once a week during the noted trimesters. Following are descriptions for each seminar: Health Seminar 9th Grade

Students study gender, sexual orientation and healthy relationships.

English for Academic Writing weekly seminar

This ESOL writing seminar supports English language learners in English and history classes.

academic curriculum

and keyboard players. The course provides

independent work 22

Project Weeks Project Weeks require students to propose and successfully complete two projects, at the end of the winter and spring trimesters, which employ skills they have acquired in their academic and nonacademic program during the current school year. Students are encouraged to have one project emerge from academic classes taken in the preceding trimester. Due to intensive rehearsal schedules, winter and spring dramatic productions count as double projects. Project Week epitomizes the Putney ideal; students learning and working for the love of learning. All students are encouraged to engage in an independent process of inquiry and exploration. Projects represent a significant body of work since the time devoted is the equivalent of an academic month. The Educational Program Committee and

“Many people couldn’t even sew on a button or make tea and were scared/reluctant to try. I knew that whether or not I’d done a task before, I could because I had already done so much and been successful.” —Putney Alum

individual departments approve each project.

Long Fall Long Fall trips are a chance for Putney Summer Program in Cultural Studies: Northern India This course explores how geography and landscape inform the expression of culture and the dynamics of society. Student travel to the Jhamtse Gatsal School in Arunachal Pradesh state in northeast India. The community is located in Tawang district, a historically disputed territory, bordered to the

Qualified students in good standing may submit a proposal to do a work term. This

Independent Topics in Science

during the fall or winter trimesters. Each

program is intended to provide students the

This course is designed to give highly

course must be reviewed and approved by the

opportunity to explore an area that might

motivated and independent students

Educational Program Committee.

be of future career interest. This experience

the opportunity to pursue scientific or

representatives who review and develop the curriculum. The EPC is also responsible for approving and providing feedback on every student proposal for Project Weeks and Independent Studies.

is conceived as a full-time but not-for-profit

technological questions of their own design,

apprenticeship.

or for students to take on a challenge such as entry in a science contest.

Senior Exhibitions are an opportunity for

Theater Intensive

seniors who are in good standing in both

This course is designed for advanced theater

the academic and non-academic programs

students interested in pursuing an aspect

to design and complete a spring trimester

of theater. Students may choose to direct,

independent project, ideally interdisciplinary,

perform or write a play. Prerequisite:

culminating in a body of work that will be

Permission of the instructor.

exhibited. Students are expected to create a project that draws upon the breadth and depth of their educational experience at Putney.

manual labor; to live adventurously; to play as wholeheartedly as one works.” Long Fall trips are an essential part of our orientation and community-building process and are required for all students each year of enrollment. Trips

attend Putney for more than two years are

may design an independent course of study

comprised of deans, faculty and student

principles of The Putney School: “to honor

To read about Putney’s opportunities for study abroad, visit www.putneyschool.org/world

Working with a faculty sponsor, students

The Educational Program Committee is

and to embrace many of the fundamental

last up to four days and range in challenge

Work Term

Senior Exhibitions

fellow students and adult trip leaders,

west by Bhutan and the north by Tibet. Independent Studies

Educational Program Committee

students to work together, to get to know

level from novice to expert. Students who expected to participate in at least one more advanced trip by the end of their time at Putney. Students are placed on trips based on their interests and skill level.

independent work

Independent work is our way of preparing our students for a world without roadmaps, without operating instructions. At Putney, you will learn to be self-motivated and discover issues, actions and concepts that you care about. You will have ideas and you will want to share them with your community (and beyond). You will be inspired by your friends’ reactions and by conversations with your teachers. By designing and executing your own projects, you will strengthen your organizational skills, and learn to apply what you have learned.

afternoons 24

Competitive sports meet four to five times a week and compete against other schools in the River Valley Athletic League and the

Contemporary Ballet level 1, 2 & 3; fall, winter, spring

In a supportive and fun group environment, each individual will gain core strength, flexibility, alignment and articulation.

Lakes Region League. No tryouts, no cuts.

Level 1—all are welcome, no prior experience

Everyone is welcome.

is necessary.

Basketball winter; boys & girls

Teams emphasize participation, spirited play and aerobic activity. Cross-Country Running fall; coed

The cross-country team emphasizes overall fitness and an appreciation of the beauty of fall in Vermont.

Level 2 & 3 for dancers with previous experience. Modern Jazz Dance level 1, 2 and 3; fall, winter, spring

Modern dance, vigorous and invigorating workouts to build full-body strength and gain with an emphasis on rhythm, energy and fun! Level 1—all are welcome, no prior experience necessary.

Cross-Country Skiing winter; coed

Putney offers both a recreational and competitive cross-country ski program. Skiers of all levels have the opportunity to learn skills and technique. Lacrosse spring; boys & girls

Get into shape after a long winter and review the basics of throwing, catching and cradling. Rowing fall; coed

The fall rowing program provides an opportunity for novices to learn how to row and for experienced rowers to continue to develop their strength and technique. Soccer fall; boys & girls

Teams train four or five days a week and play a full schedule of home and away games against other schools.

Recreational Activities

Level 2 & 3 for dancers with previous experience. Cross-Country Skiing winter

See Cross-Country Skiing, above. Hiking fall, spring

We do some bushwhacking, but most of our walks are on trails through the nearby woods and fields. We refer to existing trail maps and create our own maps of our walks. High Intensity Aerobic Workout fall, winter, spring

This is an activity that meets twice a day, 7 AM and 7 PM, 5 days a week. It increases a student’s capacity to focus, elevates overall energy levels, and improves mood. Horseback Riding fall, spring

The horse program offers riding lessons and trail rides for beginners to advanced riders. Students learn to care for horses at the school’s stable.

All recreational sports are coed, and meet twice a week.

Conditioning winter

Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding

We use a cross-training approach which

The Afternoon Work Program

activity for its own sake and to develop

winter

features running, weightlifting, plyometrics

Students are required to participate in weekly

lifelong exercise habits. The Afternoon

We travel to Mount Snow (about a 40-minute

and other techniques.

physical activity—either work or sport—at

Work Program involves students in projects

drive) on Wednesdays and Sundays. This

least four afternoons for two terms and

necessary to sustain our school community

activity is open to individuals of all skill levels.

two afternoons for one term. The athletics

and the farm on which it is located.

program allows students to enjoy physical

flexibility and contemporary styles of jazz

afternoons

We believe in the value and importance of exercise for its physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. The afternoon activities program offers a variety of ways for students to be physically active. All students must participate for a minimum of four afternoons per week for two seasons and two afternoons per week for the third. At least two afternoons each trimester must be spent in a physical activity. In addition to athletic and fitness activities, afternoons also include activities offered in the Afternoon Work Program. These activities meet 1–2 times per week and provide a chance for students to practice stewardship of the land, contribute to the functioning of the school through administrative and individualized opportunities, and carry out community service.

Competitive Sports

Rowing spring; coed

The spring rowing program is a two-day

Afternoon Work Activities

activity. Participants start the season with dry

Landscaping fall, spring

Students work on the grounds of the school campus.

land training focusing on using the indoor

Cider Making

rowing machines as well as developing basic

fall

Maintenance

fitness. Once river rowing conditions allow,

Teamwork and cooperation are emphasized

all terms

we transition to practices on the Connecticut

as students collect and process apples from

Entropy, creating order out of chaos, a priori

River where the focus is on sculling and

local orchards into cider.

philosophical constructs and how to unclog

students have the opportunity to row in single, double or quadruple sculls.

a sink drain are all part of learning “grunt” Community Service

work at Putney.

one long afternoon, all terms

Snowshoeing

Students work at a variety of local non-profit

Putney Child Care

winter

organizations that provide community

all terms

Enjoy scenic tours through the snowy woods,

assistance or enrichment.

This is a chance to work with young children

taking advantage of the school’s rural campus Theater Tech

Center, an on-campus child care center for

all terms

infants through five-year-olds.

T’ai Chi and Kung Fu

This activity is responsible for the physical

fall

elements of the current play in production.

Recycling all terms

This class offers students an opportunity to explore a variety of Chinese martial arts

Theater Tech Lights

Recyclers are responsible for collecting and

and culture.

one long afternoon, fall and spring

monitoring our recyclable waste.

This activity is responsible for lighting Ultimate Frisbee

the current play in production as well as

Sheep and Garden

fall, spring

other performances.

fall and spring

Ultimate Frisbee is a two-day recreational

We work with the sheep to maintain their

sport in the fall and spring. In spring, there

Farm

pastures, keep them healthy and help socialize

are two days of practice, then games with

all terms

them. We will also harvest plants from our

other teams.

Students are engaged in all aspects of running

dye garden and spin, wash and dye our yarn.

a diversified farm. Activities may include: Mountain Biking

Weights and Fitness

fencing, haying, sugaring, animal husbandry

Trail Maintenance

fall, spring

all terms

(cows, chickens, sheep, pigs, turkeys, etc.),

fall

The group rides on school trails and local

Students participate in a variety of resistance

building and clearing land.

Students work on the extensive trail

dirt roads. There is one long ride each week,

activities. The weight room offers free

and one shorter ride that focusing on tech-

weights, aerobic exercise machines (rowing,

Garden

nique and other specific skills.

running) and strength-training machines.

fall, spring

Woods Crew

Growing food locally and sustainably is an

all terms

system on the school campus.

Renaissance-Style Fencing

Wilderness Skills

important way to address global environmen-

This is a rigorous outdoor activity that

winter

fall, spring

tal issues and ensure high-quality ingredients

acquaints students with Putney’s woodlots,

We start with basic positions and footwork,

Learn the necessary skills and self confidence

for the KDU, Putney’s dining facility.

teaching responsible stewardship of the land

learn how to use the blade in attack and

to operate in the wilderness with minimal

defense and, finally, practice duels.

equipment. We will learn shelter construc-

Kitchen

tion, campfire building, back-country

all terms

cooking and identification of edible plants.

Students work in the kitchen preparing

Rock Climbing fall, spring

and instilling a sense of self-reliance in a

dinner for the entire school and are intro-

This activity meets on Wednesday afternoons

Yoga

duced to such basic kitchen skills as handling

for 4+ hours when we usually go off campus to

all terms

a knife and preparing salad and learn cooking

explore a wide range of rock types demanding

Students learn basic Hatha yoga postures in

techniques such as sautéing, steaming, boiling

a variety of climbing styles. We also make

the Kripalu and Ashtanga traditions. Each

and roasting.

extensive use of the climbing wall in the Field

class begins with a flowing series of strength-

House when the weather keeps us inside.

ening and balancing postures, followed by slow stretching and a long relaxation period. For more on Athletics, contact athletics@putneyschool.org

rural setting.

afternoons

and miles of trails.

in the afternoons at Elm Lea Child Care

evening arts 28

Music, Movement, Theater & Meditative Arts African and Caribbean Drumming

The evening classes meet for 1 ½ hours either once or twice a week for Fall and Winter/Spring terms. Students are required to complete two evenings of activities each term, but with permission from the class deans and the program director, students may take additional Evening Arts classes. Please note: some activities require a fee for materials.

Ballroom Dance

2 credits

This is an opportunity to learn traditional hand-drumming techniques and multi-part rhythm structures from Guinea, Senegal and Mali.

2 credits

We focus on the smooth dances: Foxtrot, Waltz, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, and Tango. Celtic Traditional Music 2 credits

This class is for students interested in bluegrass and Irish fiddle tunes, Appalachian folk songs, contra and square dances. All have their roots in the Celtic music brought over by Scots-Irish immigrants. Dance Ensemble 2 credits

We choreograph new dances, adding to our company repertoire for performances in the winter and spring Dance Concerts, as well as “on tour” at local venues. Dunham Technique Jazz Dance 2 credits

This class introduces the fundamentals of the Dunham Technique—a vibrant fusion of Haitian and African dance, jazz, modern and ballet. Electronic Music Production: Ableton 2 credits

Using Ableton Live software, students explore MIDI composition/editing techniques, live sound processing, sampling, loop-based music production, and a wide array of other musical possibilities. Each student works towards an album of songs.

“One thing I think I got from Putney was the assumption that art always has a place in one’s life. You don’t have to be amazingly talented at a craft to really enjoy it, and that kind of “why not give it a try?” attitude has kept me continually exploring new areas all the time.” —Putney Alum

Hip Hop Dance 2 credits

The class incorporates Breakdancing, PopLocking, Freezes, Power Moves and a touch of Jazz. No previous experience necessary.

2 credits

Students are given the musical tools to become improvising players. Jazz II Combo 2 credits

Students continue their exploration of the jazz idiom and hone their musicianship while advancing their theory and performance skills. Latin Dance 2 credits

Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia and more! No experience necessary, just a willingness to try

and a desire to have fun, fun, fun! Madrigals 2 credits

The current repertoire includes not only madrigals, but also music of many genres, including motets, folksongs and modern a cappella arrangements. Meditation 2 credits

We learn how to pay attention, in the present moment, to whatever arises, in a non-judgmental way. Music Practice This activity provides students with the opportunity to build 90 minutes of dedicated practice time into their schedules each week. Music Production and Recording 2 credits

Using our professional quality equipment, students learn the basics of recording and editing sound. Putney Community Orchestra 2 credits

This ensemble is dedicated to music for string, chamber, and full orchestra (including works with chorus) from various historic time periods. Public Speaking 2 credits

Students in this class learn how to stand before a group of people in a poised and concentrated manner and speak clearly and intelligently. Theater 2 credits

All students, faculty and staff are invited to audition for the winter and/or spring production.

evening arts

Evening Arts extends the artistic and creative possibilities offered to students during the academic day by providing a wide range of arts-based classes in the evening. It is an opportunity for students to try something entirely new, or to delve more deeply into an art form for which they have already developed a passion.

Jazz I Ensemble

Visual, Literacy, Fiber Arts and Crafts Animation

Painting

Sculpture: The Figure

2 credits

We explore color theory, painting from

Students work from live models to create a

observation and from imagination and

series of pieces in oil-based clay or wax.

materials and mediums. Sewing, Quilting and Fiber Arts

2 credits

Participants plan storylines, design charac-

Photography: B&W

2 credits

ters, create storyboards and use iStopMotion

2 credits

Students can choose to focus on quilting

to animate and edit their own short clayma-

The emphasis in this class is on making

techniques or learn to sew clothing from

tion clips and films.

images with traditional black & white film,

commercial and original patterns.

paper and 35mm cameras. Stained Glass

Blacksmithing

Photography: Digital

2 credits

The traditional hammer-and-anvil method of

2 credits

Students learn to cut glass, break and grind

shaping hot metal is taught, using tools and

Students learn techniques to capture

it, wrap with foil and solder together to

techniques whose origins go back a thousand

action, landscapes, and portraits, along with

complete a beautiful work of art.

years or more.

basic aesthetic principles to improve their photographic compositions.

Book Arts

Weaving 2 credits

2 credits

Printmaking

Students learn the fundamentals of weaving

We explore books, images and text by making

2 credits

by designing and completing individual

everything from traditional handmade books

Students explore hard ground and soft

projects on 4-harness and 8-harness floor

to designing web-based media.

ground etching, aquatint, spit bite, sugar lift

looms.

Ceramics 2 credits

Students are encouraged to explore a variety of methods for expression with clay. Comics & Graphic Novels

Encaustics 2 credits

2 credits

exploring collage. We work with ephemera

2 credits

Instruction and suggestions are offered on

such as old maps and letters, photographs,

If you have the urge to express your creative

design, construction techniques and the uses

drawings, paint and, of course, wax.

self by cutting, bending, denting, grinding,

of both hand tools and power tools.

Encaustic (wax) is the perfect medium for

welding and polishing metal, then you may Digital FilmMaking

This is a studio class exploring techniques

2 credits

of drawing and storytelling in the comic/

This hands-on course explores the use of

Creative Writing 2 credits

digital filmmaking as a means of self-ex-

journalists to document the school year in

pression and as an art form through both

Students learn about working with clay as well

photos and words.

narrative and documentary styles.

as basic mold making and casting techniques.

2 credits

Students observe and express the structure, gesture, anatomy and form of the live model in a variety of drawing and printmaking media.

We begin each class by learning a basic cooking or baking skill that can be used as

Jewelry

foundations to explore a wide range of food

2 credits

styles and cooking techniques.

Students acquire skills in basic hammering,

2 credits

Work with a team of dedicated student

Figure Drawing

Diplomas

Yearbook

2 credits

through an informal writersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; workshop.

2 credits

have a future as a metal sculptor! Sculpture: Sculpting the Human Head

In this class, we explore self-expression

Culinary Arts

Woodworking Sculpture: Metal

2 credits

graphic novel format.

and white ground.

sawing and forging as well as setting stones in bezels, and finishing techniques.

Students create an array of images for

Knitting

graduating senior diplomas.

2 credits

Students increase their competency while they enjoy a congenial evening. All levels welcome, with emphasis on beginner and intermediate levels.

evening arts

2 credits

jobs Students learn how to do fundamental human activities that form the foundation of life. Jobs are led by students who are organized by a student-run Work Committee. Jobs are done six days each week for 30–40 minutes each day. Students rotate jobs each trimester and must satisfy the following six work distribution requirements: • Lunch Service

leadership positions

• Dish Crew

• General Substitute

• Barn

• Land Stewardship

leadership positions

jobs

• Dinner Waiter

To better understand how jobs fit into a student’s daily schedule, see specific examples in Students

“Putney remains my benchmark when I talk about a ‘socially sustainable’ community and a healthy community in general. When I think about how I’d like human societies in the future to function, Putney seems a pretty good model. Democratic, local, considerate of all opinions and views and everybody being equal in status.” —Putney Alum

Student Heads of School

Student Head of Dorms

The Student Heads of School set the

The Student Head of Dorms work closely with

tone for the school community; upholding

the student/adult dorm heads and the dean of

the “Fundamental Principles” and the core

students to help implement and maintain the

expectations described in the Student

systems that ensure a safe, fun and education-

Handbook (integrity, respect, participation

al residential life program.

and stewardship). Student Heads of Weekend Activities

“I was one of the only people in my college with any manual labor experience at all—let alone farm and garden labor. It affected everything. I majored in US History with a concentration in labor movements!” —Putney Alum

Standards Committee

The Student Heads of Weekend Activities

The Standards Committee reviews

create fun and exciting activities for students

disciplinary cases with the dean of students.

to participate in during the weekends.

Student Trustees

Educational Programs Committee

The Student Trustees represent the thoughts

The Educational Programs Committee (EPC)

and concerns of the student body to the Head

oversees of all the educational programs of

of School and the Board of Trustees.

the school.

Work Committee The Work Program provides a setting in which young adults can further their understanding of the relationships between work, home and community life. Admissions Committee Admission Committee members help to shape the future of the school by reviewing student applications for the upcoming school year and making admission decisions. Diversity Committee The Diversity Committee works to educate 34

the school community about the political, social and social justice issues which arise in

leadership positions

a pluralistic society, and to support students for whom life in Vermont may be radically outside their previous experience. International Ambassadors International Ambassadors serve as mentors for and give support to all new international students via email or Skype during the summer, and then throughout the year. Sustainability Squad Leaders Student Sustainability Coordinators act as chief proponents of sustainability and environmental affairs on and around the Putney School campus. Day Student Representatives The Day Student Representatives work closely with the Dean of Student’s office to ensure the

Cabin Dwellers The cabin program is a unique element of the Putney program and demands a high degree of leadership, responsibility and trust. Putney Outdoor Program The Putney Outdoor Program encompasses afternoon activities, weekend trips and our long-standing tradition of campus-wide trips called Long Fall. For more on student leadership, see Here: page 16

needs of the day student population are being met. They are also mentors and a vital resource to the day students and their families. Girl and Boy Student Dorm Heads Student Dorm Heads plan and work closely with Faculty Dorm Heads, help set the tone of the dorm, create fun events to bring the

Design

Stoltze Design, Boston

Writing

Susan Salter Reynolds Michael Bodel

Photography Jeff Woodward Don Cuerdon Lynne Weinstein

dorm together, mediate disputes within the dorm and help orchestrate and participate in dorm jobs.

Printed right here in Vermont by Villanti Printers, Inc. Environmentally certified to the Forest Stewardship CouncilTM Standard and Green-E® Energy Standard.

our faculty To learn more about our faculty and to contact them directly, visit our staff and faculty directory at www.putneyschool.org/sf

Printed on FSC® Certified New Leaf Ingenuity paper, which is manufactured using 100% post-consumer, recycled fiber and Green-E® Certified Energy. Curriculum is printed on FSC® Certified Mohawk Via Natural Fiber paper, which is manufactured using 30% post-consumer, recycled fiber and Green-E® Certified Energy. Printed using Toyo 0% VOC, Soy Based Inks.