Notre Dame Prep's 2018-19 curriculum includes a number of new classes designed to more fully diversify its high school course of study.
Among the new courses at Notre Dame Prep for the 2018-19 school year are AP Computer Science Principles and Michigan History: Focus on Detroit.
This year was no different for the number-1-rated Catholic high school in Michigan.
NDPMA's upper school has added six new classes to its roster this year, including new courses in social studies and computer science as well as an exciting new class that will take advantage of Notre Dame's new greenhouse in the stunning science, art and technology wing opening this fall. A class in yoga also enters the mix, which school administrators hope will help students learn more about flexibility and relaxation techniques to help them improve physical and mental fitness.
Take a look below at NDP's new classes for the 2018-19 school year. And ultimately, if you are looking for a great high school, take a look at Notre Dame, where you will find that it's not only cool to be smart, it's also fun and exciting!
Michigan History: Focus on Detroit
(available spring semester)
Grades 11 and 12
This Michigan history course, part of the Social Studies department, will focus on the historical, economic, social and political evolution of Michigan with a focus on the City of Detroit. Topics covered in this course will include: Pre-historic to early French settlement, early Industry and trade to the evolution of transportation, Detroit’s auto history, Michigan’s military history, Detroit’s architectural history, Detroit’s hospitality and leisure, Detroit’s art; mass media; crime; Detroit’s suburbs; Detroit’s ethnic and religious groups; the Civil Rights movement; labor unions, Detroit’s sports history, and Detroit’s institutions: hospitals, universities, etc.; parks; businesses; notable Detroiters.
AP Computer Science Principles
Grades 10, 11 and 12
This is a one-year course in NDP's Computer Science department and is recommended to all students interested in using computers to enhance their future careers. This course is designed to help students understand how computing and technology influence the world around them. Students will learn how to creatively address real-world issues, while using the same tools and processes that artists, writers, computer scientists and engineers use to bring ideas to life. The main topics covered will focus on the fundamentals of computing, including problem-solving, working with data, understanding the Internet, cybersecurity and programming.
Team Sports
Grades 10, 11 and 12
A section in the school's Health and Physical Education department, this class is primarily an activity-based class. Students will learn about and participate in a variety of team and individual sports throughout the semester.
Mind and Body Wellness (Yoga)
(available spring semester)
Grades 10, 11 and 12
Also part of the Health and Physical Education department, this class is another physical activity-based class with an emphasis on flexibility and relaxation techniques to help students improve their physical and mental fitness. Activities include but are not limited to basic yoga movements, pilates, zumba and mindfulness breathing techniques.
IB Physics SL 1 and 2
Grades 11 and 12
IB Physics (Science department) is a college-level, lab-based International Baccalaureate course that seeks to explain the universe itself, from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. The internal assessment for this course is based on one independent research lab report (approximately 10-12 pages/10 hours of class time provided). Students will also be required to take part in a Group 4 science project. Topics covered include measurements and uncertainties, mechanics, thermal physics, waves, electricity and magnetism, circular motion and gravitation, atomic, nuclear and particle physics, and energy production.
Botany 1
Grades 10, 11 and 12; one semester
This one-semester introduction to plants is new to NDP's Science department and stresses the growth, repair and reproduction of plants and will involve investigations/projects conducted in the school's new greenhouse. Scientific method will be stressed as well as measurement making.
More information on Notre Dame Prep's curriculum is here.
Comments or questions? mkelly@ndpma.org.
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About Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy
Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy is a private, Catholic, independent, coeducational day school located in Oakland County. The school's upper division enrolls students in grades nine through twelve and has been named one of the nation's best 50 Catholic high schools (Acton Institute) four times since 2005. Notre Dame's middle and lower divisions enroll students in jr. kindergarten through grade eight. All three divisions are International Baccalaureate "World Schools." NDPMA is conducted by the Marist Fathers and Brothers and is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement. For more on Notre Dame Preparatory School and Marist Academy, visit the school's home page at www.ndpma.org