Advanced Science – Independent Research (Honors)

An intensive, inquiry-based course in which students pursue advanced, independent scientific research on topics of their own design. Students will engage in the full research process, including literature review, experimental or investigative design, data collection and analysis, and the communication of results through research papers, posters, and/or oral presentations. Throughout the course, students will complete multi-step research assignments and may participate in collaborative or mentored research projects. This course is designed to develop advanced skills in scientific thinking, problem-solving, quantitative and qualitative analysis, and the ethical dissemination of scientific knowledge. It is intended for highly motivated students who are considering pursuing STEM research or related fields at the collegiate level.

Prerequisites: Any Chemistry or Biology Applications course at the Honors level. Departmental permission required. Offered at the Honors level only. The level of research will be equivalent to, if not exceed, what is produced during the course of an SDP. Students will not be able to do a science-specific SDP in the term that they enroll in this course.

Biology Applications – Evolutionary Genetics

Evolutionary biology studies how organisms change over time. This course seeks to understand the evolution of life on various scales, ranging from the molecular level to how populations respond to various environmental conditions over time. Included in this course are discussions of how DNA is used to make proteins, how mutations impact the genetic code, how new species evolve, and how various species are related to one another (i.e., phylogenetics). In addition, students are introduced to the laboratory techniques that have driven our understanding of these topics, including DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, PCR, and bacterial transformation. Emphasis on effective communication of experimental design and findings through primary source research, formal reports, and presentations is an integral part of this course.
Prerequisites: Chemistry Foundations and Biology Foundations.

Democracies, Dictatorships, & Space!

Can democracies handle pandemics better than dictatorships? Who wins the race to Mars? This course will explore democracies and dictatorships both in concept and practice. Throughout the term, students will analyze different systems of government and forms of civil society. Students will critically engage with questions of governance in relation to global challenges. The course culminates with the students debating who controls the final frontier: democracies, autocracies, or corporations?

*Note - this is an updated Governments of the World course

Conscious Citizenship & Responsible Troublemaking

What rights do you actually have? And how do you preserve and demand justice for those rights? Students in this class will look closely at the United States Constitution, landmark Supreme Court Cases, and pivotal protest movements to become informed citizens on civic strategies to preserve and demand our rights. Students will investigate how individuals and groups have demanded justice within - and against - existing systems, as well as analyzing the success and shortcomings of justice movements. Students will also become versed in media literacy and work to analyze how stories are reported and by whom. By the end of this course, students will be empowered with legal knowledge of their constitutional rights and how to demand change on important issues from state and federal governments.

Foundations of Film

For more than a century, movies have brought people together to laugh, cry, and connect. Whether it’s The Batman or Barbie, It or Interstellar, moving images have the power to shape our identities and worldviews. Are you curious what makes that possible? In this course, you will explore what makes a movie great, breaking down everything from modern blockbusters to Hollywood classics to understand how ideas are communicated through image and sound. You’ll explore topics of interest to you—from economics to science to politics—and see how they intersect with film. Through screenings, analysis, discussions, and hands-on experimentation, you’ll gain the practical knowledge and skills necessary to dig deeper into what you see on screen—and you might even find a new favorite movie in the process.

Philosophy: Question Everything – How do we make sense of the world?

Have you ever argued with someone and felt certain you were right, and then realize later that maybe you weren’t? Have you ever wondered whether you truly have free will? Have you ever asked yourself what it means to be human? If you are interested in questions like those, or if you are simply trying to understand how the world works, this course is for you. Through philosophical inquiry, we will question the assumptions that shape our beliefs about meaning, truth, and what it means to be human. We will read classic and contemporary philosophical texts, participate in thought experiments, analyze case studies, and engage in discussion and debate to challenge our deeply held ways of thinking. This course will help make philosophy relevant and meaningful to your life and the world around you. Expect to be surprised, challenged, and sometimes uncomfortable as you rethink what you believe and why, and discover that asking great questions is one of the most powerful ways to make sense of the world. The class counts as English credit. Honors and standard levels

Digital Art

Step into the world where creativity meets technology—where your imagination can run wild and your ideas come to life with the click of a button. Whether you're already comfortable behind the screen or new to digital media, you will learn a variety of digital tools, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and Procreate while also experimenting with the capabilities of AI image generators. These tools will empower you to experiment, innovate, and express your artistic voice in ways that are only possible in the digital realm. Whether your focus is illustration, animation, or experimental techniques, this class offers the flexibility to explore a range of artistic expressions while mastering the digital tools of the future. Prerequisites: Photography, 2D, or by the recommendation from the Visual Arts Department Head.

Advanced Photo and New Media

Level up your photography, video making, and digital art skills and ideas in this dynamic new media course. Students will mesh DSLR cameras with Photoshop, Illustrator,  Capcut, and iMovie. Look to elevate your visuals with large-format printing, digital projectors, and alternative processes that combine objects and the virtual world. Researching contemporary artists will support your self-directed process and help you explore how to exhibit your work. Prerequisites: Photography, 2D, or by recommendation from the Visual Arts Department Head.

Financial Algebra

Ever wondered, "How do I create a budget?" or "What's the secret to mastering debt?" Want to unravel the mysteries of taxes and insurance, and discover the keys to paving your way through college expenses? In this course, you will be using skills you have previously learned in Integrated Math 3 (or Algebra II) to deepen your knowledge on personal finances. Get ready to transform your understanding of money, making it not just about equations but about owning your financial future with confidence! Students can opt to take this class at the Honors level Prerequisites: Integrated Math 2 or Algebra 1

13.1 Project

13.1 Project meets everyday to train for half marathons, incorporating fitness, strength training and yoga. Throughout the course of the term, students will participate in 3 races, culminating with the Hyannis Half Marathon. Offered in the winter term. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Running Team

Spring Running is an all-abilities running team. We train after school from 3:45pm - 5pm, on running trails and in the neighborhoods around Beaver. We also participate in local trail and road races of varying distances throughout the season. Running is fun and even more fun with friends! This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.

Spring Volleyball

All Gender. Practice and train to become a better volleyball player! Practices will include individual and team skill development, positioning and learning the most important aspects of volleyball. If possible, some matches may be scheduled. This activity counts towards the fitness requirement.