English

English 9: Power and Perspectives

Throughout both the Power and Perspectives trimesters, students read, write, act, create, listen, watch, wonder, debate, and present; they work independently and collaboratively, use their questions as starting points for their work, and employ technology to deepen their learning. Ultimately, they find ways to connect the characters and themes to their own lived experiences and to the world today. Readings can include fiction, non-fiction, memoir, poetry, and drama, and we read some as a full class and others in small groups; students reflect on and question the texts in writing assignments that stretch their skills and imagination, from scripts for Podcasts to analysis of themes to creating a missing chapter. Most days start with independent reading or writing, and grammar and vocabulary are integrated into the week.  

Power
In this trimester course, we question the nature of power and reflect on the ways we ourselves use our power and respond to power. In our readings, we look at the intersection of power and our characters’ gender, age, race, political beliefs, socio-economic reality, or experience; we wonder about the relationship between power and fate; and we ask why some characters let power compromise their beliefs while others use their power for good.

Perspectives
This course is designed to introduce students to the complex nature of perspective in literature. Through the close examination of various texts, students will engage in close reading and critical analysis. They will explore the ways in which different characters and narrators shape and influence the narrative and influence reader engagement. Students will also learn to examine the relationship between form and content, exploring how different writing techniques can influence our understanding of characters and events. In addition to close analysis of texts, students will also engage in discussions, writing assignments and projects that encourage them to reflect on their own perspectives and experiences. Through these activities, students will develop an understanding of the ways in which perspective is shaped by cultural, historical, and personal factors. They will also learn to appreciate the value of diverse perspectives in shaping our understanding of the world. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of the role of perspective in shaping meaning in literature, and will be equipped with the skills necessary to analyze and engage with texts in a critical and thoughtful manner.

Mathematics

Foundations for Algebraic Reasoning

This course, designed for students who have not completed Integrated Math 1, Algebra 1, or an equivalent, will build a strong foundation in algebraic reasoning. Students will grapple with real-world applications, work extensively with linear equations and systems, and gain additional exposure to exponential and quadratic relationships.

Not offered at the Honors level.

Integrated Math 2: Algebra, Geometry, and Data Science

Integrated Math 2 students expand their algebraic reasoning and understanding of mathematical models including quadratic equations and exponential functions. Students also explore probability and build upon their knowledge of transformations, congruence, and similarity while developing logic skills through conjecture, argument, and proof. Investigations in this course build connections between all topics covered. 

Prerequisites: Integrated Math 1, Algebra 1, or Foundations for Algebraic Reasoning. Offered at the Honors and Standard levels. Honors level requires departmental recommendation.

History

Global History I: U.S. History

Nation and Nationalism 
If you could build your own nation, what would it be like? In this class, you will have the opportunity to understand how nations are built, how they expand, and how national identity is shaped and cemented through culture, politics, conflict, and division. You will also evaluate the goals of the U.S. as a new nation, its decisions to embrace democracy,  and examine how citizens have shaped its course toward these goals since its founding amidst ever-evolving global challenges and opportunities.

The Age of Reforms
From Sectionalism, including Reconstruction, through the suffrage movement, this course examines the root causes of the political, social, economic, and cultural reform movements that have existed in the United States. How successful were those reformers, and how did some of their objectives become part of mainstream political discourse? Can a true democracy adequately respond to the will of the majority while protecting the rights and interests of all citizens? Using multiple perspectives and sources, you will learn about the people and movements that helped shape the United States and then assess the effectiveness of those movements.  

Science

Conceptual Physics

Conceptual Physics A
A student’s first upper school science course at Beaver, Conceptual Physics is a two-term course that introduces many of the major skills and themes of science through collaborative investigations and design challenges. The first term uses a hands-on approach to develop an understanding of basic kinematics and dynamics while emphasizing problem-solving, collaboration, experimentation, data analysis, communication of ideas, and more.
Prerequisites: None.  Open to 9th graders only.

Conceptual Physics B
In the second term of physics, students will continue exploring physics through the lens of energy and electricity. An emphasis is placed on the application of ideas to real-world situations as students explore physics principles through experimentation, design challenges and projects, and conceptual and quantitative models. Students will explore physics topics (both conceptually and mathematically) and apply these concepts to projects throughout the term.
Prerequisites: None. Open to 9th graders only. Honors level offered only with departmental permission.

Modern Languages
Students are not placed in a specific level based on year, but rather by proficiency, meaning students from several different grades may be in the same class. Click here to see all our Modern Language offerings.

Arts
Students are not placed in a specific level based on year, but rather by interest, meaning students from several different grades may be in the same class. Students can choose to take classes in either or both of the Performing Arts and Visual Arts departments.
Click here to see the Performing Arts offerings.
Click here to see the Visual Arts offerings.