Carlbrook School | Curriculum

Carlbrook School follows a quarter-based academic calendar, and offers the high school Diploma in accordance with Virginia Department of Education guidelines. The school year consists of five 9-week academic periods to correspond with tri-annual graduations. This allows students with remedial needs to make up for past shortcomings, while students without such needs are afforded the opportunity to take advanced subjects. Carlbrook School offers advanced courses in each of the curricular disciplines, Advanced Placement (AP) courses in 5 subjects, and several dual-enrollment courses (with subjects that vary by term) in cooperation with Southside Virginia Community College.

English 9
This required course is designed to develop students reading and writing skills through the
systematic study of grammar and composition, both in their own writings and those of others.
To increase understanding of the basics of English composition (including plot, character, theme,
etc.), students are introduced to a wide range of literary genres, and are asked to analyze and
differentiate between concepts, facts and opinion in a variety of contexts. Writing assignments
and projects focus on all forms of composition - expository, descriptive, creative, analytical and
persuasive. Prerequisite: None.

English 10
The focus of this second-level course is the examination of America’s values, conflicts and
cultural heritage through the study and appreciation of American literature. Students are
expected to engage in analytical and interpretative thought and are given several writing
assignments throughout the term to assist in the continued development of composition skills.
Authors may include: Hawthorne, Melville, Thoreau, Kesey, Sinclair, Crane, Fitzgerald, Emerson,
Hughes, Twain, Hemmingway, Salinger, Faulkner, Steinbeck, James and Eliot. Prerequisite:
English 9 or equivalent.

English 11
In this course students are exposed to the rich literary heritage of European and non-western
cultures, including novels, plays, and poetry. Writing assignments reflect a stronger emphasis on
critical thinking and expression of ideas, as well as more sophisticated thematic analysis and
interpretive techniques. Authors may include: Dante, Cervantes, Goethe, Shakespeare,
Euripides, Chaucer, Dickens, Ibsen, Joyce, Milton, Orwell, Bronte, Wells, Austen and
Dostoevsky. Prerequisite: English 10 or equivalent.

English 12
Intended to act as a capstone of the English curriculum, this final required course will focus on
advanced techniques of composition, with the intention of assisting students in expressing
themselves and their ideas clearly and effectively. Students will be expected to demonstrate a
thorough understanding of style, rhetoric, syntax and structure, and should be proficient in more
advanced sentence and paragraph constructions. Techniques of argument and persuasion will be
emphasized, as will research techniques and MLA drafting standards. Prerequisite: English 11 or
equivalent.

Advanced Composition
This course is designed to prepare students for college writing. Students will improve their skills
by focusing on fluency, organization, the use of supporting details, and research techniques.
Prewriting strategies, drafting, revising, and editing will also be discussed. During the first term,
students will develop the skills necessary to write effective personal and informative essays,
while the second term will be dedicated to learning the art of argumentative writing with an
emphasis on critical reasoning. Students will also review components of English grammar and
become adept at employing the MLA citation format. Prerequisite: English 10 or equivalent.

*Note regarding Literature courses: Courses offered vary by term. Previous offerings have
included African American Literature, Spanish Literature, French Literature, Indian Literature,
Roman Literature, Greek Tragedies, Media Awareness, Concept of Madness in Literature,
Censorship in Literature, Mythology and Folklore, Survey of Poetry, Literature of Genocide, and Performance Literature. Some literature courses can, with prior approval, be used to fulfill
specific components of the high school English requirement.

Two-Dimensional Art I
This course will introduce students to basic studio drawing techniques, and will explore the
process of artistic interpretation and personal expression through art. Students will be exposed to
a wide variety of drawing tools including pencils, charcoal, oil and chalk pastels, pen and ink,
and mixed media. Subject matter will include portraits, still life, landscape and abstraction.
Prerequisite: None.

Two-Dimensional Art II
This course will introduce students to basic studio painting techniques, with continued emphasis
on the principles of art and design. Students will be exposed to the various materials available to
the artist including the canvas, water-based paints and oils, and methods of application with
different brushes and tools. A primary focus is the creative integration of concept, preparation,
composition and color. Prerequisite: Two-Dimensional Art I.

Two-Dimensional Art III
This course continues explorations in drawing, painting, and printmaking with increased
emphasis on content and craftsmanship. Students have increased autonomy in choice of subject
matter and medium with a primary focus on developing the ability to work with the elements of
light, shading, and space, as well as an understanding of the problems inherent in translating
what one sees in three dimensions to what one creates on the two dimensional surface.
Prerequisite: Two-Dimensional Art II.

Ceramics
This course will introduce students to the fundamental concepts and aesthetics of ceramics, and
will explore the process of artistic interpretation and personal expression through art. Students
will be exposed to the various tools and materials available, and will learn basic techniques in
pinching, coiling, slab-building, sculpting, wheel throwing, and a variety of low-fire glazing
techniques. An emphasis will be placed on the relationships between volume, texture, and three
dimensional forms in space. Prerequisite: None.

Dance
This course is an introduction to beginning movement, using classical ballet as a
foundation. Students will explore jazz, lyrical and character movement, and will be introduced
to theatrical components and preparation. Students will begin with specific movement and
effort-based goals and vocabulary, and eventually progress to performance-based development.
Prerequisite: None.

Drama
This course is designed to teach basic acting skills and techniques, and provide acting experience
to students at a wide range of skill levels. Through a variety of acting exercises in
characterization, improvisation, movement, pantomime, reading and voice production, students
will learn about the numerous means of dramatic communication. The course will also introduce
students to the arts of lighting, scene design, costuming, and technical production. A final project,
comprised of drafting and performing a dramatic monologue or scene, is required of all students.
Prerequisite: None.

Film Analysis and Appreciation
This course is designed to educate students on film history and the filmmaking process while
introducing them to this medium as not only an art form but also as a source of social influence.
Students will examine the artistic qualities of a selected group of films including dialog choice,
movement, camera angle, and the various aspects of filmmaking as well as their impact on the
viewer. Prerequisite: None.

Instrumental Music
This course focuses on the learning and performing of various jazz styles in a small group setting,
while giving contextual history of the composers, their lives, their influences, and the impacts
they had in the world of music. Concepts learned include but are not limited to “swing”
rhythms, jazz theory (chord progressions and their notations), syncopation, and improvisation.
Prerequisite: Prior ability to play musical instrument and basic music reading skills.

Vocal Music
This course focuses on the development of basic vocal tools (e.g. annunciation, breathing
techniques, etc.), with individualized lesson plans based on student skill level. The class will
utilize a wide range of musical styles, (including oldies, swing, show tunes and musicals, and
popular music) and use accompaniment as appropriate. Students will also be allowed the
opportunity to perform in a variety of settings, both on-campus and in the local community.
Prerequisite: None.

AP Art History
Through an interdisciplinary approach, students will explore art from pre-history through the
Renaissance to modern times, drawing from both Western and non-Western cultures. Emphasis
will be placed on the development of visual assessment skills and critical analysis. This
curriculum is based on the national standard established by The College Board, and is designed
to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in Art History. Prerequisite: None. Requires
approval from the Dean of Academics.

*Note regarding Fine Arts courses: Courses offered vary by term.

World History
The development of Western civilization from the ancient world through the middle ages to early
modern times. Through the study of the cultural, political, social, and intellectual heritage of
Western societies, students will be familiarized with the most important facts, trends, concepts,
and interpretations of Western history as well as the rise and development of the ideas and
attitudes which uniquely shaped the character of the West. Particular emphasis will be placed on
impact of feudalism, the growth of monarchical power, the Renaissance and Reformation, the age
of Enlightenment, the age of revolution, and the world wars of the 20th century. Prerequisite:
None.

United States History
This course is a required survey of the history of the United States of America. The first term of
the course will trace American history from the arrival of European settlers on the continent to
the U.S. Civil War, while the second term of the course will focus on history of the United States
from the Reconstruction era to modern times. Major themes of this course include the following:
the development of the United States from a rural agrarian nation to an urban, industrialized
country; the contributions of diverse peoples and cultures to the American experience; and the understanding and analysis of the shared American values of democracy, civil liberties, and
freedom of expression. Prerequisite: None.

United States Government
This course serves as an introduction to both the institutions (Congress, the Presidency, and the
Judiciary) and the processes (elections, media, public opinion, etc.) of American government.
Particular attention will be given to the origins of democratic thought, the development and
evolution of the Bill of Rights, the struggle for civil rights and equality under the law, the
influence of political parties and interest groups, and the expansion of the modern presidency.
Outside readings will include the texts of several landmark court cases, and students are
encouraged to pay close attention to current political events. Prerequisite: U.S. History.

*Note regarding all History and Social Science courses: Courses offered vary by term. Previous
offerings have included African History, British History, Classical Studies, Comparative
Government, Cultures and Traditions of India, Gender Studies, Geography, International Studies,
Middle East Studies, Modern European History, Presidential Power, Sociology, Survey of
Humanities, and Vietnam/Cold War. Some courses can, with prior approval, be used to fulfill
specific components of the high school History/Social Science requirement.

Algebra I
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the mathematical field of
algebra, and provide students with the skills necessary for further study in mathematics or
science. Students will learn how to solve for unknown values and variables, how to manipulate
expressions and equations, solve and graph linear equations and inequalities, polynomial
operations, factoring and exponents. Students will also be exposed to second-degree equations,
their graphs, and the quadratic formula. Probability and statistics are introduced, and students
receive basic instruction in the use of graphing calculators. Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra.

Geometry
This course will introduce topics from geometry, trigonometry, probability and statistics.
Students will be exposed to Euclidean Geometry (including polygons, quadrilaterals, circles,
right triangles, and special right triangles) and trigonometry (including sine, cosine, tangent, use
of calculator and table for calculations, and applications of the three basic trig functions).
Probability and Statistics topics include combinations, permutations, mean, median, mode, range
and midrange. Students will also learn how to program graphing calculators, in preparation for
Algebra II. After completing this course students will be prepared for the Geometry questions on
the SAT. Prerequisite: Algebra I.

Algebra II
This course extends the skills learned in Algebra 1 and Geometry, extending the use of linear
equations, inequalities, and functions to include linear systems with two variables and introduces
systems with three variables. The course also expands the content of quadratic equations and
functions to include quadratic inequalities and systems, as well as the complex number system.
Additional topics to be covered include logarithmic and exponential functions, the binomial
theorem, probability and statistics, and an introduction to trigonometric functions. Students will
use graphing calculators to enhance learning. Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry.

Algebra III/ Trigonometry
This course expands upon the skills learned in Algebra II including linear systems with two and
three variables, quadratic equations and functions, trigonometric functions, exponential and
logarithmic functions, and the binomial theorem. Additional topics introduced will be vectors,
polar coordinates, infinite series, and conic sections. Students will use graphing calculators to aid
in their learning. Prerequisite: Algebra II.

Pre-Calculus
This is a preparatory course for Calculus for those wishing to develop higher-level skills in
mathematics. Topics that will be covered include trigonometric functions, polynomial functions,
functions and their graphs, vectors, complex numbers, polar coordinates, infinite series, and
conic sections. Some specific sub-topics to be covered include transformations of functions,
inverse functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric identities, and solving
trigonometric equations. Students will use graphing calculators along with algebraic
manipulations. Prerequisite: Algebra II.

Calculus
This course is a study of the introductory concepts of single variable calculus and is primarily
designed for students wishing to pursue college study in engineering, economics, life science,
mathematics, and physical science. Following a brief review of algebra and trigonometry,
students are introduced to the limit concept, the derivative, and a study of techniques of
differentiation. The properties of the exponential and logarithmic functions as well as the
application of the derivative to these functions are then studied, followed by an examination of
vectors, parametric equations, and applications of the derivative. Finally, integration is
introduced and is related to the existence of antiderivatives by the Fundamental Theorem of
Calculus. Course requires extensive use of graphing calculators. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus.

AP Calculus
Curriculum is based on the national standard established by The College Board, and is designed
to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in Calculus. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus.
Requires approval from the Dean of Academics.

Graph Theory
Graph Theory is a branch of discrete mathematics that has applications in many areas such as
computers as well as the social and natural sciences. This is an elementary presentation of the
material that does not assume knowledge of, or elaborate on, proof techniques. Basic concepts of
graph theory are used to increase both mathematical and basic, everyday logic. Prerequisite: One
term of Pre-Calculus with a grade of C, or higher.

Earth Science
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the general principles, concepts and
terminology of ecology, geology and meteorology. Topics will include geologic evolution, the
earth's internal structure and magnetic field, rocks and minerals, sedimentary processes,
geological phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanoes, atmospheric structure, weather and
climate, and the physical, chemical and biological aspects of the world’s oceans. Students will
also be exposed to the concept of life and energy from the individual organism to the whole
biosphere, plant photosynthesis, the impact of extinction on ecosystems, and the effects of the human population on earth resources (e.g. global warming, ozone destruction, pollution,
deforestation and energy choices). Prerequisite: None.

Biology
This course introduces students to the basic principles of biology and the study of living
organisms. Through lectures and laboratory work, students are given an understanding of cell
structure and function, ecological principles, and the morphology, physiology and taxonomy of
plants and animals. We explore the molecular interactions that make life possible, the flow of
energy through living things, the unity and diversity of life on Earth, basic genetic principles, and
the processes of evolution that inform all modern biological thought. Prerequisite: None.

Chemistry
This course is an introduction to the fundamental principles of chemistry and their application to
the substances that we use in our daily lives and that affect us and our environment. Topics such
as atomic structure, chemical bonding and reactions, the nature of solids, liquids and gases,
chemical equilibrium, thermodynamics, oxidation and reduction, acids and bases,
electrochemistry and aspects of nuclear chemistry will be discussed. The laboratory will
introduce students to basic experimental methods and techniques. Prerequisite: Algebra I.

Physics
This course is a non-calculus based introduction to classical physics, with relevant applications to
the life sciences. Topics will include Newtonian mechanics, conservation laws, harmonic motion,
wave behavior, optics, light and sound phenomena, electricity, magnetism, Einstein's relativity
theories, and an introduction to atomic and nuclear physics. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Recommended:
Algebra II and Geometry.

AP Physics
This is a rigorous calculus-based course which will extend and deepen those concepts developed
in the first year physics class. Curriculum is based on the national standard established by The
College Board, and is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in Physics.
Prerequisite: Physics and Pre-Calculus; Calculus may be taken concurrently. Requires approval from the Dean of Academics.

*Note regarding Natural & Physical Science courses: Courses offered vary by term. Previous
offerings have included Anatomy and Physiology, Astronomy, The Atmosphere, Environmental
Ethics and Policy, Forensic Science, Human Ecology, and Zoology. Some courses can, with prior
approval, be used to fulfill specific components of the high school Science requirement.

Religious Studies
This course provides an introduction to five of the world's religious traditions: Hinduism,
Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Students will receive a detailed overview of each of
these religions and their historical origins and contexts, and will be asked to compare and
contrast them in order to find common themes and shared values. Writings of twentieth century
adherents of each tradition will also be introduced. In addition to providing an introduction to
the challenges of religious diversity today, the course will investigate some of the critical
problems of interpretation in the academic study of religion. Prerequisite: None.

Survey of Philosophy
This course is a general introduction to philosophy and philosophical reasoning. A topicoriented
approach will be used, as students survey a variety of philosophical issues, such as what
we really know and how we know it, the nature of mind and its relationship to matter, the nature
of religion, the foundations of morality and justice, personal identity, and free will. The
disciplines of ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics will also be introduced. The course will use
both historical and contemporary writings, which may include Plato, Descartes, Aquinas, Hume,
Kierkegaard, Locke, Mill, Kant, Nietzche and Rawls. Prerequisite: None.

Existential Literature
The philosophical movement called existentialism reacts to the rational subject and to the
assumption that reason is the essence of human beings. Existential literature often focuses on the
personal journey towards existential awareness. Common themes in these works, such as
alienation and confrontation, often lead the character towards a climactic choice that defines
whether they have reached true understanding. Through close readings of existential works by
authors such as Dostoyevsky, Kundera, Pamuk, and Kafka, students will examine the literary
aspects of this particular movement. Prerequisite: English 10 or equivalent.

* Note regarding Philosophy courses: Courses offered vary by term. Previous offerings have
included Medieval Philosophy, 18th Century Philosophy, 19th Century Philosophy, 20th Century
Philosophy, Ethics and Faith, and Philosophy and Writing. Instructors may require an initial
survey course as a prerequisite, or limit enrollment to students without previous exposure if
there is substantial overlap in the material presented.

Spanish I
This first course is designed to introduce the basic elements of the Spanish language. Oral and
written skills are developed through the study of Spanish vocabulary, grammar, and idioms.
Pronunciation, comprehension, and writing are emphasized. The goal of the course is to enable
students to speak and write simple Spanish in a range of everyday situations, and prepare
students for more advanced study of the Spanish language. The course also introduces students
to a cultural context for the language, with focus on the Hispanic presence in Central America,
South America and Europe. Prerequisite: None.

Spanish II
This is the second course for students of Spanish. The purpose of this course is to help students
continue developing proficiency in the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and
writing) essential to effective communicative language learning. By the end of this course,
students are expected to understand basic conversations, speak in Spanish on a variety of
everyday topics, describe and express ideas in writing with coherence, engage in selected reading
of Spanish texts, and demonstrate knowledge of the Hispanic world and sensitivity to its culture.
Prerequisite: Spanish I or equivalent.

Spanish III
This is the third course for students of Spanish. The aim of this class is to develop and
consolidate student knowledge and use of the Spanish language within an appropriate cultural
context. Students will continue to develop communication skills and cultural concepts as they
relate to the Spanish language and culture. By the end of this course, students are expected to
possess the ability to understand spoken Spanish (aural comprehension), the ability to give and defend a short presentation in Spanish (oral expression), and the ability to understand average
Spanish texts (reading comprehension). Prerequisite: Spanish II or equivalent.

Spanish IV-V
This is the fourth course for students of Spanish. Based on a multimedia and communicative
approach, students continue development of oral and written skills with systematic acquisition of
vocabulary and selective grammar review, with the objective of fluency. As in previous courses,
discussion, readings and writing will focus on the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries.
Prerequisite: Spanish III or equivalent.

French I
This first course is designed to introduce the basic elements of the French language. Oral and
written skills are developed through the study of French vocabulary, grammar, and idioms.
Pronunciation, comprehension, and writing are emphasized. The goal of the course is to enable
students to speak and write simple French in a range of everyday situations, and prepare
students for more advanced study of the French language. The course also introduces students to
a cultural context for the language, with a primary focus on France and its colonies. Prerequisite:
None.

French II
This is the second course for students of French. This course will help students continue to
develop proficiency in the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) essential
to effective communicative language learning. By the end of this course, students are expected to
understand basic conversations, speak in French on a variety of everyday topics, express ideas in
writing with coherence, engage in selected reading of French texts with understanding, and
demonstrate knowledge of French history and sensitivity to its culture. Prerequisite: French I or
equivalent.

French III
This is the third course for students of French. The aim of this class is to develop and consolidate
student knowledge and use of the French language within an appropriate cultural context.
Students will continue to develop communication skills and cultural concepts as they relate to the
French language and culture. By the end of this course, students are expected to possess the
ability to understand spoken French, the ability to give and defend a short presentation in
French, and the ability to understand average French texts. Prerequisite: French II or equivalent.

AP French
Curriculum is based on the national standard established by The College Board, and is designed
to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in French. Prerequisite: French III or
equivalent. Requires approval from the Dean of Academics.

Latin I
Intended as an introduction to the basic features of the Latin language, this course will introduce
students to Latin grammar, syntax and vocabulary. Particular focus will be given to the
relationship between Latin and the etymology of the English language through the study of
ancient linguistic roots, with the main objective being to increase students’ knowledge of the
origins of language and enhance students’ understanding of multiple and varied forms of
communication. Prerequisite: None.

Latin II
This is the second course for students of Latin. Students will continue to enhance their
knowledge and understanding of Latin grammar, syntax and vocabulary through a variety of
reading, writing, and oral exercises. By the end of this course, students are expected to engage in
selected reading of Latin texts with understanding, and demonstrate knowledge of Roman
history and sensitivity to its culture. Prerequisite: Latin I or equivalent.

Latin III
This is the third course for students of Latin. Through composition, students are expected to
master more complex grammatical concepts. Particular emphasis is on reading classical Latin
texts, with students engaging in selected readings from Caesar, Cicero, Ovid, Virgil and other
writers. Prerequisite: Latin II or equivalent.

AP Latin
Curriculum is based on the national standard established by The College Board, and is designed
to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in Latin Literature: Ovid and Catullus.
Prerequisite: Latin III or equivalent. Requires approval from the Dean of Academics.

Fitness Training /Nutrition
This course is designed to build strength, stamina, flexibility and endurance through individual
and group activities such as cross-country running, aerobics, weight training, calisthenics, soccer,
touch football, basketball, softball and volleyball. Cooperation, sportsmanship and team work
are emphasized. Students will also receive information regarding the role of nutrition in
promoting, maintaining and improving health.

SAT/ACT Preparation
This course provides intensive SAT/ACT preparation incorporating materials (including texts,
workbooks, sample tests and CD-ROMs) from Kaplan Test Prep, the College Board and Princeton
Review. Focus will be on general SAT/ACT content review, standardized testing strategies and
remedying specific math or verbal deficiencies as determined by our analysis of an initial
diagnostic SAT/ACT exam given to all students at the beginning of the process. Students will
also take several full-length SAT practice exams under test conditions so as to be able to track
their progress and identify continued strengths and weaknesses. Prerequisite: high school junior;
must be eligible to take the SAT/ACT on next testing cycle.