Upper Level Academics

List of 12 items.

• 26 AP Courses Offered

  • AP African American Studies
  • AP Art History 
  • AP Biology 
  • AP Calculus AB 
  • AP Calculus BC 
  • AP Chemistry 
  • AP Chinese Language and Culture 
  • AP Computer Science Principles 
  • AP Computer Science A 
  • AP English Language and Composition 
  • AP English Literature and Composition 
  • AP Environmental Science* 
  • AP French Language and Culture 
  • AP Human Geography* 
  • AP Microeconomics 
  • AP Music Theory 
  • AP Physics I 
  • AP Psychology
  • AP Spanish Language and Culture 
  • AP Spanish Literature and Culture 
  • AP Statistics 
  • AP Studio Art: Art and Design* 
  • AP Studio Art: Drawing* 
  • AP U.S. Government and Politics 
  • AP U.S. History 
  • AP World History: Modern 

   

  * Service-learning eligible 

• English

  Offering college preparatory, honors, and Advanced Placement courses, the English Department strives to challenge and advance our students appropriately as 21st-century learners within a common context of study. Infused into the 6–12 curriculum is a writing program that ranges from fundamental sentence structures to sophisticated college-level research assignments. While effective expository writing is the primary focus, the curriculum also offers opportunities for creative writing. The literature program, which includes genre, survey, thematic, and author courses, challenges our students to comprehend, interpret, analyze, and evaluate literary works. Grammar and vocabulary are taught in the service of effective writing and speaking.

• Humanities

  The Bette Ellis O’Conor Humanities Program is an exciting alternative course of study offered to Upper Level students at Notre Dame Preparatory School. It is intended for curious and creative students who want to engage with the curriculum in an interdisciplinary style. Courses are team-taught and encourage creativity and collaboration in the exploration of all fields of study. Art, history, literature, music, and religion provide the core of the program, but connections are pursued across all disciplines. Students who enroll in the program will take courses in the sophomore, junior, and senior years. 

• Languages

  Notre Dame is convinced of the value of second languages as an essential element of the student’s preparation for college and life. The acquisition of second languages not only makes the student a better global citizen but also broadens her global perspective. Included in the language curriculum are courses in French, Spanish, and Chinese, and students may receive a Biliteracy Recognition Certificate for demonstrating intermediate-high proficiency in these languages. All modern language students work in the school's state-of-the-art Language Center which contains 41 internet-connected computers and a listening and speaking area.

• Mathematics

  The Mathematics Department is committed to helping students develop appropriate skills in and understanding of mathematics as the language of science and research. All math classes at NDP solve problems by applying math to real-world situations. Teachers incorporate current technologies such as graphing calculators, computers and specialized software throughout the curriculum as needed to support skill development and understanding of concepts.
  
  All students in grades 9–12 must have a Texas Instrument graphing calculator for use in math and sciences classes. The preferred models are TI-83, TI-83+, TI-84 or TI-84+.

• Performing Arts

  Whether a student is seriously pursuing a career in the performing arts or wants to expand her enjoyment of the discipline, the Upper Level performing arts program at Notre Dame Prep offers a four-year program with a wide variety of opportunities. Designed for the student to continue her pursuit of and to expand and raise her skill level of musicianship, credited courses in Band, Orchestra, Chorus, Piano Lab, Guitar Class, Dance, and AP Music Theory are offered. Students wanting to enhance and fine-tune their musicianship may participate in the extracurricular program for private lessons. All students are encouraged to audition for the Maryland All-State Band, Orchestra, and Chorus. NDP’s Dance Company finds students performing in the community.

• Physical Education and Health

  Notre Dame’s Physical Education program reflects the school philosophy that students must develop not only academically but also physically and creatively. The physical education classes and intramural program allow students to learn self-discipline and control, the value of teamwork and mutual respect, and an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle.

• Religion

  The philosophy of NDP’s Religion Department is rooted in Gospel values, grounded in the tradition of the Catholic Social Teachings, and inspired by the charism of the School Sisters of Notre Dame. The department emphasizes the development of academic insight, personal, and communal spirituality, an informed conscience, a social consciousness, and a commitment to service. The department strives to balance and integrate the traditions of the past, the realities of the present, and the challenges of the future.

• Science

  In an age of exponential growth in scientific information, the Science Department’s dual goal is to provide a solid foundation in science principles and to foster active scientific thinking and problem-solving abilities in our students. The department accomplishes this by modeling the scientific method, implementing cooperative and inquiry learning strategies, integrating technology, and utilizing numerous hands-on lab experiences.  The curriculum provides all students with appropriate challenges and opportunities for success preparing them for further study at the college level.

   

  Additionally, the department wholeheartedly embraces the importance of encouraging and supporting the participation of women in science studies and careers. Through varied course offerings and numerous beyond-the classroom science opportunities, students discover a genuine interest in and a solid ability to master a variety of science disciplines.

   

  The Science Department aspires to instill in students both a deep understanding of and appreciation for their world, awareness of the interdependence of all aspects of creation, and a sense of responsibility for its stewardship.

• Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM)

  NDP’s STEAM program develops students’ creativity, problem-solving and entrepreneurial leadership skills through the integration of cutting-edge technology, innovative instructional approaches, and real-world learning experiences. Students accepted into NDP’s STEAM program have the unique opportunity to elect a course pathway that best meets their career interests. They may choose to follow a general pathway that encourages the exploration of courses in each of the STEAM disciplines, or they may choose to concentrate and focus their studies in Architecture & Design, Computer Science, Engineering & Manufacturing, or Medicine.

   

  NDP’s STEAM program resides in the Jane Kroh Satterfield Innovation Wing, which includes a Cyber Center for Computer Science and a Design Center for Architecture. In addition, a two-story Fabrication Lab is home to the Engineering program and houses state-of-the-art CAD/CAM Design Stations, CNC Router, 3D Printers, Laser cutter, and various shop tools. A new Medical Suite which houses a full-size Anatomage Table, the most technologically advanced anatomy visualization system, with a virtual library and clinical diagnostic tools to study the human body. As they progress through the program and pursue their STEAM Certificate, students cultivate their confidence and 21st-century career skills as they engage in interdisciplinary, experiential learning opportunities; receive mentorship from professionals in STEAM fields; serve local and global communities to address real-world problems; and intern with one of NDP’s many partner organizations.
  
  Learn more about NDP's STEAM Program on our Upper Level Signature Programs page.

• Social Studies

  The Social Studies Department encourages lively classroom discussion and enhances lectures with research projects and independent study. Strongly believing that students are ultimately responsible for their own education, the department utilizes a wide variety of activities to challenge its students. The department also sponsors Model UN Club, in which students simulate United Nations committees and roleplay as delegates, and the Mock Trial Club, in which students compete in mock judicial events.

• Visual and Media Arts

  Notre Dame Prep’s Visual and Media Arts program focuses on 21st-century learning through individual expression, creative problem solving, collaborative learning opportunities, and building skill sets for effective visual communication. By offering a range of media from traditional drawing and painting to digital media art and design, Notre Dame offers students the opportunity to participate in a range of experiences.
  
  

  The Visual and Media Arts Department strives to empower students to strengthen critical thinking skills through art, to use their unique visual expression to communicate ideas, and to become contributing members of the global community.
  
  

  Upper Level students may choose art as an elective course. They may follow a sequential program of study or explore elective choices individually, such as traditional media (drawing and painting), digital media, art history, architecture, interior design, or medical illustration. A materials fee is assessed for art electives.