Academic Courses

English credit – Grade Level: 9 – year-long, 1 credit

This course builds upon students’ prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and mechanics of writing, and includes the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Using a multiple-intelligence approach, students will read across a wide variety of genres of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, and graphic novels; comparative studies of literature and film may also be included. Students will read a variety of selections representing diverse cultures, genders, and voices. Students will complete a variety of writing exercises in a number of genres; these exercises will often be linked to reading selections. Honors students are expected to complete more challenging work around the assignments as well as take on leadership roles in project-based learning activities.

English credit – Grade Level: 10 – year-long, 1 credit

This course offers a balanced focus on composition and literature, including the investigation of film as literature. Students will experiment with writing various forms of fiction, memoirs, poetry, scripts, and analytical essays. The study of literature encompasses various genres as students improve their reading comprehension and develop the skills to determine authors’ intent and to recognize the techniques employed by the author to achieve a goal. A multiple-intelligence approach is used in the instruction of the material. Students opting for Honors credit will be required to complete more challenging versions of class assignments and assessments, complete occasional additional readings; and will present or share their final assignments.

English Credit – Grade Level: 11 – year-long, 1 credit

This course builds upon students’ prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and mechanics of writing, and includes the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Using a multiple-intelligence approach, students will read across a wide variety of genres of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, and graphic novels; comparative studies of literature and film may also be included. Students will read a variety of selections representing diverse cultures, genders, and voices. Students will complete a variety of writing exercises in a number of genres; these exercises will often be linked to reading selections. Students will also begin expanding their critical thinking skills through studying various schools of literary critique and analyzing various types of texts. 

Honors students are expected to complete more challenging work around the assignments as well as take on leadership roles in project-based learning activities.

English Credit – Grade Level: 12 – year-long, 1 credit

This class begins with a unit that focuses on writing a solid, yet creative essay for college application use.  This unit places heavy focus on revision, peer editing, and the use of punctuation as well as other elements of good writing. Following this, students will write an investigative essay that explores a topic and question of their choosing, relying on surveys, interviews, and research to provide data for their investigation. Throughout the first quarter, students will also form and conduct book clubs that revolve around a book of their choosing. In the second quarter, students will explore the literary period of British Romanticism with a focus on the novel, Frankenstein. Students will then write a literary analysis essay that examines a theme of the novel and how that theme is developed throughout. The third quarter involves film studies and performing formal analyses of two films. Additionally, students will choose an independent book to read and write a brief book review. To close out the year, students will choose and develop a senior project to work on, which may include writing another investigative essay, adapting a book they’ve read this year into a short film, or writing another literary analysis essay (among other possibilities).  

Honors English IV will move beyond the curriculum of the regular English IV class. Students in Honors English IV will be expected to demonstrate more rigor in their scholarship by reading additional novels, performing additional formal analyses of more complex films, and writing supplemental essays.

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 – year-long, 1 credit

In this year-long, cross-genre seminar and workshop, students will study poetry, fiction, dramatic writing, and creative nonfiction. Students will read, analyze, and discuss texts across genres to identify craft, technique, and form; engage in the feedback cycle by critiquing peers, and use written, verbal, and independent workshops to radically revise drafts for a public audience. Students will practice world-building and story structure; develop scenes that include setting, dialogue, action, characterization, mood, tone, and subtext; and radically revise for theme. 

Note: The Creative Writing Minor is no longer offered starting with the 2024-2025 school year.

Foreign Language credit – Grade Level: 9-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

This required course introduces students to listening, speaking, reading, and writing and to the basic structures of Spanish taught within the cultural context.  Emphasis will be placed on oral and written communication skills.   Students are made aware of the importance of Spanish in their world.  The scope and sequence of the two-semester course follows that adopted in the principal text program for the course, AVANCEMOS I.  This includes the use of audio and video as well as online resources intended to provide additional practice and facilitate the integration of the material learned.  A variety of the instructional strategies included reflect the unique needs of second language acquisition, as well as the learning styles particular to each student.

Foreign Language credit – Grade Level: 9-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

This required course continues to develop communication skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  This course builds upon the foundations laid in Spanish I with regard to grammar, vocabulary, and culture.  The principal course text and accompanying audio/visual resources used to facilitate this is the AVANCEMOS II program. Additional print resources such as magazines, newspaper articles, and appropriate examples of Latino pop culture music/videos supplement the program.  Instructional strategies and assignments include interactive group activities, presentations, and an introduction to composition.

Foreign Language credit – Grade Level: 10-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit 

Prerequisite: Spanish II with a B or better

This is an elective course of two semesters.  It further refines, reinforces, and develops the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills and cultural awareness previously acquired in the first two levels through the study of more advanced grammar topics and significant vocabulary expansion.  There is more reliance upon original source materials for reading and listening, such as lectures, articles, essays, short stories, films, and interviews.  This course text program, AVANCEMOS III continues to provide a cohesive scope and sequence and a variety of ancillary resources, including audio, visual and cultural backup as well as aligning the curriculum with the NM standards and benchmarks. 

Foreign Language credit – Grade Level: 9-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

Course introduces students to the basic skills – listening, speaking, reading, and writing and to the basic structures of French taught within the cultural context.  Emphasis will be placed on oral communication skills.  A career awareness component is included which emphasizes the importance of French in the world.

Foreign Language credit – Grade Level: 9-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

Course continues to develop communicative skills.  There is greater use of French in the classroom.  Emphasis is on sustained communication, both oral and written.  An appreciation of the culture of French-speaking countries is enhanced.

Foreign Language credit – Grade Level: 10-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit 

Prerequisite: French II with a B or better

This is an elective course of two semesters.  It further refines, reinforces and develops the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills and cultural awareness previously acquired in the first two levels through the study of more advanced grammar topics and significant vocabulary expansion.  Emphasis is placed on speaking.  

Science credit – Grade Level: typically 9 – year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit

Conceptual Physics is the 9th-grade science course at NMSA. The students get an introduction to high school physics, taking a conceptual rather than mathematical approach to the material. Students make sense of phenomena which lead to iterative cycles of investigating phenomena, refining questions, improving explanations and models with new evidence, and further questioning.  The course covers New Mexico State Science Standards in physics, earth, and space science. Honors:  Students will be required to submit extra projects and answer essay questions on tests.  Honors students will have approximately 25% more work than regular students.

Science credit – Grade Level: typically 10 – year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit

Biology is a full-year, lab-based, 10th-grade science class designed to introduce the concepts of cell theory, genetics, evolution, classification, and ecology. Honors: students will be required to submit 2 extra projects, answer essay questions on tests, and show a deeper understanding of concepts. Honors students will have approximately 25% more work than regular students.

Science credit – Grade Level: typically 11 – year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit

Course involves the composition, properties, and reactions of substances. The behaviors of solids, liquids, and gasses; acid/base and oxidation/reduction reactions; and atomic structure are typical concepts explored in Chemistry-First-Year courses. Chemical formulas and equations and nuclear reactions are also studied. Honors:  students will be required to submit extra projects, and answer essay questions on tests.  Honors students will have approximately 25% more work than regular students.

Science/Elective credit – Grade Level: 11, 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit

Prerequisite: Algebra II 

Course involves the study of the forces and laws of nature affecting matter: equilibrium, motion, momentum, and the relationships between matter and energy. The study of physics includes examination of sound, light, magnetic, and electric phenomena. 

Science/Elective credit – Grade Level: 11, 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit
Prerequisite: Biology

This course provides students with an understanding of the structure and functions of the human body. It is intended to prepare those who are interested in further specialized work in the medical or biological sciences. Laboratory work including dissection and other hands-on activities will be used in teaching and reinforcing conceptual information. Honors: this is for students who are considering a career in a healthcare-related field. Students will be required to take all tests closed-notes which will involve a lot of memorization as is required in a healthcare-related field. Honors students will have approximately 25% more work outside of class than regular students. This translates to approximately one to two hours of homework per week depending on the student’s ability to memorize material.

Science/Elective credit – Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit
Prerequisite: Biology

Environmental Science is a rigorous course that examines the natural sciences through a multidiscipline approach integrating biology, chemistry, physics, geology, climatology, oceanography, human population dynamics along with political and economic approaches. The laboratory component consists of a hands-on approach to learning through various lab activities, exercises, field observations, and analysis. Honors: Students will be required to go more in-depth in their understanding of the class topics and will demonstrate this knowledge by submitting extra projects and answering essay questions on tests. Honors students will have approximately 25% more work than regular students.

Science/Elective credit — Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 — year-long, 1.0 credit – Lab science credit
Prerequisite: Algebra I

Astronomy examines the wider universe, including cosmology, galaxies, stars, solar systems and planets, space technology, and exobiology. Laboratory work includes telescope observations, computer simulations, and hands-on light investigations. (Note that this class does NOT involve astrology.) Honors: students will be required to go more in-depth in their understanding of the class topics and will demonstrate this knowledge by submitting extra projects and answering essay questions on tests. Honors students will have approximately 25% more work than regular students.

Math credit – Grade Level: 9 – year-long, 1.0 credit

The course will introduce the students to high school-level classroom skills and the broad range of mathematical tools used to succeed in high school mathematics. As a foundation for all higher-level mathematics, this algebra course will include continued guidance for success and higher levels of understanding and application. Topics will include both algebra with some supplemental geometry skills. Topics include introduction to variables and equations, working with real numbers, fractions, inequalities, solving equations, graphing, application of tables, and word problems. Linear equations, systems of linear equations, exponential and quadratic functions will be covered. A brief introduction to statistics will also be included. 

This course will focus on the fundamental principles of Geometry and the application of Algebra to Geometry. Topics include learning fundamental vocabulary, postulates and theorems for basic figures (points, lines, planes, angles); postulates and theorems for angles and perpendicular lines, properties of parallel lines, triangle congruence, parallelograms and special quadrilaterals; using deductive reasoning and writing proofs; ratio, proportion and similarity; Pythagorean theorem and special right triangles; trigonometry; area of plane figures; transformations; surface area and volume; and concepts/segments related to circles. Honors: In addition to the standard requirements of Geometry, the honors section will work on extending knowledge of the material by researching the history and context of the concepts as well as by writing own proofs and explanations. Beyond this, additional concepts or extensions might be covered depending on the interest of the students.

Algebra II starts with a continuation of concepts studied in Algebra I. Topics include quadratic equations and functions, complex numbers, products and factors of polynomials, rational expressions and functions, radical functions, rational exponents, exponential and logarithmic functions, and statistics/probability. Honors: includes the additional topics of sequences and series, periodic functions, and trigonometry. 

Math credit – Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Geometry, Algebra II

This course includes an in-depth review of quadratic and exponential functions. All reviews from previous courses include connections to applications in calculus. Logarithms, Trigonometry, and complex numbers are covered. Trigonometry will begin with a review of the unit circle and include right triangle trig, and trigonometric identities and equations. Enhancement topics: Conic sections, Inverses, probability, statistics, limits, derivatives. Students successful with this course will be ready for Calculus as a next step math class. Honors: students will be required to go more in depth in their understanding of the class topics and will demonstrate this knowledge by solving questions that require higher degrees of mathematical complexity. Honors students will be expected to do approximately 25% more work than regular students.

Math credit – Grade Level: 11, 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus with a B or above and teacher recommendation.

This course includes the study of derivatives, anti-derivatives, differentiation, integration, the definite and indefinite integral, and applications of calculus.  Review topics: elementary functions; properties of functions and their graphs; limits and continuity; differential calculus (including definition of the derivative, derivative formulas, theorems about derivatives, geometric applications, optimization problems, and rate of change problems); and integral calculus (including anti-derivatives, the Definite integral, Riemann sums, and related applications of motion). 

Math credit – Grade Level: 12 grade or teacher recommendation – year-long, 1.0 credit

Course provides an understanding of the concepts and principles involved in managing one’s personal finances.  The class connects math to the real world and applies mathematical ideas to our everyday lives. Content includes: the Stock Market, Banking Services, Consumer Credit, Automobile Ownership, Employment Basics, Income Taxes, Independent Living, Retirement, and Personal Budgeting. Emphasis will be on problem solving for real life. This course serves as an alternative to taking Pre-Calculus or Calculus for the 4th year Math credit. Honors: The Personal Finance Project is an engaging, realistic approach to teaching high school students how to properly create a budget. Each of the 10 assignments asks students to examine a different element of budgeting while thinking through their values and plans for the future. As they enter the adult world, they need to be prepared to face financial realities and pay their bills responsibly. This project will help get them ready for that reality.

Elective credit – Grades 10-12 – year-long, 1 credit

This course provides the knowledge and skills to construct computer programs in one or more languages. Computer coding and program structure are often introduced with the Java language, but other computer languages may be used instead. Students learn to structure, create, document, and debug computer programs. Students may also learn design skills for relevant applications such as modeling, data management, graphics, and text processing.

Social Studies credit – Grade Level: typically 9 – semester-long, 0.5 credit

This survey course examines the historical, cultural, economic, and political history of New Mexico and their geographical connections. Particular attention will be paid to the enduring legacy of colonization. Students will analyze the role that New Mexico plays in national and international arenas. Only one semester is required.

Social Studies credit – Grade Level: typically 10 – year-long, 1.0 credit

The course covers major eras and important turning points in World History from the Renaissance to the

present. Topics include Geography and the impact geography has had on world events, the Renaissance and Reformation, Enlightenment and

Revolutions, Imperialism, World War I and the Russian Revolution, the rise of Totalitarianism and World

War II, the world in the Cold War and beyond.  Students will build historical knowledge and practice the important skills of interpreting primary and secondary sources through written assignments, discussions, and presentations. Students will create portfolios to showcase work throughout the year in World History and Geography. New Mexico State Standards in World History are covered as are Common Core State Standards in reading and writing for Social Studies. 

Honors: students will devise and propose an independent research project that covers the same period of history we are discussing that semester; in conversation with the teacher, they will then do research and submit a paper or presentation. 

Social Studies credit – Grade Level: typically 11 – year-long, 1.0 credit 

Course examines the history and impact of major eras, events, and individuals in United States history since the Civil War and Reconstruction. Included within this course is U.S. Geography to support geographical concepts as they relate to the understanding of the development of the United States. Honors: Honors courses typically require 20% additional coursework above other course assignments, which are also required.  Students will be required to complete extra reading assignments and contribute to online discussions.

Social Studies credit – Grade Level: Typically 12 – semester-long, 0.5 credit 

The course provides an understanding of the ideals, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship, and a history of the founding documents of the United States including the New Mexico and United States Constitutions, and how governments function at the local, state, tribal, and national levels.  

Honors: Extra reading assignments in Honors Government can include: Montesquieu, Rousseau, Hobbs, Locke, and the founding fathers (Federalist Papers).  In addition, we will read and discuss Washington’s Farewell Address, FDR’s first inaugural, JFK’s inaugural, George H. Bush’s Points of Light speech, George W. Bush’s speech to Congress on 9/12/01, and Barack Obama’s first inaugural address.  Students will be responsible for teaching and leading discussions in class that include the extra readings as assigned by the teacher.

Social Studies credit – Grade Level: 11, 12 – semester-long, 0.5 credit 

The course provides for an understanding of basic economic principles and use of economic reasoning skills to analyze the impact of economic systems (including the market economy) on individuals, families, businesses, communities, and governments. In Honors, students will extend their learning by analyzing and discussing several readings on how economics can be used to address societal issues, such as global warming, natural disasters, minimum wage, and technology use.

Elective credit – Grade Level: 10-12 – year-long, 1.0 credit 

Ethnic and Gender Studies is an interdisciplinary course that fosters growing understanding of ourselves and of people around us. This course is an introduction to the concept of intersectionality and (in)visible identity markers including race, ethnicity, gender, class, orientation, ability, belief systems, and others. The Ethnic and Gender Studies class is composed of historical, sociological, and artistic content that explores how colonialism, race, racism, homophobia, transphobia, and sexism have been and continue to be powerful social, cultural, and political forces in American society and beyond. Coursework focuses on themes of social justice, social responsibility, and social change. Students engage in challenging group discussions, write analytical and reflective essays, and create multidisciplinary projects. At the end of semester II, students will create a culminating portfolio for an activist project. This class empowers students to become ethical, effective, and empathetic social justice artist-activist-scholars and leaders.

Physical Education credit – Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12 – year long, 1.0 credit 

This course is designed for individual success in building the physical self and encourages improvement in movement, strength, fitness, flexibility, stamina, and stress relief.  The coursework builds basic skills, teamwork, safety, wellness, and awareness.  Requirements include daily dress out, participation, and safety.  Instructional methods include: kinesthetic activities, rules for play, individual/group activities and research projects.

Elective credit – Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12 – year-long, 0.5 credit

The focus of this course is on the development and application of academic study skills, personal success strategies, and the use of effective resources that enhance individual student achievement. Students will establish study goals and priorities; Practice the principles of effective time management and organization; Develop appropriate learning strategies for different types of courses and teaching styles; and apply these strategies to courses they are currently enrolled in.

Elective credit – Grade Level: 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

Senior Seminar is a support class for students to apply for college or investigate their next steps after graduation. We offer help to students who are applying on Common App, writing their personal statements, filling out the FAFSA, uploading portfolio and audition pieces, applying for scholarships, comparing financial aid offers, and exploring careers and budgets.

Elective credit – Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12 – year-long, 1.0 credit

Available to students in all 5 of our artistic departments!  Learn about the culture and history of musical theater as you participate in deeply collaborative performance projects.  Build skills such as auditioning, learning music, creating and performing choreography, and acting on stage.  The class will culminate in required performances at the end of both semesters (some outside of school hours are required). The first semester will focus on Musical Theatre history, basic note reading, and vocal skills. At the end of the first semester, we will perform a concert version of our musical. The second semester will focus on the staging and performance of the musical, culminating in 4 public performances!. Whether you are a seasoned performer or just have curiosity to learn, all levels and interests are welcome in this cross-disciplinary course.

Elective credit – Grade Level: 11, 12 – semester-long, 1.0 high school elective credit, 3.0 college credits

An introduction to the film industry. This class teaches film production processes, film crew hierarchy, film production set safety and etiquette and provides hands-on training in industry-standard film production equipment. Students complete the semester by participating as below-the-line crew members on a short film. Offered at NMSA during Academic Block.

Elective credit – Grade Level: 11, 12 – semester-long, 1.0 high school elective credit, 3.0 college credits

Introduction to the fundamentals of film history, criticism, and theory. Through viewing and analysis of a variety of narrative, documentary, and experimental films, students advance their understanding of key issues in filmic representation and aesthetics. A general ed course. Offered at NMSA during Academic Block.

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 – semester-long, 1.0 high school elective credit, 3.0 college credits

An introduction to film and video production. This class focuses on giving students a basic knowledge of filmmaking, screenwriting, camera, lighting, sound, and directing. Students will get hands-on experience with both fiction and non-fiction filmmaking.  Offered at NMSA during Academic Block.

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 – semester-long, 1.0 high school elective credit, 3.0 college credits

An introduction to film and video editing.  This class focuses on providing students with a basic understanding of film and video editing. They will cover picture editing, sound editing, music editing, and distribution. Offered at NMSA during Academic Block.