Dana Hall School - Curriculum

Curriculum

English The English curriculum engenders excellence by teaching students to be sensitive and responsive readers, confident and articulate writers, logical thinkers, and effective speakers. Students learn literary analysis and interpretation through instruction, class discussions, and composition. Opportunities for creative expression emerge from responses to literature as well as from personal experience. Writing is viewed as a tool to construct meaning as well as to communicate understanding. Students write frequently. All students are required to take a one-credit course in English each year.

Language Foreign languages are an integral part of a sound education. Beginning courses emphasize the skills of listening and speaking; subsequent courses help students develop their writing, reading, and critical thinking. A library of films on video and DVD provides a valuable addition to the curriculum. The School’s digital language lab enhances all aspects of courses, especially in listening and speaking. All classes have access to and requirements in the lab. All students must study and earn credit in a foreign language through the third level in order to graduate.

Mathematics Preparation for continued mathematics study at the college level is a primary goal of Dana Hall’s Math Department. Students develop an appreciation of mathematical concepts and of the power of logical argument while learning to analyze problems and accurately apply the principles of mathematics. Students also learn how to organize quantitative material and recognize the value of mathematics in both the natural and social sciences.

Science Development of students’ understanding of the natural world and their role in it, their ability to apply the methodology of science, and their awareness of societal concerns relating to science are fostered in Dana Hall’s science program. Courses are designed to be challenging and to encourage student responsibility, independence, and precision. The sequence of Dana Hall’s courses highlights the interconnectedness of the natural sciences and allows a student to apply the knowledge she has gained in previous years. Traditional classroom and laboratory work provides students with the sound background needed for college. All students are encouraged to pursue three or four years of science, especially those who are considering a highly-selective college or a career in a science-related field.

Social Studies Social Studies courses foster an appreciation of both Western and non-Western worlds. In addition to work in United States history, each student investigates one of the following areas: East Asia, Africa, Russia, the Middle East, or Latin America. Students study social and cultural developments, the history of political institutions, and the interaction of traditional and modern societies. Teachers ask students to read closely, think critically, write persuasively, present powerfully, and collaborate effectively.

Academic Technology/Computer Science The Academic Technology/Computer Science curriculum is a dynamic program that prepares students to work and compete in a global world. Students are challenged to improve their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. They get hands-on experience with a variety of computer applications that allow them to build their skills developing solutions to problems, enhancing their communication and presentation skills, and improving their productivity.

Fitness/Athletics Fitness and athletics offerings are a vital aspect of a total education essential for a healthy mind and body. The Fitness/Athletics program is designed to meet the varying needs of students. Within the program are numerous opportunities for decision making, challenge, confidence building, and teamwork. The program engenders an appreciation of one’s own talents as well as the talents of others. Students are exposed to skills in a wide variety of team and individual sports, and they develop an appreciation of sports as players and spectators. Throughout the program, students learn the value of fair play and sportsmanship.

Performing Arts Courses are offered in dance, theatre, instrumental music, vocal music, and music history, on many skill levels and in many styles. Performance opportunities are available during the academic day as well as after school. Students are required to enroll in a one-half credit course in the performing arts and are strongly encouraged to explore many offerings to develop their expression and understanding of the relationship among the arts.

Visual Arts Courses are taught at the beginning through to the advanced levels, offering strong sequences for portfolio preparation and college admission. The program is enriched by trips to museums, lectures by visiting artists, and exhibits in the Dana Hall Art Gallery. Student artwork is exhibited throughout the School on an on-going basis.