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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
In order to best meet the needs of our students in
grade 9 with IEPs/IESPs, St. Raymond Academy
Graduation Requirements has developed a Humanities Program. The
St. Raymond Academy is a four-year college Humanities Program, which combines Global
preparatory school. All students must earn an History and English, is not just content based, but
NYS Regents Diploma: Students must pass all concentrates on broad skills that are implemented
courses and course requirements. Community in an effort to best meet the needs of each
Service Hours must be completed by all students. individual student. Our focus is not only on test
Students must score 65% or higher on the
mandated Regents Exams. Students must pass scores, but on the process of creating life-long
one Regents Exam in Math, Science, and English. learners. Daily lessons are differentiated through
Social Studies requires passing two Regents
Exams. a variety of different instructional practices led by
two teachers, in a co-teaching environment (both
Subject Area Number of Credits certified by New York State in Students with
English 4 Disabilities). We intend for each student to
Fine Arts .5 recognize her own potential and adapt strategies
Mathematics 3 that will not only help her academically, but also
Physical Education 2 foster feelings of confidence, success and striving
Science 3 to achieve any goal she desires. We intend for
Social Studies 4 Humanities to be a safe environment where
Religion 4 students feel safe to make mistakes and learn
Spanish 2 from them.
Health .5
Electives 3 The Humanities Program is currently in its third
Total Credits 26.0 year, servicing ninth grade. We are proud that our
students have grown academically and personally.
All students must register for at least 6.5 credits Because of the foundation that they have
each year. Courses that are also required without received, we know that our students are well on
credit are Enrichment, Grade 9; Guidance, Grades their way to a bright, independent future.
9, 10, 11. Beginning in 2023 all juniors who are
not in honors math and science must take a 0.5 Spanish
credit elective. They will take a total of 26.5 It is highly recommended that all seniors take a
credits. third year of Spanish. Two years are required.
Those seniors who do not sign up for Spanish
NYS Regents Diploma with Honors should sign up for a full credit elective to replace
Students must pass all courses and course this course.
requirements. Community Service hours must be
completed. Mandated State exams, when St. Raymond Academy is seeking approval for the
averaged, must equal 90% or higher in order for a following courses to be given college credit
student to qualify for the NYS Regents Diploma through the University of Albany. They will be
with Honors. taught as honors courses with the possibility of
receiving college credit if approved: Introduction
NYS Regents Diploma with Advanced to Painting and Drawing; Academic Writing;
Designation Women’s Studies.
Students must pass all courses and course
requirements. Community Service hours must be There are two senior Math courses offered. Math
completed. For an Advanced Regents Diploma, all 12 is an honors course. Topics in Math is a course
requirements as above must be met. In addition offered for students who would like to take a
to the above requirements, students must score fourth year of math and would benefit from more
65% or higher on a second Science Regents support.
exam, including one Physical Setting and Living
Environment. Students enrolled in Spanish Native
courses must pass the Spanish Regents Exam or Art
its equivalent with 85% or higher. Passing all
three Math Regents Exams will be required for the Studio Art Grade 9 Credit 1 Weight 1.0
Advanced Designation on the Regents Diploma. This course will concentrate on art fundamentals,
These courses include Algebra I, Geometry, and including vocabulary and artistic techniques
Algebra II. related to 2 and 3 dimensional mediums. From
black and white drawings, using pencil and
Humanities Program charcoal, to the use of color with soft pastels and
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
acrylic and water color, students will apply color The English Department aims to create a
theory to bring their illustrations to life. 3- framework where students will excel in skills,
Dimensional art such as clay figures and masks knowledge, and understanding. Students will
will be introduced. This course aims to use art to master critical reading, analysis, and writing
develop the student's individual style, creativity, through exposure to diverse literature and genres
and a sense of confidence within themselves. in alignment with the Common Core Standards.
(Prior artistic knowledge is not required for this The literature they will be introduced to will
course.) At least once during the school year there enhance their appreciation and enjoyment while
will be a trip to an art museum so that students cultivating writing techniques that express
can experience art in-person. Grades will be thoughts, ideas, and feelings. Four units in
based on the effort the student puts forth while English are required for graduation.
utilizing the knowledge given to them. A
sketchbook is required for both homework and English 9 Credits : 1.0 Weight: 1.0
classwork. A list of art supplies will be given This course introduces students to various literary
before class begins. genres. Students are inspired to think and read
critically and analytically. Writing skills are
Introduction to Painting and Drawing Credit developed through coherent and effective
1 Weight 1.03 paragraphs, concluding in structurally and
Drawing and Painting is an art course designed for analytically correct papers.
Seniors looking to take their previous art knowledge and
apply it to creating works that tell a story. Basic art English 9 Honors Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.03
knowledge will help you get the most out of this class. Similar to English 9--This course introduces
There will be some review at the beginning of the year to students to various literary genres. However,
act as a refresher for those that need it. students are inspired to think and read critically
and analytically at a deeper level with
This year-long course will focus on 2-D creation. complexity. Writing skills are developed through
Students will take the foundations of artistic expression coherent and effective paragraphs, concluding in
and use it to create various works of art that represent structurally and analytically correct papers. Also,
their own voice, including posters, illustrations, and still- some literature will be denser. Students will begin
life. The first half will focus more on black and white, and preparing for the English Regents.
the second half will focus on painting. This course will
also prepare students for college by aiding them in the English 9 Humanities Credits: 1.0 Weight:
creation of a portfolio by the end of the year if need be. A 1.0
trip to the museum is planned and the experience of an This course introduces students to various literary
art show to display student work. A minimum of an 88% genres. Students are inspired to think and read
is required in Studio 9 Art to apply for this course. critically and analytically. Writing skills are
developed through coherent and effective
Enrichment Grade 9 Credits 0.5 Weight 1.0 paragraphs, concluding in structurally and
This is a year-long course meant to prepare SRA analytically correct papers. This course is
students for 21st-century learning. The course provided to support students with IEPs/IESPs. This
will course will be aligned with standards while
familiarize students with the productivity tools ensuring that each student's unique and individual
and resources that will be used to complete their needs are met.
course
work in our one-to-one Chromebook English 10 Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.0
environment. These include Google Classroom, This course focuses on World Literature with an
Docs, Slides, Plus Portals, and Destiny Discover. emphasis on British Literature. Scaffolding on
In addition, through discussion and hands on analysis and critical thinking is emphasized
assignments, students will learn and through sophisticated works that draw on
practice the skills necessary to be good digital universal themes in society. Vocabulary and
citizens. Topics include: online privacy and grammar will be enhanced
security; through the literature to produce connections in
digital footprint and online identity; media balance language. Writing will emphasize the MLA style of
and wellness; appropriate online communication. documentation and incorporate text-based
Students will also be introduced to research skills evidence. Students will begin preparing for the
such as: website and resource evaluation; citing English Regents.
sources; and database usage.
English 10 Honors Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.03
English This course focuses on World Literature with an
emphasis on British Literature and is designed for
students to evaluate works through deeper
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
sophistication of analysis. Scaffolding on analysis This course focuses on analyzing literary texts
and critical thinking is emphasized through that foster an independent connection to
sophisticated works that draw on universal captivating characters
themes in society. Vocabulary and grammar will and plot. Students in this honors course will
be enhanced through the literature to produce explore literature in a sophisticated manner with
connections in language. Writing will emphasize complex texts that challenge students analytically
the MLA style of documentation and incorporate and critically. This is
text-based evidence. Students will learn how to a college preparatory course that is academically
incorporate secondary sources into their writing rigorous. This course develops intellectual
and will be introduced to the research process. curiosity while stimulating provocative ideas. The
Preparation for the English Regents will continue; student's knowledge of the MLA format and usage
students will take the exam in June. of textual evidence will be perfected through
research papers and other writing, as well as oral
English 11 Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.0 presentations. Emphasis is placed on classic texts
This course combines preparation for the Regents to modern literature.
and the study of American Literature. This course
studies American Literature, journeying from
colonialism to modern society. Through the Senior English Electives
foundation and characteristics of the American
culture and society, individualism, gender, and
diversity will be highlighted. In addition to this, Shakespeare and Love Credit: 0.5 Weight:
personal experiences and reflection will be 1.0
discussed and developed. Writing will emphasize Students will analyze and discuss various
the MLA style of documentation and incorporate Shakespearean comedies and sonnets and
text-based evidence. Students will learn how to explore the theme of romantic love prevalent
incorporate secondary sources into their writing throughout these works. Students will write text-
and will be introduced to the research process. based essays, dialogues, and their original
Students will take the Regents Exam in January. sonnets as part of this course. Prerequisite:
English 11 Available 25/26
English 11 Honors Credits: 1.0 Weight:
1.03 Heroes and Heroines Credit: 0.5 Weight
This course focuses on the study of American 1.0
Literature. This course studies American Students will study the origins of the hero story
Literature, journeying from colonialism to modern through such works as Beowulf and Sir Gawain
society. Through the foundation and and the Green Knight and its development all the
characteristics of the American culture and way to the popular contemporary stories of Harry
society, individualism, gender, and diversity will Potter. Students will write text-based essays, a
be highlighted. Students will be inspired to research paper, and their own hero/heroine's
analyze these concepts independently as well as journey as part of this course. Prerequisite:
in a group discussion. In addition to this, personal English 11 Available 25/26
experiences and reflection will be discussed and
developed. Writing will continue to Greek Mythology Credit: 0.5 Weight 1.0
emphasize the MLA style of documentation and This is an elective course that focuses on Greek
incorporate text-based evidence. Students will and Roman mythology. Myths are stories that
integrate secondary sources in their writing and travel through generations to illustrate the
will complete an independent research paper. formation of society, the development of heroes,
and the understanding of human emotions,
English 12 Credits: 1.0 Weight 1.0 perceptions, and thoughts. We will discuss how
This course focuses on the analysis of literary society has woven mythology into modern culture
texts that foster an independent connection to through novels, films, and TV. Evaluation of
captivating themes, motifs, concepts, and theories will be
characters and plot. Students will be inspired to completed through research, creative writing, and
analyze independently as well as in a group oral presentations.
discussion. Students will be responsible for Prerequisite: English 11
differentiating between primary and secondary
sources to complete an independent research Gothic Literature Credit 0.5 Weight 1.0
paper along with other varying pieces of writing. This elective course studies how Gothic Literature
Emphasis is placed on classic texts to modern has been an influential genre that has inspired
literature. readers' imagination for centuries. We will focus
on universal themes, characteristics, and
English 12 Honors Credit 1.0 Weight 1.03
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
elements associated with the Gothic genre that personal narratives, and different forms of poetry. This course
resonate with modern society. will build skills in brainstorming, word building, showing vs.
Also, the course will foster a study of the human telling, word choice, stamina, revision, peer editing and more.
psyche and its connection to the literature. The Students will have the opportunity to develop their college
analysis will be essays as part of the personal narrative creative nonfiction unit.
constructed through class discussion, research
projects, and essays. Prerequisite: English 11
Available 25/26
Guidance
Female Authors and Protagonists Credits:
0.5 Weight 1.0 Freshmen Advising Grade 9 Credits: 0.5
Students will be introduced to literature written by Weight: 1.0
diverse women and/or contain female This mandatory course is designed to assist
protagonists from around the world. We will students in learning life strategies and time
explore women’s lives and concerns and examine management skills. It focuses on the development
how gender identity is shaped by class, ethnicity of the whole student and helps them identify
and race in an evolving society. Students will be personal, educational, and career goals as well as
inspired to make connections through personal make satisfying decisions for transition into high
experiences and reflections as females. Analysis school. Students will have writing assignments that will help
will be constructed through class discussion, in self-awareness and discovery of their personal
research projects and essays. Prerequisite: and academic challenges. Some topic areas for
English 11 or English 11 Honors discussion will be: transition to high school, study
skills, stress management, time management,
Academic Writing Credits 1 Weight 1.3 decisions and consequences, discussions on
This course incorporates analysis and application diversity, peer relationships and career
of the principles of effective writing and skills exploration. There will be open shared topics
developed in the performance of various writing where students as class will choose a topic of
tasks. Research techniques are also implemented. discussion.
Students will produce a portfolio of written work
across multiple essay forms, including persuasive Sophomore Advising Grade 10 Credits: 0.5
essays, personal narratives, and research papers, Weight: 1.0
and study notable examples of each. Available This mandatory course will help students to learn
25/26 study skills, stress management, time
management, peer relationship and career
Junior Electives exploration.
\
Junior Advising Grade 11 Credits: 0.5
Geography Grade 11 Credits 0.5 Weight 1.0 Weight: 1.0
The course will look at the physical as well as This course provides an overview of the college
cultural aspects that make up many of the vast admission process and how colleges make
world regions. Students will have a greater admission decisions with a focus on the student. It
understanding of the world regional geography, provides guidance for senior year course elective
physical and human processes that shape world selection as well as on standardized testing
regions, a broad understanding of the world options. It reviews student activities and academic
regions, economic geography geopolitical issues recommendations for transition into college and
and develop a comprehensive knowledge of helps identify what college factors are most
reading and interpreting maps as to better important including but not limited to the financial
understand the world around them. aid process.

Personal Financial Management Grade 11 College Planning Seminar Grade 12 Credits:

Credits: 0.5 Weight 1.0 0.5 Weight: 1.0
This course is designed to help you understand the impact of This course guides students through the
individual choices on occupational goals and future earnings application process and provides structured time
potential. The course aims to provide you with a foundational to work on college applications and related
understanding for making informed personal financial materials. Prior to the initiation of this course,
decisions. students will have completed their college essay
as well as informed and selected appropriate
Creative Writing Grade 11 Credits 0.5 teachers for recommendations. This course will
Weight 1.0 aid
This course allows students to express themselves creatively students in determining targeted schools and
through the written word. Together we will write short fiction, ultimately submitting their applications to
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
selected institutions. This is a detail-oriented and writing quadratic equations. The imaginary
process that students will coordinate and numbers are introduced. Functions are studied,
complete during class time Students are expected including exponential and logarithmic types.
to set tailored individual goals and utilize the Students receive an expanded presentation of
resources available. While the first half of the statistics and probability and trigonometry is
course is devoted to the application and financial reintroduced. The honors section covers all
aid process, the second half of the course is required material in preparation for the Algebra 2
focused on applying for outside scholarship Regents Exam. Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and
opportunities and finalizing their college decisions. Geometry

Topics in Mathematics Grade 12 Credits 1.0

Mathematics This course is a senior elective mathematics
course designed for students who would like to
Algebra I Honors/Algebra I Grade 9 pursue a fourth year of mathematics but have not
Credits: 1.0 Weight 1.0 met the prerequisites
This course emphasizes the topics needed to for Math 12. Topics include logic, probability,
succeed on the NYS Algebra Regents exam. Real combinations, and permutations. Prerequisites
world applications are incorporated throughout Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2
the lessons. Topics include: Writing and
evaluating algebraic expressions, operations with Pre-Calculus (Honors) Grade 12 Credits: 1.0
polynomials, solving equations (linear and Weight 1.03
quadratic) and systems of equations, graphing For students who have demonstrated mastery in
linear and quadratic functions, evaluating their first three courses, a fourth class introduces
functions, relations and functions with domain and calculus. Essential material from earlier courses is
range, factoring, properties of the real numbers, reviewed,
graphing polygons and finding areas, graphing including ideas of real numbers, intercepts,
and solving inequalities and systems of symmetry, curve sketching, trigonometry, and
inequalities and introduction to data analysis. The locus. Calculus topics include limits, the definition
more rigorous honors section includes preparation of a derivative, derivative formulas, implicit
for honors level work in subsequent years. differentiation, and applications such as located
extrema and optimization problems. Participation
Algebra I Enrichment Grade 9 Credits: 0 in the course prepares students for calculus on
This course is a required, non-credit, supplement the college level. Prerequisites: B+ average in
to the Algebra course. Emphasis is placed on previous math courses
Regents practice questions, test taking strategies,
tutorials for basic skills (when needed) and Physical Education
instruction on scientific calculator use. The
purpose of the course is to prepare students for
the NYS Algebra Regents examination, which is a Physical Education 9 Credits: 0.5 Weight 1.0
requirement for a NYS Regents Diploma Students are physically active through movement
and sport activities. The students develop an
Geometry Honors/Geometry Grade 10 understanding of fitness and its five components.
Credits 1.0 Weight 1.0 Freshmen concentrate on teamwork,
This course emphasizes the topics included on the sportsmanship, movement skills and rule
NYS Geometry Regents examination. Topics knowledge. Students will also take a physical
include: Slopes and equations of lines, fitness test at the beginning and end of each
quadrilaterals, transformations, similarity, quarter to track their progress.
geometry of the circle, geometry of three
dimensions, proving statements and triangle Physical Education 10 Credits: 0.5 Weight
congruence theorems and trigonometry. The 1.0
honors section will include all required material in Students continue to be physically active through
preparation for the Geometry Regents Exam. movement and sport activities. Sophomores
Prerequisites: Algebra 1 focus on selected fitness topics, Pilates, and Yoga.
Students will take a Physical Fitness test at the
Algebra 2 Honors/ Algebra 2 Grade 11 beginning and end of each quarter to track their
Credits: 1.0 Weight 1.0 progress. Prerequisite: Physical Education 9.
This course emphasizes the topics included on the
NYS Algebra 2 Regents examination. This course Physical Education 11 Credits 0.5 Weight 1.0
includes extensive study of the real numbers This course provides students with an opportunity
including rational expressions, absolute value, to understand the importance of fitness in their
operations with roots and radicals, and solving lifestyles while participating in vigorous activity
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
(Cardio kickboxing). The emphasis is to develop a to the Gospels as the heart of scripture. The class
personal fitness program for adulthood, and to also introduces students to the mysteries of the
develop skills and knowledge needed to Trinity and incarnation. Additionally, students will
participate in lifetime activities. Critical thinking reflect on ways the life and teachings of Jesus
and social and leadership skills are developed as apply to their life today.
students participate in cooperative games and
non-traditional sports. Students will take a Religion 10 Credit: 1.0 Weight: 1.0
physical fitness test at the beginning and end of Students will study the redemptive acts of Jesus
each quarter to track their progress. and the life of a disciple of Jesus. Students will
Prerequisites: Physical Education 9 and 10. understand the Church as the living body of Christ
and appreciate the sacred nature of the Church.
Physical Education 12 Credits 0.5 Weight 1.0
This course focuses on the fundamental Religion 11 Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.0
components and principles of fitness, including Throughout this course students will study the
competency in motor skills, movement patterns, sacraments of the Church and better understand
and strategies needed to perform a variety of how Jesus is encountered in each sacrament. The
physical activities. Students will learn leadership course concentrates, especially on the Eucharist.
skills by team building activities. Basic first aid is Students will study morality through the life and
also studied. Prerequisite: Physical teachings of Jesus and those that follow Him.
Education 9, 10, and 11
Religion 12 Credit: 1.0 Weight: 1.0
This class will be taught in four sections, each
Fitness Grade 12 Credit: 0.5 Weight taking one quarter of the year. One quarter will
1.0 be dedicated to World Religions. In this section,
Students learn about the essentials of personal we will explore how the Catholic Church
fitness training. They are introduced to the recognizes and values the respective
weight room, and to basic exercise science. truths found in the world's religions through
Students will also learn the importance of interreligious dialogue. Students will be
nutrition. introduced to the nature and philosophy of various
Prerequisite: Physical Education 9-11, religious traditions, namely those of Hinduism,
Physical Education average of 95%, a Buddhism, Judaism, and Islam.
current medical
physical, and the approval of the Physical One quarter of the class is on responding to the
Education Department. Call of Jesus, the Christian vocation. We will
examine our call
to love through Christian vocation, gain
Religion knowledge of the discernment process in decision-
making, explore self-love by recognizing our God-
The study of the relationship between God and given talents, and
humanity is a fundamental part of Catholic explore healthy relationships through friendship,
education's mission. Education takes on its dating, and marriage preparation.
highest meaning when human beings study and
appreciate their relationship with God, who is the One quarter of this class will focus on social
source of everything that is. Catholic education justice. This section of the course studies the
encourages the study of the created world seven themes of Catholic Social Teaching.
through arts and sciences and the study of the Particular Attention is devoted to the following
Creator as well. Thus, Religion has a prominent Topics: the dignity of the human person, the care
place in the course of studies at St. Raymond of God’s creation, the dignity of workers, and
Academy. importance of efforts to promote social justice.
One quarter of this class examines the
Religion is a four-year course of study. Every contributions of women in the Catholic Church
student is required to take Religion. Classes meet Attention is given to the role of women in
every day. Religion is considered a major subject. Scripture, especially the way in which they helped
Students must complete four years of Religion to to spread the good news of the Gospel. The role
graduate. of women in the church today is studied with
particular emphasis place on the leadership roles
Religion 9 Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.0 women are able to hold in the Catholic Church
This course explores the revelation of Jesus today. Additionally, the lives of many female
through Sacred Scripture and Sacred tradition. saints are studied as concrete witnesses to the
Students gain an overview of the bible and learn faith and as models of holiness.
how to read scripture. Special attention is given

Science
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026

General Biology Credit: 1.0 Weight 1.0

This introductory course is designed to meet
The Science curriculum at Saint Raymond students' needs who want a basic understanding
Academy is designed to provide students with an of the principles of biology. Students will develop
awareness of the natural world, fundamental an awareness of the relevance of biology as an
scientific concepts and critical thinking. Courses integral part of their everyday
are offered to meet the student's individual needs lives. Emphasis is placed on features of life and
and abilities and promote intellectual curiosity in the cells, plants, animals, body systems,
the sciences. By discovering and interpreting reproduction and development, heredity,
knowledge, students can develop an relationships of living things, the environment,
understanding and appreciation of the importance and ecology. Laboratory activities are
of science in today's world and consider career incorporated into lessons to engage students'
opportunities evolving as a result of accelerating interests while developing and reinforcing
technological advances. Through required and understandings basic to the course.
elective courses, students have an opportunity to
gain a rich and varied background in the major Regents Chemistry (Honors) Credits: 1.0
scientific disciplines. Weight 1.03
This course is an intensive study of chemistry
Regents Earth Science Grade 9 Credits: principles intended for students who plan to study
1.0 Weight 1.0 science in college. Topics will include matter and
This course is designed to prepare students for energy, atomic structure, bonding, acid-base
the Regents Exam for the Physical Setting: Earth theories, and organic chemistry. A laboratory
Science. period will reinforce the chemistry principles and
Students will need to pass the Regents exam in provide hands-on opportunities to experience
order to complete for graduation. The content chemistry while learning safety and basic lab
includes Earth Science reference tables and techniques. Prerequisites Successful
laboratory skills learned throughout the course. completion of Regents Earth Science and
Emphasis will be placed on the four disciplines of Living Environment
Earth Science: Geology, Oceanography,
Meteorology, and Astronomy. A required lab General Chemistry Credits: 1.0 Weight 1.0
period will enable students to study these This course provides a general understanding of
principles in depth. the fundamental concepts of chemistry. Students
better understand the world through the study of
Health Education Grade: 10 Credits: 0.5 chemistry.
Weight 1.0 This will engage students in scientific inquiry.
This course is designed to help students Topics include atomic structure, chemical
understand their bodies and the natural bonding, chemical
progression of development. Students will have formulas and equations, and chemical reactions. A
practical knowledge of their mental, emotional laboratory period will reinforce the chemistry
and physical development. principles and provide hands-on opportunities to
experience chemistry while learning safety and
Regents Living Environment (Honors) Credit basic lab techniques
1.0 Weight: 1.03
This is a comprehensive Biology course in which Human Anatomy and Physiology (Honors)
all the essential facts and concepts are presented Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.03
in preparation for the Living Environment Regents This course is designed to introduce students'
exam. It is organized to develop the conceptual pursuit of careers in the health field to the human
approach to modern biology and the development body's structure
of critical and creative thinking skills. Emphasis is and function. Students will grasp the fundamental
placed on the study concepts of human anatomy and the inner
of cell biology, biochemistry, similarities and workings of the body. Emphasis will be on the
differences among living things, human biology, interactions that occur between the system being
reproduction and studied and all other body systems. Topics
development, genetics evolution, and ecology. A include orientation of the human body, cells and
laboratory period is utilized to provide students tissues, skin and body membranes, skeletal,
with an understanding of the process of science muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular
and an opportunity to observe, analyze and draw systems, and the blood. Prerequisites:
conclusions. Successful completion of Regents Living
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Earth Environment or a B or higher in General
Science Biology
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St. Raymond Academy

Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
This course will be aligned with the standards
General Physics Credit: 1.0 Weight: 1.0 while ensuring that each students’ unique and
This course provides a general understanding of individual needs are met.
the fundamental concepts of Physics. Students
will understand the physical world through physics Global History 2 Credits: 1.0 Weight:
and create a growing interest in scientific inquiry. 1.0
Topics include mechanics, energy, states of Students study critical historical thinking and
matter, waves and light, and electricity. content from the "Age of Revolutions" through the
Prerequisites: Successful completion of "Post-Cold
Regents Chemistry and Trigonometry War Era" (1750 – present). The course begins
with the World in 1750, the Age of Enlightenment,
Environmental Science Credit: 1.0 Revolutions, and Nationalism. The Industrial
Weight 1.0 Revolution, Imperialism, and Unresolved Global
This course will provide students with the Conflict from 1914-1945 and
scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies 1945-1991 are all studied in depth. The students
required to understand the interrelationships of also study the emergence of Global Nationalism
the natural world, to identify and analyze throughout the 19th and 20th centuries and
environmental problems, both natural and human- decolonization. Some additional topics include,
made, to evaluate the relative risks but are not limited to, Globalization in Resources
associated with these problems, and to examine and Trade, our Changing World Environment, and
alternative solutions for solving and preventing various Human Rights
them. Prerequisites: Successful completion Violations (such as genocides and refugee
of Regents Earth Science, Living situations worldwide).
Environment/Biology and Chemistry.
Students take the Regents Examination in Global
History and Geography, based only on Grade 10
Social Studies content. The NYS Regents includes multiple-
choice questions, two sets of constructive
Global History 1 Credits: 1 Weight: response questions, document analysis, and an
1.0 enduring issues essay.
Students will be introduced to map skills, major
economic concepts, characteristics of political AP Global Studies (Honors Global I and II)
systems, and cultural concepts. This study will 1.03
include the civilizations that existed from the This is a two year course that replaces the
"Ancient World" through the "First Global Age" traditional Global Studies 1 and Global Studies II
(4000 BC – 1770 AD). An in-depth probe into the course. The students will stay in the same track
cultures of Africa, India, China, Europe, Japan, the with the same teacher and follow one another
Middle East, and pre-Columbian civilizations of the while picking up in sophomore year where they
Americas will enable students to discover the left off in freshmen
connection among global societies. Students will year all the while preparing students for both the
follow maritime and overland trade routes. They AP and Regents Exam at the conclusion of
will learn about the belief systems and the artistic Sophomore year. Students will take an evidence
and scientific achievements of these civilizations. based approach to the
To prepare students for the grade 10 Global analysis of the seven themes of the course
History and (Identity, Migration, Politics, Economics,
Geography Regents Examination, the following Geography, the Environment, and Technology).
assessments will be a part of each unit of study: Assessments include cross-curricular projects,
multiple-choice questions, constructive response rigorous multiple-choice questions, thematic
questions, document analysis, and enduring essays, daily readings, projects
issues essays, and the analysis of graphs, maps, (both individual and group-based) and document-
and charts. based questions all made to prepare students for
a continuation into the AP United States History
Global History 1 Humanities Credits: 1 course during their Junior year. Students will cover
Weight: 1.0 all the
This class introduces students to various historical topics as outlined in the Global Studies I and
events and how they connect to today’s world. Global Studies II course description as is outlined
Students are inspired to think and read critically and dictated by the New York state curriculum
and analytically. Writing skills are developed however it will be under the most vigorous of
through coherent and effective paragraphs, and standards and at an accelerated pace. Topics to
documents are analyzed critically. This course is be included during freshmen year one include:
provided to support students with IEP’s and IESP’s. Early River Civilizations, The
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First Age of Empires, China’s Unification, Classical
Greece, Ancient Rome and Early Christianity, India Constitutional Law Grade 12 Credits: 0.5
and China Establish Empires, The Muslim World Weight: 1.0
and Byzantine and Russian Empires, African This course will introduce students to the
Civilizations, The Americas, The Middle Ages and structure of the Constitution, as well as the
the Formation of Western Europe, and continuing structure and procedures of the U.S. legal system.
up to the Age of Absolutism Topics to be included The course will focus on the
during sophomore year two include: Picking up at history of the Constitution and its relationship to
the Age of the American legal system. Students will learn
Absolutism, The Age of Enlightenment and about the
Revolution in Europe, Napoleon and the French procedures of the criminal justice system and civil
Revolution, The Rise of Nationalism, The Industrial law. Students will gain an understanding of their
Revolution, The Age of civil rights protected by the U.S. Constitution.
Imperialism, The Age of Democracy and Progress, Students will
World War I and II, Restructuring the Postwar engage in discussions, research, current events
World, Struggles of Colonies and New Nations for studies, and major projects. Students will have an
Democracy, and concluding with present day understanding of how laws relate to the everyday
Global Interdependence. Pre-Requisite: Honors lives of the American
recommendation for students in Grades 9 and 10. people.

U.S. History and Government Grade 11 World Regional Geography Grade 12

Credits: 1.0 Weight: 1.0 Credit .5 Weight 1.0
The students will learn major historical events and This course is designed to give the student a
people who have contributed to our cultural broad perspective into both the physical as well as
heritage. They will study the U.S. Constitution the cultural aspects that make up many of the
and its principles as themes in the historical bast world regions. Upon completion of this
development of the American nation and peoples. course, students should have a greater
They will learn about the impact of immigration understanding of the objectives and tools of
upon the development of cultural diversity in the world regional geography, physical and human
United States and the contributions that various processes that shape world regions, a broad
racial and ethnic groups have made to the understanding of the world’s regions, economic
American culture. At the end of this course, geography, geopolitical issues and develop a
students will take Regents in U.S. History and comprehensive knowledge of reading and
Government. interpreting maps as to better understand the
world around them.
AP U.S. History Grade 11 Credits 1.0
Weight 1.05 Participation in Government Grade 12 Credit
This course provides an evidence-based approach 0.5 Weight 1.0
to the analysis of seven themes (American and This course is a study of Participation in
national identity; migration and settlement; Government. The course is designed to prepare
politics and power; work, exchange, and students to
technology; America in the world; geography and participate actively in the democratic process.
the environment; and culture and society). AP Emphasis is placed on developing those skills
U.S. History prepares students for immediate and essential for making informed judgments on
advanced college courses by making demands public policy. It is a course that teaches the
upon them equivalent to those made by full- process of critical thinking, with the study of
year college introductory college survey courses. civics. The students move systematically from
Assessments include but are not limited to cross- looking at the historical development of the
curricular projects, rigorous multiple-choice concept of citizenship, how governments work, to
questions, how the U.S. Constitution affects American lives.
thematic essays, and document-based questions. The course is structured to help the students
Students will build factual knowledge and develop develop the skills of informed decision-making
skills necessary to assess and analyze historical and systematic analysis of related information.
materials. At the completion of this course,
students are expected to take the NYS regents Economics Grade 12 Credits: 0.5 Weight:
Exam, as well as the AP examination in May. 1.0
Students may be able to earn college credit in This course helps students to raise their level of
U.S. History based upon individual performance economic literacy. The students are presented
on AP Exam. Prerequisites: Global History 1 with
and Global History 2 with 85% or above
average.
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basic economic concepts in a clear and students twit the opportunity to develop and
meaningful manner. Upon completion of the practice public speaking, debate, and crafting
course, students should skilled written arguments. This course may
be able to make reasoned, objective judgments receive college approval from University of
about contemporary economic issues. This is a Albany.
microeconomics course, the branch of economics
that deals with decision-making and other Sociology Grade 12 Credits: 1.0 Weight 1.0
individuals, businesses, and government behavior. This course is the systematic study of social
behavior and human groups. This course provides
Community Service a broad overview of sociology and how it applies
Students are expected to fulfill community service to everyday life. Major theoretical perspectives
hours and concepts are presented, including sociological
as is consistent with the practice of good imagination, culture,
citizenship and deviance, inequality, social change, and social
service. Community service is classified as any structure. We will also explore the influence of
service social
one does in school and/or in their local parishes class and social institutions, such as religion,
and education, healthcare, government, economics,
communities which is unpaid. Students entering and environment. The family as a social structure
St. will also be examined.
Raymond Academy for Girls in the fall of 2023 are
expected to complete 20 hours of community World Issues (Honors) Grade 12 Credits:
service as 1.0 Weight: 1.03 2023-24
a requirement for graduation in June of 2027. All World Issues will examine current and historical
current issues by using research activities, class lectures,
students are expected to fulfill five hours of seminars, and films. The course is designed for
community students who have an interest in social issues and
service per year starting in the fall of 2023. This is a desire to explore topics in greater depth.
broken Students will be required to research, think,
down as follows: 15 hours for sophomores, 10 discuss, and write critically about the issues
hours for explored. Students must also have access to a
juniors, and 5 hours for seniors. The student’s computer, NY public library card, good attendance
teacher for that school year will be required to and participation for each of the activities, and the
collect the service drive to complete research using sources (such as
hours and then turn them over to the databases, documentaries, and books) outside the
administration school. *Taking this course will give students a
and/or dept. chairperson. five-year sequence in social studies.

Social Studies Electives Psychology Grade 12 Credits 1.0 Weight:

1.0
Criminal Justice Theory in Practice: An This course emphasizes the basic subject matter
of psychology through scientific methods. The
Examination of Class, Gender and Race in
course examines patterns and variations of
the legal System
human development. Students will study how
Grade 12 Credits 1.0 Weight 1.03 psychological knowledge is applied to improve the
This course will provide an analysis of meanings, quality of life. Topics covered include the history
history and consequences of inequalities within of psychology, approaches to psychological
our legal system, particularly focusing on the research, personality theory, learning and
intersectional ties of social class, gender, and race cognition, states of consciousness, and abnormal
in the American criminal justice system. All psychology
sources will be thoroughly examined from an
Honors Psychology/AP Psych/Advanced
evidence-based perspective.
College Credit Grade 12 Credits: 1.0 Weight:
Students will understand the structure and roles 1.05
of the Criminal Justice System, particularly the This course will explore the psychological facts,
court system and its key players (the prosecution, principles, and phenomena associated with each
of the major subfields of psychology. Areas of
defense and judiciary). Using the format of
study include: the history of psychology; the
Debate and Mock Trial, students will participate in
biology of behavior; sensation and perception,
a culminating Mock Trial of a crime against the
states of consciousness; learning, memory,
person and/or property. This course provides cognition (thinking, intelligence, and language);
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development across the lifespan; motivation and Students' knowledge of the passive voice, object
emotion; stress and health, social psychology; pronouns, conditional and subjunctive moods will
theories of personality, psychological disorders as be emphasized.
well as psychological therapies. Prerequisites: Prerequisite: A 80% or higher average in
85% or above in previous honors English and Spanish 2N
social studies course. College credit given
through Mercy College. Spanish 3 Grade 12 Credit: 1 Weight: 1.0
The course provides students with an opportunity
Personal Financial Management Grade 12 to expand and enhance their knowledge of
Credits: 1 Weight 1.0 Spanish through the implementation of teaching
This course is designed to help you understand the impact of strategies supported with technology. Grammar
individual choices on occupational goals and future earnings concepts are reviewed and language usage and
potential. The course aims to provide you with a foundational vocabulary is practiced on a regular basis through
understanding for making informed personal financial the implementation of learning strategies where
decisions. students are gradually introduced to spoken
Spanish in class.
Prerequisites: 80% or higher in Spanish 2 or
Spanish/Italian completion of Spanish 2N.

Spanish 1 Grade 10 Credit: 1 Weight 1.0 AP Spanish Language/College Credit Grade

The Spanish level one course introduces students 12 Credit 1.05
to effective strategies for beginning Spanish AP Spanish Language and Culture is an advanced
language language course in which students acquire
learning and various aspects of Spanish-speaking proficiencies that expand their cognitive,
culture. analytical and communicative skills. The AP
Spanish Language and Culture course prepares
Spanish 2N Grade 10 Heritage Learners students for the College Board’s AP Spanish
Credit: 1.0 Weight: 1.03 Language and Culture exam. As its foundation, it
This course is designed for selected bilingual uses the three modes of communication
sophomores who understand, speak, read, and (interpersonal, interpretive and presentational) as
communicate in Spanish. The goal of the course defined in the Standards for Foreign Language
is to improve and expand their receptive and Learning in
productive language skills in order to acquire the 21st Century. The Course is designed as an
fluency. In accordance with student’s specific immersion experience and is conducted almost
needs, we offer a study of Spanish phonics, exclusively in Spanish. In addition, all student
orthography, word formation and sentence work, practices, projects, participation, and
structure. We also make a commitment to guide assessments are in Spanish. The course is based
and assist students to develop and expand their on the six themes required by the College Board,
oral, reading and writing skills. We will introduce namely, Global challenge, Science and
them to the study of the Spanish culture with the technology, Contemporary life, Personal and
assistance of technology. Prerequisite: 80% public identities, Families and communities,
or above on the Spanish Placement test Beauty and aesthetics.

Spanish 2 Grade 11 Credit: 1.0 Weight: 1.0 The course teaches language structures in context
Spanish 2 builds upon knowledge gained in and focuses on the development of fluency to
Spanish I. This course also emphasizes convey meaning. Students explore culture in both
pronunciation, grammar structures and contemporary and historical contexts to develop
proficiency in communication. Spanish literature an awareness and appreciation of cultural
is also introduced. Prerequisite: Spanish 1 products, practices, and perspectives. In addition,
students participate in a forum where they are
Spanish 3N Grade 11 Heritage Learners able to share their own opinions and
Credit: 2.0 Weight: 1.03 comments about various topics. The course also
This course is designed for bilingual students makes great use of the internet for updated and
engaged in an accelerated course that prepares current material.
them for the Advanced Placement Spanish
course's demands and expectations. Students Prerequisites: High School Spanish 3N. The AP
build and expand their receptive and productive Spanish course is a college level course in
language skills. Students work to gain to acquire which we share a partnership with Mercy
fluency prepare for the college-level AP course. University. Before taking this course, students
Students will develop and expand their reading should
and writing skills through literature and culture.
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Curriculum Guide 2025-2026
have the Spanish proficiency equal to this level
and be prepared to dedicate sufficient time and
effort required by this course.

Italian 1 Credit: 1 Weight 1.0

The Italian Level 1 course introduces the student
to the Italian language, covering the basic
communicative tools that are useful for everyday
interaction in Italy. Students will not only be
taught the linguistic system, but will also be given
strategies and techniques that facilitate the
learning process.