Course Offerings
The school welcomes students from Grade 10 to 12.
Notre-Dame International High School's (NDIHS) current curriculum includes US High School as well as French language courses. NDIHS offers students an American-styled high school education in English, leading to the US High School diploma.
In addition to the American curriculum, the school offers French language courses to non native French speakers. Courses administered by the French school (Notre-Dame “Les Oiseaux”) and in French include:
- French language courses,
- Art,
- and Physical Education courses
All other courses are administered in English by the American program (Notre-Dame International High School).
2023/2024 course offerings will be available early September 2023.
AP Coordinator/Administrator: Mr Daniel MASON
Please Note: All courses are two semesters, except where noted. Course offerings are subject to change. Classes may be cancelled if they do not meet minimum enrollment requirements.
1. Language Arts
2. Social Studies
3. Mathematics
4. Science
5. Physical Education
6. Foreign Language
7. Electives and the Arts
1. Language Arts
The English Language and Literature course focuses on giving students the skills necessary to use the English language for a variety of purposes and show students how to appreciate the core features of different literary genres and techniques. The classes are reading, analysis and discussion based, with a consistent writing element, regular group work and in-class presentations, giving students the competence to understand and employ both expressive and analytical skills in the English language and the ability to converse and write about literature in a meaningful and relevant manner.
1) English 10
2) English 11
3) AP English Literature and Composition
The AP English Literature and Composition course is designed and taught thematically with an emphasis on core readings along with modern and contemporary selections that illuminate and expand upon a variety of themes. AP English Literature and Composition closely follows the requirements described in the AP English Literature and Composition Course and Exam Description (CED), including the fundamentals of literary analysis and introductory college composition. Each week students discuss and engage in a variety of writing activities focusing on argumentation, interpretation, analysis, rhetorical strategies, exposition, structure, and style. Students read and study a variety of novels, plays, poems, and short stories from the 16th century to the present. The course focuses on the experience of literature, the interpretation of literature, the evaluation of literature, and writing to develop stylistic maturity and sophistication.
4) Drama
The NDIHS Drama course gives students a holistic perspective of theatre with an opportunity to engage with historical dramatic traditions such as Greek theatre and Commedia dell’Arte, whilst experiencing the various roles involved in theatrical production. The course has both theoretical and practical elements, where students are able to do personal research and present original performances. Through regular school productions the students also learn the basics of stage acting, playwriting and directing techniques, giving them an immersive experience in the exciting world of theatre.
2. Social Studies
1) U.S. History
This course focuses on the history of the United States and its political, economic, and social events and issues related to industrialization and urbanization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies, and reform movements, including civil rights. Students will use a variety of primary and secondary source material to understand and interpret the past, including multiple points of view and historical context.
2) Economics
This course is designed to provide the student with a basic understanding of the important relationships of economics to our social and political problems. The course emphasizes the philosophy, development, and operation of our American economic system and its important influence upon the individual and society.
3) US Governement
Students will examine fundamental constitutional principles; the organization of government at the federal, state, and local level; the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; the policy-making process; and the American economic system.
4) AP Human Geography
AP Human Geography introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences.
5) 21st Century
This course is designed to explore the essential elements needed for the acquisition of knowledge and competencies to promote 21st century learning skills. Participants in this course will learn about the need for collaboration, communication, and critical and creative thinking.
3. Mathematics
All math courses require the use of a TI – 83+, TI-84 or TI-84+ calculator. Students should have their own GRAPHING calculator. (NOTE: Faculty can provide only limited assistance on non-TI calculators).
1) Algebra 2
This class is about the beauty and precision of mathematics. In a complicated world where we are often confused, mathematics gives us joy and a world where clear answers are possible. And Enjoyable. At least that's the goal. All of this with joy and love.
In terms of content we focus on building a knowledge basis of functional understanding. Function notation, graphing, linear functions, systems of equations, matrixes, quadratic functions, exponential and logarithmic foundations, and trigonometry fundamentals. As time allows we will also cover some statistics and go laser tagging to create a data set worthy of our new skills.
2) Pre-Calculus
This class is about the beauty and precision of mathematics. In a complicated world where we are often confused, mathematics gives us joy and a world where clear answers are possible. And Enjoyable. At least that's the goal. All of this with joy and love.
In terms of content we focus on the mathematical analysis of functions as a foundation for a wide variety of STEM fields as well as a preparation for further mathematics courses. I emphasize the relationship between the analytical, graphical, numerical, and verbal descriptions and understandings. We cover the following functions: polynomial, rational, logarithmic and exponential, trigonometric, polar, and functions involving parameters and vectors. As time allows we will also cover some statistics and go laser tagging to create a data set worthy of our new skills.
3) AP Calculus
4. Science
1) Chemistry
The study of the major concepts and theories required for an understanding of chemical phenomena. This includes descriptive chemistry, which deals in a systematic way with the more important elements and the structures, properties, and reactions of their compounds. A balance between experiment and theory, between quantitative and qualitative aspects of the course material, and between rigor and simplification is sought. Laboratory work emphasizes learning basic techniques, learning to manipulate and interpret numerical data, and learning the relationship between experimental measurement and chemical theory through guided, independent work by the student Principal topics include atomic and molecular structure, gas laws, stoichiometry, changes of state, chemical binding, solutions, and energetics in chemical reactions. Laboratory work includes quantitative measurements of solutions, synthesis, characterization of chemicals by physical and spectroscopic methods, molecular modeling, and student-assigned projects concentrating on quantitative measurements of solutions.
2) Biology
This subject is designed to provide a general background for the understanding of the science of Biology. This course develops an appreciation of the beauty of life from its simplest composition at the molecular level to the global spectrum of complex ecological issues. It discusses Genetics, Cytology, Photosynthesis, Cellular Respiration, Populations, Ecology, and Evolution. Issues, concerns, and problems with life are also included. It also deals with the basic principles and processes in the study of biology. It covers life processes and interactions at the cellular, organism, population, and ecosystem levels.
General Standards:
The learner demonstrates an understanding of basic concepts and processes in Biology as deepened by other disciplines to analyze/solve problems critically, think innovatively / creatively, and make informed decisions to enhance the integrity and wellness of the human person, protect the environment and conserve resources to sustain the quality of life.
3) AP Environmental Science
AP Environmental Science is focused on a holistic understanding of Earth systems in order to learn from the past, comprehend the present, and influence the future. It is the study of how physical, chemical and biological processes maintain and interact with life, and includes the study of how humans affect nature. As AP Environmental Science is at the crossroads of the natural sciences i that it answers some of the most pressing global issues that we all face. Your work could make a contribution to solving some of the world's greatest challenges.
5. Physical Education
General Conditioning.
Students work to improve the five components of physical fitness:
- muscular endurance,
- muscular strength,
- cardio respiratory endurance,
- flexibility,
- and body composition via running, calisthenics, abdominal routines, and plyometrics.
This course may also include the following individual & team sports:
- volleyball,
- basketball,
- ping pong,
- and soccer.
Students learn the rules and techniques of each sport and practice their skills in games and tournaments.
6. Foreign Language (French language courses)
All French classes are 5 hours a week. Per skill level classes.
1) French 1 (A1-A2)
This course is intended for beginners in French. It allows you to see the basics of French grammar as well as “conjugaison”. The activities offered are around major themes such as identity, cooking, family, hobbies and travels. Approached in a playful way, they will allow learners to be able to find their way around in space and in the present time, in French, and to have solid bases to explore France and its capital.
2) French 2 (A2-B1)
This course is intended for intermediate beginners. The emphasis is on communication, discussion and role-playing. Learners will approach past tenses and a little more advanced grammar. Playful, the themes are centered on French geography, memories, tastes, fashion and art: a real plus for a Parisian life.
3) AP French
AP French Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate-level college course in French or a B1-B2(CECR). Students cultivate their understanding of French language and culture by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations as they explore concepts related to family and community, personal and public identity, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, contemporary life, and global challenges.
4) French Literature
This course in French literature allows you to tackle 4 French-language books in the year and to study, at the same time, historical contexts, literary movements, registers and figures of speech, among others.
Intended above all for confirmed learners of French, one hour per week will be dedicated to argumentation and debates: themes taken from the books studied. Students will have to lend themselves to the game of research to both enrich their vocabulary and develop their general knowledge.
During school breaks, Nacel France offers you to attend intensive French language courses in various regions of France: Rouen, Lyon, Montpellier. Summer French language courses in Paris are also organized before school starts.
7. Electives and the Arts
Electives are not offered every semester; they are subject to scheduling requirements.
Studio Art
Plastic practice, artistic creation. Discovering and using different ways to create and express oneself through an exploratory approach and a various number of mediums.
Philosophy / Introduction to Politics
This class is an opportunity for students to reflect on what they believe in. High school students are of an age where they often doubt or reject much of what they have been told, but have not had the opportunity to reflect on what they do agree with and why. Through an introduction to the fundamentals of clear reasoning, precise expression, structured writing, and some fundamental notions in the history of philosophy, we develop abilities to develop our critical reflection and ensure the coherence of our beliefs. No prior skill is required, only an open mind and a willingness to engage are necessary to do well.
8. Health
High school health class is a class that covers topics pertinent to physical, mental, and social health. High school health class is an important class for students because it helps teens learn how to make responsible and safe choices. A contemporary health class imparts a myriad of useful practices and philosophies on how to live a healthy physical and emotional life. Students will engage in real-world exercises such as food purchasing and preparation, strategies for coping with mental health issues, tips for injury prevention and disaster preparedness.
Additional topics that a high school health course usually covers include:
- The effects of alcohol use on the human body.
- Healthy alternatives to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use.
- The causes, symptoms, and harmful effects of eating disorders.
- Lifestyle practices that contribute to positive mental and emotional health.
- Skills for building healthy family and peer relationships.
- The role of media and social influences on personal healthcare choices.
- Basic first-aid skills used to respond to an emergency.
- Strategies to improve societal and environmental conditions that contribute to health.
- Key components of an emergency response or disaster preparedness plan.
- How to effectively respond to peer pressure and build conflict resolution skills.
Study opportunities in France Universities and Grandes Ecoles: programs taught in English.