Course Offerings

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.

English Language and Literature I
Texts take center stage in the Lang&Lit I classroom, inspiring and preparing all students for close, critical reading and analytical writing. This course trains the reader to observe the small details in a text to arrive at a deeper understanding of the whole. It also trains the reader to appreciate authors’ sometimes-subtle choices, developing an awareness of how words produce effects and how the conventions of the English language are used for both precision and style. As writers, students focus first on crafting complex sentences, building this foundational skill; they then move on to producing well-organized paragraphs and, as the year progresses, more sophisticated, longer-form analyses.

English Language and Literature II
Lang&Lit II builds on the foundation of the Lang&Lit I course, with an emphasis on the recursive moves that matter in preparing students for the challenges of college-level reading, writing, and discussion. While Lang&Lit I introduces the fundamental routines of close observation, critical analysis, and appreciation of author’s craft, Lang&Lit II requires students to apply those same practices to a new host of nonfiction and literary texts. As readers, students develop a vigilant awareness of how the poet, playwright, novelist, and writer of nonfiction alike can masterfully manipulate language to serve their unique purposes. As writers, students compose more nuanced analytical essays without losing sight of the importance of well-crafted sentences and a sense of cohesion. Each unit of Lang&Lit II culminates in a writing task that reflects the rigor of similar tasks they will eventually encounter on standardized writing exams, in AP English courses, and in college classes.

AP English Literature & Composition
The English Literature 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. English Literature combines 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. Students practice their writing via numerous timed essays, which are revised several times, as well as longer essays that require outside research and MLA formatting. Students also practice oral communication skills, through poetry presentations, regular classroom discussions and acting as discussion facilitators.

2. Social studies

US History
This one-year course invites students to explore the development of the United States through a critical and inclusive lens. Grounded in the Minnesota K–12 Social Studies Standards, it examines the people, power structures, and policies that have shaped the nation, from Indigenous and African societies before colonization to present-day movements for equity and justice. The course is centered on the political evolution of the original thirteen British colonies into the modern United States, including its territorial expansion and overseas influence. Students engage with diverse narratives and case studies that reflect the global perspectives of an international classroom. Influenced by the work of James Loewen, the Zinn Education Project, and the 1619 Project, the course prioritizes historical inquiry, critical analysis, contextual understanding, and engaging with a range of perspectives. Students build skills in source analysis, OPCVL, and evidence-based argumentation. Assessments include DBQs, debates, simulations, and creative projects that link history to present-day issues.

Economics
This course introduces students to important foundational economic concepts. The class will take a thematic approach to the different aspects of economics. Students cultivate their understanding of the principles that apply to an economic system as a whole by using principles and models to describe economic situations and predict and explain outcomes with graphs, charts, and data as they explore concepts like economic measurements, markets, macroeconomic models, and macroeconomic policies.The course also develops students’ familiarity with the operation of product and factor markets, distributions of income, market failure, and the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy.

US Government
This course explores the core principles and historical context that shaped the U.S. political system. It covers key concepts like democracy, republicanism, and the social contract theory, examining how these ideas influenced the Founding Fathers and the Constitution. We learn about the structure of the government, including federalism, separation of powers, and checks and balances. It also examines civil liberties, civil rights, and the evolution of American democracy, highlighting key amendments and social movements that expanded political participation over time.

AP Human Geography
This one-year course explores the patterns and processes shaping how humans understand, use, and alter the Earth's surface. Students investigate topics such as population dynamics, cultural patterns, political organization, agriculture, urban development, and economic systems. Case studies from around the world help students understand how geography shapes conflict, development, migration, and cultural change in real-world contexts. Students develop skills in spatial analysis, data interpretation, and argumentation using Free Response Questions (FRQs), multiple-choice practice (MCQs), projects, and class discussions. Content is covered through videos, presentations, and readings. The AP Classroom platform is used regularly for skill practice and assessment preparation. After the AP Exam, the class shifts focus to French geography and allows students to pursue a self-chosen applied-geography project. By the end of the course, students will be able to accurately locate every country on the world map, strengthening their global awareness and geographic literacy.

World History
This one-year course invites students to explore global history through six thematic units of approximately five weeks each, covering key developments from early human societies to the present. Aligned with the Minnesota K–12 Social Studies Standards and cross-referenced with AP World History themes and periods, the course emphasizes multiple perspectives, contextual understanding, and the analysis of power, resistance, and identity. Students investigate questions of continuity and change through diverse narratives from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Topics include human migration and adaptation, belief systems, trade and empires, colonization and resistance, revolutions and industrialization, global conflict, decolonization, and today’s interconnected world. Each unit incorporates analysis of primary and secondary sources, dominant and marginalized perspectives, and connections to present-day issues. Assessments include document-based essays, debates, mock trials, projects, and simulations, including role plays. Students practice argumentation, source evaluation (OPCVL), and evidence-based reasoning while gaining a global understanding of history that prepares them for further study and engaged citizenship.

World History - Diversity Studies
This one-year course centers on the critical examination of identity, power, and justice across time and place. Students explore social constructs, such as how race, gender, class, culture, and nationality shape access to resources, influence representation, and impact lived experience. The course emphasizes analysis of dominant narratives, recognition of erasure, and amplification of historically marginalized voices. A unique feature of the course is its use of real-world content, including public debates, current media, and global case studies to build critical thinking skills. Students learn to evaluate persuasive debate tactics, identify misinformation and sophistry, and reflect on how discourse can either uphold or challenge systems of privilege. Throughout the year, students develop essential skills in source analysis, argument construction, ethical AI use, and collaborative dialogue. Assessments include essays, presentations, Ted Talks, debates, and simulations, including role plays, designed to strengthen both academic voice and civic literacy.

AP Comparative Government and Politics
AP Comparative Government and Politics introduces students to the rich diversity of political life outside the United States. The course uses a comparative approach to examine the political structures; policies; and political, economic, and social challenges of six selected countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Students compare the effectiveness of approaches to many global issues by examining how different governments solve similar problems. They will also engage in disciplinary practices that require them to read and interpret data, make comparisons and applications, and develop evidence-based arguments.

Business
Business is a course divided into two main sections: personal finances and introduction to business management. This design provides a double perspective that mirrors the supply-and-demand economic principle or the bookkeeping double-entry principle. Students will develop a general view of finances, the labor market and the services/commodities markets both as employees/customers and as managers/entrepreneurs/providers.

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).

Algebra II
Algebra 2 is designed to build on algebraic and geometric concepts up to triangle similarity, trigonometric ratios, factoring and simplifying, linear and polynomial functions, and descriptive statistics. It develops advanced algebra skills including the study of functions, of complex numbers, and of polynomial expressions.

Precalculus
Throughout this course, students develop and hone symbolic manipulation skills, including solving equations and manipulating expressions, for the many function types throughout the course. Students also learn that functions and their compositions, inverses, and transformations are understood through graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal representations, which reveal different attributes of the functions and are useful for solving problems in mathematical and applied contexts. In turn, the skills learned in this course are widely applicable to situations that involve quantitative reasoning.Topics covered include: Polynomial and Rational functions, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions, Trigonometry and Trigonometric functions.

AP Calculus AB
AP® Calculus AB is equivalent to a first-semester college calculus course. Topics include functions, limits and continuity, derivatives, and integrals. The course will focus on applying the skills and concepts of calculus to modeling and solving problems across multiple representations.

5. Physical education

The Physical Education curriculum is developed in two areas:

1. The area of Physical Activities. In this area, all subjects included in the National Physical Education Programs are covered. These subjects are addressed according to different levels of performance. Each of these levels encompasses a set of competencies that will be worked on by all students, according to their abilities/needs.

2. The area of Knowledge. In this area, some general topics are covered as well as others identified by the respective teacher based on the needs of the class. This area will be developed and assessed using various tools: summaries, written tests, research projects, oral questioning, or others that are appropriate for the subject of teaching and evaluation.

4. Science

Integrated Sciences I
Integrated Sciences 1 offers an interdisciplinary approach to scientific understanding, primarily focusing on principles from the biological and natural sciences and applying these concepts to the physical sciences. By thoroughly studying cells and their systems, we will explore their impact on the biodiversity present on our planet today and examine the intricate connections between these subjects.. Our focus will extend to understanding the economic implications of scientific concepts. This course encourages critical thinking as we delve into the complex interactions that have shaped our world.

Integrated Sciences II
Integrated Sciences 2 aims to provide an interdisciplinary approach to scientific understanding, while focusing mainly on principles from chemistry and physics, to apply to the biological and environmental sciences. Through a comprehensive study of planetary formation, Earth's history and the physical formation on Earth that lead to our dependence on it today and the impacts we have on the planet; we will explore the intricate connections between these subjects. Our focus will extend to understanding the economic implications of scientific concepts. This course encourages critical thinking as we delve into the complex interactions that have shaped our world.

AP Biology
This AP Biology course is designed to offer students a solid curriculum in introductory college-level biology, and the course focuses on enduring conceptual understandings and the biological content that supports them. The curriculum offers engaging discovery from the microscope cell to the expansive world of our biosphere. Science practices are employed to help students utilize inquiry-based learning that maximizes depth of learning through research based techniques and laboratory experiences. Therefore, the course is structured around big idea statements, enduring understandings, and science practices that allow students opportunities to develop an appreciation for the science of biology and to identify and understand unifying principles within a diversified biological world. The process of inquiry and the development of critical thinking skills are important components of the AP Biology course and will be further explored through conclusions and evaluation.

Health Class
This comprehensive health education course is designed to provide high school students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about their physical, mental, and social well-being. The course will cover a wide range of topics, including stress and psychological health, relationships and communication, nutrition and exercise, drugs, sexuality and pregnancy and childbirth, immunity and infection, STDs and AIDS, cardiovascular disease and cancer, and environmental health. Students will engage in laboratory activities to enhance their understanding of the topics and will learn and adhere to safety protocols during these activities.

STEM
This STEM course provides intentionally designed and linked learning experiences for students to develop and apply understandings of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts and processes. Integrated STEM education exemplifies best practice instruction from each field to explore relevant questions and problems based in the natural and designed world as well as to explore STEM careers and jobs. Arts are incorporated as part of individual projects.

Forensic Science and Crime Scene Analysis
Forensic Science is an exciting field that combines scientific principles with investigative techniques to solve crimes and analyze evidence. This introductory course will cover various branches of forensic science, including anthropology, chemistry, genetics, engineering, and crime scene surveying. Through hands-on activities, projects, and discussions, students will learn the fundamental concepts and methods used by forensic scientists to aid law enforcement and the justice system in solving criminal cases.

6. Foreign language: French as a Second Language (FSL)

All French classes are 5 hours a week. Per skill level classes.

French 1 (A1) - Elementary
Students will be able to master basic communicative language skills in authentic communication situations. They will have a choice of expressions and simple structures to introduce themselves, talk about their activities and habits, describe, situate themselves in time and space, express their tastes and opinions, ask for and give information, talk about events past or to come. Thanks to this basic knowledge, they will be able to understand short statements, express simply but clearly basic needs or share personal experiences, projects or events. The course is organized around two parts, one devoted to writing and the other to speaking, where comprehension, production and interaction will be discussed, with speaking remaining a priority.

French 2 (A2) - Pre-intermediate level
Students will be able to master basic communicative language skills in authentic communication situations. They will have a choice of expressions and simple structures to introduce themselves, talk about their activities and habits, describe, situate themselves in time and space, express their tastes and opinions, ask for and give information, talk about events past or to come. Thanks to this basic knowledge, they will be able to understand short statements, express simply but clearly basic needs or share personal experiences, projects or events. The course is organized around two parts, one devoted to writing and the other to speaking, where comprehension, production and interaction will be discussed, with speaking remaining a priority.

French Literature
In Literature class, students will explore Francophone literature as a whole. They will not only discover French authors but also go beyond the borders of mainland France to encounter Francophone writers from various parts of the world. Through literature, this will be an opportunity to gain insight into French culture in all its diversity and to immerse ourselves in the history of France by studying some of the greatest writers of the past few centuries. Students will read a wide range of texts, covering multiple genres and periods, from the 16th to the 21st century.

AP French Language & Culture
Language and communication are at the heart of human experience. Students must become linguistically and culturally equipped to communicate successfully in a pluralistic society. The AP French Language and Culture course is equivalent to an intermediate college-level course, mastering linguistic and cultural aspects of French-speaking world. As per the AP French Language and Culture Curriculum Framework, the objective of the course is to prepare students for the AP French Language and Culture examination and show proficiency in each of the three modes of communication (Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational). Students progress in reading, writing, listening and speaking, as well as cultural awareness. The course integrates thematic expression of vocabulary and integration of grammar review topics. Vocabulary is introduced by six themes through which students learn to communicate. Authentic resources are predominant sources of preparation material. The course is open to all interested and highly motivated students. Students will be expected to communicate entirely in the target language in AP French Language and Culture as they compare and contrast Francophone cultures with their personal communities and connect their studies with other disciplines. AP French emphasizes language immersion, as the course is taught exclusively in French.

During school holidays, Nacel France offers intensive French courses in various regions of France: Rouen, Lyon, and Montpellier. French summer courses in Paris are also organized before the start of school.

7. Fine/Performing Arts

Electives are not offered every semester; they are subject to scheduling requirements.

Studio Art
In this class, we will explore different artistic notions through art creation, using various materials, mediums and techniques, while working either individually or in small groups. Each student will learn how to express themselves through creation, as well as expressing their ideas. To do that, they will train their representation skills with exercises each week. No matter what their skills are at the beginning of the year, each student can and is encouraged to improve, by deepening their work and asking for the teacher’s help.

Online Classes with Edmentum

Additional Online Classes: 

The school approves online classes offered by Edmentum.
Edmentum may offer the below listed AP classes. All AP courses are NCAA-approved.

Here is the list of AP Courses for SY 23-24 :
• Advanced Calculus AB A/B
• Advanced English Literature & Composition A/B
• Advanced U.S. History A/B
• Advanced Government and Politics A
• Advanced Biology A/B
• Advanced Chemistry A/B
• Advanced Environmental Science A/B
• Advanced Computer Science A
• Advanced French A/B
• Advanced Spanish A/B
• Advanced Macroeconomics
• Advanced Microeconomics
• Advanced Statistics
• Advanced Psychology

Edmentum's course offerings are to be downloaded here. 

Students may eventually attend an online class to complete their schedule if need be. A contract must be signed between Notre Dame International High School, the student and Edmentum. Students cannot enroll in such a course without the school's prior approval. The school monitors the student's progress on Edmentum. 

Courses done online are not part of the official NDIHS course offer and hence will not appear on NDIHS transcripts. In such cases a separate result report or transcript is obtained from the responsible authorities.