Courses Offered

ENGL1007: Seminar and Studio in Academic Writing and Multimodal Composition

 (FY: Fall & Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 4

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $200

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

UConn Course Name: MAST1200: Introduction to Maritime Culture (FY: Fall & Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 3

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $150

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

NRE1000E: Environmental Science 

(FY: Fall & Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 3

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $150

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

UConn Course Name:

• SPSS1110: Fundamentals of Horticulture (FY)
• SPSS2520: Floral Art (Fall)
• SPSS3530: Advanced Floral Design (Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 7

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $350

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

UConn Course Name: MARN1003E: Introduction to Oceanography with Lab (FY: Fall & Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 4

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $200

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

UConn Course Name: MARN1001E: The Sea Around Us (FY: Fall & Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 3

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $150

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

UConn Course Name: 

• SPAN3178: Intermediate Spanish Composition (Fall)
• SPAN3179: Spanish Conversation: Cultural Topics (Spring)

# of UConn Credits: 6

*ECE Fee $50/Credit: $300

*College Board AP Exam Fee: -

All *College Board Exam Fees are $98 as set by the College Board for the following AP courses offered:

*These fees are subject to change by the University of Connecticut and the College Board

**MSMHS strongly believes that no student should avoid taking an AP or ECE course due to financial difficulties. Students who qualify for Federally Subsidized  Meal Programs as determined by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) are eligible for a full program fee waiver. Students should contact their counselor. Any student with financial hardships may meet confidentially with the principal for financial assistance. 

English I

ENG0210 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course promotes literacy and academic achievement in English Language Arts through enriched experiences in literature, writing, speaking, and listening. The content explores the major concepts of Humanity, Archetypes, Conflict, and Perception through the close reading and analysis of selected novels, short stories, nonfiction, and poetry. Students gain perspectives and communicate their understanding and ideas through classroom discussion, oral presentations, and formal and informal writing experiences. Composition instruction focuses on using the writing process in creative, logical, and critical modes, as well as frequent practice in all aspects of the writing process. Preparation for the SAT is embedded.

English II or English II Honors

ENG0220/ENG0229 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore Year 

*NCAA Approved

English II is designed to allow students to further develop their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Texts include novels, nonfiction, poetry, and short stories, all of which are of a higher level of complexity than the texts used in English I. The course includes instruction in critical analysis with an emphasis on the creative, logical, and critical aspects of reading, literary analysis, and composition. Students should expect to read challenging material, write for a variety of purposes, and engage in discussions. Preparation for the SAT is embedded. At the start of the school year, all 10th grade students will be enrolled in English II (ENG0220). Students who wish to earn Honors credit in English II (ENG0229) must meet honors level expectations and

ENG0230 Full Year 1 credit

Junior Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course explores the major concepts of Cause and Effect, Migration, Social Inequality, Innovation, Change, Prosperity, Patterns, Conflict, and Community as evident in both nonfiction and fiction published at various times in American history. Through a variety of activities, close readings and informal as well as formal analyses, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of our national cultural identity against the background of world events.  Composition instruction includes frequent practice in writing multi-paragraph essays in a variety of types, including documented papers. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

ENG0258

Full Year                                                 

1 credit

Junior Year

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

In this college level course, students will develop and hone their reading, thinking, writing, and discussion skills through a study of rhetoric and argument. Written assignments will include essays that are analytical and persuasive, as well as personal and reflective.  Class will be conducted in seminar format, and students will be expected to participate actively in daily discussions. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement Exam in May. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

ENG0240 Full Year 1 credit

Senior Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course refines the students’ ability to compose personal and academic essays connecting to and analyzing readings of contemporary literature. Students specifically focus on the composition and completion of their college admissions essay, analysis of nonfiction/ fiction contemporary literature, and the close reading of contemporary poetry and plays. The course provides the opportunity for students to refine and build off of their composition skills in order to prepare themselves for their future in higher education. Through feedback cycles of editing, revising, and submission, students are provided multiple opportunities to reflect on their work, improve it, and progress throughout the course.

ENG0239 Full Year                          

1 credit/4 UConn credits

UConn Course Name: ENGL1007: Seminar and Studio in Academic Writing and Multimodal Composition

Senior Year

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This First Year Writing course (required of all students at UConn and many other colleges), will focus on college composition through multiple forms of literacy, including rhetorical, digital, and information literacies necessary for twenty-first-century contexts. Working collaboratively, students will develop creative and intellectual inquiries through sustained engagement with texts, ideas, and problems. The course will emphasize the transfer of writing and rhetorical skills to academic and daily life. Students will spend 25% of class time in studio work, exploring and working collaboratively to produce multimodal compositions (may include podcasts, videos, etc.). Peer review and feedback will be an important element of the course. Students will design a digital portfolio that curates creations and skill-based micro-credentials they earn in coursework. Specific summer reading with a corollary written assignment is required. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course.

AP English Literature and Composition 

ENG0278                                                                 

Full Year                          

1 credit

Senior Year

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

In this college level literature course, students will hone their analytical thinking and writing skills through deep study of poetry and fiction. Class will be conducted in seminar format, and students will be expected to participate actively in daily discussions.  Students will read challenging material and write frequently, both AP style in-class essays and more sustained revised papers.  Specific summer reading with a corollary written assignment is required. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement Exam in May. Preparation for SAT is embedded.  

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

MTH0110 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course will enable the student to reach an understanding and appreciation of some of the algebraic structures exhibited by the real number system. Importance is placed on the development of manipulative skills and on the use of variables in problem solving situations. Students are introduced to the techniques for solving linear, quadratic and systems of equations, solving inequalities, manipulating radicals, graphing, and manipulating polynomial expressions. Throughout the course there will be an emphasis on problem solving, the use of technology, and real-world applications. Common Core State Standards are followed. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

MTH0120 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman or Sophomore Year 

Prerequisite: Algebra I

*NCAA Approved

This course will enable the student to gain an understanding of the basic structure of Euclidean geometry and to develop powers of spatial visualization and reasoning, while building knowledge of the relationship among geometric elements. Topics covered include congruence, construction, polygons, trigonometry, conics, three-dimensional shapes and probability. Stress will be placed on the deductive role in the study of mathematics and the student will be led to discover and appreciate the need for precision of language in mathematics. Algebraic skills will be constantly developed, used and strengthened. The methods of coordinate geometry will be emphasized and the presentation will integrate the important concepts and skills of algebra and geometry. Common Core State Standards are followed. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

MTH0130 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore or Junior Year 

Prerequisite: Geometry

*NCAA Approved

This course will enable the student to gain a richer understanding of the algebraic structure of the real number system. While the emphasis of the course is on manipulative skills, considerable attention is given to mathematical structure and logic. The content of the course includes first degree, linear, and quadratic equations and inequalities, system of equations, data interpretations, matrices, polynomial and fractional expressions, exponents, radicals, complex numbers, conic sections, and inferential statistics. Mathematical modeling, problem solving and multiple representations are stressed. Common Core State Standards are followed. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

MTH0135

Full Year            

1 credit

Freshman, Sophomore or Junior Year 

Prerequisite: A- or better in Geometry and teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

The Honors Algebra II course examines the concepts and techniques of advanced algebra and discrete mathematics. The emphasis in the course’s development is on the logic and structure of algebra operations and manipulations and on the concept of a function. Linear, quadratic, polynomial and rational functions are discussed with regard to their relationship to algebraic operations and manipulative skills. Topics discussed include equations, inequalities, inferential statistics, data interpretation, matrices and conic sections. Technology is integrated throughout the course. The goals of Honors Algebra II are the development of competent algebra technicians, thinkers, and problem solvers. Common Core State Standards are followed. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

MTH0144

Full Year

1 credit

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Algebra II Honors or Algebra II 

*NCAA Approved

This course extends Algebra II topics and introduces major topics of trigonometry.  It serves as a bridge between Algebra II and Pre-Calculus Honors and is designed to prepare students for post-secondary mathematics. Topics covered include rational equations, radical equations, right triangle trigonometry, the unit circle, graphs of trigonometric functions and their transformations, trigonometric identities, equation solving and applications of trigonometric functions (including inverse trigonometric functions). The use of the graphing calculator is an integral component of the course and helps to build a deeper understanding of the concepts. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

MTH0145 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: A- or better in Algebra II or B+ or better in Algebra II Honors and teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

Honors Pre-Calculus is designed to prepare students for a rigorous college level calculus course and/or Advanced Placement Calculus offered at the high school level. Students are expected to demonstrate individual initiative, independent study, and a high level of commitment to the study of mathematics. The study of trigonometry includes right triangle and oblique triangle trigonometry, trigonometric and circular functions, graphing, identities, equations, vectors, and polar coordinates. Technology is an integral component of the course and helps to build a deeper understanding of the concepts of trigonometry and functions. In addition, technology allows the course to focus on exploration, problem solving, and multiple representations to build a deeper understanding of algebraic techniques. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

*A graphing calculator is required for this course.

MTH0158

Full Year

1 credit

Sophomore, Junior, or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: B+ or better in Pre-Calculus Honors and teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course is rigorous and requires students to understand an abstract approach to the theorems and applications of calculus. Calculus AB follows the AB syllabus of the Advanced Placement program. The goals of the AP Calculus sequence is to provide students with a rigorous course in differential and integral calculus prior to their entrance to college and to provide students with an opportunity to earn college credit in mathematics. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement exam given in May. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

*A graphing calculator is required for this course. 

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course. 

MTH0179                                                          Full Year                                              1 credit

Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Completion of AP/ECE Calculus AB and teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course includes all topics covered in Calculus AB plus additional topics focusing on the calculus of functions of a single variable. AP Calculus BC is the study of limits, derivatives, definite and indefinite integrals, polynomial approximations and (infinite) series. Though this is considered a study of single-variable calculus, parametric, polar, and vector functions will be studied. Consistent with AP philosophy, concepts will be expressed and analyzed geometrically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement Exam in May.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

MTH0169 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II and teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course is rigorous and requires students to think about designs of the studies which produced the data they are analyzing and to consider the possible effect of outlying observations on their conclusions. This course follows the national AP Statistics curriculum. The goal of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data and to provide students with an opportunity to earn advanced placement and/or college credit in mathematics. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement exam given in May. Preparation for SAT is embedded.

*A graphing calculator is required for this course. 

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

Real World Math and Statistics

MTH0170                                                         Full Year                                              1 credit

Junior or Senior Year 

This course focuses on mathematics applied to solving practical problems in a variety of disciplines in the world around us.  Mathematical topics include but are not limited to probability, statistics, financial mathematics, linear programing, cryptography, problem solving and logic puzzles, and voting theory.  Students will use problem solving skills to collect and analyze data to help make informed decisions about real world mathematical issues.  A solid understanding of math including algebra, basic geometry, statistics, and probability provides the necessary foundation for students interested in careers in business and skilled trade areas.

SCI0610 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman Year 

*NCAA Approved

This college prep course will offer students learning opportunities across the physical, & earth sciences by providing engaging, authentic experiences in the interdisciplinary connections which bridge science and society. Integrated Science is rich with inquiry-oriented laboratory activities, where students collect, analyze, and share data with each other. Topics include force and motion, energy transformations, fundamentals of the periodic table, electricity and magnetism, mechanical and electromagnetic waves and the development of technology for studying outer space. Students will develop and apply problem solving strategies to gather and interpret data and to then communicate their findings. Assessments will include problem-based learning activities where students will be exploring rigorous science concepts as they relate to their everyday lives.

SCI0620 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman Year 

Introducing Ocean Literacy Principle #6 “The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected,” this course focuses on our dependence on the ocean as a source of valuable products. Through a variety of classroom design projects, lab dissections and water quality experiments, enhanced by field trip programs with Project Oceanology, students explore commercial fishing strategies, science research and analysis, and aquaculture production methods. Access to the MSMHS aquaculture facility helps understand the complexity of fish farming using closed system aquaculture. This introductory course prepares students for electives in advanced aquaculture and marine science courses.

SCI0810 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman Year

*NCAA Approved

This course has been designed to prepare students for college biology courses. Students will be expected to apply effective strategies for problem solving by gathering information, analyzing and interpreting data, thinking critically, and communicating solutions. The topics will include the most recent discoveries in biology including bio-molecules, cell structure, energy conversion and utilization in cells, cell reproduction, movement of bio-molecules in cells, the structure of nucleic acids, protein synthesis, and genetics. This is a laboratory science course; lab techniques will be taught and learned as students complete laboratory investigations in each major topic studied. Students will be expected to employ technology appropriately to facilitate learning, research, and communication.

SCI0820

Full Year

1 total credit

Sophomore Year 

*NCAA Approved

This college prep course will offer students learning opportunities across the curriculum in the field of science. Furthermore, students will develop an understanding and appreciation for living systems (including themselves) and the skills and knowledge needed to address biological issues that are important and relative to their lives and the society in which they live. Such issues include, but are not limited to, the origin of biodiversity, ecology, biogeochemical cycles, scientific ethics, climate change, air pollution, water pollution, urbanization, impacts of human population on the environment, environmental problems and sociobiology. 

SCI0828 Full Year

UConn Course Name: NRE:1000E Environmental Science

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year 1.5  credit/3 UConn credits

Prerequisite:  Sophomores: Teacher recommendation and A- or better in Integrated Science and Biology

*NCAA Approved

The purpose of this course is to explore human interaction with the environment. Content includes, but is not limited to, forms of pollution, conservation, environmental policy, land use, population dynamics, and major forms of energy. Laboratory investigations of selected topics in the content also include the scientific method, measurement, lab safety, and dimensional analysis. 

Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course.

SCI0640 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore Year 

In this full-year course, students will engage in an exploration of boating skills and safety to engage in ocean exploration or pursue a maritime career. Students will learn to become competent navigators through a study of tides, currents, small boat handling, and aids to navigation. Practical navigational skills such as identification and interpretation of lights and buoys, chart reading, completion of tide and current tables, and voyage planning will be practiced in both the classroom and through the use of our state of the art boat simulator. The class also includes field trips to New England Science and Sailing for hands-on boat handling training. Project based learning will be involved to explore the impact of boats on our national waterways to investigate connections between our use of the environment and our impact on it.

SCI0715 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year

Prerequisite: Completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II

*NCAA Approved

Chemistry Honors is for students interested in exploring science and engineering pathways. This course will investigate interactions around different energy and matter, incorporating higher level mathematical relationships and reasoning. The necessary math skills include algebraic manipulation, graphing, and data analysis. This fast paced, college prep, laboratory-oriented course helps grow student skills in science literacy and develop a lifelong awareness of the potential limitations of science and technology. Students will develop understanding and skills in fundamental concepts, practical applications, laboratory techniques and mathematical applications. Topics include atomic structure, chemical reactions, chemical quantities, kinetic theory, and thermodynamics. This course will prepare students to take AP Chemistry.

SCI0719 Full Year 2 credits

Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry Honors, completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II , and teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This is a college-level course designed to conform to the Advanced Placement Chemistry Program. Appropriate lab experiences are used which emphasize qualitative, quantitative, and instrumental methods of analysis. Students taking this course are expected to take the corresponding national Advanced Placement exam in May.

 Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

SCI0730

Full Year

1 credit

Junior Year 

*NCAA Approved

The purpose of this course is to provide students with a survey of the world’s oceans. Students will explore ocean features, marine organisms and their habitats, environmental issues in ocean chemistry, and the ocean’s influence on our weather and current events. This course will incorporate laboratory investigations and use student generated questions to problem solve as active citizens in a coastal community.

SCI0738 Full Year 1 credit/4 UConn credits

UConn Course Name: MARN1003: Introduction to Oceanography with Laboratory

Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course covers the geology, chemistry, physics and biological processes of the world’s oceans. The first half of the course will focus on the formation of the Earth, beach erosion and ocean chemistry.  The second half of the course will focus on ocean circulation, waves and biological productivity.  Students will examine marine conservation issues as well as impacts the ocean has on their lives. 

Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course.

SCI0750

Full Year

1 credit

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year

Sophomore Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

In this course, students will be introduced to advanced aquaculture topics revolving around the idea of resource management. Topics will include sustainability, natural resource conservation, marine ecology, and food management. Students will investigate the seafood business through work with local farmers, seafood wholesalers, and area restaurants.  Exposure to coastal industries, local exports, and international imports will guide students in becoming aware of local resources. 

*Counts toward Aquaculture Related Course graduation requirement. 

SCI0755 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year 

This course offers students an immersive introductory experience in the world of aquaculture business. It explores the entrepreneurial characteristics needed in opening and maintaining a sustainable aquaculture business.  Students will develop their own industry-specific product or service in order to identify challenges and opportunities in the aquaculture market. Students will lead the management of the MSMHS coral growing operation and gain hands-on experience in product financing, marketing, and sales. This course allows students to lead activities that will provide them with applicable skills necessary to succeed in a constantly changing aquaculture workplace.

*Counts toward Aquaculture Related Course graduation requirement.

SCI0870 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year 

Sophomore Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

This course examines the present-day aquatic animal husbandry industries. In collaboration with Mystic Aquarium, students will explore the physical, chemical and biological processes occurring in the aquarium environment. Students will be responsible for the ownership of their own aquarium and will master the proper set-up and maintenance of home aquaria. Furthermore, students will examine the relationship between a variety of organisms in a balanced coral reef aquarium and make comparisons to the natural environment. 

*Counts toward Aquaculture Related Course graduation requirement.

SCI0875 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year

*Counts toward Aquaculture Related Course graduation requirement.

This course will allow students the opportunity to experience authentic and relevant research on the coral reef ecosystem. Students will investigate the impacts that humans have on coral reefs by analyzing current research, conducting experiments on coral growth and breeding marine ornamental fish. In addition, students will explore the aquarium industry and will take an in depth look at the public and private sector by visiting these unique facilities. Furthermore, students will be intimately involved in the ornamental fish aquaculture research being conducted in the MSMHS/Mystic Aquarium Joint Aquaculture Research Lab. 

SCI0819 Full Year 2 credits

Junior or Senior Year

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course will prepare students to take the National Advanced Placement Biology Exam. Students will be expected to apply effective strategies for problem solving by gathering information, analyzing and interpreting data, thinking critically, and communicating solutions. Students will be expected to employ technology appropriately to facilitate learning, research, and communication. A significant portion of the course will include laboratory investigations recommended by the College Board, which directly relate to the topics being studied with an emphasis on the Four Big Ideas. Students taking this course are expected to take the corresponding national Advanced Placement exam in May.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

SCI0770 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year

Prerequisite: successful completion of Biology

*NCAA Approved

This course will enable students to develop an understanding of the relationships between the structures and functions of the human body systems. Students will engage in many topics and competencies related to truly understanding the structure and function of the human body. Students will complete investigations to understand and explain the behavior of the human body in a variety of scenarios that incorporate scientific reasoning, analysis, communication skills and real world applications. Activities completed throughout the school year include dissections of the heart and brain, creating rehabilitation plans for individuals with muscle strains, completing a urinalysis of patients and investigating various diseases and disorders that impact the human body. 

SCI0780 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year

Prerequisite: B or better in Algebra II or a C+ or better in Algebra II Honors

*NCAA Approved

This course will be conducted using laboratory-based instructional strategies to develop conceptual understandings of physics principles. Honors Physics will stress both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of forces and motion, the conservation laws, the properties of matter, oscillations and waves, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics. Given the quantitative nature of solving problems and interpreting data a strong mathematics background is essential for success in this honors level endeavor.

SCI0919 Full Year 1 credit/3 UConn credits

UConn Course Name: MARN1001E The Sea Around Us

Junior or Senior Year

*Counts toward Aquaculture Related Course graduation requirement.

*NCAA Approved

Taking it to the next level of understanding, this course explores how “The ocean and humans are inextricably interconnected.” (Ocean Literacy Principle #6) Through frequent trips to local coastal environments, a variety of inquiry labs, and activities that mimic finding resolutions to complex challenges, students better understand the integration of the environment, economy, and society. The Sea Around Us reinforces and applies understanding of content from a variety of science and humanities courses, including Environmental Science, World Maritime History, Marine Science, and Real World Math. This course prepares students for college level courses and entry level employment in ocean science, advocacy, and policy careers.

Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course.

SCI0850 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year

*NCAA Approved

This course focuses on the skills and concepts behind crime scene investigations and forensic science. Students explore the different types of physical evidence such as fingerprints, digital evidence, forensic serology, DNA, and hairs, fibers, and blood splatter. This course analyzes the significance of each piece of evidence and how it plays in processing a crime scene.  Activities completed throughout the school year include investigations of case studies, blood analysis, famous crimes podcast, and analysis of cases related to the Innocence Project.

SCI0909 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year

*NCAA Approved

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, fostering computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing changes the world. Students are encouraged to apply creative processes when developing computational artifacts and while using simulations to explore questions of interest. There is a focus on using technology and programming as a means to solve problems. This course highlights the relevance of computer science by emphasizing the vital impact advances in computing have on people and society. Students taking this course are expected to take the corresponding national Advanced Placement exam in May.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course

SCI0889 Full Year 1 credit/7 UConn credits

UConn Course Name: SPSS1110/SPSS3530: Fundamentals of Horticulture/Floral Art/Advanced Floral Design

Junior or Senior Year

*Counts toward Aquaculture Related Course graduation requirement 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

This course introduces students to the science and practice of propagating and maintaining plants; basic concepts of plant structure, growth, and function; integrated pest management; horticulture effects on the environment; landscape design and careers in the horticulture field.  Embedded throughout the year will be floral design techniques and business skills connected to the floral industry.  

 Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course

SOC0310 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course will focus on the need, purpose, and structure of government, the law-making process, an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and current events.  Emphasis is placed on the roles of the government at the federal, state, and local levels.  Each major unit of study will also highlight the roles of government and citizens in maintaining the environment and solving environmental problems.  Students will work to develop skills in reading, writing, and accountable talk through argumentative writing assignments and class discussion.

SOC0320 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore Year 

*NCAA Approved

Throughout history the sea has served as a barrier, a highway, a source of commerce, an arena for warfare, and stage for discovery and exploration. This course will explore topics in World History to understand the international maritime culture that links peoples, nations, economies, environments, and cultural aesthetics. The following topics will be explored: world geography and early exploration; life at sea and the evolution of ocean-going vessels; transportation and commerce across the sea; conflict and the struggle for power on the oceans; and finally, an intensive examination of the history, economics, and impacts of whaling. Throughout each unit, students will gain an understanding of how the history of the world has been shaped by interactions with the sea.

SOC0328

Full Year

1 credit/3 UConn Credits

UConn Course Name: MAST1200: Introduction to Maritime Culture

Sophomore Year 

Prerequisite: Social Studies and English teacher recommendations

*NCAA Approved

This course provides students who are ready and prepared for the demands and rigor of a college course with an opportunity to earn college credit during their sophomore year. This is a reading and writing intensive course. Throughout history the sea has served as a barrier, a highway, a source of commerce, an arena for warfare, and stage for discovery and exploration. This course will explore topics in World History to understand the international maritime culture that links peoples, nations, economies, environments, and cultural aesthetics. The following topics will be explored: world geography and early exploration; life at sea and the evolution of ocean-going vessels; transportation and commerce across the sea; conflict and the struggle for power on the oceans; and finally, an intensive examination of the history, economics, and impacts of whaling. Throughout each unit, students will gain an understanding of how the history of the world has been shaped by interactions with the sea.

Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course.

SOC0330 Full Year 1 credit

Junior Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course is designed to give students a general overview of U.S. History.  Students will explore the major historical events in the history of the U.S. from the colonial antebellum period to modern times.  Through readings, writing and critical thinking assignments, video/film, projects and simulations, students will gain an understanding of major historical figures and events, and the causes and consequences that have shaped our nation’s history, and particularly its role in the world.  Preparation for the SAT is embedded.

SOC0338 Full Year 1 credit

Junior Year 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course provides a challenging, accelerated approach to exploring U.S. History from the pre-colonial period through the beginning of the 21st century.  It simulates a true college experience with diversified readings and discussion material, in-depth writing activities, and analysis and synthesis of information.  All enrolled students must take the Advanced Placement examination in May. Preparation for the SAT is embedded.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course. 

SOC0359 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This course is intended to expose students to the social science of psychology. Through this rigorous course, students gain a better understanding of human behavior and mental process. Students become acquainted with the breadth of the field and obtain practical, useful, information, as well as a wealth of knowledge that will hopefully excite their curiosity and increase their understanding of peoples’ thoughts and actions. This course exposes the students to psychology and its methods, biological influences within psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and clinical psychology. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement Exam in May.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

SOC0369 Full Year 1 credit

Junior or Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved

This Advanced Placement course provides students with an understanding of economic principles to analyze and predict the decisions of producers and consumers in allocating their resources for optimal production and consumption. In addition to learning the basic principles of economic study, students will learn to examine different economic systems through the use of common models such as the supply and demand graph. AP microeconomics will give students tools to understand decisions of businesses and also themselves as consumers. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement Exam in May.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

ART0929                                                                     

Full Year                                       

1 credit

Junior or Senior Year

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

*NCAA Approved 

In this rigorous, college level course, students will investigate the diverse artistic traditions of cultures from prehistory to the present and will develop an in-depth and holistic understanding of the history of the world through art. Students will learn and apply skills of visual, contextual, and comparative analysis to engage with a variety of art forms, processes, and products.  The course will offer unique interactions with art professionals through guest lectures and field trips to museums, including a tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Students taking this course must take the corresponding national Advanced Placement Exam in May.

Please note that there is a fee set by the College Board for students taking this course.

SOC0399 Full Year 1 credit 

Sophomore, Junior or Senior Year 

*NCAA Approved

The course is an opportunity for students to explore accomplishments, struggles, intersections, perspectives, and collaborations of African American/Black and Puerto Rican/Latino people in the U.S. Students will examine how historical movements, legislation, and wars affected the citizenship rights of these groups and how they, both separately and together, worked to build U.S. cultural and economic wealth and create more just societies in local, national, and international contexts. Coursework will provide students with tools to identify historic and contemporary tensions around race and difference; map economic and racial disparities over time; strengthen their own identity development; and address bias in their communities.

WLA0400 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course allows students to explore the many different Hispanic cultures and countries that make up the Spanish speaking world. Students will participate in project and inquiry based learning, allowing them to examine and analyze differences between American and a wide variety of Latino cultures. The highly interactive approach to instruction will lead the students to a level of competency that will enable them to successfully apply Spanish language to describe and understand Hispanic culture. This course may be taken as an elective or to meet the Foreign Language graduation requirement with a teacher recommendation. This course does not meet the prerequisite to enter Spanish II the following year. 

WLA0410 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

*NCAA Approved

This course will introduce students to the Spanish language and its culture. Basic Spanish grammar and vocabulary, as well as listening, speaking, reading and writing skills will develop during this course. In addition, the study of Spanish speaking cultures will be emphasized.

WLA0420

Full Year

1 credit

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Spanish I Final Grade C or better at MSMHS or other high school

*NCAA Approved

At the beginning of this course there is a review of the topics covered in Spanish I. Spanish II builds on the foundation of Spanish I and continues to develop the four language skills begun in Spanish I. There is more emphasis on reading and writing skills as well as the study of the differences and similarities of Spanish speaking cultures.

WLA0430 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Spanish II Final Grade C or better

*NCAA Approved

Spanish III presents the more complex structures of basic Spanish and expands the cultural themes as well as emphasizes the development of the four language skills. This course is an extension of Spanish II expanding on what the students have learned and adding vocabulary, more advanced grammar structure, and more in-depth cultural experiences. This class will be conducted primarily in Spanish.

WLA0459

Full Year

1 credit/6 UConn credits 

UConn Course Name: SPAN3178 Intermediate Spanish Composition (Fall)

SPAN3179 Spanish Conversion: Cultural Topics (Spring)

Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Spanish III Final Grade B- or better 

*NCAA Approved

ECE Spanish is designed to prepare students who have chosen to develop their proficiency in Spanish at the college level and have demonstrated a high level of competence in the four communicative skills. The content will include but not be limited to that determined by UConn. This course stresses active use of contemporary Spanish and literary analysis. 

 Please note that there is a fee set by UConn for students taking this course. 

HPE0110 Full Year 1 credit

Sophomore Year

This is a full year course aligned with the Healthy and Balanced Living Framework. Half of the year is dedicated to Physical Education and half of the year is dedicated to Health. Activities in the Physical Education curriculum are designed to promote an active lifestyle beyond high school by emphasizing a positive environment for students to be themselves. Skills promoted in Physical Education can include the following: the benefits of physical fitness, teamwork, cooperation, good sportsmanship, and the importance of an active lifestyle. Health and Wellness helps students examine their lifestyles, select goals, and make plans to achieve and maintain overall wellness. Health units may include the following: health literacy, nutrition, social media, tobacco and vaping, alcohol, drugs (including opioids), diseases, mental health and suicide prevention, safety and CPR, sex education, STDs and AIDS.

HPE0900

Full Year

1 credit

Junior or Senior Year

Prerequisite: Health/PE teacher recommendations

This course provides 11th and 12th grade students the opportunity to apply leadership skills in a student leader role within 10th grade Health and P.E. classes.  Students are selected to assist the teacher in both instruction and class management for the entire school year.  Students should display a positive attitude, kindness towards others, good character, responsibility and the ability to act as a role model.  This is a Pass/Fail course and will not count towards calculating GPA or Honor Roll.

SAM0518 Full Year 1 credit

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

Prerequisite:  Recommendation by a member of the student’s school team

This course focuses on learning styles, time management, executive functioning skills, and test-taking strategies, while simultaneously supporting each student’s academic programs. This course also focuses on skill building in identified specific areas. Each student’s class will be personalized depending on the student’s grade level and specific skills in need of improvement. This course will assist students in becoming active, independent learners. This is a Pass/Fail course and will not count towards calculating GPA or Honor Roll.

ELD0100

Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior Year 

Prerequisite: Spanish teacher recommendation

This course promotes academic and social linguistic development in English listening, speaking, reading and writing. Through the integrated and interactive study of sheltered academic content, students learn to apply their English language skills to all content courses in the Science, English, Social Studies and Math departments. This course aims to linguistically challenge each student as they progress through the levels of language proficiency. 

SCI0900                                                                   

Full Year                                                      

1 credit

Senior Year

Prerequisite: Approval from Administration 

This course provides seniors with an opportunity to apply technical skills and competencies to real life processes and settings. Students will work three or more hours per week in nonpaying jobs related to their career interests in the marine related field or any other field that the student is interested in studying at the post-secondary level. Mentors will evaluate the student’s job performance. All Senior Internship placements must be secured by the student, have approval from administration, and written commitment from the placement. This is a Pass/Fail course and will not count towards calculating GPA or Honor Roll.