Grade 10

One Quarter

¼ credit

This course focuses on the specific moral decisions of life in the Upper School: lying, cheating, stealing, drinking, and relationships, among others.

Grades 10–12

One Quarter

¼ credit

This course focuses on recognizing and analyzing Christian themes that appear in films, such as redemption, sin, repentance, human freedom, and love. Films range from “Freedom Rider” to “Chariots of Fire.”

Grades 9-11

One Semester 

½ credit

This course focuses on the Bible, starting with fundamental readings from the Hebrew Scriptures but spending a majority of time on the Christian writings that comprise the New Testament. In order to help students understand the complexities involved in Christianity continuing to be a major influence on culture in the modern world, there are periodic forays into historical and contemporary material that illustrate the interplay of religion and culture. For example, time is spent on modern ways of interpreting scripture that have shaped our western world and American society. Students consider how modern science has challenged the traditional Christian world-view, and question the degree to which politics should be influenced by religious belief.

Grades 10-12

One Quarter

¼ credit

Over the past half century, the United States of America has simultaneously become more religiously diverse and less religious over all. For the first time in American history, less than half the adult population of America identifies as Protestant. At the same time, the percentage of Americans identifying as Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Jewish, Agnostic, Atheist, and “None” has grown, accounting for over 30% of the American population. This demographic shift has been accompanied by the resurgence of perennial debates in American history: Which religions are authentically American, welcome in America, or compatible with American life? In this course, we’ll explore these debates in relation to identity formation, community building, and negotiating life as a religious minority in a pluralistic society.

Grades 9-12

One Quarter

1/4 credit

This course will explore the numerous roles that music plays in religious and spiritual contexts around the world. We will compare religious musical practice from a global perspective, exploring the connections between religious doctrines, rituals, and cultural performances. The scope of the class will cover the major world religions using listening, analysis, and discussion to develop a foundation of understanding for music’s role to express reverence for and connection with the divine.