Courses & Curriculum

Department Philosophy

The Seton Catholic English department teaches students to read critically while interpreting, analyzing, and writing for a variety of purposes through Pre-AP and AP courses. Through the study of literature and language, our students are challenged and encouraged to make connections to spiritual, emotional, and physical health and to lead moral lives for others. Infusing Common Core State Standards into the curriculum alongside our Catholic faith and values prepares our students to be successful at any college. Students are required to complete 4 years of English classes at Seton Catholic.

Course Offerings

Honors English 9 (1 credit)

This course refines the language arts skills of students entering Seton from a variety of backgrounds. It focuses on the mastery of the basic elements of the English language and specific literary types. It seeks to develop a foundation on which subsequent English courses can be built. After an initial review of paragraph skills, this course will develop an understanding of the writing process and proceed to more sophisticated types of writing. This class will use literary content to develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, research, vocabulary, organization, and critical thinking. Additional texts will be used to teach particular skills.

Honors English 10 (1 credit)

This course further refines the skills learned in Pre-AP English 9 / English 9. It focuses on the mastery of the English language and specific literary types. The literary focus is literature from around the world to introduce students to different perspectives and writing techniques. It seeks to further develop the foundation on which subsequent English classes are built. This course continues to put into practice the writing process and includes a unit on basic speech skills. This class will use literary content to develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, research, vocabulary, organization, and critical thinking. Additional texts will be used to teach particular skills.

AP Language and Composition (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11

Prerequisite: Approval of present English teacher.

The AP Language and Composition course is designed to help students become skilled readers of prose from a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts. The students will also become skilled writers who can compose for a variety of purposes. Through writing and reading experiences in this course, students should become aware of the interactions among writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects, as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effective writing. Emphasis is placed on collegiate level writing that includes a 15-20 page research based thesis paper.

Creative Nonfiction: Truth in the Making (1 credit)  *Not offered every year*

Grades: 11-12

Prerequisite: Honors English 9 & 10

Creative Nonfiction (memoir, arguments, journalism, speech and debate). This course invites students to explore the art of creative nonfiction through the lens of argumentation and rhetoric. By blending factual storytelling with persuasive techniques, students will learn how to craft compelling narratives that not only inform but also influence and engage readers. Through reading essays, memoirs, and journalistic pieces, students will examine how writers use argumentation, tone, and rhetorical strategies to communicate powerful ideas. They will practice writing personal essays, research essays, opinion pieces, and speeches, focusing on how to develop strong, well-supported arguments while maintaining a creative and authentic voice. Students will also learn proper speech and debate techniques to become effective communicators to use in the real world.

Contemporary Literature: Between Words and Frames (1 credit) Offered: 26-27 *Not offered every year*

Grades: 11th and 12th

Prerequisite: Honors English 9 & 10

Literary Adaptations (graphic novels, films, narrative retellings, villain perspectives). This course offers 11th and 12th grade students an in-depth exploration of how literature is adapted across different mediums, including graphic novels, films, plays, television shows, and other novels. Students will analyze the process of transforming a text into a new form, examining the artistic choices made in each adaptation and their impact on the original material. They will compare the source material with its adaptations, considering themes, character development, narrative structure, and the cultural and historical context in which the adaptations were created. In addition to critical analysis, students will explore the creative and technical challenges involved in adaptation, including accuracy, interpretation, and audience expectations. The course will also encourage students to reflect on how adaptations contribute to the ongoing life of a story and its relevance across generations.

World Literature: Gods, Heroes, and Monsters (1 credit) Offered: 26-27 *Not offered every year*

Grades: 11th and 12th

Prerequisite: Honors English 9 & 10

Mythology (myths and legends across time and cultures) In this course, 11th and 12th grade students will dive into the fascinating world of mythology, exploring the rich narratives that have shaped cultures across the globe. From the gods and heroes of Greek and Roman mythology to the legends of Norse, Egyptian, and Indigenous traditions, students will analyze timeless myths and uncover their enduring relevance in contemporary society. Throughout the course, students will examine the major themes of mythology, including creation stories, the hero’s journey, the relationship between gods and mortals, and the moral lessons these myths convey. By comparing myths from different cultures, students will uncover universal themes and learn how these stories reflect the values, beliefs, and concerns of ancient civilizations. In addition to literary analysis, the course will explore the continued influence of mythology in modern media—films, literature, television, and even video games. Students will analyze how ancient myths are adapted and reimagined in contemporary storytelling, shaping everything from superhero movies to fantasy novels.

AP Literature and Composition (1 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Approval of present English teacher.

The AP English Literature and Composition course is designed to engage students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. Through the close reading of selected texts, students can deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. As they read, students should consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as such smaller-scale elements as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism and tone.

Department Philosophy

Seton Catholic’s Fine and Performing Arts program provides a creative outlet in various media for students during their rigorous courses. The Concert Band and Choir provide students musical training and education as well as performance opportunities in our community. All students are required to take 1.0 credits of Fine & Performing Arts. 

Course Offerings

Concert Choir (1 credit)

Grade Levels: 9-12

This class is designed for students of music who are interested in developing both choral and individual singing technique through ensemble singing. Students will develop sight-reading, harmonization skills, basic music theory and vocal techniques through the application of acquired skills to a wide range of choral music. Students will be expected to participate in all choral events, assemblies, and some liturgical services.

Chamber Choir (1 credit)

*Not offered every year*

Grade Levels: 9-12

Prerequisite: Concert Choir or approval of the instructor based on singing auditions.

Building on the techniques and lessons learned in Concert Choir, this course will focus on mastering more complex pieces to further the student’s growth as a singer. Students will sight-read, enhance harmonization skills and vocal techniques through the application of acquired skills to a wide range of choral music. Students will be expected to participate in all choral events, assemblies, and some liturgical services.

Concert Band (1 credit)

Grade Levels: 9-12

This class is designed for students of music who are interested in developing musical technique through ensemble playing. Students will develop sight-reading, harmonization skills, basic music theory and instrumental techniques through the application of acquired skills to play a wide variety of music styles and genres. Students will be expected to participate in all band events.

Introduction to Visual Arts (1 credit)

Grade Levels: 9-12

This course is an overview of basic art principles, methods, and media. This course is divided into four major areas of exploration: drawing, painting, design and mixed media. Projects may include drawing techniques, color theory, watercolor, pen and ink, pastels, and more. Art materials fee: $25 per semester.

Advanced Visual Arts (1 credit)

Grade Levels: 9-12

Prerequisite: Introduction to Visual Arts

Advanced Visual Arts builds upon the foundational skills and concepts learned in Introduction to Visual Arts and is designed for students who wish to further develop their artistic skills, creative voice, and understanding of visual art. Students will explore a variety of advanced techniques and media such as drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, and digital art while developing a personal portfolio of work. Emphasis will be placed on artistic process, composition, craftsmanship, creativity, critique, and art history connections. Students will engage in individual and collaborative projects, participate in critiques, and refine their ability to communicate ideas and meaning through visual expression.

Department Philosophy

In addition to understanding mathematical concepts, Seton’s Mathematics curriculum strives to develop analytical and critical thinking skills. Three years of Math are required for entrance to most colleges and universities, including Algebra 2, and as such three years of math is required at Seton Catholic.

Course Offerings

Algebra 1 (1 Credit)

Grade Level: 9 This is the most common entry level Math course for students who have successfully completed a Pre-Algebra class. Students will learn to use linear, quadratic and high order polynomial equations. They will learn to solve systems of equations as well as how to work with functions, inequalities, and irrational numbers.

Honors Geometry (1 Credit)

Grade: 9-10

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or 70% or higher on Geometry Challenge Exam

This course examines geometric structure, congruence, similarity, and measurement. Emphasis will be placed on proofs and problem solving. Students will study the additional topics of 3-Dimensional and Non-Euclidean Geometry.

Honors Algebra 2 (1 credit)

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 and Geometry or 70% or higher on the Algebra 2 Challenge Exam

This course examines polynomial and quadratic equations and their manipulations. Rational, irrational and complex numbers are considered and the geometry of lines and conic sections are graphed and explored. Trigonometry, logarithm, series and sequences are looked at in their basic forms. By the end of this course students will be able to manipulate polynomials and quadratic equations.

Financial Algebra (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Algebra 2

In this class, students learn how to prepare and follow a budget, apply for and build their credit, purchase an automobile, apply for employment, calculate their taxes, rent an apartment, buy a house and plan for retirement. Mathematics concepts include basic probability and statistics, quadratic and linear regression and equations, logarithmic functions and equations, exponential growth and decay, ratios and proportions, square root functions, trigonometric ratios and relationships, similar triangles, percent increase and decrease, rational equations, matrices, systems of equations and piecewise functions.

Pre-Calculus (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2 

Topics included in this class are functions and graphs; intercepts, zeros and solutions; polynomial and rational functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; trigonometric functions; linear models and systems of equations; matrices, determinants; sequences, probability and statistics; as well as an introduction to limits and derivatives. They will be able to solve triangles using trigonometric functions and they will be able to solve science problems using exponents and logarithms.

AP Pre-Calculus (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and teacher approval

AP Precalculus is designed to be the equivalent of a first semester college precalculus course. AP Precalculus provides students with an understanding of the concepts of college algebra, trigonometry, and additional topics that prepare students for further college level mathematics courses. This course explores a variety of function types and their applications—polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, polar, parametric, vector-valued, implicitly defined, and linear transformation functions using matrices. Throughout the course, the mathematical practices of procedural and symbolic fluency, multiple representations, and communication and reasoning are developed. Students experience the concepts and skills related to each function type through the lenses of modeling and covariation and engage each function type through their graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal representations.

AP Calculus AB (1 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Completion of Honors Pre-Calculus / Trigonometry and instructor recommendation

This course is based on the AP Calculus AB curriculum which includes limits, derivatives, applications of derivatives, integrals, applications of integrals and an introduction to differential equations. This class prepares students for the AP exam in May.

Independent AP Calculus BC (1 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Completion of AP Calculus AB and instructor recommendation

This course is based on the AP Calculus BC curriculum which include limits, differentiation, integration, logarithmic, exponential, and other transcendental functions, differential equations, parametric, polar, and vector functions. This class prepares students for the AP exam in May.

AP Statistics (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2 and instructor recommendation

This course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, sampling and experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. This class prepares students for the AP exam in May.

Department Philosophy

The Seton Physical Education and Health curriculum encourages students to focus on the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. Throughout the year discussions include eating healthy, thinking healthy, and exercise and how and why God wants you to take care of your body. All students are required to take 1.5 credits of Physical Education and a .5 credit of Health.

Course Offerings

Physical Education (1 credit)

Grade Level: 9-12

This coeducational class is designed to explore lifetime fitness in a variety of ways. Individual and team sports are included with emphasis placed upon development of skills and knowledge of the game. Students will learn ways to include maximum physical activity in their daily lives.

Intro / Advanced Weights (1 credit)

Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: Physical Education or approval from instructor.

This coeducational class is designed to improve on basic weight training learned in physical education. This class will further enhance how to create a safe and healthy weigh regiment as well as the proper safety techniques for all weight training. Students will be able to develop and strengthen their bodies to assist in preventing injuries and improve their athletic performance.

Health (.5 credit)

Grade Level: 10-12

This one-semester course is required. It is required to explore lifetime wellness in a variety of ways. Students learn to address issues of physical, mental, and social health and to understand their connection to total health. The curriculum is intended to help students examine their lifestyles, select goals and make plans to achieve and maintain optimum health. This involves choosing behaviors that help prevent illness and accidents and promote health for oneself and for others. The program promotes responsible decision making and provides students with life management skills they can use for the rest of their lives.

Department Philosophy

The Science Department strives to make our students science literate. They will be able to read and understand information that relates to the sciences. As citizens and Christians they will be able to make informed decisions concerning scientific matters that relate to our world and nation. Our AP offerings give students desiring to pursue Science related fields the opportunity to deepen their understanding and application. Three years of Science are required for entrance to most colleges and universities including Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Course Offerings

Honors Biology (1 credit)

Grade Level: 9-10

Students will learn about and apply the scientific method to investigate the course material through a project-based curriculum. Topics covered include ecology, cell structure and function, genetics, DNA and RNA structure and function, cellular energetics, evolution and the five kingdoms of life. Students will experience a hands-on lab science class – laboratory and problem solving activities are associated with most units.

AP Biology (1 credit)
*Not offered every year*

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: Pre-AP Biology and Geometry

Learn about the core scientific principals, theories, and processes governing living organisms, biological systems, and natural phenomena. Understand key science practices you can use to develop explanations and predictions of natural phenomena, which you will test and refine through laboratory investigations. Develop advanced reasoning and inquiry skills as you design experiments, collect and analyze data using mathematics and other methods, and interpret that data to draw conclusions.

Honors Chemistry (1 credit)

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

This course seeks to provide students with the necessary background in modern chemistry for their specialized study in science. This course presents a study of the principals and theories behind matter and its changes. Students will develop a good foundation in stoichiometry, gas laws, atomic structure, bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, acid-base, equilibrium, oxidation-reduction and laboratory skills. This course is intended for the student to develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of matter and its interactions. The course approaches this science from a problem-solving and inquiry context, relying on mathematics and analysis skills.

Physics (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus (concurrent enrollment), two years of Science and teacher recommendation.

This program provides a systematic study of the principles of physics and emphasizes the development of critical thinking and problem solving ability. The course offers the essential foundation in physics for students in preparation of the college or university studies. The subject matter is intensive and analytical covering the areas of mechanics, geometrical and physical optics, and modern physics.

AP Physics (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2, may be taken concurrently with Algebra 2 with instructor approval.

Equivalent to a first semester college course in algebra based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rational dynamics and angular momentum), work, energy, and power; and mechanical waves and sound. Electric circuits are also introduced.

AP Environmental Science (1 credit)

*Not offered every year*

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Teacher permission

The goal of this course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. Students learn to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the risks associated with these problems and examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Environmental Science integrates ecology, geology, physics, chemistry, meteorology, economics and social science. The course has one common theme that runs throughout: sustainable living.

Department Philosophy

The Social Studies courses offered at Seton Catholic allow students the chance to challenge their higher level thinking skills. Students are exposed to World and United States History, Comparative Governments, Human Geography and World Cultures, all while accessing analytical, hypothetical, and synthesis levels of thinking. Three years of study are required in history or social studies.

Course Offerings

World Studies (1 Credit)

Grade Level: 9

Geography Alive! Regions and People creatively challenges students to use the tools of geography to view, analyze, and understand the world around them. The program’s case-study approach and seven Mapping Labs turn students into geographic thinkers. As a key benefit, building students’ content area reading skills is an integral part of the programs’ design. Students will be exposed to every continent and many different cultures and beliefs.

AP Human Geography (1 credit)

Grade Level: 9

The purpose of the AP Human Geography course is to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students learn to employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications.

World History (1 credit) / AP World History (1 credit)

Grade Level: 10

The purpose of the AP World History course is to develop greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts in different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of changes in global frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. It emphasizes relevant factual knowledge, leading interpretive issues, and skills in analyzing types of historical evidence. Periodization, explicitly discussed, forms an organizing principle to address change and continuity throughout the course. Specific themes provide further organization to the course, along with consistent attention to contacts among societies that form the core of world history as a field of study

United States History (1 credit) / AP U.S. History (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11

The U.S. History courses are designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in U.S. History. Students should learn to assess historical materials – their relevance to a given interpretive problem, reliability, and importance – and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. The U.S. History courses will develop the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format.

Civics (0.5 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: AP US History or US History

The Civics course is designed to familiarize students with their political and legal rights and responsibilities. The students will study all levels of government in the U.S. with an emphasis on how to effect constructive change. Knowledge of current events will be a basic element of the course.

Economics (0.5 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: AP US History or US History

This course introduces students to fundamental economic principles, including decision-making, microeconomics, and macroeconomics. Emphasis is placed on the analysis, interpretation, and application of economic concepts to real-world issues affecting individuals and society. The course aims to provide students with an analytical framework to make informed decisions about the marketplace, the broader economy, and the political and economic systems that shape our world.

AP Comparative Government and Politics (1 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Comparative Government and Politics introduces students to fundamental concepts used by political scientists to study the processes and outcomes of politics in a variety of country settings. The course aims to illustrate the rich diversity of political life, to show available institutional alternatives, to explain differences in processes and policy outcomes, and to communicate to students the importance of global political and economic changes. Six countries from the core of the AP Comparative Government and Politics course: China, Great Britain, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, and Russia. By using these six countries, the course can move the discussion of concepts from abstract definition to concrete example, noting that not all concepts will be equally useful in all country settings.

Department Philosophy

All students are required to take 1.0 credits in Vocational/Technology Education. The addition of three AP Computer Science courses enable student wishing to pursue computer science fields the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and hands on experience. Course offerings in technology will continue to increase as our enrollment grows.

Course Offerings

Tech Tools (1 credit)

Seton’s Tech Tools curriculum is designed to help students learn essential computer and document management tools all within the context of building websites. Students learn basic HTML, CSS and Javascript code to build their websites, enabling them to further enhance their learning to develop apps and games. Projects in this class will integrate math, social studies, science, and literacy to help develop problem solving, leadership, employability, and communication skills.

Prototypes (1 credit)

This course is intended to offer students an introduction to the world of computer generated 3-D modeling and coding. As an introductory course, it provides a basic understanding of the skills and techniques employed by 3-D designers in a wide range of applications. In this online course, we will explore basic mesh modeling, texturing, lighting, animation and rendering. This course should provide a good basis for further independent study in architectural, engineering, game, theatrical and character modeling.

AP Computer Science A (1 credit)

Prerequisite: Tech Tools and Geometry

AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a first-semester college level course in computer science. The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing. The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design using Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. The AP Computer Science A course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities.

AP Computer Science Principles (1 credit)

Prerequisite: Tech Tools and Geometry

The AP Computer Science Principles Course is designed to be equivalent to a first-semester introductory college computing course. In this course, students will develop computational thinking vital for success across all disciplines, such as using computational tools to analyze and study data and working with large data sets to analyze, visualize, and draw conclusions from trends. Students are encouraged to apply creative processes when developing computational artifacts and to think creatively while using computer software and other technology to explore questions that interest them.

AP Cybersecurity (1 credit) Offered: 26-27 *Not offered every year*

Prerequisite: Intro to Computer Science

AP Cybersecurity trains students in the field and aligns closely with standard first-year collegiate cybersecurity courses. Students explore defense-in-depth strategies and learn to address specific vulnerabilities, attacks, mitigations, and detection measures across a variety of domains, including physical spaces, computer networks, devices, applications, and data. Developed in partnership with college faculty and industry leaders, this yearlong course aligns with the NICE Workforce Framework.

Digital Art (1 credit)

In this course, students will gain skills in one or more of the following areas: basic camera techniques, page design, advanced publishing techniques, copy writing, and editing. Students will also produce a creative, innovative yearbook which records school memories, ceremonies, and both fine art and athletic events. There is an emphasis on journalism skills in this class. Participants gain useful, real-world skills in time

Conceptual Design (1 credit)

Grade Levels: 10-12     
This class introduces students to the basic skills and techniques of engineering, design and woodworking. Students will develop knowledge of woodworking techniques and perfect their skills through projects. Students will engage in research and learn to create, design, cut and mill wood to finish their project. The creation and production of a stand up paddleboard will be a major project of this course.

Department Philosophy 

We are a Roman Catholic school that welcomes students from all faith backgrounds.  Theology is an academic course designed to teach the skills of theological inquiry and provide the intellectual underpinnings of faith. Students study Theology all four years. Each course conforms with the USCCB doctrinal framework. 

Course Offerings 

Theology 9 (1 credit)

Semester 1: Catholic Tradition

This course is an overview of the essential Catholic Church teachings outlined by the four pillars of the Catechism of the Catholic Church as well as an introduction to Sacred Scripture. Through their study students will be introduced to major Catholic themes in theology and enter into the rich tradition of Catholic prayer. Finally, the student will be introduced to the life and mission of a “Setonian” through the inspiration of the life of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton anchored by the Holy Spirit. The USCCB curriculum framework guides the course of study.

Semester 2: Introduction to Christology

The Person of Jesus Christ is the focal point of the second semester of theology. Jesus is viewed from a historical and theological perspective. Students study the Christian Scriptures and the development of the Catholic Christian Church through the years.

Theology 10 (1 credit)

Semester 1: Paschal Mystery

The purpose of this course is to help the student understand all God has done for us through his Son, Jesus Christ. The progression of study for students is that, for all eternity, God has planned for us to share eternal happiness with him, which is accomplished through the life, death and Resurrection of Christ who won redemption for us.

Semester 2: The Catholic Church

In the second semester, this course is to help students understand that in and through the Church they encounter the living Jesus Christ. They will be introduced to the fact that the Church was founded by Christ through the Apostles and sustained by him through the Holy Spirit. The students will come to know that the Church is the Living Body of Christ today.

Theology 11 (1 credit)

Semester 1: Foundations of Catholic Morality

One’s moral life in Christ should aim should to focus in the intellectual, moral and formational development joined to the mystery of the Lord. This course is designed to enable students to understand the Christian vision of morality with Jesus as the model, to teach a process of moral decision-making, and prepare students for the teachings of the Catholic Church through the sacraments and a life of grace. This course uses an academic discussion format, reflective writing and prayer exercises.

Semester 2: Sacraments

This course will seek to explore the sacraments of the Church. Students will explore and challenge their own sacramental life in the light of their faith and current Church teachings. This course will employ scriptures, catechism, lives of saints and doctors of the Church who have sought to define and expand the meaning of the sacraments.

Theology 12 (1 credit)

Semester 1: World Religions

The goal of this course is to introduce students to the major religious traditions that exist today. It is hoped that students will gain a better understanding of the variety of views that exist in our complex and diverse world, thus fostering a genuine respect for these traditions. One of the central goals of this course will be to gain a better understanding of the spirituality and belief systems of other faiths, so that each student will be able to better articulate the Catholic faith. The course will also allow students the opportunity to gain a greater appreciation of other World Faiths, and in doing this, gain a greater appreciation of the way different cultures pray and worship.

Semester 2: Christian Vocation

This course leads the students toward a deeper understanding of the vocations of life: how Christ calls us to live. In this course, students will learn how all vocations stem from the inherent value and sacredness of our existence, which begins from conception and to natural death. They will learn what it means to live life in the service of others, and value their call to the specific vocation in the Christian community from which God has planned for each of them.

Intro to Catholic Philosophy (1 credit) Grade Level: 12

This course introduces students to the study of philosophy and teaches students the philosophical roots of the doctrines and beliefs of the Catholic faith. This will be done by studying the historical genesis of the Catholic philosophical tradition beginning with the thinkers of ancient Greece (particularly with Plato and Aristotle) and the philosophical development and tradition of the Catholic Church from the early church to the modern day. Students will understand how philosophy has played a role in the development of Christian doctrine including Catholic vocations. Students will be able to summarize the major ideas of great philosophers throughout the history of the Catholic Church and how those ideas play a role in their faith.

Department Philosophy

Seton’s language courses prepare students to speak, read, listen, and write in various languages. It includes a review of verbs and grammatical structures as well as an introduction to extensive vocabulary. Two years of study in a single world language are required.

Course Offerings

Spanish 1 (1 credit)

Grade Level: 9-12

Spanish 1 is an introductory course in the Spanish language and culture. Students develop the ability to speak, read, listen and write based upon vocabulary presented. This course develops competence in speaking, listening, reading and writing using highly predictable situations. Students are introduced to the geography and culture of Spanish speaking countries.

Spanish 2 (1 credit)

Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: Spanish 1 and teacher recommendation

Spanish 2 is a course which further develops communicative proficiency in Spanish. This course emphasizes accuracy in communication and increases the knowledge of the culture of Spanish speaking countries. Students are encouraged to develop speaking, listening, reading and writing at an intermediate level. The geography of Spanish speaking countries is heightened through film and literature.

Spanish III (1 credit)

Grade Level: 10-11

Prerequisite: Spanish 2 and teacher recommendation

Spanish 3 prepares students to speak, listen, read and write in the three major time frames (Present, past and future.) Students develop the ability to negotiate various topics in Spanish. This course prepares student to develop paragraph length discourse in present, past, and future tense to use hypothetical discourse, and to negotiate using a wide variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Students are also introduced to modern Spanish literature. In addition, students will be presented to the art, dance, music, literature and film of Spanish speaking countries.

AP Spanish Language (1 credit)

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: Spanish III and teacher recommendation

AP Spanish Language is an advanced course which focuses on oral proficiency, reading comprehension, listening skills, writing competence and preparation for university requirements. Students may choose to prepare for the Spanish Language Advanced Placement Exam. Proficiency is increased through reading short stories, discussing contemporary issues and reading literary works. Students complete a comprehensive review of Spanish grammar. Students develop the ability to express themselves in situations where the context is not predictable. This course covers Spanish and Latin American history and culture.

AP Spanish Literature (1 credit)

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: AP Spanish Language and teacher recommendation

AP Spanish Literature is an advanced course which offers a historic survey of the literature of Spanish-speaking cultures. Students study major movements and authors of this literature. Students learn to discuss the four genres - drama, essay, fiction and poetry with appropriate terminology in preparation for the AP Spanish Literature Exam. Students will analyze and write about important Spanish and Latin American authors and their works.