St. Paul Educational Consulting and Services
Academics
An overall goal of the Saint Paul American School program is to provide students an authentic American curriculum alongside an intensive Chinese language and culture program. This program will result in two Diplomas, one issued through Saint Paul Preparatory School and one issued by the #2 High School Attached to Beijing Normal University. Our unique location, coupled with a certified American and Chinese staff, allows our program to truly provide students with a unique high school experience.
For more information regarding the vision, curriculums, and courses offered for each subject area, please see the tab-meunu below.
Saint Paul American School is determined to provide a quality program that focuses on the overall success of each individual student. The Comprehensive Academic Planning and Success (CAPS) program offers academic planning and success services in grades 7-12. This program is grounded in four primary areas, they are as follows:
- Post-secondary Readiness Enrichment Program (PREP)
- Personalized Academic Counseling
- Mult-Leveled Support System
- Student Services
This Comprehensive Academic Planning & Success Program provides:
- One-on-one advisement in PREP courses to identify where student need individualized assistance
- Specialized academic counseling
- Goal setting strategies
- Student Success Seminars, College Fairs etc.
- Chinese and International college application guidance
- School transition programs
- Support for students preparing to take tests for college
- Administration and interpretation of multiple student assessments
- The CAPS Program provides support for students to master course content and ultimately attain their academic goals. The major objective is to EMPOWER students to become creative, independent learners and problem solvers capable of processing and handling volumes of information.
The overarching goal of the English department is to prepare students to be successful at the college level by providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the English language. At all grade levels, reading, writing, speaking, and analytical thinking will be emphasized and assessed. We believe these skills will help strengthen students’ ability to interpret the world around them.
During their English studies at Saint Paul American School, students begin by mastering the foundations of English composition, and progressively move to a variety of specific writing, speaking, and literature courses. Students will analyze and respond to a wide range of literary texts that encompass a global perspective, with an emphasis on highly energetic, discussion-based learning experiences.
Along with the core English curriculum, each student must also enroll in at least one Speech course. The purpose of this requirement is aimed at helping students build confidence, refine verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and, ultimately, be able to successfully deliver a wide variety of practical speeches.
Students are also encouraged to engage in programs like Student Newsletter, Yearbook, and Creative Writing contests. These extracurricular pursuits provide students the opportunity to experiment with their writing skills and deepen their understanding in unique settings.
Ultimately, we hope to instill in our students a love of literature, as well as the confidence to communicate effectively.
Courses offered
- MS English III ENG0806/ENG0807 (year-long) Course Description: MS English is a course focused on developing students’ reading, writing, and study skills. The curriculum will also emphasize analytical thinking and group work. During the year, students will participate in a variety of activities and thematic units to achieve this goal, and will also experiment with various forms of creative writing. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 7-8
- General English 9 ENG0944/ENG0945 (year-long) Course Description: General English 9 builds upon the students' prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and mechanics of writing, and usually include the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Usually, the various genres of literature are introduced and defined, with writing exercises often linked to reading selections. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 9
- Honors English 9 ENG0964/ENG0965 (year-long) Course Description:This one-year course is a more rigorous version of the standard General English 9. It builds upon the students' prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and mechanics of writing, and usually include the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Usually, the various genres of literature are introduced and defined, with writing exercises often linked to reading selections. Prerequisites: Successful honors application Grade Level: 9
- Speech ENG1002 (1 semester long) Course Description: The primary purpose of Speech is to improve public speaking skills in a variety of settings. For each speech, topic selection, audience analysis, research, outlining, speech writing, and speech delivery will be emphasized. By the end of this course students will have improved verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and will be able to successfully and confidently present speeches in a variety of real-world situations. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 12
- General English 10 ENG1023/ENG1021 (year-long) Course Description: General English 10 offers a balanced focus on composition and literature. Typically, students learn about the alternate aims and audiences of written compositions by writing persuasive, critical, and creative multi-paragraph thematic essays and compositions. The study of literature encompasses various genres as students improve their reading rate and comprehension and develop the skills to determine authors' intent and theme and to recognize the techniques employed by the author to achieve the goal. Prerequisites: Graduation from the ESL program Grade Level: 10
- Honors General English 10 ENG1024/ENG1025 (year-long) Course Description: This one-year course is a more rigorous version of the standard General English 10. It offers a balanced focus on composition and literature. Typically, students learn about the alternate aims and audiences of written compositions by writing persuasive, critical, and creative multi-paragraph thematic essays and compositions. The study of literature encompasses various genres as students improve their reading rate and comprehension and develop the skills to determine authors' intent and theme and to recognize the techniques employed by the author to achieve the goal. Prerequisites: Successful honors application Grade Level: 10
- World Literature ENG1113/ENG1114 (year-long) Course Description: World Literature is a year-long study of canonical literature spanning the globe. In this course, students will examine short stories, novels, plays, poetry, and nonfiction within a historical and cultural context. Students take part in group discussions and class seminars, write essays, and deliver speeches to demonstrate their growing understanding of the relationship between local concerns and universal questions, the manner in which geography and culture can influence form, and world views of literature itself. Class discussions also encourage students to express opinions and support individual ideas from their readings. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 11-12
- Creative Writing ENG1204 (1 semester long) Course Description: Creative writing is focused on allowing students to display their creative and expressive writing skills. Exercises and assignments in each of the main literary genres— creative nonfiction, poetry, fiction, and drama—will help students discover their voice and tone while expanding vocabulary, building awareness of audience, and refining flow, context, meaning, and sentence variation. Creative writing will promote critical thinking and help students refine communication skills, which will aid students in writing more interesting essays, enhance their success in other classes, and set them apart in college applications as they continue on in the world of academia. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 11-12
- American Literature ENG1213/ENG1214 (year-long) Course Description: American Literature covers the literature of the United States from the early beginnings of the country until the present. Historical forces impacting the literature, as well as the regional influences, are also examined. The development of critical thinking and vocabulary building, along with writing skills, are emphasized. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 11-12
- AP Literature and Composition ENG1506/ENG1507 (year-long) Course Description: This class is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition exam given at the end of the school year. For success in the course, students need advanced English skills as well as a major commitment of their time and effort. During the class, students engage in careful reading and critical analysis of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. Students are expected to actively engage in class discussions, write critical essays, and deliver oral presentations about the literary texts studied in class. Prerequisites: Lexile score of 1100 and successful honors application Grade Level: 11-12
he Fine Arts Department at Saint Paul American School is comprised of Art, Music, and Drama programs. The underlying theme that drives this curriculum revolves around creative expression.
Along with student creation, students will also be exposed to a wide variety of multicultural music, performances, and art, allowing them to analyze and respond to unique cultural and historical trends in a variety of forms.
The arts program is dedicated to allowing students opportunities for self-discovery and development, and hopes to foster an appreciation for art in all of its unique forms. Students will leave with a new understanding of art and how it affects each and every one of us.
Courses offered
- MS Music III/ESL Music ART0808/ELE0920 (1 semester long) Course Description: MS music is a foundational introduction to general music, with an emphasis on music making through composition and performance. Students study the general makeup of instruments, and also analyze rhythm, melody, and other musical vocabulary in order to gain greater insight into compositional devices (including instruction in music notation software) and performance skills. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 7-8
- MS Art III/ESL Art ART0808/ELE0919 (1 semester long) Course Description: Students explore a variety of media, providing a foundation in the elements and principles of art with an emphasis on drawing and painting. This course may also include: printmaking, calligraphy, computer applications, and commercial art. The study of art history, cultures, and artists will provide vocabulary skills and a foundation for students to discuss and evaluate their own work in a supportive atmosphere. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 7-8
- Band ART0903 (year-long) Course Description: Band is an introductory musical organization that will allow band members to participate in various performances throughout the year. The class will be comprised of students from grades 7-12 who have had little music instruction, or wish to play a new instrument. Students will focus on learning the fundamentals of their instrument, technique, and playing as a unified group. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 7-12
- Art I ART0909 (1 semester long) Course Description: Students explore a variety of media, providing a foundation in the elements and principles of art with an emphasis on drawing and painting. This course may also include: printmaking, calligraphy, computer applications, and commercial art. The study of art history, cultures, and artists will provide vocabulary skills and a foundation for students to discuss and evaluate their own work in a supportive atmosphere. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 9-12
- Music ART1012 (1 semester long) Course Description: Music class is an introductory course that focuses on basic music theory. Students will study a wide range of classical and contemporary pieces, learning how to read, discuss, and evaluate individual music composition. Students will also learn the appropriate vocabulary necessary to discuss various pieces of music. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 9-12
- Drama ART1107 (1 semester long) Course Description: Drama I is an introductory study of the different aspects of drama in theatre and film. Students will be studying drama appreciation with topics to include: structure of dramatic performances, evaluations of dramatic performances, playwrights, films and filmmakers, play production, improvisation, pantomime, and acting. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 9-12
- Digital Art ART1202 (1 semester long) Course Description: Digital Art expands on foundational skills learned in I.T class and that gives students marketable experience in print media publishing. This course works solely towards the completion of the Saint Paul American School yearbook. Students will compose, construct, and edit all elements of computerized text layout, graphic art, and digital photography. The result is a wonderful artifact that displays student talent and creativity. Prerequisites: none Grade Level: 9-12
The modern language program at Saint Paul American School is dedicated to both helping students master a foreign language, as well as introduce them to the subtleties of a culture different from their own. Students are enrolled in two language classes a day, which focus on both oral and written Components. As students progress through the program, courses increasingly focus on HSK (HanYu ShuiPing KaoShi) mastery, including levels HSK 3-6, with the expectation that all graduates will reach the point of both spoken and written fluency in Chinese.
In an increasingly globalized world, language acquisition is a necessary step in promoting cultural awareness. Our unique concept of high school establishes a mutual credit exchange and dual diploma system between Saint Paul Preparatory School in the US, and the Second School Attached to Beijing Normal University. Many graduates continue to study both Chinese and English, recognizing the importance of multilingualism. Spanish is also an emerging curriculum addition that allows students to add or third or fourth language to their skill set.
Mastery of Chinese and English language ultimately prepares students to be global leaders in a wide variety of fields; with this goal in mind, the modern language program works diligently to prepare students for professional success in the global community.
Courses offered
Saint Paul American School has implemented an Experiential Learning Curriculum into the Chinese Language & Culture course. This program has been developed specifically for our students; allowing them to gain valuable real world experience using the Chinese Language as well as learning Chinese history and culture through hands on encounters. All students that participate in this program follow our LEAP format: Learn material, Experience Chinese culture and language in the form of experiential learning, and then Apply and Present this material to their peers.
- Chinese I FOR1117 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This course will introduce Pinyin, basic Chinese vocabulary, and useful
terms and phrases in typical everyday conversations. We will help students experience and
adapt to the atmosphere of speaking with native Chinese speakers. Students will grasp Chinese
phonetics, tones and rhythms, and about 320 common Chinese words. Students can say simple
and more typically well-known Chinese phrases, such as those used in self-introductions, and
will also be able to conduct most routine communicative tasks for personal needs in Chinese,
such as making an appointment, making an acquaintance, paying a visit, dating, shopping, etc.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 7-12 - Chinese II FOR1118 (1 semester long)
Course Description: Students will continue to explore the communicative functions of the
previous semester from Chinese I. This is particularly evident in the first five units. In Unit 6,
a new topic is introduced about environmental protection. This parallel type content gives the
students a more in-depth training in the communication skills targeted. The tasks focus on the
communication skill required for daily life. As these tasks are extended both in depth and width,
the students' vocabulary will be enlarged, and so will the ability to conduct daily
communication. This will act as a bridge to their further Chinese study.
Prerequisites: Chinese I or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - Chinese III FOR1101 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This course will concentrate on practicing of listening, speaking, reading,
and writing to improve students’ Chinese fluency. Students will learn to scan for information,
expand vocabulary, and strengthen their knowledge of grammatical structures. Students will
take part in everyday conversations in Chinese about familiar topics. Students will use more
complex sentence structures, grammar patterns, and will express their opinions using basic yet
appropriate expressions and language norms in Chinese.
Prerequisites: Chinese II or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - Chinese IV FOR1102 (1 semester long)
Course Description: Students in Chinese IV will learn more Chinese vocabulary, useful terms,
grammar points and Chinese culture. Students should grasp about 500 new Chinese words. To
cope with the general needs of conducting daily communication, the sentence's patterns and
grammar concepts presented to students will be in an order that emphasizes functional usage.
The language materials are arranged within situational topics.
Prerequisites: Chinese III or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - Chinese V FOR1016 (1 semester long)
Course Description: Students in level 5 will practice listening, speaking, reading and writing
to improve students’ Chinese fluency. Students will learn to scan for information, expand
vocabulary, and strengthen grammatical structures and know more about Chinese culture.
Students will read and comprehend the text and will actively utilize new words; the grammar
aspect analyzes some comparatively complex sentence patterns to train the students to use more
complex sentence structures and grammar patterns.
Prerequisites: Chinese IV or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - Chinese VI FOR1017 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This course is designed for students who have a vocabulary of at least
1100 words and have completed the primary Chinese courses. The course will prepare the
students to demonstrate their level of Chinese proficiency as high as being able to learn in a
Chinese speaking college or university. Communicative modes of teaching are provided to help
students with their Chinese language skills in interpersonal, interpretive and presentational
ways.
Prerequisites: Chinese V or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - HSK III FOR0906 (1 semester long)
Course Description: HSK III is a test-preparation course with an aim at mastery of all reading,
writing, speaking, and listening skills necessary for success taking the HSK 3 exam. Students
will learn new words, as well as grammar elements and phrases, and will also refine their
speaking and listening skills. Finally, classes will compliment students’ daily Chinese class.
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Chinese III
Grade Level: 7-12 - HSK IV FOR0907 (1 semester long)
Course Description: HSK IV is a test-preparation course with an aim at mastery of all reading,
writing, speaking, and listening skills necessary for success taking the HSK 4 exam. Students
will learn new words, grammar elements and phrases, and will also refine their speaking and
listening skills. Finally, classes will compliment students’ daily Chinese class.
Prerequisites: HSK III or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - HSK V FOR0908 (1 semester long)
Course Description: HSK V is a test-preparation course with an aim at mastery of all reading,
writing, speaking, and listening skills necessary for success taking the HSK 5 exam. Students
will learn new words, as well as grammar elements and phrases, and will also refine their
listening skills. Classes will compliment students’ daily Chinese class.
Prerequisites: HSK IV or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - HSK VI FOR0909 (1 semester long)
Course Description: HSK VI is a test-preparation course with an aim at mastery of all reading,
writing, speaking, and listening skills necessary for success taking the HSK 6 exam. Students
will learn new words, grammar elements, and phrases, and will also refine their listening skills.
Prerequisites: HSK V or instructor approval
Grade Level: 7-12 - AP Chinese FOR1502/FOR1503 (year-long)
Course Description: AP Chinese is a full-year course that covers the equivalent of a secondyear
college Chinese course. It is an advanced Mandarin Chinese course aimed at equipping
students both linguistically and culturally to communicate successfully in Chinese within and
beyond the school setting. This course prepares students to demonstrate their level of Chinese
proficiency across the three communicative modes (interpersonal, interpretive, and
presentational) and the five goal areas (communication, cultures, connections, comparisons,
and communities) as outlined in the Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the 21st
Century.
Prerequisites: HSK VI or instructor approval
Grade Level: 9-12
The Information Services department provides students with the necessary computer application skills for them to be successful in their study and work in the future. Students have the opportunity to learn both about modern computer technologies, as well as how to utilize this technology to create original works.
During their studies at Saint Paul American School, students will master Microsoft Office applications; photo, audio and video editing applications; and program using web development and database languages. These courses will supply students with the necessary technological skills to hit the ground running in any undergraduate program in IT.
Students may take any of the following courses: Information Technology, Digital Art, or Web Development.
Information Technology is designed to teach students proficient skills in Microsoft Office and Java Script programming. All lessons are project-based and incorporates cross-curricular exercises to teach software skills while reinforcing English, Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science concepts.
Digital Art expands on foundation skills, exposing students to new applications, including Google’s 3-d modeling, Sketch-up, video editing and advanced features of adobe Photoshop.
Multimedia Journalism is a combination of web development and journalism in the digital age. SPAS Student News (SSN) is a student organization connected with the multimedia journalism class. The SSN team is split into to branches, the broadcast team and the magazine team. The broadcast team produces a weekly news program covering a variety of local and nation news while the magazine team creates a monthly print and online news journal.
Courses offered
- Information Technology TEC1005 (1 semester long)
Course Description: Information Technology focuses on developing students’ computer
literacy skills so as to adapt to emerging technologies used in the global marketplace. The focus
will revolve around basic word processing skills, including all Microsoft Professional Office
Suite programs: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Access and Publisher. Students will
experiment with these programs, complete a wide variety of project-based assessments.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-12 - Multimedia Journalism TEC1015 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This course is designed to provide opportunities for students to engage
in an in-depth examination of modern journalism. Students are responsible for the planning,
design, writing/recording and publication of the school weekly newscast, newsletter publication
and online digital content. This production process will involve feature writing, graphic design,
videography, video editing, and distribution. Students will utilize outside media sources, and
will also serve as campus reporters.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9-12
Courses in the Math department follow as much as possible a traditional American progression of high-school Mathematics classes. These start in Algebra I and continue through college-level Calculus. Emphasis is placed on graphing, functions, and critical thinking. Higher level classes require a high level of English because of the types of questions asked. Students are placed during their first term at Saint Paul American School in the class that best reflects their current Math level with consideration given to English ability. Students who finish our Math program will not only be ready for college courses, but will also be problem-solvers in many aspects of their lives; including finance, statistics, and applied sciences.
Courses offered
- Algebra I MAT0902/MAT0904 (year-long)
Course Description: This first-year course is the study of patterns and structure within the
real number system. Topics include working with equations, graphing, and problem-solving
strategies. Students become adept at solving problems that require the integration of a variety
of mathematical concepts.
Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra (or have equivalent math skills).
Grade Level: 7-9 - Honors Algebra I MAT0914/MAT0915 (year-long)
Course Description: This first-year algebra course is designed for the highly-qualified,
motivated student who is committed to a challenging course of study during each year of high
school. The development of algebraic strategies to enhance problem-solving skills and the study
of structure within the real number system form the basis of this course.
Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra and successful honors application
Grade Level: 7-9 - Geometry MAT1003/MAT1004 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year course is a logical development of the inductive and
deductive systems of reasoning. Emphasis is on developing visualization abilities, analytical
skills, and logical reasoning through activity-oriented methods of instruction. The prerequisite
for this course is successful completion of Algebra I.
Prerequisites: Algebra I (or have equivalent math).
Grade Level: 8-11 - Honors Geometry MAT1009/MAT1010 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year course provides advanced study in Geometry for the more
capable student. It is a rigorous, logical development of the deductive system of reasoning.
Emphasis is on the development of logic, formal proofs, and algebraic applications to geometry.
The prerequisite for this course is successful completion of Algebra I Honors.
Prerequisites: Algebra I and successful honors application
Grade Level: 8-11 - Algebra II MAT1105/MAT1106 (year-long)
Course Description: This second-year course in algebra represents a mathematical
progression from the concept of numbers as experienced in arithmetic to the notion of properties
of numbers without regard to their value, a necessary tool for science applications. Formal
abstraction will enable students to understand and analyze data in many occupational and
academic fields.
Prerequisites: Geometry (or have equivalent math skills).
Grade Level: 9-12 - Honors Algebra II MAT1214/MAT1215 (year-long)
Course Description: This second-year algebra course is designed for students who desire a
more rigorous course of study than in the standard Algebra II curriculum. Students will develop
a more in-depth study of the concept of numbers from arithmetic to the notion of discrete
mathematics. Formal abstraction will enable students to understand and analyze data in many
occupational and academic fields. Emphasis is placed on proof of mathematical assertions
assumed in other courses.
Prerequisites: Geometry and successful honors application
Grade Level: 9-12 - Math Topics MAT1107/MAT1108 (year-long)
Course Description: Math Topics builds upon Algebra 2 to provide mastery of math in daily
life and for university coursework in non-math courses. Students will learn to interpret
mathematical relationships, estimate values, and present data. This course will emphasize
critical thinking and communication skills as students gain strong math acumen for academic
and professional life.
Prerequisites: Algebra II
Grade Level: 10-12 - Honors Pre-calculus MAT1204/MAT1205 (year-long)
Course Description: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for a Calculus class.
Students gain extended knowledge and experience working with functions, and also broaden
their Trigonometry skills. The year starts with some review of Algebra II and ends with an
introduction to Calculus.
Prerequisites: Algebra II with a C- or higher (or have equivalent math skills).
Grade Level: 10-12 - AP Calculus MAT1506/MAT1507 (year-long)
Course Description: AP Calculus AB is a year-long course that is comparable to calculus
courses offered during the first semester at US colleges and universities. It is expected that
students who take an AP course in calculus will seek college credit, college placement, or both,
from institutions of higher learning. Students will master concepts of differentiation and
integration, graphical analysis including limits, asymptotes, and continuity.This rigorous study
ultimately seeks to prepare students for success on the May AP examination.
Prerequisites: Pre-calculus with a B- or higher and successful honors application
Grade Level: 11-12 - AP Statistics MAT1508/MAT1509 (year-long)
Course Description: This course is designed to cover the four main topics on the AP Statistics
exam: exploratory data analysis, planning and conducting a study, probability, and statistical
inference. Topics will include: categorical and quantitative data, proportions, one sample means,
matched pairs means, regression analysis, z-test, t-test, chi square test, z-intervals and paired ttests,
amongst others. This course requires the use of a graphing calculator. This class is not as
calculation rich as our other math offerings since the calculator or computer does most of the
tedious calculations. Your job will be to understand which statistical procedure to apply and
how to interpret the results.
Prerequisites: Algebra II with a B- or higher and successful honors application
Grade Level: 11-12
The Science department at Saint Paul American School follows a sequential, inquiry-based learning program, dedicated to fostering an appreciation for the essential concepts of scientific thought.
At all grade levels of science studies, students learn through a variety of hands-on experiences, including experiments, observations, and discussions regarding foundational scientific concepts. Students are encouraged to learn through the process of discovery, with emphasis on critical thinking and analysis.
Students begin with an introductory Physical Science course, covering the basic makeup of the world, from atoms to Newton’s laws. Students then progress to Biology, learning about the basics of anatomy, ecology, and the fundamentals of biochemistry. Chemistry follows, with an emphasis on precision and accuracy in scientific writing. Finally, students culminate their studies with high-level classical and modern Physics.
The ultimate goal of the department is to allow students to learn and arrive at their own understanding of the world through exploration. We also hope to equip students with the confidence to utilize the scientific method in various aspects of their examination of the world around them.
Courses offered
- MS Science III SCI0806/SCI0807 (year-long)
Course Description: General Science is an interdisciplinary course designed to prepare
students for entering high school. The course requires that the student exhibit higher order
thinking skills, academic discipline, and rigorous application with regard to the content, which
is organized and presented in a structure that connects the discrete pieces of information in a
meaningful way. The inquiry-based laboratory work emphasizes the scientific process and
qualitative rather than purely quantitative results.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 7-8 - Physical Science SCI0907/SCI0908 (year-long)
Course Description: Physical Science is an introduction to physics and chemistry with earth
and space ideas embedded throughout the course. This course is lab-based, which means that
students learn primarily by doing activities. This class is also used to provide students with a
filter they can use to view the world around them.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9 - Honors Physical Science SCI0916/SCI0917 (year-long)
Course Description: This course is designed for students who desire a more rigorous course
of study than in the standard Physical Science. It is an introduction to physics and chemistry
with earth and space ideas embedded throughout the course. This course is lab-based, which
means that students learn primarily by doing activities. This class is also used to provide
students with a filter they can use to view the world around them.
Prerequisites: Successful honors application
Grade Level: 9 - Biology SCI1009/SCI1010 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year course is designed as a survey of the biological sciences.
The emphasis is on developing critical-thinking skills, research skills, and laboratory
techniques. Independent study projects and inquiry-based learning experiences are integral
parts of the course requirements.
Prerequisites: Physical Science
Grade Level: 10 - Honors Biology SCI1205/SCI12106 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year course is a rigorous presentation of introductory biological
concepts designed for the serious, academically-oriented student. Emphasis is particularly
placed on developing critical-thinking skills, research skills, and laboratory techniques.
Independent study projects are an integral part of course requirements.
Prerequisites: Physical Science and successful honors application
Grade Level: 10 - Chemistry SCI1105/SCI1106 (year-long)
Course Description: Chemistry is the study of the principles of matter and the changes that
matter undergoes. In the fall semester, students will develop scientific skills as they explore
atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, chemical formulas and compounds, and
chemical reactions. In the second semester, students will study stoichiometry, gases and phase
changes, solutions, kinetics and equilibrium, acids and bases, and organic chemistry.
Prerequisites: Physical Science and Algebra I
Grade Level: 11-12 - AP Biology SCI1506/SCI15107 (year-long)
Course Description: The AP Biology course is designed to enable you to develop advanced
inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data,
applying mathematical routines, and connecting concepts in and across domains. The result will
be readiness for the study of advanced topics in subsequent college courses.
Prerequisites: Biology or Honors Biology and successful honors application.
Grade Level: 11-12 - AP Physics 1 SCI1510/SCI1511 (year-long)
Course Description: Physics is the application of mathematics to real world situations in order
to understand how the universe around us works. This is a college preparatory physics course
that includes probability, statistics, the scientific method, motion, force, gravity, linear motion,
circular motion, momentum, optics, electricity, energy, waves, and modern physics.
Prerequisites: Algebra II and successful honors application
Grade Level: 11-12
The Social Studies Department at St. Paul American School offers Government, History, Geography, and Economics classes that seek to prepare students to become educated global citizens. As students progress through their course of study at St. Paul American School, the department hopes that students will be made aware of various cultures and understand how they have developed over time.
Students begin with the foundational courses of Geography and American Government. These courses provide a framework for both American and World History, with culminating courses analyzing economic principles that drive current industrial markets.
Along with the standard Social Studies curriculum, students also have the opportunity to enroll in Social Studies electives, which include Current Events and Social Issues. These courses allow students to read and discuss real-world news events, case studies, and legal proceedings, thereby furthering their understanding of how the world functions as a global community.
Finally, the model UN is a great opportunity for students to come together to collaborate and discuss contemporary world issues.
The overarching goal of the department is to provide students with the skill set necessary to help them become informed decision-makers that will them to make a positive impact in the world.
Courses offered
- MS Social Studies III SOC0806/SOC0807 (year-long)
Course Description: MS Social Studies exposes students to world events from the early
beginnings of civilization to those of the modern world. Themes addressed in every unit include
those aligned with geography, economics, government, citizenship, culture, science, and
technology.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 7-8 - Geography SOC0905 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This course is designed to provide the student with a basic introduction
to physical and human geography. Students will examine the role which geography plays in the
world and how the interactions of humans with the environment affect the other. Students
will explore the major world regions and examine the physical systems and human interactions
within the regions. Students will use maps, globes, in‐depth case studies, and geographic
systems and databases to help them answer geographic questions. This course serves as an
excellent starting point for students wishing to expand their knowledge of the world.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 9 - American Government (formerly Civics) SOC0910 (1 semester long)
Course Description: Students in American Government will examine the democratic
foundations, structures, and institutions of American government at local, state, and national
levels. Students will study the political processes to gain an understanding of the role of the
individual in the decision-making process of American government. Students will also learn
about the rights and responsibilities of the citizens of the United States. Students will
investigate American government though a variety of methods.
Prerequisites: None
Grade Level: 9 - World Government SOC0913 (1 semester long)
Course Description: Students in World Government will be learning about the world and
politics. Students will be staying up to date on current events and participating in discussions
related to them. At times, history and background knowledge will have to be
introduced/relearned.
Prerequisites: None
Grade Level: 9 - World History SOC1106/SOC1107 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year survey course will examine world history through the
disciplines which comprise the humanities: the arts, philosophy, literature, history, political
institutions, and religion. It explores the great ideas and actions of humankind which have
shaped life. The emphasis is on European, Asian, African, Latin American, and Middle Eastern
civilizations.
Prerequisites: Civics, American Government or World Government
Grade Level: 10 - Honors World History SOC1112/SOC1113 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year course is an in-depth study of world history through the
disciplines which comprise the humanities: the arts, architecture, philosophy, literature, theater,
and music. It traces the evolution of political, social, religious, technological, and economic
institutions from prehistoric to modern times. The emphasis is on European, Asian, African,
Latin American, and the Middle Eastern civilizations. Students will be involved in historical
research, analysis of primary source documents, and essay writing.
Prerequisites: Government Course and successful honors application
Grade Level: 10 - P World History SOC1513/SOC1514 (year-long)
Course Description: This one-year course is an in-depth study of world history. The AP World
History course is structured around the investigation of five course themes and 19 key concepts
in six different chronological periods, from approximately 8000 B.C.E. to the present. The
course themes are: Interaction Between Humans and the Environment, Development and
Interaction of Cultures, State Building, Expansion, and Conflict, Creation, Expansion, and
Interaction of Economic Systems, and Development and Transformation of Social Structures
Prerequisites: Successful honors application
Grade Level: 10-12 - US History SOC1009/SOC1010 (year-long)
Course Description: US History will give students the opportunity to learn how the United
States evolved to become what it is today. Students will study the origins of the country, the
mistakes and successes in its development, and Americas potential role in the future. The goal
is for students to learn from America’s trials and tribulations and use their newly acquired
knowledge to make educated decisions in the future.
Perquisites: Government Course
Grade Level: 11 - Honors US History SOC1110/SOC1111 (year-long)
Course Description: US History will give students the opportunity to learn in depth, how the
United States evolved to become what it is today. Students will study the origins of the country,
the mistakes and successes in its development, and Americas potential role in the future. The
goal is for students to learn from America’s trials and tribulations and use their newly acquired
knowledge to make educated decisions in the future.
Perquisites: Government Course and successful honors application
Grade Level: 11 - Financial Literacy SOC1228 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This class is designed to combine economic concepts with everyday life
to help students be fiscally responsible as they become adults. In this class, students will study
macroeconomics and microeconomics to help them use economic thought to make rationalized
decisions in an ever changing world.
Prerequisites: none
Grade Level: 12 - Economics SOC1201 (1 semester long)
Course Description: This class is an introduction to economics. In this class, students will
study the characteristics of macroeconomics and microeconomics. Economics class will be split
into two sections. Section one will cover economic systems and the roles of government,
consumers, and producers in these systems. Section 2 will cover money and banking, financial
markets and international trade. Upon completing these two sections, students will be
empowered to help correct societal problems.
Prerequisites: Financial Literacy
Grade Level: 12 - AP Psychology SOC1509/SOC1510 (year-long)
Course Description: The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the
systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other
animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated
with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and
methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Students will discover the biological,
social, and learned reasons for behavior.
Prerequisites: Successful honors application
Grade Level: 11-12
Students enrolled in our school will complete courses totaling a minimum of 48 credit hours. Saint Paul American School’s graduation requirements are designed to meet American accreditation standards and entry requirements for a wide range of colleges and universities. St. Paul American School’s diploma requirements are split into 3 types; College Track Diploma, STEM Track Diploma and STEM Diploma.
Subject area graduation requirements are as follows:
- English 8 semester credits (including Speech)
- Math 6 semester credits (including Algebra II)
- Social Studies 7 semester credits (including courses in Geography, Government, U.S. & World History, and Economics)
- Science 6 semester credits (including Biology)
- Physical Education 2 semester credits
- Health 1 semester credit
- Fine/Performing Arts 2 semester credits
- Technology 1 semester credit
- Engineering 0 semester credit
- Foreign Language 6 semester credits (4 must be in the same language)
- Elective 9 semester credits (Any credits in the previous categories that exceed the requirements count as elective credits)
- English 8 semester credits (including Speech)
- Math 8 semester credits (including Algebra II and Pre-Calculus)
- Social Studies 7 semester credits (including courses in Geography, Government, U.S. & World History, and Economics)
- Science 6 semester credits (including Biology)
- Physical Education 2 semester credits
- Health 1 semester credit
- Fine/Performing Arts 2 semester credits
- Technology 2 semester credit
- Engineering 2 semester credit
- Foreign Language 6 semester credits (4 must be in the same language)
- Elective 4 semester credits (Any credits in the previous categories that exceed the requirements count as elective credits)
- English 8 semester credits (including Speech)
- Math 8 semester credits (including Algebra II and an AP Math
- Social Studies 7 semester credits (including courses in Geography, Government, U.S. & World History, and Economics)
- Science 8 semester credits (including Biology and an AP Science)
- Physical Education 2 semester credits
- Health 1 semester credit
- Fine/Performing Arts 2 semester credits
- Technology 3 semester credit
- Engineering 3 semester credit
- Foreign Language 6 semester credits (4 must be in the same language)
- Elective 0 semester credits (All credits are assigned in specific areas)