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Curriculum

Students must have a total of 28 credits to graduate. The required courses account for 21.5 of these credits. The additional 6.5 credits may be earned in any subject area, but students are encouraged to take additional credits of science and mathematics to improve their acceptance opportunities at highly rated colleges and universities. Students must also complete a senior project during their final year at Good Hope.

English

The prime responsibility of the English program is to ensure mastery of reading, writing, the analysis of literature, and oral skills for communication of creative ideas as well as information. Student performance in other courses depends largely on effective use of these basic skills.

English Course Offerings:

  • English 9
  • English 9 Honors
  • World Literature
  • 19th Century American Literature
  • African-American Literature
  • War in Literature
  • Writing
  • 20th Century American Literature
  • Contemporary Literature
  • British Literature
  • Creative Writing and Poetry
  • AP English

Social Studies/History

Fundamental facts and concepts of history and related subjects are presented. Students develop the ability for objective analysis and to synthesize information. They study history as it leads into contemporary society, finding patterns and themes of eras and cultures. They become familiar with major events, people, and philosophies.

Social Studies Course Offerings:

  • World History I and II
  • U.S. History
  • Caribbean History
  • Middle East History
  • African-American History
  • Economics
  • Current Events
  • AP US History
  • AP European History

Foreign Language

Through the study of foreign languages, students develop an understanding of other cultures, history, and literature. The grammatical structure is compared, thereby enriching the knowledge of English grammar. Conversational fluency is polished in advanced work and in travel to other countries.

Foreign Language Course Offerings:


  • Spanish I
  • Spanish II, II Honors
  • Spanish III, III Honors
  • Spanish IV
  • AP Spanish

  • French I
  • French II
  • French III
  • French IV
  • AP French

Mathematics

The approach to mathematics involves learning that math is a language, a tool, an art and a science. Math studies give each student the widest range of choices, compatible with personal interests and talents. The program includes discipline of organized thought in abstractions and patterns, and is presented in the context of cooperative learning.

Mathematics Course Offerings:

  • Algebra I
  • Algebra II
  • Algebra II/Trigonometry
  • Algebra III/Trigonometry
  • Geometry
  • Geometry Honors
  • Trigonometry
  • Pre-Calculus
  • Calculus
  • AP Calculus
  • Probability and Statistics

Science

Mastery of basic skills and concepts is an essential aim in science education. This attains an important goal: giving students a grasp of the scientific method of identifying a problem and collecting data to formulate a solution.

Science Course Offerings:

  • Introduction to Physical Science
  • Biology
  • Environmental Science
  • Chemistry (Honors)
  • Physics (Honors)
  • Marine Science
  • Geology
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • AP Computer Science
  • Computer Skills
  • Introduction to Programming

Art

Art instruction promotes emotional, creative and perceptual growth. Students learn proper use of materials and techniques in various media. Field trips stimulate interest in architecture, art studios, and galleries. Students exhibit their work at a spring art show to which the public is invited.

Art Course Offerings:

  • Studio Art
  • AP Art
  • Art History
  • Ceramics
  • Publication & Graphic Design
  • Digital Photography

Music and Drama

The Upper School music program includes both performance and academic course offerings. The curriculum encourages deeper appreciation of music through performing and listening, and centers around the belief that all students are inherently artistic. Through active participation in either band, choir, or the annual school musical, Upper School young men and women have ample opportunities for artistic expression. Through academic courses, the faculty hope to develop further students' knowledge of the history and theory of music, along with educating future audiences. Trips to concerts, master classes, and other events are planned throughout the year to enhance the curriculum.

  • Basic Musicianship
  • Music Appreciation and History
  • Upper School Band
  • Upper School Choir
  • Individual Music Study
  • Introduction to Acting and Stagecraft
  • AP Music Theory

Physical Education

Students gain physical skills and a healthy awareness of their bodies and abilities. They learn about cooperation, dedication, perseverance, loyalty, and teamwork. The programs promote cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, strength, speed, and agility. The students are instructed in techniques, tactics, and rules.

Other activities covered in regular classes are:

  • golf
  • swimming
  • archery
  • jogging
  • tennis
  • recreational games
  • physical fitness
  • weight conditioning
  • lifetime sports