Curriculum
Minimum Requirements
|
Course |
Credits |
|
English, 1 credit each year |
4 |
| History (includes Southwest Studies) |
4 |
Mathematics, to include Geometry, and must take Math
in Senior Year |
4 |
| Science (Biology and up) |
3 |
|
Foreign Language (in the same language) |
3 |
|
Fine Arts |
2 |
|
Electives |
2.5 |
|
Caravan (0.25 once during grades 9/10 and |
0.5 |
|
0.25 once during grades 11/12) |
|
|
Fine Arts Festival (0.25 x 4 High School years) |
1 |
|
Total Credits
|
24
|
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:
ENGLISH
ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE
FINE ARTS
FOREIGN LANGUAGES
HISTORY
MATHEMATICS
SCIENCE
THE MIDDLE SCHOOL
COLLEGE GUIDANCE
Curriculum
English
The English curriculum provides students with two sequences to support a variety of learning styles. While each sequence facilitates the development of the critical reading and writing skills necessary for thorough college preparation, the Honors sequence prepares students to take the Advanced Placement English Courses and subsequently the College Board Advanced Placement Exam in Language Mechanics or Literature and Composition during their junior or senior years. In both sequences, students survey major and minor authors from a variety of literary periods, and can expect to be familiar with the cultural, social, and historical influences on literature from around the world. Each course provides students with a grade- and level-specific composition curriculum and pedagogy. To facilitate thematic and written connections across the curriculum, Orme’s departments of History and English follow the same sequence. All courses are one year in length, except for some elective courses.
English I ▪ Introduction to Literature
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: Yes, or English I Honors
An introductory course designed for ninth graders with its overall objective being twofold: to begin a historical and cultural survey of the world’s literature; and to introduce students to the writing process. With multi-cultural literature as the basis for discussion and writing, students are introduced to the concept of story telling. Through the reading of others’ stories, they begin to incorporate writing as a means of telling their own stories. Written assignments include responses, short fiction and poetry, the personal narrative, and the critical essay.
English I Honors World Literature
Prerequisites: Faculty recommendation
Required to graduate: Yes, or English I
English I Honors introduces students to the study of literature through foundational texts and to the tools necessary to a write a thesis-driven argumentative essay. Additionally, students are required to read substantive novels, short stories, journalistic writing, plays and poetry representative of a world perspective from the time of the Greeks to the present day. Novels and epics include The Epic of Gilgamesh, The Odyssey, Fahrenheit 451, The Lord of the Flies, The Stories of Eva Luna, Candide and Romeo and Juliet. Students are required to turn in analytical papers that focus on presenting arguable claims relating to the readings. Grammar and vocabulary study are a daily component of the class. The aim of English I Honors is to provide the student with the skills necessary to read and comprehend complex literature and to prepare him or her for future studies in English.
English II ▪ English Literature Across Cultures
Prerequisites: English I
Required to graduate: Yes, or English II Honors
Here students develop an appreciation of the interdependent relationship between literature and history. Students study the form and content of a variety of genres, examining the development and evolution of themes including the nature of humanity, freedom and citizenship, the roles of authority, concepts of theology, and the development of scientific thought. Composition skill objectives include effective essay development, the building of analytical skills, recognition and use of basic and advanced rhetorical patterns through reading and writing practice, and proficiency with basic stylistic methods.
English II Honors English Literature Across Cultures
Prerequisites: English I Honors, or equivalent, or faculty recommendation
Required to graduate: Yes, or English II
This is a writing-intensive course. Beginning with the oldest narrative in English, we will survey a sampling of authors (not necessarily American or British, though both are represented) writing in English throughout the world. Texts will include native, postcolonial, and Hispanic American literature (Alexie, Ghosh, Diaz, and Cisneros). Emphasis will be placed on developing critical thinking and essay writing skills through carefully stepped-out analysis assignments and grammar review; portions of the course will also be dedicated to preparing the students for the verbal sections of the PSAT and SAT. Major assignments in this course will include a medium-length comparative essay. Honors Section: Honors students should expect more readings, longer writing assignments, and an expectation of an honors-level comprehension and analysis of texts.
English III ▪ American Literature
Prerequisites: English I and II or equivalent
Required to graduate: Yes, or AP English Language & Composition
This is a writing-intensive course. English III will focus on North American authors, including Canadian authors (Munro, Ondaatje, and Atwood); both as a comparative exercise and historical overview of uniquely American themes in literature. We will begin with the short stories of Irving and Anderson and trace how the American story has evolved over the course of this nation’s short history. A portion of the course will also be dedicated to comprehensive SAT-verbal preparation. Because this is a writing-focused course, major assignments will include an end-of-the-year research paper of considerable length drawing from texts read during the course.
Advanced Placement English Language and Composition
Prerequisites: English II Honors or equivalent
Required to graduate: Yes, or English III – Advanced Grammar and Composition
This course will follow the curricular requirements outlined in the College Board in the AP English Literature and Composition Course Description which focuses on building skills necessary for college-level reading and writing. The texts include works from a variety of time periods and genres, and the writing assignments include in-class essays as well as formal process essays with several opportunities for revision. This is considered a college-level course. Students will be asked to read and analyze challenging, provocative, dense, and sometimes controversial material. Students will also be expected to come to class prepared to challenge themselves and others with interesting discussion points.
The course design is based on the premise that the AP English Literature exam measures those skills that students need in order to be successful in college. Students will work together and explore a variety of reading and writing strategies proven effective in preparing for success on the Advanced Placement English Literature exam. The course will focus on improving skill sets related to confidence and facility with language; skill in critical reading, writing, and thinking; and success in academic endeavors.
This course will concentrate on honing students’ skills to analyze and write about poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. This course will build on the vocabulary of rhetorical techniques students have acquired in earlier studies as well as introduce additional terms of literary analysis for poetry and fiction. Students will concern themselves with the construction of style analysis covered in the AP English Literature Examination and with several other modes of writing. Discussion of the AP examination will include test materials and student exemplars from previous examinations. We will explore the multiple-choice section with the aim to develop close reading skills, and broaden our mastery of literary terms and techniques. We will also look specifically at strategies to identify tone, and how to apply critical theory to the texts we study. Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
English IV ▪ Perspectives in Narrative
Prerequisites: English III or equivalent
Required to graduate: Yes, or AP English Literature & Composition
This is a writing-intensive course. Working with texts that present narratives in terms of mythology, creative nonfiction reportage, biography, memoir, and a subtly revealed novel told in the first person, we will explore how perspective in narrative plays with and shapes how we receive stories. This course is specifically designed to prepare seniors for college-level writing, with assignments including both creative and academic writing. The major assignment in this course will be an extensive capstone research essay in which students will draw on many works of literature they have read during their time at Orme.
Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition
Prerequisites: AP Language and Composition
Required to graduate: Yes, or English IV – College Literature and Composition
Students survey classic texts from all major literary periods, examining cultural, historical and social trends in world literature. Written assignments emulate the AP essay questions in format and content, and the serious student can expect to be well qualified for Advanced Placement credit. Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
English Honors Courses
All Honors literature and composition courses are designed for students possessing high potential as critical thinkers and writers. They must be strong readers and writers with solid literature and composition skills. The curriculum for English Honors courses covers the same genres and material presented in traditional courses, but Honors students will be required to process material in greater depth, and to fulfill a higher level of accomplishment in completed work.
Publications
Prerequisites: Permission of the instructor
Required to graduate: No
This is a project-based course in which students assume the roles of editorial leaders and take responsibility for producing Hoofprints, the Orme School yearbook and Crotalus, the Orme School monthly newspaper. Professionalism, responsibility, and journalistic ethics are the cornerstones of the course and are achieved by emphasizing deadlines, teamwork and organizational skills. Students will learn from this course marketable publication skills and further development of their individual writing style.
Humanities
Prerequisites: 3 years of English courses
Required to graduate: Yes
Humanities is a senior seminar course required for all seniors before graduation from the Orme School. The study of humanities is essentially an exploration of what makes us human and how human beings relate to the world, the universe and one another. The class will also address as a central idea what gives meaning to the human experience. A senior’s study of literature and history over their time at the Orme School are revisited for their humanities content, but the central studies of the course are those areas which have been less central to their study to date: namely the histories of music, theatre, art, philosophy and religion. Students will learn the history of these disciplines as it relates to man’s attempts to understand and express his longing for meaning, sense of self and sense of place in creation from the time of the Greeks until the present day.
Methods involved in learning will include lecture, student presentations, audio and video resources and an extensive research paper presented by each student on a specific topic of interest from within our humanities studies
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History
The History curriculum explores the origins and evolutionary growth of Western and non-Western civilizations. Orme teaches the basic concepts of man as a social, political, economic, and spiritual being in the belief that understanding the roots of civilization will empower students to view the contemporary world enlightened by the past. Analytical and interpretative skills are emphasized in discussion and written work.
World History I
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: Yes
The first of a two-year course, World History I is a survey of man’s history through the Reformation. It is designed to create an understanding of our modern world in terms of the cultural traditions of all peoples and their cultural growth. Emphasis is placed upon early developments in social, economic, political, religious, and artistic areas.
World History II
Prerequisite: World History I
Required to graduate: Yes, or World History I
The second of a two-part course, World History II is a survey course of the major topics in world history from the Age of Exploration to World War II. Students will be assigned readings from the text, which will be accompanied by study questions. During the next class period, those questions will be reviewed. Primary sources will be utilized as well; students will be expected to analyze these passages critically. Geography skills will also be emphasized in this course. Students will be given periodic map quizzes to check their comprehension. Chapter examinations will take the form of multiple-choice questions, along with document-based questions, and short essay questions. Research will comprise the final component of the course. Students will be instructed in the proper methods of research and historical writing. These skills will culminate in a five-page research paper. Visual projects, presentations, and debates will also form a part of the course.
United States History
Prerequisites: World History I, World History II, writing formal papers and abstracts
Required to graduate: Yes, or AP United States History
United States History surveys the history of the United States from English colonization to the Reagan Era. The primary focus of the course will be to provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of some of the major themes in American History: American Diversity, American Identity, Culture, Demographic Changes, Economic Transformations, Environment, Globalization, Politics and Citizenship, Reform, Religion, Slavery and Its Legacies, and War and Diplomacy. Students will learn to develop analytical skills and express historical understanding through examinations, projects, and other assignments. United States History further develops the skills of critical thinking, writing, and expression. Course Objectives include: mastery of the broad body of US History, demonstration of an understanding of historical chronology, analysis of primary sources, differentiation between historical perspectives, effective group work to produce projects and solve historical problems, and producing an 8-10 page historiography of an American President. Exams, Quizzes, Panel Discussions, Homework Assignments, a Research Paper, and Final Exams comprise student assessments throughout the course.
Advanced Placement United States History
Prerequisites: World History I, World History II, writing formal papers and abstracts
Required to graduate: Yes, or United States History
This course surveys the history of the United States from approximately 1492 to modern times: from the settlement of the New World to the very recent past. The primary focus of the course centers on an understanding of some of the major themes in American History: American Diversity, American Identity, Culture, Demographic Changes, Economic Transformations, Environment, Globalization, Politics and Citizenship, Reform, Religion, Slavery and Its Legacy, and War and Diplomacy. Students will develop analytical skills and express historical understanding in writing. The course approximates an introductory lecture and discussion US History seminar at the college level. Additionally, students will develop the skills of critical thinking, writing, and discussion.
The objectives of AP United States History include: mastery of a broad body of historical knowledge, an understanding of basic historical chronology, use of historical data to support an argument or position, ability to differentiate between historiographical schools of thought, interpret and analyze primary sources, use analytical skills to effectively understand various cause and effect factors in United States history, work with others to produce projects and solve problems, and to prepare for and successfully pass the AP Exam. Students will be expected to manage a heavy reading load. Course activities include, but are not limited to – PowerPoint Presentations, Discussion, Practice Exams, Graphic Organizers, Review Activities, and AP-specific skill development.
Each student is required to take the College Board’s National AP United States History exam in May.
Psychology
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Semester course. This course is a broad introduction to the vast field of Psychology. Topics covered include theories of Psychology, research methods, sensation and perception, the general physiology of emotional and cognitive processes, developmental psychology, and many other topics. The course provides an introduction to college-level psychology.
Government
Prerequisites: Upper Division
Required to Graduate: No
The purpose of this course is to examine The American System of Government, beginning with its roots in the Constitution and in Federalism and following the evolution of the governing process. Key areas of study will include Institutions of Government including the three branches of our government: Judicial, Executive, and Legislative, as well as the bureaucracy which surrounds them. The political system will be discussed and analyzed in detail, as will the influence of public opinion, interest groups, the media, and political parties. The system of policy-making will be examined, with emphasis on the process involved. Economic, Social Welfare, Military, Foreign, and Environmental policies both past and present will be focused on with examination as to historical significance of policies throughout the history of the United States. Students will be given assigned readings from the text as well as supplementary sources, accompanied by study questions. These questions will then be reviewed in class. Primary Source material will comprise an important component of this course; students will be called upon to critically analyze Primary Source material from a variety of areas. Government is an ever evolving area of study, therefore current events relevant to politics and governmental policies and processes will be sources of discussion during class time, it is imperative that students remain informed by following current events in the various news medias.
Research writing will be another integral area of this course. Students will be instructed on proper methods of research, and analytical writing, culminating in a research paper. One research paper will be assigned per semester.
Advanced Placement European History
Prerequisites: World History I, permission of instructor
Required to graduate: No
AP European History is a college-level course that offers an in-depth, rigorous study of European History from 1450 to the present. AP European History surveys the cultural, economic, political, religious, intellectual, social, and technological developments of Europe from the Renaissance to the present. Without this knowledge, we would lack an understanding of the development of contemporary institutions, the role of conflict, and the role of continuity in modern society and politics.
The goals of AP European History include: 1) knowledge of the basic chronology and of major events and trends in European History from 1450 to the present; 2) understanding of the principle themes of European History (political/diplomatic, intellectual/cultural, economic/social); 3) ability to analyze historical evidence (especially primary sources); 4) ability to analyze and express historical understanding in writing. This course emphasizes content. There is a heavy focus on developing analytical thinking and writing skills. Students are responsible for interpreting and analyzing, not just memorizing. Students work to improve their writing, ability to frame logical and well-supported arguments, ability to evaluate historical material, and the ability to synthesize data.
Each student is required to take the College Board’s National AP European History exam in May
ESL United States History
Prerequisites: A score above the 50th percentile on the SLEP or a score of 450PBT/133CBT.
Required to graduate: No
International students study the major periods of U.S. history and learn study stills they will need to be successful in the American educational system.
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Mathematics
Mathematics at The Orme School offers students the opportunity to participate in a curriculum that fosters mathematical understanding, encourages abstract thinking, and nurtures an interest in the field of mathematics. The Department offers a wide range of courses that extend from Pre-Algebra to Advanced Placement Calculus. All levels stress the development of basic math skills and the formation of heuristic problem-solving techniques. Appropriate technology such as programmable graphing calculators are incorporated in all levels. Students in Algebra 2 and above are required to use a TI83, TI83 plus, TI84 or TI84 plus electronic/scientific calculator.
Pre-Algebra
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Non-credit. Pre-Algebra is a course designed for students with a limited mathematical background who need basic skill development before entering the high school math sequence. Pre-Algebra teaches decimals, fractions, percents, equations, inequalities, introductory geometric concepts, and encourages the transition from concrete to abstract thinking.
Algebra I
Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra or equivalent
Required to graduate: Yes
Algebra I explores sets, properties of operations, ordered numbers and the real number line, open sentences, equalities, and inequalities. Graphs, systems of linear equations, quadratics, and the basic concepts of Euclidean Geometry round out the course.
Algebra II
Prerequisites: Algebra I
Required to graduate: Yes
Algebra II includes the study of number systems, functions, equations, complex numbers, exponents, and logarithms. Emphasis is placed on the fundamental mathematical ideas necessary for understanding the continuity and structure of mathematics, graphically and as identities.
Algebra III
Prerequisites: Algebra II
Required to graduate: No
Course designed for the student needing more algebra and geometry fundamentals before moving on to pre-calculus. Topics to include algebra, graphing, trigonometry, and statistics.
College Algebra
Prerequisites: Algebra II
Required to graduate: No
College Algebra students are dually enrolled with Yavapai Community College and will receive 3 college credits upon successful completion. The course includes modeling of applications using linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and an introduction to solving systems of equations using matrices. There will be no college tuition fees, but there will be a fee for the book.
Geometry
Prerequisites: Algebra I
Required to graduate: Yes
This course introduces basic geometric concepts and formal mathematical proof. Euclidean Geometry in two and three dimensions as well as transformational geometry are explored. Students are offered ample opportunity to use deductive reasoning.
Pre-Calculus
Prerequisites: Algebra II with 80% or permission of instructor
Required to graduate: No
Pre-Calculus prepares the student for the challenge of college-level calculus. The elementary functions (polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric) as well as the basic techniques of Pre-Calculus are used to help the student comprehend the concepts of functions and their importance in mathematics.
Statistics
Prerequisites: Algebra II
Required to graduate: No
One-semester elective. Statistics is an introductory look at the collection and analysis of data sets. Explores the presentation and interpretation of data, both visually (using graphs) and mathematically. A strong emphasis is placed on the use of graphing calculators to assist in analysis.
Trigonometry
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus, or Algebra II with instructor’s recommendation
Required to graduate: No
One-semester elective. This advanced honors course includes linear, circular, trigonometric and logarithmic functions, matrices, vectors, and linear systems, trigonometric formulas, graphs, inverses and their applications, sequences and series with introduction of limits, graphs of lines and conics, and probability.
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus
Required to graduate: No
Introduction to calculus of single variable functions. Includes limits, the fundamental principles of differentiation and integration, techniques for finding derivatives of algebraic and trigonometric functions and applications of derivatives. This course is designed to foster an understanding of the concepts basic to all advanced work in the pure and applied sciences. Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
Advanced Placement Calculus BC
Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB or teacher permission
Required to graduate: No
The course includes concepts, techniques, and applications of integration, infinite series, and introduction to differential equations. Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
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Science
The Science curriculum stresses learning by discovery through use of the School’s outstanding laboratory facilities and the diverse and magnificent natural environment of Northern Arizona. The goals of all Orme science classes are to give students a solid understanding of the physical world and the laws that govern it, the scientific method, and the computational skills needed to solve and understand real-world scientific problems, while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the beauty, complexity, and harmony of the natural world.
Physical Science
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Physical Science is an introduction to the basic concepts of physics (first semester) and chemistry (second). This course is a prerequisite for all higher-level science courses, including biology. The first semester is an introduction to physics with an emphasis on mechanics and Newton’s Laws of motion and gravity. Major forms of energy, including heat, and electricity are studies at the end of the term. Both terms include laboratory work. The second semester covers the principles and classification of matter, phase changes, and the development of atomic theory. Students are introduced to the Periodic Table of the Elements and learn the properties of the groups and common elements.
Biology (9-10)
Prerequisites: Physical Science or equivalent
Required to graduate: Yes
Biology is a laboratory science course that introduces students to biochemistry, cellular structure and processes, genetics, and evolution. Students will have the opportunity to respond to selected essays and topics designed to encourage thoughtful introspection and logical reasoning as well as application of scientific principles. In addition, several college-style lab reports and one research paper on a biology topic of interest are assigned to give students experience with scientific writing.
Biology Honors (9-11)
Prerequisites: Physical Science or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
Biology Honors follows the same curriculum as regular Biology but the standards are higher, the readings more numerous, and the overall course more demanding in terms of student attention and focus on required assignments.
Advanced Biology Honors (11-12)
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry
Required to graduate: No
Advanced Biology Honors requires students to explore biology topics and concepts in more detail, focuses on student research techniques, data collection, and analysis. As with previous biology courses, scientific writing and responses to chosen essays and topics is mandatory. Presentations will also be incorporated to give students the experience of organization and public speaking.
Chemistry
Prerequisite: Physical Science or equivalent; Algebra II or concurrent; Biology
Required to graduate: No
Chemistry introduces students to the science of matter. Students do weekly experiments in Orme’s well-equipped laboratory. Topics include classification and properties of matter, formulas and compounds, quantitative calculations, bonding, solutions, acids and bases, gas laws, and an introduction to organic chemistry.
Chemistry Honors
Prerequisite: Physical Science or equivalent; Algebra II or concurrent
Required to graduate: No
A challenging, fast-paced examination of chemistry for serious students who are interested in continuing in a field of science after high school. The course will cover all of the material in the basic chemistry course, but in more depth and detail.
Equine Science
Prerequisite: Biology
Required to graduate: No
This is a beginning study of horses and horse management. Topics covered include horse nutrition, anatomy, physiology, breeding, behavior, and care. In addition, students will explore equine production and the basics of showmanship. The Orme School horsemanship and science laboratory facilities provide opportunity for ample hands-on learning.
Advanced Ecology/Environmental Science (11-12)
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Required to graduate: No
Offered alternate years. Advanced Ecology/Environmental Science is offered alternate years and will focus on the interactions between the Earth’s organisms and their respective environments. Topics dealing with human and political issues as related to the environment will also be explored. Students will be required to research, design, and set up an experiment to further their understanding of the scientific process and species interactions or effects of human/natural activities on the environment. A lab notebook will be a necessary component of this experiment and gives the student experience with keeping accurate and useful data.
Anatomy and Physiology (10-12)
Prerequisite: Biology or Biology Honors
Required to graduate: No
Offered alternate years. Anatomy and Physiology covers the human form and gross structure during the first semester and physiological processes of the human body in the second semester. Laboratory exercises (including dissections) are included throughout the year to provide relevance or examples of given concepts. As with Biology and Biology Honors, students will be expected to write thoughtful, logical responses to essays and topics of interest, create college-style lab reports, and execute a research paper on a topic dealing with the anatomy and/or physiology of the human body.
Advanced Earth Science – Geology
Prerequisite: Algebra II or concurrent
Required to graduate: No
An advanced, one-semester survey of the solid Earth and the processes that shape the land. The spectacular geological formations near Orme function as a magnificent outdoor laboratory. Topics covered include rock and mineral identification, topographic maps, weathering, rivers, glaciers, caves, volcanoes, earthquakes, plate tectonics, fossils, evolution, and Earth history. This course includes a multi-day field trip into the Grand Canyon and surrounding area.
Advanced Earth Science – Astronomy
Prerequisites: Algebra II or concurrent; Chemistry is recommended
Required to graduate: No
A one-semester introduction to the study of the universe. Topics covered include the solar system, stars, meteors, asteroids, nebulas, galaxies, pulsars, quasars, black holes, energy and radiation, relativity, celestial mechanics, and the Big Bang Theory. Orme has a permanent planetarium, and students learn to operate it and to give presentations to visiting groups. The dark Arizona sky allows for unsurpassed observations at night.
Physics
Prerequisite: Algebra II is required; concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus is recommended
Required to graduate: No
This honors course introduces students to the study of energy. Emphasis is placed on hands-on investigations and real-world mathematical problem solving. Topics include force, vectors, velocity, acceleration, Newton’s Laws of motion and gravitation, energy and power, temperature and heat, waves, sound, light, radiation, electricity, magnetism, nuclear physics, and Einstein’s Special Relativity.
Advanced Placement Physics C
Prerequisite: Concurrent or completed Calculus is required
Required to graduate: No
Physics topics are covered in depth in preparation for the AP Physics C Exam. Focus is on Mechanics and Electromagnetism. Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
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Computer Science
In the modern age, computer literacy is essential. The Orme School expects all students to have a working understanding of word processing, spreadsheet, and data base management. Students should be able to perform research using the Internet and other computer-based research tools. Computer literacy is incorporated in all academic areas. Students are required to write and edit papers using Word, give digital Power Point presentations, and apply multimedia applications throughout the curriculum.
Computer Science Basics
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: Yes
Semester course offered either fall or spring. Topics covered include keyboarding basics, word processing, and desktop publishing utilizing Windows XP. Students will produce business letters and research reports using acceptable standard formats. Students will master fundamental computer skills such as file management and productivity applications.
Programming Fundamentals
Prerequisites: Computer Science Basics
Required to graduate: No
Spring semester only. Students learn the structure of several programming languages. Prerequisite for Java Programming course.
Technology Infrastructure
Prerequisites: Computer Science Basics
Required to graduate: No
One semester course. Includes hardware workstation basics and network design. Students will put together a computer and a network.
Web Design and Publishing
Prerequisites: Computer Science Basics
Required to graduate: No
One semester course. Learn process from design requirements through testing design and maintenance. Students will obtain a client to gain experience in practicing the skill of interpreting client requirements to create final Internet product.
Computer Graphics
Prerequisites: Computer Science Basics
Required to graduate: No
Introduction to several computer graphics applications and design. Students will complete several projects and present their final designs. The majority of the work to be done online.
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English as a Second Language
Students enrolled in the ESL (English as a Second Language) Program at The Orme School take Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced Level ESL classes and classes in the regular Orme academic program. Most ESL students are enrolled in two or more ESL class where an emphasis is placed on developing listening, speaking, reading, and research/study skills. At the same time, they take math, science, and elective courses outside the ESL program to complete their course load.
Orme ESL teachers assess each student’s English skill level using SLEP/iBT scores, the results of a placement test given during Orientation, an informal interview, and a writing sample. Based on the results of these assessments, students are placed in Basic, Intermediate or Advanced ESL classes, or are placed in the appropriate level of the regular academic program. (link to Curriculum, ESL classes)
The ESL Program at The Orme School has two basic goals. The first is to help students develop the skills they need to be immersed in non-ESL classes. The second is to prepare students to take the iBT (internet Based Test) version of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).
The iBT is a standardized test administered by the ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is used world-wide as a tool to measure a person’s readiness to do academic work in English at the university level. A score of at least 65 on the iBT is required for an international students whose first language in not English to be admitted as a regular, full time student to any US college or university; a score of 80 is needed to gain admission to competitive colleges and universities. The Orme School is an official iBT testing site, and several test dates are available on campus to international students throughout the school year. All students enrolled in ESL must take one official iBt during the school year.
Guidelines for international students who have learned English as a second language are as follows:
For Admission to The Orme School
No SLEP or TOEFL required for 9th grade or Middle School
40th percentile on SLEP for 10th grade (strongly recommended)
65 on iBT for 11th grade (strongly recommended)
80 on iBT for 12th grade
For Advancing in grade or class level (to take effect for all students new to Orme in 2008-09, and for students already at Orme in Middle School or 9th grade before then.)
- No set SLEP or iBT score is needed to move up from Middle School to 9th or from 9th to 10th. Advancement is dependent on successful completion of classes and ESL teachers’ evaluations.
- A student must have 65 in the iBT by the beginning of the 11th grade school year in order to move from 10th to 11th
- A student must have completed TOEFL Prep I and ESL Advanced Reading OR have an iBT score of 65 in order to take English I
- A student who has not earned 65 or higher on the iBT at the end of TOEFL Prep I must take TOEFL Prep II.
ESL Courses
ESL I: Basic/Intermediate Speaking and Listening
Prerequisites: Students need to know enough survival English to be able to respond in a very simple, but meaningful conversation led by a native speaker using controlled vocabulary and grammatical structures. Students must be able to give a basic description of their family, hometown, and daily life.
This class gives English Language Learners the opportunity to 1) practice listening and speaking skills in a controlled and comfortable environment, 2) greatly expand their basic English vocabulary, and 3) enhance their public speaking skills as well as their study and research skills.
ESL II: Basic Grammar
Prerequisites: Students need to have a very basic vocabulary which includes the names of everyday items, knowledge of the simple present and progressive tenses, and a command of basic phrases, such as “Where is it?” and “What does this mean?” and “Could you please help me?”
Students practice using the present, past, and future in the simple and progressive forms, and are expected to use them in compound, and very basic complex sentences. Each week, students learn a list of 50-75 vocabulary words taken from the textbook. In class, an emphasis is placed on using the vocabulary and grammatical structures presented in oral and written situations. Daily homework focuses on vocabulary acquisition and written exercises.
ESL III: Basic Reading and Writing
Prerequisites: Students must be able to ready texts of an early elementary school level and write a paragraph in the present tenses about what they have read.
During first semester, students read non-fiction and fiction reading selections that have been written in simplified English for ESL students, and write summaries of these readings. During second semester, students read 3-4 novels of an upper elementary school level in the original version. The students complete weekly independent writing assignments in the form of journal responses, summaries, and paragraphs to practice for essay test questions. Class members work collaboratively to build the skills necessary to write a five paragraph critical essay. In class, emphasis is placed on using the material read as homework as the basis for oral communication.
ESL II: Intermediate Grammar
Prerequisites: Permission of Orme ESL teachers based on SLEP/iBT scores, placement test results, an interview, and writing sample.
Students review the simple and progressive forms of the present, past, and future tenses, and then study the perfect tenses, modals, and passive voice. Students practice forming complex sentences and learn 75-100 vocabulary words from each chapter. Students are expected to use the vocabulary and grammar structures presented both spoken and written English. In class, an emphasis is placed on active oral participation. Daily homework focuses on vocabulary acquisition and written exercises. During second semester, students are introduced to all sections of the iBT and practice strategies for taking the listening and speaking sections of the test.
ESL III: Intermediate Reading and Writing
Prerequisites: Permission of Orme ESL teachers based on SLEP/iBT scores, placement test results, an interview, and writing sample. Students must be able to read texts of a low middle school reading level and write a summary of the material read in the past tense.
During first semester, students read short, high-interest non-fiction and fiction selections which have been somewhat modified for ESL students, and write summaries of these selections. During second semester, students read three middle school reading level novels based on different periods of US history and develop the skills necessary to write a five paragraph critical essay about the novels. Students are also introduced to strategies for taking the reading and writing sections of the iBT. Throughout the year, the students learn vocabulary taken from reading selections, and in class, emphasis is placed on using the reading material as a basis for oral communication.
TOEFL Prep I
Prerequisites: Completion of ESL 2 Intermediate Grammar at The Orme School or a SLEP score of 70 or above or an iBT score of 51 or above.
This course helps students to prepare for the iBt by focusing on correct grammar usage, essay writing, vocabulary building, and speaking skills. During the first quarter, students complete an intensive review of all English verb tenses and become familiar with Greek and Latin word elements as a system for building vocabulary. During the second quarter, students work on developing essay writing skills. During the third quarter, students review modals and conditional sentences and work on developing skills for the speaking tasks in the iBT. During fourth quarter, students study complex sentence structures and practice note taking skills for the integrated speaking and writing tasks of the iBT.
ESL Advanced Reading
Prerequisites: Completion of ESL 3 Intermediate Reading and Writing at The Orme School or a SLEP score of 70 or above or an iBT score of 51 or above.
ESL students are given a structured opportunity to improve their reading skills so that they will be able to read texts fluently at a level close to their grade level in school. Daily reading assignments and vocabulary study are the foundation of the course. Students read four novels each semester and practice test taking skills for the reading sections of the iBt by reading non-fiction passages and practicing specific comprehension strategies while answering questions about the passages. Students work on improving writing skills by writing short answers, paragraphs, and five paragraph essays about the novels read, and by completing one research project each semester.
TOEFL Prep II
Prerequisites: This course is required for students who have completed TOEFL Prep I, but do not yet have an official iBT score of 65 or above.
Students practice the skills needed for independent and integrated tasks of the iBT, including note taking, vocabulary building, reading and listening comprehension, speaking, and essay writing.
ESL World History
Prerequisites: A score above the 40th percentile on the SLEP.
Through the study of world history in English, International students acquirethe basic vocabulary, writing, critical thinking, and research skills necessary to complete their study of social sciences in English.
ESL United States History
Prerequisites: Completion of ESL World History at The Orme School or a score above the 70th percentile on the SLEP or a above 51 on the iBT.
International students study the major periods of U.S. history and learn study stills they will need to be successful in the American educational system. Emphasis is placed on vocabulary acquisition, notetaking, research skills, oral presentations, and test taking strategies.
BACK TO COURSES
Foreign Languages
French I
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Introduces the student to the French language. Pronunciation, grammar, idiomatic usage, and vocabulary are stressed. Students also explore French culture through French customs and lifestyles.
French II
Prerequisite: French I or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
French II reviews basic grammar and concentrates on the student’s linguistic growth in the four basic skills to increase their ability to function in French. The study of culture and lifestyles continues.
French III
Prerequisite: French II or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
French III stresses fluency within the language. Emphasis is placed on spontaneous writing and extemporaneous conversation. Students are involved in a more serious study of French literature.
French IV
Prerequisite: French III or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
This course emphasizes the study of language and literature, including four novels that are read in their original and unabridged form. Students are expected to do a considerable amount of reading, write essays and literary analyses in French, and participate in class discussion. The students will review advanced grammar concepts and expand their vocabulary as they work to improve their oral and written expression in French.
French V (Advanced Placement French Language)
Prerequisites: French IV or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
Latin I
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Students need not have completed MS Latin to enroll in this course, but no middle school students will begin Latin studies with this course. The aims are as in any other first year foreign language class.
Latin II
Prerequisites: Latin I
Required to graduate: No
Students enroll in this course upon completion of Latin I to complete instruction in basic Latin grammar and syntax.
Spanish I
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Introduces the principles of grammar and logical expression. Supplementary readings are emphasized in conjunction with written and oral work.
Spanish II
Prerequisites: Spanish I or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
The Spanish II course continues to promote the understanding of grammatical concepts and the skill of oral expression. There is a concentration on cultural material, dictation, readings, and written work, aimed at developing ease and familiarity with the language.
Spanish III
Prerequisites: Spanish II or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
Spanish III has a dual aim: to furnish a rapid review of the fundamental grammar; and to present a general introduction to Spanish culture and history. Oral and written compositions are of a creative nature at this level. Readings from Hispanic literature are utilized to create awareness of the literary heritage of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish II and III Honors
Prerequisites: Admittance to Spanish Honors courses is by permission only
Required to graduate: No
Students in honors courses use the same material as Spanish II and III, and are expected to use Spanish in both written and oral work with much greater facility and proficiency. In addition to the exercises from the book, students will be asked to create original compositions, perform spontaneous and prepared speeches, conversations, and skits.
Spanish IV
Prerequisites: Spanish III Honors
Required to graduate: No
Spanish IV students are given an introduction to Spanish-American culture and history through area studies and the readings of contemporary Spanish literature. Emphasis is placed on creative writing and extemporaneous conversation. The grammar review is geared toward college department examination requirements.
Spanish V (Advanced Placement Spanish Language)
Prerequisites: Spanish IV or equivalent
Required to graduate: No
This course is designed to meet the goals of The College Board. Students complete a thorough grammar review, in addition to reading, discussing, and writing about current events and modern day issues. The aim of this course is to perfect students’ ability to understand spoken Spanish in both formal and informal situations, develop a vocabulary sufficiently broad for reading comfortably in Spanish, and to express their ideas accurately and resourcefully both orally and in writing. Students must take the AP exam to earn credit for any AP class.
BACK TO COURSES
Fine Arts
Orme students are involved in a number of programs in the creative and performing arts directed toward developing a “climate of creativity,” encouraging a receptiveness to aesthetic value and an increase in intellectual awareness. Students are exposed to the creations of others through the required Humanities course, and through the performing and fine art courses the student learns to tap his/her own creative powers.
Foundations of Art
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: Required for Freshmen, available to Sophomores
Semester or yearlong course. An overview course in the visual and performing arts. In this class students will have opportunities to experience the creative process in two-dimensional and three-dimensional art, in music, and in theater. Students will develop an understanding of the elements of art and the principles of design and the basic skills and language of the performing arts. Though this is primarily a hands-on class, students will be exposed to works of art from a variety of cultures and historic periods. The class will consist of a three- to four-week rotation through Ceramics/Sculpture, Drama, Drawing/2D Design, and Music.
Drawing/Painting – 2D Design
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Yearlong course. The first semester will focus on Drawing. Both visual awareness (learning how to see as an artist sees) and mechanical skills will be emphasized. The beginning of the semester the emphasis will be on the development of drawing skills. Later, composition, personal expression, and finished drawings will be emphasized. The second semester will focus on Painting. Exercises in color theory will be followed by units in watercolor, oil, and acrylic. Both semesters will include application of design elements and principles, critique and evaluation of work, and an examination of historical and contemporary artists and their work.
Advanced Drawing
Prerequisites: Beginning Drawing
Required to graduate: No
Semester class. The students will broaden their drawing skills through a series of assignments in visual figure-ground concepts. The class content will focus on the idea that drawing is a hand, heart, and mind process. They will become skilled in developing illusion of space through shading and observational practices. The participants will develop a sustained interest in landscape and the figure by drawing on-site. They will maintain a portfolio for periodic group presentations and critiques. They will become more aware of the History of Drawing through slide presentations and museum trips.
Advanced Painting
Prerequisites: Beginning Painting
Required to graduate: No
Semester class. The students will become familiar with different media and techniques used in developing a painting. They will have painting experiences in watercolor, egg tempera, acrylic, oil, and mixed media. They will have a series of assignments with a focus on paint application and observational painting practices. As they develop a deeper understanding of color theory, they will be expected to bring their own form of expression to the paintings. The students will integrate the History of Painting into their work through group critiques, slide presentations, readings, and museum trips.
Advanced Art
Prerequisites: Permission of instructor
Required to graduate: No
Advanced Art is for the student with previous art experience who is self directed and motivated. The student will write up a proposal for the work they wish to do, which will then be negotiated with the instructor. The proposal will include a description of what the student wishes to learn, how they will go about it (resources and activities), how they will demonstrate learning, and how the learning will be evaluated/assessed. The student is also expected to share their work with the Orme Community at the end of the semester with an explanation of the intent/idea/theme behind the work, and the elements or design principles they are exploring.
Ceramics
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
This is a yearlong course in which students will explore the methods and materials of the art of ceramics. Students are expected to become proficient at both handbuilding techniques and working on the wheel, and will learn decorating and glazing techniques. They will explore 3D design principles and will produce both utilitarian and sculptural forms. Students will also learn the historical and cultural context of the art of ceramics and will learn to assess the aesthetic value of a given work.
Sculpture
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Semester course. Introductory exploration of sculpture through modeling, casting, carving, and fabrication using clay, plaster, wood, fiber, and found objects. Students will use both representation and abstraction in their work and will apply design elements and principles. They will also examine historical and contemporary sculpture.
Printmaking
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Semester class. The students will become familiar with serigraphy, collograph, monotype, monoprint, linoleum block, wood block, and surface design. They will learn to develop multi-colored print editions through a variety of assignments in bookmaking and printmakers’ suites. The course will cover printing press safety and studio procedures. As the students become more experienced, they will use the language of Printmaking, the Elements and Principles of Art in group critiques. They will become more aware of the History of Drawing through slide presentations, and museum trips.
Band
Prerequisites: Beginning band or prior experience; some instruments available, but most need to be provided by student
Required to graduate: No
Band is a yearlong, performance-based class, open to all students that have participated in beginning band or have been in a band prior to being at Orme. This class meets daily in either full rehearsal or in sections. Styles that are performed throughout the year range from classic band material to jazz pieces. While exploring literature and striving to create perfection in performance, band members will experience the following: 1. Exploration of cultural content and historical periods relevant to the music they are studying. 2. Reading and analyzing the scores they are performing. 3. Opportunities for listening to classmates and outside groups that perform during the year.
Choir
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
The Orme School Chorus is a year-long, performance-based group, open to all students, that meets daily to explore and enjoy the experience of choral singing. The Chorus performs frequently at venues both on and off campus and serves as ambassadors for the school. Students will learn the components of good individual voice production and how to incorporate their sound with other voice similarly trained. Students will perform music from all historical periods as well as gaining competency in music reading.
Instrumental Performance
Prerequisites: Bring own instrument
Required to graduate: No
Instrumental Performance is for the intermediate or advanced student who wishes to expand his/her skills and repertoire, and perform in either solo or small group settings. Students from this class may compete in regional and/or state competitions.
Photography
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
First semester or yearlong course. Students learn basic and advanced techniques of camera operation, film development, printing, and enlarging. In the second semester of the yearlong course, digital techniques are introduced. Students learn the art of picture composition and design.
Piano
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Introduces student to keyboarding techniques and reading music. Full electronic keyboard class where teacher monitors each student’s progress. Students will perform final projects.
Beginning Guitar
Prerequisites: Provide own guitar
Required to graduate: No
Introduces student to guitar fingering, chords, and rhythms.
Theatre
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
A comprehensive course in the craft of acting for the stage. The class will cover a range of performance techniques, including defining and applying the basic principles of acting (action, objective, “in action,” etc.), voice and speech work, and physical work for performance preparation and character exploration. Students’ training will include methods and principles created by Constantin Stanislavski, Uta Hagen, Sanford Meisner, Tadashi Suzuki, and Kristin Linklater. The class will culminate in scene and monologue showings at the end of the first semester, and participation in the performance of a full-length dramatic work at the end of the second semester. Second semester production will be open to all Orme students who wish to audition.
Theatre Production
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
Year-long course. An independent study-style course designed for students with an interest in being behind-the-scenes for theatre performances. Rather than meeting in a classroom setting, students will have the experience of hands-on training during Orme’s four annual productions (two “studio” performances by the drama classes and the Fall and Spring productions). Opportunities are available for lighting, sound design, costumes, props, set building, stage management, and backstage crew. No prior experience is required. Students must be willing to work during all rehearsal periods, which are normally three nights per week from 7:00-10:00 pm.
Computer Graphics
Prerequisites: Computer Science Basics
Required to graduate: No
Introduction to several computer graphics applications and design. Students will complete several projects and present their final designs. The majority of the work to be done online.
Humanities
Prerequisites: Must be senior
Required to graduate: Yes
Yearlong, lecture-hall course which examines the cultural, literary, and historical questions of our basic humanity. In asking the question “What makes us human?,” we examine myth, theatre, art, music, philosophy, gender studies, athletics, theology, and ethics. Guest speakers on each topic come in to assist the class in examining each different component during the year. Students must complete a 20-page (minimum) MLA-style research paper during the course of the year.
BACK TO COURSES
The Middle School
Orme School’s Middle School creates an academically competent and well-adjusted student who is ready to move into a college preparatory program. Students will be grounded in basic communication and math skills, exhibit an understanding of science and history, have an awareness of the role the Arts play in society, and receive practical experience in Spanish Language and culture. We attempt to reach these goals through a vigorous academic program that is aimed at creating a love for learning. Our program strives to be hands-on and interdisciplinary in nature. The Orme Middle School Program allows students with the academic ability and maturity to take high school math classes for credit. Basic study skills and time-management techniques are also taught in the classroom and dorm.
Middle School Wheel
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: No
Includes a sampler of a variety of Orme programs, including art, drama, music, horsemanship, and computer keyboarding. These classes will be taught on a rotating schedule throughout the school year.
Art
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: No
The class will explore the different elements of art: line, shape, texture, value, and color. We will also explore the concepts of repetition, pattern, symmetry, and positive/negative. We will use a variety of mediums and complete many projects including pencil drawing, painting, printmaking, weaving, batik, clay, and sculpture.
English
Prerequisites: None
Required to graduate: Yes, for 6th, 7th, 8th grades
A progressive course taught with a combination focus of literature, mechanics, and writing skills. Genres of literature will be read and explored; vocabulary, spelling, punctuation, and grammar will be practiced; and there will be a focus on proper writing skills for various forms of writing.
History
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: Yes
The 6th – 8th grade students will have a comprehensive look at Social Studies (6th), Geography-Physical/Political (7th), and American History (8th). Historical novels of various time periods will be explored and discussed in the studying of each subject area as well as a comprehensive textbook.
Science
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: Yes
Required for 6th, 7th, 8th grade students. The 6th grade students have an exploratory science curriculum. The 7th grade curriculum is concentrated in the Life Sciences and the 8th grade is focused on Physical Science. The 8th grade students that successfully complete the Physical Science course will receive high school credit and will be recommended for Biology in the 9th grade. An age-appropriate Health unit will also be included in each grade level course.
Middle School Spanish Program
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: No
A communicative, context based approach to language learning will be used in the Middle School Spanish Program. In the beginning an emphasis will be placed on listening comprehension, moving gradually to speaking skills, later to reading, and finally to writing skills. As much as possible, the instruction will focus on topics that are an integral part of the students’ lives, including areas of daily living and the content of other classes they are taking. A traditional textbook will not be used. Instead, the classroom will be supplied with props and authentic Spanish language materials and students will engage in activities that require basic, but real, communication. The teacher(s) will be native speakers of Spanish, and will provide students with handouts that will be kept in a binder and become the text for the class. Assessment will be based on class participation and attitude, and at the end of a unit performance of activities practiced in class. Students will remain part of the Middle School Language Program as long as they are Middle School students. At the end of 8th grade, students will be given an achievement place and will be placed in the appropriate high school Spanish course.
Math
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: Yes, for 6th, 7th, 8th grade students.
Incoming students are placed according to previous work successfully completed. Placement tests will be given if there is any question on skill level. Standard math sequence is Transitional Math (6th grade), Pre-Algebra (7th), Algebra I (8th). High School credit is earned for Algebra I or higher courses.
Pre-Algebra
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: No
Key concepts required for a transition from elementary math to algebra.
Algebra I
Prerequisites: Permission of Middle School Director
Required for graduation: No
Available to the Middle School student based on assessment by the MS Director.
Physical Education
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: Yes, for 6th and 7th grade students
The rules and procedures of multiple team sports and physical conditioning will be taught. The 8th grade students will be required to be involved in an after school activity in lieu of a PE course. The after school activity will be optional for 6th and 7th grade students.
Beginning Band
Prerequisites: None
Required for graduation: No
This class will alternate every other day with Physical Education. Students will have the opportunity to learn music theory and explore playing a band instrument of their choice.
Additional Academic Information
The Orme School offers accelerated courses in most departments where capable students may proceed at a more rapid pace and in greater depth than in the regular classes. Students in Advanced Placement courses prepare for the national examinations that are taken in May. If they qualify, they may receive advanced standing in college courses or credit toward their college degrees. Students wishing to investigate an area beyond the usual course offerings are permitted to undertake an Independent Study project, depending on teacher availability. Students select a teacher to direct their study, and the project culminates with a test or presentation. College Preparatory Skills are incorporated across the curriculum. Skills covered include time management, learning styles, techniques for taking class notes and exams, final exam preparation, and researching and writing of reports.
Independent Reading
All students are encouraged to develop the lifelong habit of reading independently to better know themselves and the world around them. Developing this habit takes commitment, and Orme curriculum includes independent reading.
Learning Center
The Learning Center provides academic support to students who may find themselves in need of extra assistance during the school year. The scope of services ranges from small group support with time management, writing papers, homework support, and studying for exams with a Learning Specialist to peer tutoring in a specific subject. The goal of the Learning Specialist is to teach students, through a mentoring process, to become independent productive and efficient learners.
There is an extra fee for support services with the Learning Center faculty. Additionally, teacher and peer tutoring are arranged through the Learning Center. Peer tutors are selected through an application process. Students in need of a tutor, either adult or peer, make a request to the Learning Center and matches are made based on subject, level of need, and simultaneous available time.
The purpose of the Learning Center is to meet the requirements of all students who desire additional academic support at different levels of need.
Special Programs
Fine Arts Festival
Required for graduation: Yes
Held annually during February, the Fine Arts Festival brings professional artists to Orme for a full week to live among the students and direct workshops in the creative arts. Workshops include painting, drawing, stained glass, printmaking, radio, photography, filmmaking, creative writing, ceramics, batik, sculpture, dance, and drama. At week’s end, there is an exhibition of all student work created, as well as performances by the dance, film, music, drama, and creative writing workshops.
Fall Outing and Caravan
Required for graduation: Yes
Fall Outing is a required three–day outdoor experience introducing each Orme class to the Southwestern outdoors close to the Orme School. Students camp according to grade class and gain class bonding, outdoor experience, and learn about the unique canyon and mountains near the campus.
The Caravan experience is an Orme tradition that celebrates our Southwestern heritage. For eight days in May, the entire School takes to the field, each student joining a class-sized trip designed by faculty members. Students and faculty camp out together, cooking, eating, and sleeping under the stars amid some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Each trip has an academic theme for which students must prepare in advance. The goal is to give participants a sense of personal discovery as they learn by direct experience. Students must keep a journal or produce other efforts that distill what they have learned. At the same time, daily physical adventure challenges them, gives them a sense of self-reliance and promotes cooperation, respect, and tolerance. Caravan is an integral part of the Orme academic program and is therefore required for every year a student is enrolled at Orme.
Athletics
Orme has built a statewide reputation for athletic excellence. As a member of the Arizona Interscholastic Association, Orme fields competitive teams for boys and girls in baseball, basketball, cross country, football, softball, tennis, track, and volleyball. Orme is also one of the few boarding schools in the nation that competes against public and private schools. Full-time faculty members serve as coaches at all levels. Orme’s Athletic Program fosters the development of mind, body, and soul. At Orme, all students, regardless of ability, have the opportunity to participate in their chosen sport or activity. Additional activity choices include weightlifting, dance, and cheerleading.
Outdoor Leadership
With 10 national parks, 11 national monuments, 3 national recreation areas, 9 national forests and 47 wilderness areas all within a day’s drive of The Orme School, we have the perfect staging ground for adventures in the Southwest.
The Outdoor Leadership curriculum focuses on personal growth through outdoor adventure. Students build self-confidence and an understanding of the natural environment, while developing leadership skills and adventure smarts that promote healthy problem solving and good teamwork. Orme students learn by doing, and our many outdoor activities range from primitive living skills and ecology, to rock climbing and rappelling, to backpacking and orienteering, to environmental education, first aid, and service projects. We also boast a mountain biking program and will begin Orme’s first adventure racing program this year.
Equestrian and Rodeo Program
Program Goals
Orme welcomes all levels of riding experience and ability. Novice riders learn to catch, groom, saddle, bridle, and ride confidently at all gaits. Seasoned riders find a wide variety of challenges to enhance their skills through advanced instruction and competitions. Perhaps more importantly, all students acquire patience and experience, a bond that is unique between horse and rider.
Beyond developing equestrian skill, Orme’s Horsemanship Program instills pride, self-discipline, joy in hard work, and a tangible contribution to community. All students are assigned “chore groups” to share the responsibility for care and feeding of horses and livestock. In addition, a special horsemanship prefect system offers an earned student leadership role and a goal for novice riders to achieve.
Camaraderie and a sense of belonging are palpable on weekends and “off hours” when Up Top (the equestrian center) is alive with students working on skills, riding for pleasure, and just “helping out” during their free time. Up Top truly becomes a second home for many students.
Facilities
Orme’s equestrian facilities feature four arenas, two barns, a 30-foot round pen, an 80-foot round pen, dozens of private stalls, and large turnout pastures. Our lighted rodeo arena sports roping chutes, bucking chutes, an announcer’s booth, a sound system, covered spectator seating, and complete alleyways to produce the full complement of rodeo, livestock, and gymkhana events.
Scheduled in the near future, we will begin construction on a new indoor arena and barn. This state-of-the-art equestrian center will house yet another multipurpose arena with spectator stands, announcer’s booth, public address and sound systems, classrooms, offices, tack rooms, indoor and outdoor stalls, and an outdoor wash and tack area.
Our remuda of over 40 horses ensures a mount is available for all student experience levels. Private student horses are welcome with approval and a nominal boarding fee. Orme’s extensive inventory of tack, saddles, jumps, obstacles, barrels, and poles combine with resident goats, calves, heifers, and bulls to accommodate all aspects of both Western and English disciplines. Vehicles and large stock trailers dedicated to the program provide transport for competitions, shows, clinics, and field trips throughout the state.
Western and English Disciplines
Our rodeo and gymkhana programs help students develop skills in barrel racing, goat tying, team roping, calf roping, break away roping, bull and steer riding, Washington pole bending, reining, and other horseback games. In addition to attending local and state rodeos and competitions, Orme hosts a “Tri-School Gymkhana” in the spring. This annual event brings students and their horses from California and Colorado schools to Orme for a weekend of equestrian games and fellowship.
Expert instruction in the English Riding discipline encourages a refined seat, balance, and control. Basic English instruction is followed by more advanced classes and competition in hunter/jumper, eventing, and dressage. Students have represented Orme at competitions and shows including AQHA World Championships, “A-rated” Horse Shows, Combined Training Horse Trials, and 4-H State Championships.
Orme’s equestrian instructors enjoy cordial relationships with a wide variety of outside trainers and clinicians. These additional resources, in both Western and English disciplines, are accessible to students for specific challenges.
On campus, the Equestrian Drill Team performs for the Orme community and offers an annual opportunity for both novice and experienced riders of both disciplines to display their skill. Hundreds of trail miles also allow riders of all skills in English and Western disciplines to develop a well-rounded disposition in their equestrian partners while absorbing some of the West’s most spectacular countryside.
Free Participation and Fees
We believe that participation in the Horsemanship Program is an important and unique component of an Orme education. Thus, participation is strongly encouraged through a fee waiver available to all students for one activity session. Continued participation beyond this free activity block is also strongly encouraged. However, due to the substantial costs associated with a quality equestrian program, a nominal fee is assessed for continued participation in the program.
College Guidance
Preparation for college is an ongoing process. Students in all grades receive academic advising encouraging challenging courses, hard work, and the importance of citizenship in consideration of their futures beyond high school. In October, 9th grade students take the EXPLORE test – 10th and 11th grades the PSAT/NMSQT. Preparation for the SAT test occurs for all high school students in English and Mathematics classes. Additionally, students receive a personal copy of The Official Study Guide to the New SAT and have access to Collegeboard’s online study course through the Learning Center.
College Guidance for Juniors
Junior students are required to begin weekly College Guidance in January. This semester-long course outlines the overall college process in broad terms. Students develop the insights and skills necessary to make important decisions about their lives. Meaningful choices begin with self-awareness. Students work to establish realistic goals both short and long term and accept responsibility for every step of the college selection process. Students learn to build résumés, interview, research colleges, seek letters of recommendation, and prepare for college visits. Standardized testing occurs in late spring for junior students. ACT and SAT (both Reasoning and Subject tests) are administered at Orme School.
College Guidance for Seniors
Seniors are required to participate in weekly College Guidance during the fall semester. This course is the practical application of the formal college process. Seniors work to establish a solid list of “good fit” prospective colleges to which they will apply. Students finalize their college plans with continued research of colleges. The College Guidance center hosts informational sessions with visiting college representatives, and all seniors attend the Greater Phoenix College Fair in October. Students conduct fall college visits and interviews, send for applications, write essays, and finish standardized testing if necessary. Students are responsible for meeting all application deadlines. Students are required to have all completed applications reviewed by a Guidance Counselor and prepared for mailing before exam week in December.