Academic Departments

ENGLISH

The English Department emphasizes 21^st century skills by building on traditional ones. We teach students to read carefully and appreciatively and to write clearly and expressively, emphasizing critical thinking and problem solving throughout our curriculum. Each Form has a course theme, which expands upon that of the year before and is developmentally consistent with the achievements and interests of our students. We use both canonical and more contemporary texts in the service of addressing these themes, scaffolding skills as our students prepare for study, work, and life in the world beyond Berkshire.

Four years of form-level English, taken every year while enrolled, are required for graduation.

HISTORY

The goal of the History Department is to introduce students to the rich cultural variety of the human community, to acquaint them with the development of the major traditions underlying civilization, and to provide them with an opportunity to read history in depth. Topics studied include the recent development of societies around the globe as well as the organization and dynamics of social, economic, religious, and political institutions that shape the world today.

Our students progress each year through a planned curriculum focused on maximizing reading and writing levels, while developing both the critical and creative thinking skills needed to meet the challenge of collegiate academics.

Two years of history, including U.S., are required for graduation. In addition, Third Formers must complete World History Through Religion, and Fourth Formers must complete Modern World History.

LANGUAGES

The Languages Department aims to prepare its students to live in a constantly evolving, global society. The Department’s goal is to encourage each student to become a culturally aware individual and to communicate and relate effectively with a diverse linguistic community. The Department not only provides the opportunity for a language student to become proficient, but also focuses on developing students’ sensitivity to the cultural and linguistic heritage of others, as well as raising awareness of how these differences influence their own culture. Each class is taught in the target language and the Department encourages each student to participate in immersion outlets such as clubs, language-based trips, and exchange programs.

The Languages Department offers Chinese, French, Latin, and Spanish. To support our students and to help them develop their interpretive, presentational, and interpersonal skills in all modes of communication, we use a range of audiovisual materials obtained from authentic sources. In addition to effective communication, our content-based teaching encourages collaboration across disciplines, provides place-based experiences, and fosters inclusion and diversity.

Three consecutive years of the same language (through level III) are required for graduation.

MATHEMATICS

The mathematics curriculum is designed to provide a rigorous foundation in the basics of mathematics and the tools to foster logical thought and analysis. We want students to appreciate the nature, beauty, and scope of mathematics and to understand its potential in dealing with the world’s increasing technological complexities. Critical thinking, collaboration and mathematical modeling are emphasized at all levels. In all mathematics courses, faculty help students develop successful study skills and effective test-preparation techniques.

For students whose backgrounds and aptitudes are strong, there are advanced sections of courses in our core curriculum. These include Advanced Placement Calculus BC, Multivariable Calculus and Differential Equations, and Advanced Math/Science Research. Each of these courses allow students who are passionate about mathematics to pursue excellence in the subject at the highest level.

Three years of mathematics (including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II) are required for graduation; four years are strongly encouraged. Students taking Algebra II or higher are required to have a TI-Nspire graphing calculator, either CX or CAS. Students who plan to take AP Calculus should purchase the CAS version. The TI-Nspire is not required for Algebra I or Geometry.

Sequence, Skills and Techniques

SCIENCE

Scientific knowledge has grown so quickly in the last century that no single individual can be in command of all of the facts of even a single scientific discipline. At the same time, citizens must be able to make sense of science to be able to make informed decisions concerning technology, environmental concerns and medical questions, to name but a few. The overarching mission of the Science Department is to teach students the skills of logical and critical thinking, problem solving, research, and clear communication and to prepare students to find patterns underlying collections of facts.

No matter what course or what level, students not only see presentations from their teachers, but make presentations to their peers. They learn how to use an array of instruments, both in and out of the laboratory, to collect and analyze data and to present their results in professional scientific formats. Once students have completed their basic requirements in science, they can choose to pursue another year of biology, chemistry or physics; take a course in environmental science; or choose an elective that focuses more narrowly on a specific aspect of scientific inquiry.

Two core laboratory sciences (biology, chemistry, physics) are required for graduation.

ARTS

Visual arts students may pursue a wide range of artistic disciplines, including studio art, ceramics, photography, digital art, and sculpture. They may study a particular medium in depth or sample several from a broad offering of courses. While a strong technical foundation is stressed, equal emphasis is placed upon creative self-expression and developing the artist’s unique voice. Advanced studies include a strong emphasis on critical and creative thinking, as well as portfolio preparation.

Performing arts courses offer students the opportunity to explore a variety of disciplines through both active participation in group ensembles and through classroom study. Courses of study are available for every level of student, from the beginner to the most advanced artist, in music, theater, and film. The programs emphasize technical proficiency, collaboration, creative expression and stage presence, with the opportunity to perform in a variety of concerts, recitals and performances throughout the year.

Our first-rate arts faculty is matched only by the facilities in which they teach and the students they guide. On any given day, you'll find students performing on stage in Allen Theater, rehearsing in the Music Center or exploring their creative side in the Kennard Fine Arts Center.

One credit of visual and/or performing art is required for graduation.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Advanced Courses

Students who have demonstrated a strong commitment and aptitude in a particular subject may be placed in an advanced section of a course. Advanced courses are accelerated and extend the curriculum of a regular course, challenging the student to apply concepts and skills at a higher level. Placement in an advanced course is determined by the department in consultation with the Dean of Academics.

AP Courses

All departments at Berkshire offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses that can help a motivated and qualified student prepare for the College Board Advanced Placement Exams. Selection for an Advanced Placement course requires the successful completion of all course prerequisites and is determined by the department. Students who score successfully on the examination may be eligible for advanced standing in many colleges and universities. All students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses are required to take the AP Examination for that course.

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