Upper School Course of Study

CONCENTRATIONS
Students in 10th–12th grades have the option to declare a Concentration and work towards it over their years in Upper School. Academic Concentrations allow our students to chart their own academic journeys, providing a dynamic, hands-on approach to learning that prepares them for both college and the professional world. 12th graders earn this designation by taking a series of courses and participating in hands-on experiential learning, competitions, or final projects or performances. Students who complete the requirements in Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Environmental Studies, Robotics, Constructive Dialogue, Neuroscience and STEM, Writing, Entrepreneurship, or History will have the appropriate designation affixed to their diploma. You can explore the concentrations, required coursework, and experiential learning at BWL Concentrations.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP (1 credit)
The BWL Entrepreneurship Program is a series of courses that train students to become confident business leaders. Students cultivate resilience, ethical decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving—skills that translate far beyond business. Graduates leave with a working enterprise, a network of mentors and investors, and the confidence to lead in college, career, and community. Along the way, they also sharpen their skills in communication, data literacy, and design thinking—capabilities prized in every modern field— and strengthen their entrepreneurial moral compass.

Entrepreneurship I – Financial Foundation: Students master personal budgeting, balancing a checkbook, and basic marketing while discovering what entrepreneurship—and leadership—really mean. By June, they can read a bank statement, pitch an idea, and spot everyday business opportunities.

Entrepreneurship II and III – Incubator: Working in teams, learners move from brainstorming to building. They test prototypes, gather customer feedback, and iterate under the guidance of faculty and a bench of industry mentors. Targeted mini-courses in economics, accounting, sales, and management give them the tools to refine strategy, organize operations, and measure progress.

Entrepreneurship IV – Accelerator: Seniors turn their best concept into a live venture. With access to seed funding, maker space, and professional advisors, they launch, sell, analyze real revenue, and learn to scale responsibly.

Across all four years, the program cultivates resilience, ethical decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving—skills that translate far beyond business. Graduates leave with a working enterprise, a network of mentors and investors, and the confidence to lead in college, career, and community. Along the way they also sharpen communication, data literacy, and design thinking—capabilities prized in every modern field, and strengthen their entrepreneurial moral compass.

THE SENIOR PROJECT
The Senior Project provides students with an invaluable opportunity to gain real-world experience through a job, internship, or volunteer program in lieu of 4th quarter classes. The program begins right after Spring Break and continues for six weeks. It concludes with a final presentation where students share their experiences with their peers and a panel of faculty advisors.

Students take responsibility for finding their job, internship, or volunteer opportunity, organizing their schedules, and completing a required number of hours based on their relative course load. To ensure flexibility and alignment with individual educational and personal goals, students may opt out of the Senior Project and continue with their 4th quarter classes. Students enrolled in three or more AP classes who opt out will maintain their full course load. 

COLLEGE COUNSELING
The college application journey is a signature part of the BWL experience. Our College Counseling Office empowers students to take ownership of the process while offering expert guidance, encouragement, and support every step of the way. With a highly personalized and student-centered approach, we help students and families feel informed, confident, and calm.

Recognizing that families are essential partners in this process, the College Counseling team hosts grade-specific College Conversations…Unscripted for parents and guardians in 8th–10th grades. These informal gatherings create space for thoughtful conversations about the evolving college landscape, common myths, and how BWL supports students throughout the journey. In addition, we offer a series of six interactive financial aid workshops on Zoom for families in 9th–12th grades, along with a robust online resource center to help demystify the aid process.

9th and 10th Grades: In the early years of Upper School, students are encouraged to discover their interests, explore new opportunities, and build strong academic and personal habits. The College Counseling team hosts assemblies focused on extracurricular involvement and summer experiences, guiding students as they begin to shape their high school story. This is a time for curiosity, growth, and reflection—and we’re here to help students make the most of it.

11th and 12th Grades: The formal college process begins in 11th grade when students are paired with a college counselor. They participate in weekly seminars and one-on-one meetings that cover college research, testing timelines, and application strategies. In the fall, juniors take an overnight trip to visit three colleges that represent institutions with different settings, sizes, and programs. Junior year culminates with a case study workshop for students and parents led by admissions representatives from selective colleges. During the summer, rising seniors work on drafts of their college essays with support provided by the college office's dedicated Essay Specialist.

During senior year, students meet dozens of college representatives who visit BWL each fall. Family meetings, individual counselor chats, and a college fair, held in partnership with ten other Manhattan independent schools, round out the experience. By these latter years in the Upper School, our students have embraced the opportunity to learn more about themselves; this self-awareness becomes a key component to finding their best-fit colleges.

INDEPENDENT STUDY (1 credit)
BWL's Independent Study Program provides opportunities for highly motivated 9th–12th grade students to explore a particular subject or topic of interest, while developing the skills to produce high-level academic projects. The program is designed for students who are excelling in a specific subject area and want to expand their knowledge through independent study and mentorship, learning to produce high-quality academic writing, while presenting their ideas and research in a symposium setting.

Eligible students are paired with a mentor teacher in their focused subject area, as well as an Independent Study advisor for weekly meetings. These faculty members provide direction, support, and the skills necessary for students to explore their passions and produce a final project of which they can be proud.

Independent Study takes place over two semesters with a culminating Independent Study Symposium where students present what they have learned and created. Students enroll through a selective application process which takes place in the fall. 

THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS
There are three performance opportunities for students interested in theater. Auditions for the fall play take place in September, with performances in the BWL auditorium in mid-November. In early December, students can audition for the combined Upper and Middle School musical, which takes place in March at an off-Broadway theater. Students who are interested in being involved in these productions, but may not be interested in performing, can sign up to be a part of our technical crew. Lastly, high school students are invited to be a part of our devised show in the spring. The devised show is a student-run production where students can choose to write, direct, and/or act. The process is guided by a member of the Theater Department faculty.

English 9: Foundations of Literature
(1 credit)
(Required, 9th Grade) In the first year of English in the Upper School, students read a range of literary classics which may include The Odyssey, A Raisin in the Sun, The Catcher in the Rye, and A Midsummer Night's Dream. The diversity of genres, time periods, and literary styles provides students with a strong foundation as readers. Students develop their writing and critical thinking skills through focused discussion and analytical essays, which increase in complexity over the course of the year. 

English 10: World Literature
(1 credit)
(Required, 10th Grade) This class touches upon the literary contributions of five continents and covers the four major genres. Through classroom discussions, debates, a variety of writing assignments, and grammar as needed, the course intends to shape articulate English students, ready for the upper levels of high school. Texts may include Things Fall Apart, Othello, Night, Frankenstein, The Kite Runner, Persepolis, and others. 

English 11: American Literature
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th Grade) This course examines the development of the American identity from the Puritan era to the present. We ask three central questions: What is the American Dream as opposed to the reality? What does it mean to be an insider/outsider? How do race and gender affect the lens through which social mobility is both experienced and viewed? Ultimately, students gain insight into their own lives through the discussion of aspiration, identity, and social class. Authors may include Baldwin, Dickinson, Emerson, Morrison, Fitzgerald, Frost, Hawthorne, Hemingway, O’Brien, O’Connor, Miller, Roth, Plath, Sexton, Whitman, and Wright, many of whose themes coincide with the students’ U.S. History class. 

AP English Literature and Composition
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade) In AP English, students read celebrated novels, poetry, drama, and short stories ranging from the 16th century to the 21st century. During highly interactive seminars, students learn to discuss and write about literature, based on careful observation of textual details, such as the work’s structure, diction, style, theme, and tone. In addition to rigorous classroom discussions and writing assignments, students also analyze the historical and cultural context of our different texts. Throughout the year, we practice the structured writing and close reading skills that will lead to success on the AP Literature and Composition exam. Authors include: Chekhov, Ellison, Kafka, Shakespeare, August Wilson, Tennessee Williams, and Woolf, among others. Requirements must be met to enroll in this course. 

Honors English: Poetry of Identity & Dissent
(.5 credit)
(Fall Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) This course explores the power of literature to challenge norms and give voice to those on the margins—by choice, circumstance, or identity. Students examine how poets and writers have used innovative forms and language to confront questions of race, gender, sexuality, and belonging. Students begin with foundational voices such as Walt Whitman, T.S. Eliot, Langston Hughes, and Allen Ginsberg, then move into the work of June Jordan, Audre Lorde, Amiri Baraka, Ada Limón, Major Jackson, and others. The course also includes contemporary narratives such as On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong, We the Animals by Justin Torres, Citizen by Claudia Rankine, Lucy by Jamaica Kincaid, and Fun Home by Alison Bechdel, alongside classic texts by Virginia Woolf, James Baldwin, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Herman Melville, and Ralph Ellison. Students must also enroll in Honors Creative Writing & Poetry: Portfolio in the spring semester.

Honors English: Creative Writing & Poetry - Portfolio
(.5 credit)
(Spring Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) In this course, students write both their own original poetry, stories, and analytical essays, creating a portfolio of original work by the end of the year. They workshop their original stories and poems, offering supportive feedback and discussing elements of craft such as tone, figurative language, meter, and character development. Students also delve into the study of a poet of their own choosing, writing a 10-page research paper as well as presenting the poet to the class. Final projects might also include a reading of original poetry for a school audience and the creation of an anthology of students’ poems. Students must also enroll in Honors English: Poetry of Identity & Dissent in the fall semester.

Journalism
(1 credit)
(Elective, 10, 11th and 12th Grades) In this course, students explore the dynamic landscape of modern journalism while serving as the editorial voice of the school community. The curriculum will cover professional standards, such as AP Style and the ethics of entertainment law, as well as the creative process of producing a recurring student publication. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the different avenues of journalism, such as politics, sports, and entertainment. The class is centered on a collaborative newsroom environment, where students can explore each aspect of journalism by conducting professional interviews, diving into investigative reporting, understanding sources, and writing reviews. The hands-on nature of the course will allow students to gain experience working on a publication, from the initial pitch to the final layout. As they develop unique journalistic voices, students build a well-rounded portfolio of work that emphasizes accuracy and deadline management, while gaining an understanding of the vital role of information in society. Course expectations include active and regular participation in publishing the school newspaper.

The Holocaust in Literature: Memory and Meaning
(.5 credit)
(Fall Elective, 11th and 12th Grade) Using literature and film, this semester-long course attempts to understand the Holocaust, as well as contemporary antisemitism. Through works by three generations of artists and writers, it examines the question, What is the role of memory in preserving the lessons of the Holocaust and shaping historical and current understandings? Works include Primo Levi’s Survival in Auschwitz, Art Spiegelman's Maus, Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List, and Jesse Eisenberg’s A Real Pain (representing a newer third wave of work). Students look at how artists approach the horror of this subject to make it accessible to their readers and viewers as they contemplate how it occurred, its moral significance, and the impact of intergenerational trauma. The course also provides needed historical context through an examination of the economic, cultural, and political conditions that contributed to the Holocaust and the rise of the Nazi party, as well as the coordinated, systematic destruction of European Jewry between 1939 and 1945. Students must also enroll in Self and Society: Memory, Meaning, and Social Media in the spring semester.

Literature and the Modern Self: Memory, Meaning, and Social Media
(.5 credit)
(Spring Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) Do you feel like the same person you were yesterday or a year ago? Who will you be in the future? Using film, film criticism, and literature, this course explores modern ideas of self and society. Students examine the role of memory and narrative in creating a sense of self and meaning. It asks: Is there a true, stable, self? Can you have a sense of self without memory? The course considers themes of alienation (isolation) and discontent in modern society. It explores the role of social media in creating new types of social relations and how these impact our understanding of the self. Films include The Truman Show and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, as well as Ian McEwan’s novel What We Can Know and Kazuo Ishiguro’s Never Let Me Go. Students must also enroll in The Holocaust in Literature: Memory and Meaning in the fall semester.

Case Studies in World History 9
(1 credit)
(Required, 9th Grade) Case Studies in World History 9 is a one-year course exploring global civilizations through thematic case studies. Spanning the ancient to the modern world, the course examines both Eastern and Western civilizations, emphasizing comparative political, economic, social, and intellectual developments and interactions across time. Students undertake an in-depth exploration of key moments and movements that have fundamentally impacted people around the world and are essential for understanding modern societies.

Foundations of Democracy: Understanding Civics
(.5 credit)
(Required, 9th Grade) Foundations of Democracy: Understanding Civics is a semester-long course that introduces students to the principles and structure of American government, the Constitution, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The course emphasizes the development of democratic institutions in the United States, the functions of federal, state, and local government, and the role of individuals in civic life. Ethical reasoning and civil discourse will be key components, as students examine contemporary issues through the lens of democratic values.

Case Studies in U.S. History 10
(1 credit)
(Required if not taking AP U.S. History, 10th Grade) Case Studies in U.S. History 10 is a one-year course exploring the development of the United States through focused historical case studies. The curriculum moves chronologically from early colonization to the modern era, with each quarter highlighting a key period: Founding and Revolution, Expansion and Civil War, Industrialization and Reform, and the U.S. in the World. The course emphasizes political, economic, social, and cultural developments, while encouraging students to analyze historical events, decisions, and movements in depth and within context.

AP U.S. History 
(1 credit)
(Required for 10th if not taking Case Studies in U.S. History, elective for 11th Grade, approval required) This course is an in-depth survey of U.S. history that combines a study of political, economic, intellectual, and social history with training in the techniques of historical analysis. A textbook supplies a basic framework, but most of the reading will be drawn from primary sources and the work of historians. The aim of this course is to broaden the students’ understanding of the nature of history, with particular attention to those groups whose lives and concerns are often omitted from traditional history courses. Discussion is an essential element of the course, and students are expected to deliver seminar reports in addition to weekly essays; writing assignments will develop the students’ ability to select evidence, analyze sources, and organize ideas. Students who successfully complete additional requirements will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement U.S. History exam. This course requires intensive writing. 

AP Comparative Government and Politics
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) AP Comparative Government and Politics is a college-level course that introduces students to politics and governments in different countries. The course explores the political systems, policy-making processes, and political, economic, and social challenges of six selected countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Students compare the effectiveness of approaches to many global issues by examining how different governments solve similar problems. Students are expected to read and interpret data, make comparisons and applications, and develop evidence-based arguments.

Advanced Seminar: Principles of International Relations
(.5 credit)
(Fall Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) What are the forces that shape the global order, and how have they evolved over time? This advanced seminar in International Relations begins in the fall with a historical and theoretical exploration of the international system, tracing its development from the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 to the complex, multipolar world of today. Through close readings and seminar-style discussions, students engage with foundational thinkers and frameworks—realism, liberalism, constructivism, and beyond—to examine enduring questions of power, sovereignty, and diplomacy. Particular attention is paid to the regional dynamics that have defined global politics across time, as well as the norms and institutions that have sought to impose order on a frequently chaotic world stage. Additionally, this course is co-taught by the coach of the Model United Nations team. All students are expected to participate actively on the team to learn diplomacy and conflict resolution skills. This includes participating in no fewer than four Model UN conferences throughout the year. Students must also enroll in International Relations: Conflict & Resolution in the spring semester.

Advanced Seminar: International Relations: Conflict & Resolution
(.5 credit)
(Spring Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) In the spring semester, the course shifts to contemporary issues in international relations, asking students to grapple with the principal challenges of our time: climate change, global health, trade, cyberspace, terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and development. Students critically assess the role of global governance and international institutions in addressing these complex problems, and consider the possibilities—and limitations—of international cooperation. Weekly readings and discussions build toward a final independent research paper, in which students have the opportunity to explore a topic of their choosing in depth. Throughout the year, we ask not only what drives international conflict and cooperation, but also what kind of world order is possible—and desirable—in the twenty-first century. Additionally, this course is co-taught by the coach of the Model United Nations team. All students are expected to participate actively on the team to learn diplomacy and conflict resolution skills. This includes participating in no fewer than four Model UN conferences throughout the year. Students must also enroll in Principles of International Relations in the fall semester.

Advanced Seminar: Humanities Research
(1 credit)
(Elective, 10th, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) This is a year-long, immersive course designed for students with a deep interest in exploring complex human questions through the lens of literature, history, philosophy, the arts, and culture. Modeled after a college-level seminar, this course meets three days per week and focuses on cultivating the foundational skills of advanced humanities research. Students engage with scholarly texts, learn to conduct nuanced textual and contextual analysis, interpret primary sources, evaluate theoretical frameworks, and develop fluency in academic writing and citation styles specific to the humanities (such as MLA or Chicago). The first term centers on building these skills through thematic studies that may span time periods, cultures, or critical approaches. In the second term, students design and carry out independent research projects—posing original questions, crafting arguments, engaging with sources, and ultimately presenting and defending their work in a formal setting.

Dialogue Across Difference
(.5 credit)
(Elective, 10th, 11th and 12th Grades) In this course, students build the skills and confidence to engage in thoughtful, respectful conversations with people who have different perspectives and experiences. Students learn strategies for effective communication, active listening, and critical thinking, while practicing how to navigate complex or sensitive topics in a constructive way. The course combines foundational lessons with real-world applications, giving students opportunities to apply their skills in discussions, activities, and collaborative projects. At the end of the course, students complete a final presentation demonstrating their learning and growth. Those who successfully complete the course will earn a Dialogue Across Difference Certificate from their school and ConnectED. Required if enrolling in Democracy & Dissent in the spring semester. 

Advanced Seminar: Democracy & Dissent
(.5 credit)
(Elective, 10th and 11th Grades, approval required) Students embark on a thought-provoking journey through the corridors of the U.S. Supreme Court. This course delves into the heart of the First Amendment—freedom of speech—through a meticulous examination of key Supreme Court opinions. In this course, students explore the dynamic interplay between majority and dissenting opinions, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the fabric of democracy. The course explores the wisdom of influential justices such as the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Chief Justice John Roberts, who emphasize the transformative potential of dissent in the evolution of legal principles. Throughout the semester, students unravel the intricacies of legal opinions by studying landmark cases and relevant Law Review articles, and gain profound insights into the rhetorical dialogue between majority and dissent, shedding light on the nuanced evolution of legal doctrines. Students must also enroll in Dialogue Across Difference in the fall semester.

Philosophy: Exploring Ideas & Truth
(.5 credit)
(Fall Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) This philosophy course introduces students to the fundamental principles of epistemology, the nature of knowledge, metaphysics, the nature of reality, and psychoanalysis, the nature of the subject. Together, as a class, we read the primary documents of the discipline from the titans of thinking, including but not limited to Plato, Descartes, Spinoza, Hume, and Freud. The students are expected to be active participants in the conversation, breaking down the texts and building up ideas to contend with them. The students have regular responses, two or three larger response papers, and are assigned age-appropriate secondary reading material. Though the great minds will guide us, fundamentally, the class is about our conversation, bringing ideas to the room. Students must also enroll in History of Western Political Philosophy in the spring semester.

History of Western Political Philosophy
(.5 credit)
(Spring Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) Have you ever wondered where our idea of the self as a unique individual originated? Are we authentic, rational, or driven by unconscious desires or biological imperatives? Examining Enlightenment and Western thought, the course offers a unique exploration of the roots of modern conceptions of self and society. We explore the works of influential thinkers such as Descartes, Locke, Hume, Locke, Rousseau, Adam Smith, and J.S. Mill, and examine their philosophical foundations in the work of Greek philosophers and St. Augustine, among others. We then conclude with readings from Nietzsche, Freud, and Charles Taylor, who offer their own unique perspectives on self and society. This course will feature nightly readings and weekly reflection papers. Students must also enroll in Philosophy: Exploring Ideas & Truth in the fall semester.

Global Events 1990-Present
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) This class picks up where the World History and American History courses often stop: the late 1980s. The goal is to give students a chance to understand the impact of events and developments that took place since then: the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the rise of China as an economic powerhouse, growing income inequality, the invention of the internet, 9/11 and the invasion of Iraq, white nationalism in the U.S. and elsewhere, the tense relations with Russia, and accelerating global climate change, to take some prominent examples. 

Modern Crossroads: The Middle East and the Arab-Israeli Conflict
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) Modern Crossroads is an insightful history course designed for students eager to understand the complex tapestry of recent history in the Middle East, with a particular emphasis on the Arab-Israeli conflict. This course navigates through pivotal events starting from the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the profound repercussions of World War I, moving through the era of the British Mandate, the contentious partition of Palestine, and the consequential establishment of the State of Israel. Students will explore the intense Arab-Israeli conflicts that followed, the evolution of Palestinian nationalism, and significant wars and peace processes that have shaped the region. Additionally, the course examines the influential role of international actors and superpowers alongside the social, cultural, and economic developments that have impacted the Middle Eastern landscape. Through a blend of lectures, discussions, and critical analysis, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical roots and contemporary challenges facing Israel-Palestine relations, preparing them to engage thoughtfully with one of the most pressing geopolitical issues of our time.

Microeconomics
(.5 credit)
(Fall Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) The course covers foundational economic concepts, including supply and demand dynamics, market structure and concentration, international trade and tariffs, exchange rates, market efficiency, equity, and government regulation. Students learn to create and analyze graphs and charts, and use additional data to describe and explain various economic concepts. The course’s primary goal is to teach students to think like economists so that they can apply microeconomic concepts and methods to improve personal and business decision-making, evaluate public policies, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Students must also enroll in Macroeconomics in the spring semester.

Macroeconomics
(.5 credit)
(Spring Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) This course gives students an understanding of the principles of economics that apply to economic systems as a whole. It explores the general economic conditions that determine levels of employment, prices, and economic growth, along with the roles of the government and central bank. The economic and political aspects of public policy issues, such as government spending, taxation, and international trade and globalization, will also be discussed. Students examine the challenges facing the United States’ free market economy within a global context and the various policy-making opportunities available to the government to address these challenges.  Seniors are required to participate in the Federal Reserve High School challenge. Students must also enroll in Microeconomics in the fall semester. 

Algebra IB
(1 credit)
This Algebra course begins with a focused review of foundational algebraic concepts to reinforce students' understanding and prepare them for more advanced topics. Once the fundamentals are solidified, the course transitions into an in-depth exploration of key concepts typically covered in the second half of an Algebra I curriculum. Students will engage with topics such as systems of linear equations and inequalities, and apply strategies to model and solve real-world problems. The course delves into the properties of exponents, operations with polynomials, and the graphing and solving of quadratic functions. Special emphasis is placed on solving quadratic equations through multiple methods, including factoring, taking square roots, and applying the quadratic formula. Through collaborative problem-solving and integration of the TI-84 graphing calculator, students develop critical thinking and algebraic reasoning skills essential for success in higher-level mathematics. Students are required to take one algebra course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Algebra I
(1 credit)
This course is designed to secure the basic skills of algebra. Topics include evaluation of expressions and formulas, properties of numbers, solving linear and quadratic equations, real numbers, factoring, inequalities, relations and functions, graphing, radicals and polynomials, and problem solving. Students also apply algebraic concepts to geometry, statistics, and probability where appropriate. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used not only as an aid in calculation but also to help teach functions and graphing. (Students who have taken Algebra I in 8th grade will take Geometry in 9th grade.) Students are required to take one algebra course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Geometry: Concepts and Connections
(1 credit)
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of Euclidean geometry, with an emphasis on developing problem-solving skills and building mathematical confidence. In this course, students explore topics such as points, lines, segments, rays, and angles. Much time will be spent exploring types of polygons and their features, especially triangles and quadrilaterals. Additionally, students delve into circles and their parts as well as perimeter and area of two-dimensional shapes. It is intended for students who need extra support in mastering the essential principles of geometry before advancing to more rigorous math courses. Students are required to take one geometry course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Geometry
(1 credit)
This course is a study of Euclidean geometry in the plane with some work in three dimensions. Emphasis is given to the logic of geometry and to developing an appreciation of deductive reasoning. Topics covered include parallel lines, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similar triangles, the Pythagorean Theorem, circles, and area. Emphasis is also given to problems that apply geometric concepts to real-life situations in areas such as sports, space, biology, health, architecture, geography, history, art, and literature. Students are required to take one geometry course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Honors Geometry
(1 credit)
(Approval required) This course is a study of Euclidean geometry in the plane with additional work in three dimensions. The course begins with a focus on the logic of geometry and developing an appreciation of deductive reasoning. Topics covered include parallel lines, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similar triangles, the Pythagorean Theorem, circles, area, volume, and surface area. Emphasis is also given to problems that apply geometric concepts to real-life situations in areas such as sports, space, biology, health, architecture, geography, history, art, and literature. This course will involve an in-depth exploration of geometric concepts with higher-level problem solving in addition to complex logic proofs. Students are required to take one geometry course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Topics in Algebra II
(1 credit)
This course is designed to reinforce and deepen students’ understanding of core algebraic concepts as a foundation for continued mathematical study. Emphasis is placed on mastering foundational skills such as linear equations and their graphs, absolute value equations, and simplifying algebraic expressions. Students explore quadratic functions and how to graph them in various forms. A substantial portion of this course focuses on solving quadratic equations through factoring, square roots, the quadratic formula, and completing the square. There is an introduction to polynomial functions, rational exponents, and rational expressions. The use of graphing calculators is integrated throughout the course to support conceptual understanding and visual learning. This course is ideal for students who need a solid foundation in Algebra II concepts before progressing to higher-level mathematics. Students are required to take one Algebra II course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Algebra II
(1 credit)
Algebra II is an intensive course where practice in the fundamentals of algebra is continued and extended to include introductions to the more advanced concepts. Students revisit concepts such as graphing and solving quadratic equations through various methods, before moving on to explore higher-degree polynomials, their graphs, and how to solve them. Other topics explored include absolute value equations and inequalities, piecewise functions, complex numbers and fractions, rational expressions, and equations. A wide range of word problems help students integrate the basic ideas of algebra into their everyday lives as well as other school subjects. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used not only as an aid in calculating, but also to teach concepts about functions and their graphs. Students are required to take one Algebra II course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Honors Algebra II
(1 credit)
(Approval required) Honors Algebra II is an accelerated and rigorous course designed for students with a strong foundation in algebra who are prepared to engage in a deeper and more analytical exploration of mathematical concepts. The course extends and refines core algebraic skills while introducing advanced topics with greater complexity and abstraction. Students revisit and expand their understanding of solving and graphing quadratic equations using various methods, then progress to higher-degree polynomials, including their end behavior, roots, and graphical representations. Additional topics include absolute value equations and inequalities, piecewise functions, complex numbers and operations, and an in-depth study of rational expressions, complex fractions, and rational equations. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, critical thinking, and the application of algebraic concepts to real-world scenarios and interdisciplinary contexts. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used throughout the course as a tool for exploration, conceptual understanding, and visualization of functions and their transformations. Students are required to take one Algebra II course to satisfy graduation requirements.

Precalculus
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) This course begins with both a review and an extension of advanced algebraic concepts. The two major topics emphasized are exponential and logarithmic functions and rational functions with asymptotes. The second semester consists of a thorough study of trigonometric functions, graphs, identities, and equations. The course concludes with introductions to sequences. The TI-84 calculator is incorporated into the curriculum and is used daily during class. The course is demanding, and equally stresses applications and skills together with the capacity to develop clear mathematical thinking. 

Honors Precalculus
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th Grade, approval required) This course begins with both a review and an extension of advanced algebraic concepts. The two major topics emphasized are exponential and logarithmic functions and rational functions with asymptotes. There is a thorough study of trigonometric functions, graphs, identities, and equations. The second semester includes an introduction to sequences and series, parametric, polar and vector functions, limits, and an introduction to basic rules of differentiation. The TI-84 calculator is incorporated into the curriculum and is used daily during class. The course is demanding, and equally stresses applications and skills together with the capacity to develop clear mathematical thinking. 

Calculus
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, approval required) This course covers the fundamentals of calculus, but at a slightly slower pace and intensity than the AP Calculus courses. Topics covered include limits, rules of differentiation, practical applications of differentiation, Rolle’s Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, extrema, methods of integration, and (time permitting) practical applications of integration. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used extensively throughout the course. 

AP Calculus AB
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, approval required) This course covers the syllabus for the Advanced Placement Calculus AP Examination. Topics covered include limits, rules of differentiation, practical applications of differentiation, Rolle’s Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, extrema, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, methods of integration, and practical applications of integration. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used extensively throughout the course. 

AP Calculus BC
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, approval required) This course covers the syllabus for the Advanced Placement Calculus AP Examination. Topics covered include limits, rules of differentiation, practical applications of differentiation, Rolle’s Theorem, Mean Value Theorem, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, extrema, methods of integration, and practical applications of integration. In addition to the topics listed under AB Calculus, students explore many ideas presented with functions in parametric, polar, and vector form. Additional techniques of integration are covered, as well as infinite series and Taylor series. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used extensively throughout the course.

AP Statistics
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) This course covers the syllabus for the Advanced Placement Statistics Examination. The four conceptual themes in the course are: exploring data: describing patterns and departures from patterns; sampling and experimentation: planning and conducting a study; anticipating patterns: exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation; and statistical inference: estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses. Students investigate the properties of many different types of distributions. These include the standard normal, t-, binomial, chi-squared, and others. The inference section includes an in-depth look at confidence intervals. This class will include many real-world situations that are both challenging and interesting. The TI-84 graphing calculator is used extensively throughout the course.

Biology
(1 credit)
(Required, 9th Grade) This is an introductory course that covers the basic principles of biological science. Biology is presented both historically and conceptually, relating the material to everyday life wherever possible. In the laboratory, students have the opportunity to gain experience in scientific methods and to observe biological theories in action. The course aims to give students a broad exposure to biological concepts.

Concepts in Chemistry
(1 credit)
Concepts of Chemistry is a year-long course designed for 10th grade students to build a strong foundation in core chemistry concepts. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, hands-on learning, and real-world applications while covering key topics such as atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, reactions, states of matter, and basic stoichiometry. Through scaffolded instruction, collaborative projects, and interactive labs, students strengthen their scientific thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. Ideal for learners who benefit from a more methodical approach, this course supports the development of lab techniques, study habits, and scientific literacy, preparing students for continued success in high school science. Students are required to take one chemistry course in 10th grade.

Chemistry
(1 credit)
This full-year survey course offers students sufficient elementary theory and descriptive material for a complete and thorough program of study. It prepares students for future science courses both at the high school and college level. The laboratory work stresses understanding of chemical concepts, basic laboratory techniques, and the development of scientific accuracy. The material covered includes stoichiometry, electronic structure, gas laws, chemical bonding, organic chemistry, kinetics, equilibrium and acid-base theory, redox reactions, and nuclear chemistry. Students are required to take one chemistry course in 10th grade.

Physics
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th Grade) This is a full-year laboratory-based course that focuses on the laws and principles connected to the concepts of matter, force, and energy. A strong emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of the physics associated with our daily lives. Set within this context, this course explores traditional topics such as mechanics, light, sound, and electricity. Students also extend their inquiry into advances being made in the most current lines of research and probe even further into what scientists believe lies in our future.

AP Biology
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th  Grades, prerequisites Chemistry and Biology, approval required) This is a college-level full-year biology course. The content of this course closely follows the syllabus outline of the CEEB Advanced Placement Course Description, and each student has the option to take the Advanced Placement exam. Through this course, students receive an in-depth understanding of biological processes and principles. Students are introduced to such things as biostatistical tools used in research, appropriate computer applications, gel electrophoresis, and other advanced laboratory techniques. Students are also made aware of the controversial aspects of modern biology and the professional opportunities available to them.

AP Physics 2
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, prerequisites Physics and Precalculus, approval required) This is a college-level full-year physics course. The content closely follows the syllabus outline of the CEEB Advanced Placement Course Description and prepares students to take the Advanced Placement exam in May. This course involves an algebra and trigonometry understanding of physical phenomena, problem-solving techniques, and, where possible, the application of physics to other disciplines. Topics covered include, but are not limited to, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, waves, and optics, as well as modern nuclear physics. A laboratory component is incorporated to give students concrete experience with the concepts that are studied.

AP Physics C: Mechanics
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, prerequisite Physics, pre/corequisite Calculus, approval required) This is a calculus-based course equivalent to a first-semester university physics class for STEM majors. Students develop a rigorous understanding of classical mechanics through conceptual reasoning and mathematical analysis, emphasizing problem-solving and modeling with calculus. Topics include kinematics in one and two dimensions, Newtonian mechanics, work, energy, and power, linear momentum, systems of particles, rotational motion, oscillations, and gravitation. Laboratory investigations are central to the course, with students designing experiments, analyzing data, and evaluating uncertainty to deepen their understanding of physical principles and strengthen their ability to apply quantitative reasoning.

Advanced Seminar: Science Research
(1 credit)
(Elective, 10th and 12th Grades, approval required) The Honors Research Seminar is a year-long, immersive course designed for seniors passionate about learning deeply across disciplines, and modeled after a college-level research course. This seminar meets three days per week. The course is structured around the foundational skills necessary for academic research, segmented into hard science, soft science, and humanities. Students master navigating academic databases, analyzing scholarly articles critically, discerning rigorous research from the questionable, and understanding the nuances of academic writing and bibliography. The first term focuses on building these competencies through thematic studies, and the second term leads students to undertake their own research projects from inception to defense. Admission is predicated on previous grades, statements of interest, and a commitment to the rigor of the course. Applicants are encouraged to respond creatively, utilizing storytelling, a historical deep dive, creative writing, and/or traditional research. The statement of interest should also reflect applicants’ connection to research, its impact on society, or their aspirations within the field of research. 

Human Anatomy and Physiology
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) This full-year science course will enable students to learn about the structure and function of the various human organ systems. A primary focus throughout the course is understanding the concept of homeostasis, or how the human body is able to maintain a state of healthy balance despite external changes. This is a lab-based course, and there is a number of lab activities designed to enable students to understand the inner workings of their own physiological mechanisms.

Environmental Science
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) Nature-based technologies are increasingly the answer to complex issues faced by cities. The curriculum is composed of 10 technology typology sections—Agricultural Terraces, Living Root Bridges, Rice Terraces, Forest Gardens, Aqueducts, Aquaculture, Floating Islands, Waffle Gardens, and Corrals—containing 18 technologies designed by indigenous groups around the world. This exploratory process involving nature-based indigenous technologies, culminates in interdisciplinary, community-led research projects on how to rebuild and reinvent these technologies, presented to real-world stakeholders; a building block for learners, organizations, and innovators to change the landscape of urban, suburban, and rural development to incorporate ancient wisdom and nature-based technologies in their geographic locations.

Neuroscience
(1 credit)
(Elective: 11th and 12th Grades) The brain is the last black box of the human body, full of mysteries we are only just starting to unravel. Neuroscience and Learning How To Learn offers students a comprehensive exploration of the brain and its role in the learning process. This elective provides a foundation in neuroscience principles, covering various topics from brain structure, sensory perception, memory formation, and cognitive processes. Through a combination of lectures, experiments, and practical exercises, students gain a deeper understanding of how the brain processes information, adapts to new challenges, and retains knowledge. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based learning strategies, allowing students to apply neuroscientific principles to their study habits and academic performance, and to develop a strong sense of self.

Engineering: The Design Process
(1 credit)
(Elective: 11th and 12th Grades, pre/corequisites Physics and Precalculus, approval required) The Introduction to Engineering Design course is targeted towards upperclassmen who are curious about the exciting field of engineering. Students engage deeply with the engineering design process, learning to approach complex problems with innovative solutions. Students progress from completing structured activities to tackling increasingly complex, open-ended challenges that enhance their planning, documentation, and communication skills. Collaborative and individual projects enable students to apply systematic thinking and consider critical factors in engineering design such as material choice, human-centered principles, manufacturability, and environmental sustainability. Practical skills in technical representation are developed through Computer Aided Design (CAD) projects where students produce 3D-printed engineering prototypes, develop their own testing protocols to drive decision-making, and iteratively improve their designs. Professional practices are woven throughout the curriculum, including project management, peer review, and environmental impact analysis. Students also explore various engineering disciplines—such as Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Civil Engineering—and discuss possible career paths, alongside the ethical considerations inherent in professional engineering. 

The study of world languages is an essential part of a classical education. To learn another language is to encounter another way of seeing the world. It strengthens memory, precision, and interpretive skill, while also cultivating cultural understanding, intellectual flexibility, and humility. In an increasingly interconnected world, language study helps students become more attentive readers, more thoughtful listeners, and more capable participants in communities beyond their own.

At BWL, our World Languages program emphasizes steady growth in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, alongside meaningful engagement with the histories, cultures, and perspectives of the people who speak each language. Students begin by building a strong foundation in vocabulary, grammar, and everyday communication. As they advance, they move toward greater independence, engaging with authentic texts, media, conversation, and cultural analysis. At the upper levels, courses place increasing emphasis on fluency, interpretation, discussion, and expression in the target language.

Students may study Chinese, French, Japanese, or Spanish. Across all languages, the program is designed to help students progress from foundational communication to more confident and nuanced use of the language in academic and real-world contexts. Some languages also offer honors, advanced, culture-based, and AP courses, allowing students to deepen both linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy.

All World Language courses above Level I require successful completion of prior coursework or demonstrated proficiency. All honors, AP, advanced, and Spanish Culture courses require departmental approval. All students are required to complete three years of World Language in Upper School, through at least Level III, to satisfy graduation requirements.

Pre-AP Computer Science: Website Development
(1 credit)
(Elective, 10th–12th Grades) The Pre-AP Computer Science course introduces students to programming with a special emphasis on Website Development. By engaging with current technologies, students enhance their creativity, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving skills in a context that is highly relevant and applicable. The first semester is dedicated to static website creation, where students learn to build the structure of pages using HTML, style them with CSS, and enhance functionality by leveraging popular toolkits like Bootstrap. Each student designs and codes their own multi-page personal website that is mobile-responsive, user-friendly, and has a cohesive aesthetic. In the second semester, students enhance their HTML pages by integrating JavaScript (JS), a powerful programming language that enables dynamic behavior, user interaction, and data processing. Time permitting, industry-standard JS libraries like React and Node.js are explored. Throughout the year, the class engages in meaningful discussions about the legal, social, and ethical issues surrounding internet-based technology in modern society. Students emerge from the Pre-AP course equipped with an understanding of their potential impact within the field of technology, proficiency in three complementary coding languages, and the ability to code fully-functional, interactive websites. 

AP Computer Science A: Java Programming 
(1 credit)
(Elective, 10th-12th Grades, prerequisite Pre-AP Computer Science, approval required) The AP Computer Science course offers comprehensive training in Java, a high-level, class-based, object-oriented programming language widely used by professional software engineers. Aligned with CollegeBoard’s “AP Computer Science A” standards, this college-level curriculum emphasizes proper programming methodology, algorithmic development, data structures, and class design. Supplementary topics of study include graphical interfaces, game design, and technology in modern culture. Students reinforce their understanding of these topics through analyzing problems, writing solutions in Java, and testing their own code. Assignments encompass a variety of coding tasks, ranging from short individual exercises to open-ended collaborative projects. In culmination of their learning, all students are required to take the Advanced Placement examination in May. This rigorous course is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in programming skills necessary to excel in the evolving field of computer science. 

Post-AP Computer Science: Python Applications
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, prerequisite AP Computer Science, approval required) The Post-AP Computer Science course is designed for highly motivated students who have successfully completed introductory and AP-level courses. It leverages the Python programming language, renowned for its versatility across various domains, to deepen students’ engagement with real-world technological applications. Students explore the realm of Data Science first, where Python libraries like Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib are used to wrangle vast collections of data, perform statistical analyses, create visualizations, and interpret trends. Students choose datasets to investigate, perform Exploratory Data Analysis experiments, and assemble the results into a formal research poster. The focus of the course then shifts to using Python for Web Development, particularly in creating dynamic server-side applications through the Flask framework and handling SQL database interactions. By learning how to integrate Python logic with HTML web pages, students bridge the gap between backend data processing and frontend user interfaces. Projects range from simple interactive applications, like personal blogs and to-do lists, to more complex ones, like live data dashboards. Finally, students explore the forefront of technology through modules on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. By the end of the course, students will have developed a robust portfolio of programs that demonstrate their advanced coding skills and readiness for future challenges in the world of technology. 

Robotics
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades) Students who join the BirchBots Robotics Team may elect this after-school course, working within one of four subsystems: Build, Electrical, Coding, or Management. Meeting three days a week, students are assessed on active participation, professionalism, efficiency, and team discipline. The Build Team focuses on mechanical design, prototyping, tools, drivetrain systems, and 3D printing; Electrical covers wiring, circuit design, power management, sensors, and troubleshooting; Coding emphasizes Java, autonomy, tele-op control, FRC SDK use, vision processing, and debugging; and Management develops skills in project management, budgeting, fundraising, outreach, branding, documentation, and event planning. This hands-on experience fosters teamwork, real-world problem-solving, and competitive strategy while building valuable technical and professional skills.

Art 9: Painting & Photography
(1 credit)
(Required, 9th Grade) This course is composed of two half-year portions. The studio portion explores a wide range of art materials and techniques, and there is further development of the drawing skills stressed in Middle School and an emphasis on personal expression. Students have the opportunity to experiment with various watercolor techniques and to complete a painting on canvas. For the photography portions, art students use their cell phones as cameras to create a visual narrative, which will result in a self-published book made by each student based on a topic of their choice. The goal is to have them portray their own ideas and interests in their photographs during this long-term project. There is also a short essay that will accompany the final body of work. 

Art 10: Studio Art
(1 credit)
(Required, 10th Grade) This year-long course explores a wide range of topics such as collage, self-portraiture, depictions of poetry, and the urban landscape through photography. Class time is spent critiquing and analyzing each student’s work in progress. There are also opportunities for in-class photo shoots where instruction and collaboration may take place. When weather permits, as a class, we explore Central Park and the surrounding neighborhoods. Each project provides an opportunity for students to express the way they perceive the world through the lens of a camera. Students are encouraged to take risks, embrace their creative side, and strive to create exceptional pieces of art.

Art History
(1 credit)
(Required, 10th Grade) Over the course of the year, we introduce 10th grade students to the major themes of art history from the caves at Lascaux to the movement-inspired art animating Chelsea galleries today. There is class discussion and analysis of a series of artworks that both characterize a particular art historical period and speak to the culture and history from which they emerged. Students are assessed through contributions to the discussion, in-class writing, homework writing, and special projects. 

AP Art History
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades) The AP Art History course covers the form and content of the global art world. Students research, discuss, read, and write about artworks, the artists who make them, the techniques they utilize, and the responses and interpretations of them. Students study 250 works of art from diverse traditions across history, developing a global understanding of art through visual, contextual, and comparative analysis. The course is equivalent to a two-semester introductory college art history survey and has no prerequisites. This course involves copious writing, memorization, and thinking, which prepares students for advanced coursework in college as well as the Advanced Placement Art History exam. 

The Art of Black & White Photography
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) This year-long course is structured around students learning both technical and aesthetic skills. Students complete camera assignments and are instructed in darkroom techniques. During the second semester, students are encouraged to choose a theme or style of photography to explore more fully. 

Advanced Photography: Alternative & Darkroom Processes
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, approval required) This year-long course focuses on the development of a personal style. Slide lectures and discussions revolve around analyzing work by master photographers and the students’ own work. The final project involves the making of 11” x 14” enlargements and a portfolio in which to present their work. 

Studio Lab: Drawing, Prints & Form
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) This full-year course involves the exploration of art materials and techniques, including drawing in various media, painting in watercolor and acrylic, linoleum block printmaking, and 3D construction. Students develop skills in observational realism as well as non-figurative abstraction. We examine the work of prominent artists, as well as many cultural traditions, and discuss how art can be used to explore and comment on the world around us. Students have the opportunity to make individual choices as to subject matter and materials and to develop their artistic vision in a relaxed atmosphere. A private sketchbook journal is kept.

Advanced Studio: The Art of Making
(1 credit)
(Elective, 12th Grade, approval required) This course continues the activities of Studio Art Focus with further emphasis on individual expression and exploration of materials. We practice art skills through drawing and painting projects, but students also have the opportunity to work independently. During the third quarter, each student designs a Passion Project inspired by a cause or event of personal meaning, utilizing media of their own choosing. All work is done during class time, including sketching outdoors, and possibly a gallery or museum visit. Portfolios for college applications can be prepared if desired.

Students who choose to continue their study of music or performing arts for more than one year will enroll in a course designated as advanced.

A Cappella
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades, audition required) Students in all Upper School grades have the opportunity to audition for BWL's a cappella group, which rehearses weekly and performs at many events, including the Holiday and Spring concerts. Rehearsals concentrate on vocal technique, ear training, and ensemble work. 

Pop Strings
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades) This course is a contemporary string ensemble for violin, viola, and cello that explores popular music styles beyond the traditional orchestral repertoire. Students will rehearse and perform arrangements of pop, rock, musical theatre, film, and other modern genres while developing ensemble skills, stylistic versatility, rhythmic precision, and expressive performance techniques. Emphasis is placed on collaboration, listening, creativity, and confident musicianship in both group rehearsal and performance settings. The course will include opportunities for concerts and school events throughout the year.

Music Production
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades) In this non-performance class, students create music compositions using a Digital Audio Workstation. This is a project-based course where students work independently as well as collaboratively to analyze various forms of music and create re-imagined or original songs. The projects range from creating musical parodies, to writing original commercial jingles, to making their own podcasts. Course participation requires access to a laptop and headphones.

Rock Band
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades, must have previous instrumental experience, approval required) Rock Band is a combination of instrumental workshop and performance ensemble. Students pick repertoire based on interest and ability, and learn arrangements of a variety of rock, pop, and jazz classics. Rehearsals culminate in performances at the Holiday and Spring concerts. 

Vocal Ensemble
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades) Vocal Ensemble is open to all students in 9th through 12th grades. The Upper School Vocal Ensemble performs twice a year at the Holiday and Spring concerts, where students demonstrate the basic vocal and performance techniques they have learned in the class. 

Audition Skills
(1 credit)
(Elective, 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) This class is offered to those interested in learning more about the professional audition process for theater, TV/film, and voiceovers. Weekly assignments include researching appropriate material for real-world auditions and presenting it to the class. 11th and 12th grade students interested in auditioning for college theater programs, and who would like to submit a theater supplement/portfolio to enhance their college applications, have the opportunity to organize and workshop their materials in this class. We also hold mock auditions and bring in guest speakers, including casting directors and producers. At the end of the year, everyone will have a book of ready-to-go audition material and have the opportunity to film their pieces for college and summer programs. 

Theater Fundamentals
(1 credit)
(Elective, 9th–12th Grades) This full-year course gives students an overall idea of what goes into creating a successful performance on the stage. Students are active members of this class, getting up and performing each week. Students spend two to three weeks at a time focusing on various topics, including improvisation, monologue work, scene study, and musical theater, among others. Special guest teachers will drop by throughout the course to teach unique specialties and discuss their experience in the professional theater world. The year culminates in a showcase for friends and family. 

PANYC: Performing Arts in NYC
(1 credit)
(Elective: 11th and 12th Grades, approval required) Performing Arts NYC (PANYC) is an interdisciplinary arts elective for students in 11th and 12th grades. The class is a deep dive into the world of performing arts in the greatest performing arts city in the world, NYC! The class goes to a show or concert once a month, discussing everything that went into the performance and having a variety of written and performance-based assignments inspired by our trips. Our field trip events will always occur on weeknights (once a month), and attendance at the events is mandatory. There is an additional registration fee to partially cover ticket costs. Financial Aid is available.

9th Grade Seminar
(Required) The 9th grade Seminar is a one-semester, pass/fail course designed to support students in making a successful transition to Upper School. Through guided discussions and interactive activities, students explore a range of essential skills and strategies to help them navigate academic and personal challenges. Core topics include understanding high school expectations, managing time effectively, overcoming procrastination, utilizing school resources, and developing constructive problem-solving approaches. The course remains responsive to student needs, allowing space for additional topics to emerge as the year progresses.

10th Grade Health
(1 credit)
(Required) Students in the 10th grade must complete a course in health education required by the State of New York. The health class is a forum for the discussion of relevant health-related topics. It provides students with an opportunity to identify their own attitudes and beliefs concerning critical health issues, as well as an opportunity to listen to the perspectives and experiences of others. 

11th Grade Seminar
(Required) In this seminar, juniors are introduced to the college application process and the tools they'll use along the way. Students learn how to research colleges, build a balanced list, and begin working on the Common Application. They’ll navigate MaiaLearning, draft their activity lists, and start brainstorming ideas for their personal statements with one-on-one guidance from our college essay specialist. This course complements the individualized support students receive from their college counselors and sets the stage for a focused and productive summer and senior year.

12th Grade Seminar
(Required) This seminar supports seniors as they complete their college applications and manage the final stages of the process. Students finalize their college lists in MaiaLearning, complete the Common Application, and revise their personal statements and supplemental essays with guidance from counselors and our essay specialist. This seminar is in addition to the individualized support students receive from their college counselors and provides dedicated time during the school day to stay organized, focused, and confident throughout this important semester.

Constellation Learning Courses
BWL is a member of the Constellation Learning Consortium, an online learning community where students can take additional courses in a wide variety of subject areas. Available for school-year or summer enrollment, Constellation Learning’s offerings range from American Sign Language to Discrete Mathematics. Students interested in enrolling in a course must first get the approval of the Directors of Upper School.

(1 credit)
Physical Education, as outlined by the New York State Department of Education, is required for graduation, and students must participate each year. The Physical Education Department strives to help each student successfully complete varied Physical Education activities. Our philosophy is one of allowing students to participate actively in class and on teams, to fully realize their potential both as students and as athletes. All students are encouraged to reach their highest levels of achievement. 

Physical Education emphasizes the development of basic fitness concepts for both immediate needs and future demands encountered throughout life. Students participate in a variety of activities that will help to satisfy their need for leisure-time activities with a lifelong enjoyment and appreciation of the value of physical activities. We give students the opportunity to practice and learn a variety of fundamental motor skills through individual and group activities such as fitness and conditioning, badminton, cricket, basketball, touch football, softball, volleyball, soccer, and team handball. 

Students in 9th–12th grades who are on varsity teams are exempt from Physical Education during their sport season to enable them to study during the school day. 

FALL
Boys and Girls Varsity Soccer Teams
Girls Varsity Volleyball Team
Boys and Girls Cross Country Teams

WINTER
Boys Junior Varsity Basketball Team
Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball Teams
Coed Varsity Squash Team
Coed Varsity Swim Team

SPRING
Boys and Girls Varsity Tennis Teams
Boys and Girls Varsity Track and Field Teams
Coed Varsity Golf Team
Boys Varsity Baseball Team

The following activities are offered in the Birch Wathen Lenox Upper School. Students are encouraged to suggest new activities where there is sufficient interest. Offerings are subject to change based on interest.

COMMUNITY SERVICE CLUBS
Baking for Good
BWL United
Lending a Hand for Experience Camps
JET - Supporting Kids with Brain Cancer
Wishbone
Chat&Charm
Everything for Anyone
Robin Hood Teen Council
Grassroots Grocery
Glamour Gals
The Project Sunshine Club
Leading with Kindness
Recess
The Caring Cards Project

COMPETITIVE TEAMS
Birch Bots Robotics
Debate
Model UN

PEER ENGAGEMENT
Student Council
Breaking Walls and Limits
Environmental Club
Peer Tutoring
RANGE (student publication)
Spirit Club
Yearbook Club

SHARED INTEREST
Chess Club
AI Club
Investing and Finance
Creative Writing Club
Lion Launch (Finance)
The Reset Lounge
Golf Club
Student in Medicine (HSAFP)
Jewish Affiliation Group
Nursing and Public Health
NYSEE: Education on NYC
BWL Mountain Lions (rock climbing)