Humanities (Language Arts and Social Studies) and Field Studies (Math and Science) will be connected through a central theme for each unit of study. For example, the first theme of the year will be Pressure. The essential question is: How do humans and how does nature respond to pressure? During each unit of study students will be completing one large research project that will connect to most of the core subjects as well as including visual and musical arts as much as possible. Students will also have large and small group lessons and presentations focusing on key concepts and skills, which relate to the central theme. There will also be weekly seminars, activities, labs as well as the occasional quiz and tests.

This is an introductory course to philosophy. The course is centered on class discussions concerning issues and topics brought out through the reading of a text about young adults and their thoughts, feelings and experiences. The central topics in this year's course are about thinking and logic - not as ends themselves, but as tools
for helping to understand the world. Some ideas explored include education, mind, rights, religion, art, cause and effect, and causes and reasons. It is a course where students practice and experience philosophy more than read about it. The objectives of the class are to: address topics that are meaningful to young people through
philosophical inquiry; enjoy challenging concepts together; develop their inner voice as well as critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. It is an active and engaging course, which often has students continuing the conversations outside of class.

Great River School
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