The Academy provides a core curriculum which emphasizes writing, computation, and critical reading. This curriculum offers a range of courses, from college credit courses, like calculus, to basic writing. Students work with the Academic Dean to design a course of study which meets the needs and desires of the individual student.

To view course descriptions for our classes, click on the appropriate department below.

English

Basic Writing  

Basic Writing is a full-year course designed to help students develop fundamentally sound writing skills.  The emphasis will be on expository writing. Enrollment in Basic Writing is limited to students who seek exceptional attention for week writing backgrounds.  The Academic Dean, as with all course selections, determines if a student needs this course. 

Standard English

During the first semester, the emphasis of the course is writing and grammar and, during the second semester, the emphasis is literature.  During the first semester, students read selections from various genres of literature: short story, novel, and drama.  Class discussions and writing assignments are often related to the reading, and all students are required to produce a major research paper. Specific topics for the second semester courses are not yet determined, but for the 2006-2007 school year, the topics of the Standard English courses were Modern American Writers, Vampire Literature, Baseball Literature, and Focus on Fiction.  This level of English is taught as two sequential semester- long courses, and students earn separate grades for each semester.

CAP English

A full year of college-level English is available for exceptionally strong students.  In the first semester, Composition is the equivalent of the same course at Plymouth State College (EN 1200).  In the second semester, students who successfully complete Compositionwill be eligible to enroll in a literature-based course that will also carry college credit through Plymouth State College (ENDI 1450).  As with Standard English, this level of English is taught as two separate courses.

Composition (CAP)

Offered in the first semester, this course focuses on the student's ability to develop a strong thesis, to write clear prose, and to contact and persuade an audience through the expository and critical essay forms.  Research methods and persuasive writing are used in the preparation of several research papers.  As in the same course at Plymouth State College, students write a variety of compositions, study grammar, and explore the interrelationships among writing, thinking, and speaking.  In addition to weekly written assignments, the course requires long-term projects that necessitate careful planning.  Successful completion of this course qualifies a student for three (3) hours of transferable college credit from Plymouth State College.

Literature (CAP)

Offered in the second semester, this course explores literature by the examination of specific objects and texts in this area.  Students work to improve their abilities to appreciate, understand, and interpret literature, and are given extensive practice in reading and writing analytically.  Successful completion of this course qualifies a student for three (3) hours of transferable college credit from Plymouth State College.

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Mathematics

The objective of the math department is to teach an understanding of the basic mathematical skills and the application of these skills for use in future math courses, other subject areas, and practical applications.  Most math courses are full-year, two-semester offerings; students receive a grade for each semester, but also receive a final course grade at the end of the year.  Trigonometry is a first semester course, and Probability and Statistics is a second semester course; students receive final grades in both courses.

Geometry

 This is a full-year course.  This course includes a review of algebra skills and a study of Euclidian geometry.  Problem-solving strategies are emphasized, and relationships between algebra and geometry are explored, but the main emphasis of the course is on traditional topics in geometry. 

This is a full-year course.  After a brief review of Algebra 1, this course studies the structure of the real and complex number systems. Algebra 2 emphasizes graphing linear and quadratic equations, along with solving word problems.  

This course is offered in the first semester.  It begins with a review and enrichment of basic algebra skills, and the application of these skills.  It then explores Trigonometry through a triangular approach with applications.

 Probability and Statistics (CAP) 

This course is offered in the second semester.  It is designed to acquaint students with statistical methods of data analysis.  Topics include: descriptive statistics; probability and probability distributions; hypothesis testing and statistical inference; analysis of variance; and regression.  This course is intended as the second semester math course for students who have successfully completed Trigonometry in the first semester.  Successful completion of this course may qualify a student for college credit through the University of Southern Maine. 

Precalculus (CAP)

This is a full-year course.  This course provides the mathematical background necessary for calculus. Topics include: equations and inequalities; functions and graphs; exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; and identities and inverse functions.   Successful completion of this course (the equivalent of MAT 180 at University of New England) may qualify a student for 3 hours of college credit.  Students are required to use a TI 89 Titanium graphing calculator.

Calculus (CAP)

This is a full-year course.  This course is modeled on a college freshman calculus course taught at University of Southern Maine (USM).  The topics include: analytical geometry; functions; continuity; limits; derivatives and applications; and integrals and applications.  This course is the equivalent of USM's MAT 152D and carries 4 college credits.  Students are required to use a TI 89 Titanium graphing calculator.

Accelerated Calculus (CAP)

This is a full-year course.  This courses parallels the two-semester sequence course taught at University of Southern Maine, Calculus A (MAT 152D) and B (MAT 153), for 4 credit hours for each semester.  Students are required to use a TI 89 Titanium graphing calculator.

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Social Sciences/History/Other Electives

Civil Rights in the United States

This is a one-semester course offered in the both semesters that examines the development of Civil Rights in the United States, and the prospects for the future.  Examination of the pivotal role of people and events involved is an essential component for an understanding of where we are today.

Contemporary American History

This is a one-semester course offered in the both semesters.  It explores the events and trends that have shaped the American character since the end of World War I.  Students are required to read extensively from an array of novels, monographs, periodicals, and texts.

Journalism

This is a one-semester course offered in both semesters that focuses on journalism as a profession, and will explore the ways in which information flows through our everyday media outlets, from the daily newspaper to the Internet.  Daily reading and writing will be expected, and students will use individual and group projects to demonstrate their understanding of the material.

Sociology

This is a one-semester course offered in the both semesters.  It covers the principles of sociology and is designed as an introductory course in the subject.  The class uses discussion and lecture to promote a dialogue about current topics, and focuses on the more traditional examination of classic sociological theory and models. 

The American Civil War

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  It begins with the study of the causes of the Civil War, and moves through a study of the war, its battles, and the social climate of America during the War.  The course format will be a combination of lectures and discussion.  Extensive reading is expected both in the text and in outside sources and a major paper is required.  

Current Political Issues

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  It aims to introduce students to the American political system through a study of current issues and events in the political arena.  This course, or its equivalent, is a prerequisite for Introduction to Political Science, which is offered in the second semester.

Early American Encounters (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester that focuses on the interactions between 17th and 18th century Native Americans and Europeans.  It will interpret North American settlements and conflicts from both the European and the Native American perspectives.  Readings will be taken from both sources.

History of Conflict

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  It traces the development of modern conflict looking at the historical background of the Middle Eastern, European, and Far Eastern conflicts in the news today.  Examination of the issues of terrorism, ethnic cleansing, famine, and dictatorship are examined from economic, cultural, and political perspectives. 

The History and Impact of Technology

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester that will trace the development and impact of key technologies in the course of human history.  The core of the course will be the examination of the interrelation of technology and the growth of human civilization.  Diverse communication technologies will be used by students and the instructor to demonstrate the impact of changing communication modalities.  Student evaluation will be based on tests, written assignments, research projects, and class participation.

Introduction to Communications

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  It takes a two-fold introductory approach to the realm of communication as it exists in current society.  First, through lecture and discussion, the course explores the many different forms of mass communication as it examines both print and electronic forms of mass media.  Second, through interactive class sessions, the course will discuss interpersonal communication through speech development, and will build a skill set for effective public speaking.  Various assignments are given, including: reading, writing papers, group presentations, and individual public speaking.

Introduction to Creative Writing

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  The course offers the Bridgton Academy student the opportunity to express himself through the written word.  Various literary genres, including the short story, the memoir, the essay, and the poem, will be both examined and created.  Students will be expected to read a great deal outside of class, while the majority of class time will be spent writing and sharing.  The aims of the course are to sharpen writing skills, expand literary knowledge, and develop as reflective observers. 

World War II

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  The course examines the period between the world wars, and the various causes of the 2^nd World War, before studying the War as it developed and ended in both European and Pacific Theaters.  The course format will be a combination of lectures and discussion.  Extensive reading is expected, and research in multiple sources is encouraged.  A major paper is required. 

The American West (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.  It considers the American West as a shifting location, a social process and a potent ongoing idea. Topics, explored in film, literature, and art, include Native American groups and colonizing encounters; the Lewis and Clark expedition; Manifest Destiny, the Texas Revolution and the Mexican-American War; the Gold Rush; the Oregon Trial; diversity; the West's natural resources and economic development. Equivalent to HIDI 1207 at Plymouth State University.

The Art of Historical Detection

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.  The course deals with historic research as both art and science, detective work based on artifacts, primary documents and secondary sources. The goal is to involve the student as an active decision maker with a working knowledge of the process of historic investigation, and a practical approach to the study and writing of histories. There will be field trips, including an archeological dig to gather evidence and to apply techniques studied.

Constitiutional History

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.   The course traces the development of concepts in the American Constitution, and the evolution of interpretation by federal courts. Case histories, comparison to other constitutions, and methods of interpretation are designed to develop the student's analytical and persuasive skills. Questions explored include: Is the concept of civil liberty universal? Are democracy and a republican form of government suited to all societies? Just how far do rights and concurrent responsibilities extend? Exercises include debate and a Moot Court on a current topic.

Economics

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.  It provides students with an overview of the principles governing Economics.  This is a course that covers the basics of micro and macroeconomics, as well as market forces, and discusses the critical economic factors facing the world today. 

Introduction to Logic

A one-semester course offered in the second semester.  It focuses on instilling a sensitivity for the formal component in language.  The aim of the course is for students to begin a critical study of arguments and argument structure.  Students will learn to write and analyze formal, informal, propositional, and symbolic logical forms, while highlighting the practical usages of logic in natural language and communication.  Readings will be assigned primarily from the text, but will also include a variety of secondary sources, such as chapters from books and newspaper articles.

Introduction to Philosphy and Ethics

A one-semester course offered in the second semester.  It exposes students to some of the major works of the discipline.  Assignments will be varied, but students should be prepared to frequently read and write.

Introduction to Policical Science

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester that focuses on basic themes, such as ideology, the political spectrum, and nationalism.  Major ideologies, including capitalism, socialism, communism, fascism, and modern post-industrial concepts, are analyzed.  To enroll in this course, a student must successfully complete Current Political Issues in the first semester or receive permission of the instructor and/or Academic Dean.

Introduction to Psychology (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.  This course will serve as an initial overview to the field of psychology and introduce students to many of the historical and current topics that are prevalent within this field.   A wide variety of topics will be discussed including motivation, learning, perception, memory, cognition, personality, and social behavior.   This is a CAP course in affiliation with Plymouth State College.

Pompeii

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.  Early in the afternoon of 24 August, AD 79, Mt. Vesuvius exploded, and wiped off the map a series of towns and villas situated along the fertile coast of the Bay of Naples in Italy.  This course will examine the site of Pompeii as foundation to the discipline of classical culture and classical archaeology. As the oldest, continuously excavated site in the world, Pompeii has been a laboratory for our understanding of the ancient Roman world, as well as for the theories, techniques, and approaches used in developing that understanding. This class studies both the sites themselves for what they can tell us about daily Roman life, and also the history of their discovery; the distribution of objects and knowledge throughout Europe and America; and continuing controversies involving nationalism, authenticity, and ownership. 

Social Fabric of America

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester that traces the development of material culture from post contact Colonial America up to the Civil War.  Through the study of historical documents, artifacts, architecture, gravestones, and other cultural remains, the student will develop a comprehensive understanding of the way early Americans engaged in commonplace activities which now communicate to us in subtle ways. While the personalities of prehistory remain nameless, early Americans left behind a rich history of artifacts which, when studied as a whole, reveal a wealth of information about the people who established the United States.   

Three Religions, One God, Many Conflicts

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester that studies the historical development of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.  Comparisons and differences between the roots of each religion are stressed.  Students will read from texts and other sources, and students will be assessed through tests and papers.

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 Science

The science department at Bridgton Academy introduces students to a variety of science areas.  Each course seeks to give the student insight into modern scientific information, to foster an appreciation for the scientific approach to problem resolutions, and to encourage the student to view science as an integral part of modern society.  College Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology, and Ecology of the Lakes Region all have lab components to them, and all are full-year courses.  Introduction to Environmental Issues, Oceanography, and Modern Science and Society are semester courses and do not have a laboratory component.

Anatomy and Phisiology

This is a full-year course.  This is an introductory level course in the human sciences that includes examination of the following areas: cytology, histology, genetics, and the major systems of the body. The object of this course is to give each student a basic, working knowledge of the human body's parts and how this anatomy functions to create the living condition.  Practical application of the scientific knowledge is stressed.  Some background in Biology is strongly recommended for this course.

College Chemistry (CAP)

This is a college freshman-level course in chemistry and is a full-year course.  The content and pace of the course prepares the student for either a science or pre-med major in college.  The course is the equivalent of General Chemistry I and II (CHE 110 & CHE 111) at University of New England and carries 8 hours of credit.  The course maintains an exceptionally demanding pace.  A year or more of high school chemistry is the preferred background.

Ecology of the Lakes Region 

This is a full-year course that investigates the local environment, and touches upon the scientific principles underlying the unique ecosystem of Maine's Lake Region.  Examination of the current social, economic, developmental, conservation, and scientific issues facing this area of Maine are presented during this full-year course.

Modern Science and Society

This is a one-semester course offered in both semesters.  It explores the interface of scientific developments and their effects on modern society, and society's effects on the directions and possible limitations of scientific development.  The students will learn the basic scientific background inherent to the problem, and study the ramifications of technology on society.  Consideration will be given to possible ethical dilemmas and to various religious points of view. Topics may include global warming, cloning, nuclear power and weapons, energy sources, and water use.

Introduction to Environmental Issues (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester that studies the origin of and solutions to pressing, current environmental issues.  A comprehensive approach to the problems is stressed, which seeks to incorporate the scientific, legal, economic, and social aspects of the issues in order to foster an understanding of the complexity of these problems. This course carries three hours of credit as the equivalent of ENV 104 at the University of New England.

Introduction to Oceanography (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester that studies the four major disciplines of oceanography: biological, chemical, geological, and physical oceanography.  Topics covered will include: global plate tectonics; marine provinces and sediments; and ocean circulation, waves, tides, coastal processes, and estuaries.  Successful completion of biology and chemistry in high school is required to enroll in this course.  Upon successful completion, this course carries 3 hours of credit through Plymouth State. 

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Computer Science

Introduction to the Internet and World Wide Web (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in both semesters.   After a brief introduction to the Internet and its extraordinary potential for communication, this course will teach students how to construct a Web page using an HTML editor.  Students will learn about imaging, animation, and multimedia uses of the Web.  Students should have familiarity with the Windows format on a PC before enrolling in this course.  The equivalent of ITM 102, a course of the same title, offered at University of New England, this course carries three (3) hours of credit.

Special note:  A student who is comfortable in using a PC and who has sufficient computer skill before coming to BA, may consider enrolling in this course for the first semester.  If in doubt about what constitutes sufficient skill, a student should call the Academic Dean or the Director of Technology before choosing this course in the first semester.   If a student has little or no computer experience before coming to BA, he should opt to carry the Introduction to Microcomputer Software course in the first semester if he wants to carry the Internet/World Wide Web course in the second semester.

Introduction to Microcomputer Software (CAP)

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester, designed for the student with little or no computer experience.  The course focuses on developing computer literacy, and introduces students to working with word processors, spreadsheets, databases, and the Internet.  The equivalent of ITM 100 at University of New England, this course carries 3 credit hours for successful completion.

Introduction to Graphic Design

This is a one-semester course offered in the second semester.  It is not for college credit and is intended to introduce students to the world of computer graphics.  The course will use various popular software design packages.  Successful completion of Introduction to Computers in the first semester or permission of the instructor is required to take this course.

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Academic Support

PAS

This is a full-year course required of all students enrolled in PAS (Program for Academic Support, for students with diagnosed learning disabilities) and is open only to PAS students.  The PAS course does not count towards the four required academic courses and does not appear on transcripts.  It helps those students who have learning disabilities or attention disorders transition successfully to college. Individual and group meetings promote learning strategies, skill acquisition, and self-advocacy.

Learning Strategies

This is a one-semester course offered in the first semester.  This course meets once per week to assist students in determining what specific learning strategies will enhance their individual learning styles and academic performance.  Class lessons include: time management/organization; note-taking/highlighting; reading effectiveness; memorization techniques; and test preparation and test taking strategies.   Underlying principles of the course establish a "can do" attitude in the student, and increase self-monitoring skills.