Curriculum

At Pope John Paul II Preparatory School, the academic program centers on intellectual growth that acknowledges and incorporates all essential aspects of the person – the spiritual, social, creative, and physical. Challenging coursework designed to prepare students to pursue further academic life confidently comes from the following academic disciplines: English/Language Arts, Fine Arts, World Languages, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Theology.

The program seeks to provide academic coursework which challenges a broad range of talents and areas of strength and is designed for all graduates to be eligible to attend college. To this end, coursework is offered at several levels of challenge: Standard, Honors, and Advanced Placement.

Curriculum Guide

Academic Course Levels

Standard Courses

Coursework at this level requires a variety of study skills and learning habits: independence in completing daily assignments, accomplishing individual projects, and understanding the major concepts of content. Students must display a sufficient motivation to complete tasks. Competent performance at each level of the critical thinking hierarchy will be strengthened to ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the academic demands of college.

Honors Courses

Coursework at this level requires that students demonstrate a higher degree of self-direction and performance. They will manage more extensive projects and reading outside of class. A faster pace and frequent demands for higher-level thinking and problem-solving are expected. Students will be expected to demonstrate greater knowledge and analytical criticism in all assessment areas.

Advanced Placement Courses

Work on the advanced placement level is comparable to college-level work. College-level textbooks, outside reading, research projects and presentations, and rapid pacing establish rigorous academic demands. Expectations include the regular demonstration of higher-level cognitive skills and a broader command of the content in all class academic activities. Students receive instruction in both the content and skill areas particular to the College Board AP examinations for the course. Sitting for the National AP Examination in May is a requirement for completion of the course.