Curriculum

St. Lawrence Seminary High School follows a seven period class day, with two additional study hall periods. The periods are forty-five minutes in length. The overall academic curriculum of St. Lawrence reflects a strong bias toward college preparation.

Here are some quick facts about SLS classes:

Freshmen

• Freshman TheologyFreshman TheologyBecause our students come from such varied faith experiences, this course is designed to help establish a common foundation of faith. It is designed to help the student integrate the practices and beliefs of the Church into his day-to-day life and his experience of the world around him. He is introduced to basic vocabulary and practices upon which he can build his knowledge of the faith. He is made aware of the key dogmas and doctrines that are essential to the life of a Catholic Christian. Integral to this course is helping the student to understand that the teachings of the Church have their roots in Scripture. Therefore, the student is guided in how to use the bible and relate its contents to what is presented in this course.
• Physical Education 9Physical Education 9Fitness testing, yoga, softball, flag football, basketball, bowling, volleyball, weight training, bombardment, speedball, kickball, rugby, lacrosse.
• Freshman EnglishFreshman EnglishThis required freshman course provides the student with a survey of various genres. Along with the literature portion, grammar, vocabulary, speech and spelling are incorporated in the syllabus.  Composition and writing skills, as well as a study of the library system and research skills, are stressed.  A wide variety of literature is explored, and leisure reading is encouraged.
• World HistoryWorld HistoryThis required freshman course seeks to introduce the student, in generally a chronological way, to the basic facts, peoples, cultures and events important to all of human civilization. The course encompasses both Western and several non-Western traditions.
• Freshmen GuidanceFreshmen GuidanceFRESHMEN GUIDANCE 1: A required course for freshmen. Students learn about various topics that are of importance to their growth in a residential, academic setting.  Included are dormitory living skills, academic and social skills, cultural sensitivity, and choices involved in the process of maturation.
  FRESHMEN GUIDANCE 2 (PREREQUISITE: Freshman Guidance 1): This required course for second semester freshmen is a continuation of Freshman Guidance 1. The main health component in this course helps students learn how to maintain their overall health. This involves making decisions about fitness, mental health, goal setting, and supplements.
• Algebra or GeometryAlgebra or GeometryALGEBRA: This is a required freshman course. It begins with the solving of simple equations and ends with solving polynomials.  The students study symbols, sets, variables, open sentences, axioms, equations, and other types of problems.  Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponents, and factoring in algebraic sentences are covered in the course.
  GEOMETRY (PREREQUISITE: Algebra): This required sophomore course is open to freshmen who show the ability and background to profit from it. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of the relationships between different figures both on a plane and in space.  Emphasis will be placed on logical step-by-step processes that build on previously defined terms.  Students will then apply the same process of deductive reasoning to extrapolate and arrive at new conclusions based on the theorems and postulates already used. Topics include logic and proof, parallel lines and polygons, perimeter and area analysis, volume and surface area analysis, similarity and congruence, trigonometry, and analytic geometry.
• General Science or BiologyGeneral Science or BiologyGENERAL SCIENCE: Required course for freshmen. The course has an Earth Science emphasis.  The areas of study include the nature of science, matter and its changes. It explores air, weather and climate, ocean water, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes and energy.  The solar system, stars and galaxies are also studied, with emphasis on the student and his environment.
  BIOLOGY 1: A required sophomore course (freshmen who have a strong science background may opt to take a science assessment exam for potential placement). The course emphasizes application of knowledge of cell biology and ecology. Exploration of principles include the areas of genetics, diversity, plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. The course provides a foundation for students wishing to continue studying our biological world in Biology 2. An online textbook tutorial and supplemental materials aid instruction.
• Foreign Language or Design and ProcessForeign Language or Design and ProcessDesign and Process: This course is an introduction to the various media and processes involved with the variety of art forms and industrial programs. Students experience the opportunity to create and visualize a number of projects, moving between art and wood shop projects.
  Modern Languages: Spanish or German - The ability to communicate, understand, read and write in a foreign language is quickly becoming accepted as vital in the United States. The high school student who learns a foreign language and is able to communicate effectively opens doors that will aid himin the future. Students of German and Spanish are invited to develop this competency and make use of this ability.
  Classical Language: Latin - The Latin language provides the student the opportunity to be in touch with the age-old official language of the Catholic Church and, at the same time, to develop an understanding of Roman life and culture, so much of which forms a foundation for our contemporary civilization, life and culture. Since, however, Latin is no longer a spoken language, the emphasis ison Latin as a language-to-be-read. Reading skills are emphasized.

Juniors

• Christian MoralityChristian MoralityThis required junior course exposes the students to critical moral thinking in the areas of morality, justice & peace, human sexuality and integrity of creation.  There is an emphasis on human moral development and decision-making. The student is given exposure to recent encyclicals, pastoral letters and other pertinent ecclesiastical writing.
• World Religions/Church HistoryWorld Religions/Church HistoryThis required junior course studies the major Eastern and Western World Religions, along with their Faith, Doctrines and practices. It challenges the student to reflect on how these religious views affect the contemporary society and contribute to the conditions of the global community. It helps the student to appreciate and understand other people of religions as well as to build up friendship with them.
• Physical Education 11Physical Education 11Fitness testing, disc golf, softball, badminton, volleyball, speedball, rhythmic fundamentals (dance), bowling, in-line skating, ultimate frisbee, takrow, and weight lifting.
• American LiteratureAmerican LiteratureThis required junior course is a broad survey of American literature from its earliest beginning to the contemporary literary scene. The survey includes all genres: fiction, poetry, drama, essays, and selections reflecting people, places and times throughout the country's existence.  The principles of writing are reviewed, and long and short written assignments are part of the regular weekly schedule.  There is also extensive vocabulary development.
• US History* US History*This required junior course continues the study of U.S. History examining developments in political, social, economic and cultural history from 1877 to the present. The course examines root causes of events and their long-range effects.
  Emphasis is placed on foundational, factual knowledge of persons, events and geography, as well as development of ability in students to synthesize facts and form historically critical conclusions.
  This course may also be taken concurrent dual credit with Cardinal Stritch University for juniors meeting the prerequisite grade point average.
• Advanced Algebra or Pre-CalculusAdvanced Algebra or Pre-CalculusADVANCED ALGEBRA (PREREQUISITE: Geometry): A required course, usually taken in the junior year, which covers the more advanced topics of algebra. It begins with review of the basic concepts of algebra and ends with trigonometric functions.  Topics covered include inequalities, linear equations, functions, matrices, complex numbers, exponents, logarithms, polynomials, rational and irrational expressions, conic sections, sequences and series, probability and statistics, and trigonometric functions.
  PRE-CALCULUS (PREREQUISITE: Advanced Algebra): An elective course designed to prepare students for first-year Calculus. Topics from geometry and advanced algebra are reviewed and extended.  Functions are covered extensively; it is intended that students become skilled at recognizing the different families of functions and the primary properties that set each apart, are able to apply the general function properties to each type of function, and are able to use the special set of algebraic skills associated with each.   The topics covered in this course also include inequalities, complex numbers, exponents, logarithms, and systems of equations.
• Chemistry or PhysicsChemistry or PhysicsCHEMISTRY (PREREQUISITES: General Science and Algebra): Chemistry is a course that follows the physical science curriculum from the American Chemical Society (ACS). Chemistry is a student-centered course that enhances science literacy by emphasizing the chemistry's impact in the society. This is a laboratory course designed to help students realize about the important role that chemistry will play in their personal and professional lives; to think more intelligently about issues they will encounter that involve chemistry and technology; to make intelligent decisions for themselves and for the communities in which they belong; and to study environmental and social issues from a chemical point of view.
  PHYSICS (PREREQUISITE: Advanced Algebra): Physics is an advanced level science class that provides a conceptually-based exposure to the fundamental principles and processes of the physical world. Topics include basic concepts in kinematics, dynamics, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity and magnetism. The most relevant issues regarding motion, forces, energy, heat, light, sound, electricity and magnetism, help to consolidate the understanding of the physical principles and their applications. The course utilizes math as a resource to explain models, preparing students for introductory college-level physics courses such as those regularly required for degrees in engineering, science or some pre-med fields.
• Foreign Language (if needed)Foreign Language (if needed)Modern Languages: Spanish or German - The ability to communicate, understand, read and write in a foreign language is quickly becoming accepted as vital in the United States. The high school student who learns a foreign language and is able to communicate effectively opens doors that will aid him in the future.  Students of German and Spanish are invited to develop this competency and make use of this ability.
  Classical Language: Latin -The Latin language provides the student the opportunity to be in touch with the age-old official language of the Catholic Church and, at the same time, to develop an understanding of Roman life and culture, so much of which forms a foundation for our contemporary civilization, life and culture. Since, however, Latin is no longer a spoken language, the emphasis is on Latin as a language-to-be-read.  Reading skills are emphasized.
• Health (if needed)Health (if needed)This course is required by the State of Wisconsin and is usually taken in the junior year. Topics include the basic understanding and knowledge of the body's systems and how they function.  Diseases that affect the body as well as preventive measures are discussed.  Health topics include: mental health, CPR, nutrition, fitness and wellness as well as SID and AID information, drugs and alcohol and their abuse. Finally, areas of family health and safety are covered.
• Other Elective

Sophomores

• Jesus of History, Christ of FaithJesus of History, Christ of FaithJESUS, THE CHRIST: This required course encourages sophomores to study the Jesus of history, and the Christ of faith. It gives them a clear picture of Jesus, His culture, religious practices and Jewish background. This study helps them encounter Jesus as incarnated God and savior. It also helps them to experience Jesus as constant companion and friend. It examines His life and teachings, and follows Him through the accounts of His suffering, death, resurrection and ascension.
• Prayer and SacramentsPrayer and SacramentsMEETING JESUS IN THE SACRAMENTS: This required sophomore course is based primarily on the structure of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. It introduces students to basic social, psychological and theological sacramental concepts. A brief survey of sacramental history from the early Church to Vatican II is presented. Symbols are explored and the meaning of ritual is examined. The biblical notion of the sacraments is examined in detail. An introduction to the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is presented. Throughout the semester, a practical presentation of Catholic beliefs and liturgical practices is explored. Through the semester students have opportunity to explore what practical difference each sacrament can make in their lives, as well as their need for ongoing conversion and a lifelong growth in faith.
• Physical Education 10Physical Education 10Fitness testing, wrestling, bowling, basketball, weight training, soccer, softball, pickle ball, volleyball, floor hockey, in-line skating, kick ball, prison ball.
• English 10English 10The student moves into a more in-depth study of literature in this required sophomore course. Short stories, poetry, non-fiction, the novel, and a play from Shakespeare will be the main focus of the literature study.  At the same time, vocabulary building and the writing of organized essays that manifest critical thinking skills receive major attention.
• American GovernmentAmerican GovernmentThis required sophomore course familiarizes the student with the nature of government itself, and the history and organization of the various stages of government in the United States. It examines the ideas, documents and events that form its foundation, beginning with the Greek and Roman roots and our closeness to the British tradition. It will analyze the reasons why our government is organized as it is, i.e. the functions and duties of the various branches of federal, state and local government.
• US HistoryUS HistoryThis required sophomore course is the first of three semesters of United States history. Beginning with the discovery and continuing through colonization, this course examines the principles of democracy and the founding of a new nation.  The course concludes with Reconstruction after the Civil War.
• Geometry or Advanced AlgebraGeometry or Advanced AlgebraGEOMETRY (PREREQUISITE: Algebra): This required sophomore course is open to freshmen who show the ability and background to profit from it. The course will provide an in-depth analysis of the relationships between different figures both on a plane and in space.  Emphasis will be placed on logical step-by-step processes that build on previously defined terms.  Students will then apply the same process of deductive reasoning to extrapolate and arrive at new conclusions based on the theorems and postulates already used. Topics include logic and proof, parallel lines and polygons, perimeter and area analysis, volume and surface area analysis, similarity and congruence, trigonometry, and analytic geometry.
  ADVANCED ALGEBRA(PREREQUISITE: Geometry)::A required course, usually taken in the junior year, which covers the more advanced topics of algebra. It begins with review of the basic concepts of algebra and ends with trigonometric functions. Topics covered include inequalities, linear equations, functions, matrices, complex numbers, exponents, logarithms, polynomials, rational and irrational expressions, conic sections, sequences and series, probability and statistics, and trigonometric functions.
• Biology or ChemistryBiology or ChemistryBIOLOGY 1: A required sophomore course (freshmen who have a strong science background may opt to take a science assessment exam for potential placement). The course emphasizes application of knowledge of cell biology and ecology. Exploration of principles include the areas of genetics, diversity, plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. The course provides a foundation for students wishing to continue studying our biological world in Biology 2. An online textbook tutorial and supplemental materials aid instruction.
  CHEMISTRY (PREREQUISITES: General Science and Algebra): Chemistry is a course that follows the physical science curriculum from the American Chemical Society (ACS). Chemistry is a student-centered course that enhances science literacy by emphasizing chemistry's impact in the society. This is a laboratory course designed to help students realize the important role chemistry will play in their personal and professional lives, to think more intelligently about issues they will encounter that involve chemistry and technology, to make intelligent decisions for themselves and for the communities in which they belong, and to study environmental and social issues from a chemical point of view.
• CommunicationsCommunicationsThis required sophomore course introduces students to the practical communication skills they will use in all areas of their lives: at home, among friends, in the classroom and on the future job site. Considering the many communication platforms in use to today, knowing how to manage relationships and properly express themselves will be key for the future successes of students.  In addition to practicing written, verbal and nonverbal communication skills, students examine their core beliefs as Catholics to help prepare them to resolve conflicts and build relationships with people.
• Foreign LanguageForeign LanguageModern Languages: Spanish or German - The ability to communicate, understand, read and write in a foreign language is quickly becoming accepted as vital in the United States. The high school student who learns a foreign language and is able to communicate effectively opens doors that will aid him in the future.  Students of German and Spanish are invited to develop this competency and make use of this ability.
  Classical Language: Latin -The Latin language provides the student the opportunity to be in touch with the age-old official language of the Catholic and, at the same time, to develop an understanding of Roman life and culture, so much of which forms a foundation for our contemporary civilization, life and culture. Since, however, Latin is no longer a spoken language, the emphasis is on Latin as a language-to-be-read.  Reading skills are emphasized.

Seniors

• Senior Theology*Senior TheologyThis course is equivalent to a college preparatory theology program as well as a dual credit course. It functions as a synthesis of the student’s high school theological and spiritual formation. The course begins with a review of the basic concepts covered earlier in the St. Lawrence Seminary program as well as presents basic tasks and challenges of late adolescence and emerging adulthood. In particular, the course will examine adolescent developmental tasks of identity and sexuality. The course then proceeds to cover core theological doctrines, Church History and finally proceeds to the basics of Catholic Social Teaching. Interwoven into the theology curriculum are lessons on servant leadership.  The culmination of Senior Theology is the student’s Capstone Project.
• Physical Education 12Physical Education 12Tennis, pool, golf, bowling, table tennis, badminton, racquetball, volleyball, fitness, softball, archery, basketball
• World Literature*World Literature*This required senior course is a general examination of some of the masterpieces of world literature, covering many cultures and time periods. In addition, there is instruction and practice in writing, in particular research papers, and vocabulary building, with a focus on learning word families.
• Pre-Calculus, Algebra 3, or Calculus*Pre-Calculus, Algebra 3, or Calculus*PRE-CALCULUS (PREREQUISITE: Advanced Algebra): An elective course designed to prepare students for first-year Calculus. Topics from geometry and advanced algebra are reviewed and extended.  Functions are covered extensively; it is intended that students become skilled at recognizing the different families of functions and the primary properties that set each apart, are able to apply the general function properties to each type of function, and are able to use the special set of algebraic skills associated with each.   The topics covered in this course also include inequalities, complex numbers, exponents, logarithms, and systems of equations.
  ALGEBRA 3 (PRERQUISITE: Advanced Algebra): An elective course designed for seniors who have successfully completed Advanced Algebra, but are not ready for the academic rigor of Pre-Calculus. The course will review solving equations and inequalities, graphing, factoring, and systems of equations. Other course content includes the study of many types of functions: linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, rational, and radical. Students completing this course are prepared for a subsequent study of basic mathematics at the college level.
  CALCULUS (PREREQUISITE: a minimum grade of B- in Advanced Algebra or Pre-Calculus): This course is equivalent to a college preparatory calculus program as well as a dual credit course. It begins with a review of basic algebra and trigonometry. The student then studies functions and limits, tangents and velocity, differentiation and applications of differentiation, integration, applications of the definite integral, and the logarithm and exponential functions. This advanced course is open only to those who are able to successfully comprehend the material.
• Physics, Advanced Chemistry, or Biology IIPhysics, Advanced Chemistry, or Biology IIPHYSICS (PREREQUISITE: Advanced Algebra): Physics is an advanced level science class that provides a conceptually-based exposure to the fundamental principles and processes of the physical world. Topics include basic concepts in kinematics, dynamics, thermodynamics, waves, optics, electricity and magnetism. The most relevant issues regarding motion, forces, energy, heat, light, sound, electricity and magnetism, help to consolidate the understanding of the physical principles and their applications. The course utilizes math as a resource to explain models, preparing students for introductory college-level physics courses such as those regularly required for degrees in engineering, science or some pre-med fields.
  ADVANCED CHEMISTRY (PREREQUISITES: Chemistry and Advanced Algebra): The Advanced Chemistry Course is designed to be the equivalent of a general chemistry course taken during the first year of college. Students successfully completing this course will be endowed with an advanced understanding of the fundamental principles of chemistry and achieve proficiency in solving complex chemical problems related to the matter and the changes it undergoes. This course will contribute to the development of each student's ability to think critically and to express his ideas, in both oral and written ways. Students must be disciplined, self-motivated and industrious.
  BIOLOGY 2 (PREREQUISITE: Biology 1 or permission of instructor): This course is an expansion and continuation of the attitudes, processes, knowledge and skills acquired in Biology 1. The course examines the role of biotechnology in today's world, and emphasizes aspects of anatomy and physiology relative to humans as well as other organisms. An online textbook tutorial and supplemental materials aid instruction and assessment.
• HumanitiesHumanitiesStudents closely investigate art and music (often connected to the literature being studied in their World Literature class).  By careful observation and listening, both as individuals and as members of small groups, students discover and learn to appreciate the techniques that artists, architects, composers and others have used to describe the human experience.  Some of this investigation is conducted together as a class, some is small group based, and some work is done individually.  The individual reports offer a wide variety of subjects that students can choose from, ranging from ancient art, art of various ethnicities, modern art, etc.  While various periods are investigated, because of its importance in the development of the field of what is now known as the humanities, Renaissance Florence receives special attention.
• Other Electives

Electives

• Graphic DesignGraphic DesignGraphic Design is a course that explores graphic communication through the understanding of the elements and principles of design; as well as, the design process, from idea development through the final execution of a document/project. Using professional software and the production of various projects and designs.
• Engineering and DraftingEngineering and DraftingStudents will learn basic concepts, skill and techniques needed to create engineering technical drawings, both by hand and using 3D modeling software. Students will also utilize the engineering design process, apply basic math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects.
• Wood Fabrication 1, 2 & 3Wood Fabrication 1, 2 & 3Wood Fabrication is designed to teach students basic woodworking skills and knowledge. Students will learn how to plan, select and use materials, including tools and machines to produce a finished product. Emphasis will be on safety and quality of workmanship. Advanced students explore new woodworking concepts.
• Project DesignProject DesignThis course introduces the concepts of the design and manufacturing processes. Project design uses the combination of in class instruction on design and engineering topics with hands on projects and challenges. Working on skills such as teamwork, brainstorming, and creativity throughout the course.
• AccountingAccountingThis course for juniors or seniors is directed toward a variety of career objectives. These could include vocational or collegiate preparation for careers in accounting, a career in a related business field for which a mastery of some accounting knowledge and skill is needed, or a desire to acquire some accounting knowledge for personal use and exploratory purposes.
• Business LawBusiness LawThis upper level course is designed to acquaint students with the basic legal principles relevant to each individual in his triple role of citizen, consumer and employee. Content includes the origin of law, the court system, criminal and civil law, ethics and social responsibility, basic elements of contracts, consumer protection law, labor and employment law, personal law (minors, family) and insurance.
• Creative WritingCreative WritingThis elective course focuses on developing a student’s writing ability while exploring his creative talent. Students will write in a variety of literary forms with possibilities including drama, poetry, science fiction, nature, creative non-fiction, and more. Expository writing will be covered briefly. Students will practice the steps of the writing process and will work to improve their writing skills in each work. This course may be taken more than once in alternating semesters as content covered will vary.
• Social Problems I & IISocial Problems I & IISOCIAL PROBLEMS I: This course examines, from various sociological viewpoints, the behaviors that are considered to be social problems in contemporary American society. The student is introduced to basic sociological thoughts, methods and ideas, and then applies them to the study of various social ills. Specific areas include the problems of physical health and mental illness, sex-related social problems, alcohol and drug abuse, crime, poverty and prejudice.
  SOCIAL PROBLEMS II: This course examines, from various sociological viewpoints, the behaviors that are considered to be social problems in contemporary American society. The student is introduced to basic sociological thoughts, methods and ideas, and then applies them to the study of various social ills. Specific areas include sex roles and inequality, problems of an aging society, the family, education, work and the economy, urban problems, immigration, the environment and war & terrorism.
• Psychology I & IIPsychology I & IIPSYCHOLOGY I: The purpose of this one semester course is to introduce the student to the study of psychology. Students will learn the prominent theories that explain human behavior. Among the various topics to be discussed are: the nature-nurture debate, developmental issues, the role of biology, the brain, motivation and emotion, sensation and perception, personality theories, as well as personality disorders.
  PSYCHOLOGY II (PREREQUISITE: C average or better in Psychology I): This semester course is a continuation of the study of Psychology. The students will enter into a review of Psychology I concepts before engaging in an in-depth examination of four areas of psychological study: Developmental, Cognitive, Social-Cultural and Personality Theories.
• EconomicsEconomicsEconomics is an introduction to the social aspects of economics in the United States and the world. The course focuses on basic economic principles, as well as micro and macroeconomic functions. As part of the course, students engage in a stock market simulation.
• TrigonometryTrigonometry(PREREQUISITE: Advanced Algebra) This elective course can be taken as a preparation for, or in conjunction, with calculus. The focus of this course is on trigonometric functions, their graphs and the use of them to prove identities and solve problems. The course includes basic concepts of the trigonometric functions, circular functions, graphs, and inverses. Other topics include properties of trigonometric functions, oblique triangles, sinusoidal variations, and applications of trigonometric functions.
• Probability and StatisticsProbability and StatisticsThis elective course is focused on statistics, which deals with basic data analysis, including graphical displays, summary statistics, lines of best fit, the use of the Normal curve, as well as interpreting and drawing conclusions based on data. In addition to descriptive statistics, basic principles of probability are covered, along with expected value and binomial probability. The use of technology for developing concepts and analyzing data will be emphasized.
• Literary Genres*Literary Genres*In this elective course, different kinds of short stories, poems and dramatic works are read and studied, representing a diversity of cultures, contexts, and perspectives. The course focuses on applying tools of literary analysis to the interpretation of literary works in order to increase insight and pleasure. Course objectives include developing critical reading, thinking and writing skills and exploring the values-laden nature of literature as well as enhancing students’ abilities to become talented interpreters and evaluators of creative material.
• Modern World Literature*Modern World Literature*This elective course begins where the senior world literature course ends. The course is designed for those students who are able to handle the challenge of reading and reflecting upon more demanding material in world literature.
• Introduction to Christian TheologyIntroduction to Christian Theology*This course is only for any student who enters the school in his sophomore or junior year and has had little formal religious education. Its purpose is to help the student catch up in his understanding of the faith so that he may enter into the regular religious studies courses.

Foreign Languages

• Spanish
• German
• Latin

Vacation Reading

Students have some required reading assignments over the summer and Christmas breaks.

Drivers’ Education

Drivers’ Education is a non-credit course for juniors and seniors. It offers classroom instruction on Sunday nights and behind-the-wheel experience.