Curriculum :: 12th Grade
Humane Letters
A capstone course in which students draw upon the work of the previous two seminars in examining developments in European literature and philosophy in the transition from Rome, through the Middle Ages and into the Modern era. Authors read include Vergil, Augustine, Aquinas, Dante, Cervantes, Shakespeare, Descartes, Hegel, Marx, and Dostoyevsky.
Calculus
Addresses differential and integral calculus with its applications.
Chemistry
A comprehensive study of all major topics in general chemistry with an introduction to organic chemistry and an intensive study of the fundamentals of biological chemistry.
Drama
An advanced study of theater in which students act, direct, and design for two major productions. Students also explore theater history and read the great works of Aeschylus, Plautus, Shakespeare, Moliere, and others.
Art
Advanced drawing techniques leading to an introduction to studio painting.
Intermediate Greek or Modern Language IV
Students can choose between Intermediate Greek, French IV, German IV or Spanish IV.
German IV: The aim of fourth year German at TPA is to sharpen your understanding of the language through focusing on the written works of specific German authors, while continuing with an adequate emphasis upon German history and culture. Although German III is structured in the same manner, the written works covered in this course are considderably more challenging than those presented last year. We will utilize class time speaking only in the target language and you will be expected to share your opinions of the text, along with summaries of each reading assignment.
The immediate goals of the course include:
- developing greater reading skills;
- fine tuning spoken language through opinion and insight;
- discovering an appreciation of authentic German literature;
- completing advanced essays in the foreign language;
- acquiring an even larger vocabulary;
- practicing correct pronunciation and intonation and;
- learning about Germany, Austria, and Switzerland as well as the great authors from their respective countries.
Senior Thesis and Defense
In addition to the formal classes, students at Tempe Preparatory Academy are required to complete a Senior Thesis and Defense. Credit is awarded after completion of the Defense in the spring of the senior year.