Graduation Requirements

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Northpoint Expeditionary Learning Academy offers a full curriculum that exceeds state standards. The school offers the following courses at the grade levels indicated:

*Course Descriptions of three different intensives offered in May 2008

A Glimpse of South Africa (Global Studies)
It is impossible to think that all cultural aspects of South Africa can be understood in one intensive, but selected Northpoint students will embark on a voyage to explore the rich land and culture of this country. Priorities include exploration of the land, visiting schools, studying residual impacts of apartheid, and service work.

Space: The Final Frontier (Astronomy)
In the space intensive students will focus on learning about our universe. Students will mostly focus on our solar system and its governing principles (i.e., gravity). We will look at space exploration as it has occurred over the last half century. Fieldwork could include trips to Meteor Crater and/or the University of Arizona Astronomy Lab. Also, students will be expected to do some nighttime observations both individually and also as a class. Projects will include students making their own sundial, a scale-model of the solar system and keeping an observation journal. The intensive may also include an investigation into the impact that the unknowns of space have had on our culture, especially through books and movies.

Find Your Own Rhythm (Musical Arts)
This intensive focuses heavily on writing and technology standards and is designed for individuals that are interested in developing their musical talent. Students will explore methods of generating lyrical content, will learn the basics of sound production, will organize a live concert, and will produce at least 2 original songs. Students will learn about different styles of music and sound writing by interacting with several local musicians. Basic percussion and guitar instruction will be available as part of this class. Student collaboration is encouraged for this class.