Those taking intensive French or Spanish benefit from literature studies in English while their language classes focus more on comprehension skills, oral and written communication, and knowledge of the cultures in which the languages are spoken. In mathematics, students take an integrated course to lay the foundations for algebra and geometry in Grade 8. Science, similarly, is taught in an integrated course in Grades 6 and 7 with a strong emphasis on practical laboratory work. In Grade 8 all students begin a two-year program of parallel courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. Information technology is taught as a distinct subject, but the use of information technology spans all disciplines.
All students have music and art throughout the academic year and physical education twice a week.
Students choose two courses from music, art, drama, and journalism, and continue to have two classes of physical education each week. Tenth grade students follow a comparably broad program but begin to make choices which enable them to focus more on areas of particular interest or strength. They choose two additional courses from a third science, further physical and human geography, journalism, a second fine or performing arts class, and information technology.