Academics
Academy Academics
OUR APPROACH
Harrisburg Academy’s curriculum is designed around the PA state standards. What makes Harrisburg Academy unique is the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework. Our curriculum provides opportunity for conceptual thinking, experiential learning, real-world application, and inquiry based approach to learning.
Our curriculum is intentionally designed as an interleaving process. Each class mixes different standards within a single learning cycle rather than teaching isolated topics. In traditional schools, subjects are taught in isolation. In real-life when we encounter a problem, we approach it using our knowledge from multiple disciplines. IB students learn “concepts” rather than topics to connect their knowledge from different subject areas. We call this “conceptual learning”. What does “change” mean in science vs. music? How do you define a “system” in math vs social studies?
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English Language and Literature
In English Language and Literature classes, students develop effective communication skills by analyzing literature, learning about different types of text, and strengthening their grammar concepts.Explorations during Language and Literature classes include:- Creative Writing
- Speech Writing and Delivery
- Poetry
- British Literature Analysis
- American Literature Analysis
- Literary and Non-Literary Text Analysis
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Individuals and Societies / Social Studies
In Individuals and Societies classes, students develop effective research skills by designing research questions, finding information in primary and secondary sources, analyzing the information they gather, and thinking critically about historical concepts.Explorations during the Individuals and Societies classes include:- American History
- Wars
- World Geography
- Economy
- Government
- Global Issues
- Civilizations
- Belief Systems
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Mathematics
In Mathematics classes, students develop critical thinking skills by understanding patterns, communicating their knowledge and applying Mathematics to real-world situations.Explorations during Mathematics classes include:- Number Sense
- Geometry
- Patterns
- Algebra
- Statistics and Probability
- Measurement
- Percents, Ratios, and Rates
- Trigonometry
- Functions and Expressions
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Science
In Science classes, students develop organization and communication skills by creating research questions, designing science experiments, developing lab reports, evaluating data, and reflecting on the impact of science.Explorations during the Science classes include:- Scientific skills and methodology
- Earth Science
- Life Sciences
- Physical Science
- Chemical Science
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World Languages
In French and Spanish classes, students develop transfer skills by thinking about the structures of different languages and applying their understanding in new settings.Explorations during Language and Literature classes include:- Reading and analyzing authentic texts
- Listening and responding to authentic audios
- Using correct grammar and spelling in writing
- Pronunciation and vocabulary building during speaking activities
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Technology and Design
In Design classes, students develop creative thinking skills by identifying the need for a problem, developing multiple possible solutions, demonstrating technical skills for the solutions, and evaluating their products against the success criteria.Explorations during the Design classes include:- Understanding the design cycle
- Creating logos
- 3-D design
- Robotics and programming
- Web design
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Fine and Performing Arts
In visual and performing art classes, students develop creative thinking, time management, and organizational skills by investigating different artists and art forms, identifying artistic intentions, creating artwork, and evaluating their development as an artist.Explorations during art classes include:- History of Music
- Music Analysis
- Drawing
- Ceramics
- Printmaking
- Public Art
- Stagecraft
- Photography
- Painting
- Instrumental Music and Orchestra
- Chorus
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Physical and Health Education
In Physical and Health classes, students develop self-management and collaboration skills by exploring mindfulness practices, mind-body connections, and working as a team.Explorations during Physical and Health classes include:- Team Sports
- Net Games
- Wellness
- Healthy Relationships