Curriculum Guide Develop Character to Discover Unique Potential. 2026 - 2027 Since 1966
Develop Character to Discover Unique Potential. HYDE SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
Hyde’s Five Words
Courage: I learn the most about myself by facing challenges and taking risks.
Concern: I need a challenging and supportive community in which to develop my character.
Curiosity: I am responsible for my own learning.
Integrity: I am gifted with a unique potential and conscience is my guide to discovering it.
Leadership: I am a leader by asking the best of myself and others.
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Contents
Hyde’s Five Words ................................................................. 2 Bath, ME – Home of the Wolfpack .................................. 4 Hyde School Mission Statement ....................................... 5 The Leadership Team .......................................................... 6 Academic Life & Support .................................................... 7 Student Academic Planning....................................................8 Graduation Requirements.......................................................8 College Counseling.................................................................9 Trimester Schedule.................................................................9 Effort-Based Grading............................................................9 Academic Support Programs ............................................ 10 Learning Connections............................................................10 English Language Learner Program....................................10 Hyde Learning Triangle .................................................... 11 Academic Departments ..................................................... 12 Advanced and Honors Courses ....................................... 13 English Department...............................................................14 English Language Learner Program....................................20 Mathematics Department......................................................21 Science Department...............................................................24 History and Social Sciences..................................................29 Foreign Languages.................................................................36 Engineering, Entrepreneurship & Leadership .......... 38 Dual-Enrollment College Offerings .............................. 41 Fine Arts Department...........................................................43 Outdoor Exploration............................................................48 Beyond the Classroom..........................................................49 Character, Leadership & Family Development ......... 50 Hyde Discovery Process.......................................................51 Family Learning......................................................................52 Maine State Leadership Alliance..........................................54 Student & Residential Life ............................................... 56 Athletics at Hyde ................................................................. 58 Back Cover – The Mansion at Dusk
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Bath, Maine.
City of Ships and Home of Hyde’s Wolfpack!
Our campus is situated on the 145-acre former estate of shipbuilder John S. Hyde.
What you’ll see on our campus: Hyde Mansion Athletic Center Student Life Center Ropes Course & Climbing Wall Music Recording Studio Art Barn New Track/Turf Fields
Distance from: Portland: 34 miles Boston: 140 miles NYC: 368 miles
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Hyde School Mission An Independent Boarding and Day School with a focus on Character and Leadership Development.
Our Community
The Hyde School community is a rich mosaic of high-potential students united in the common pursuit of personal excellence. Our educational approach is transformational and is specifically designed to help all types of students. In fact, we pride ourselves on meeting students where they stand and providing the tools necessary for each to realize meaningful success. At the heart of the Hyde education is a commitment to character development, open and effective communication, personal integrity, and impactful leadership. In essence, Hyde takes a multifaceted approach to educating students that ensures our graduates are both academically and emotionally prepared to thrive in college and beyond. Our Commitment Developing Essential Skills
In preparation for life, we develop writers, speakers, and problem solvers through: Comprehension Critical Thinking Collaboration Communication Creativity
The Hyde Learning Promise
At Hyde, we believe education extends beyond mastering academic content; it is about cultivating intellectual character and preparing students for a lifetime of growth and discovery. In addition to striving for excellence in the classroom and committing to their intellectual endeavors, Hyde students are expected to embrace the following principles: Lifelong Learning: Demonstrate a genuine desire to continue learning throughout their lives. Intellectual Risk-Taking: Challenge themselves by selecting courses that honor their academic performance and potential while fostering growth in intellectual character and work ethic. Peer Support: Act with concern and compassion, supporting classmates as they face academic challenges. Leadership: Take initiative and leadership roles both in the classroom and within the broader school community. High Standards: Maintain high expectations for themselves and their peers, fostering an environment of mutual respect and excellence. What Sets Hyde Apart Hyde’s academic experience is enriched by several unique features that set it apart from traditional educational programs: Self-Assessments: Students engage in self-assessments to evaluate their effort and growth in the classroom, fostering self-awareness and accountability. Focus on Writing: The curriculum places a strong emphasis on the craft of writing, helping students develop clarity, creativity, and confidence in their written expression. Commitment to the Arts: With resources like a state-of-the-art recording studio and workshops for singers and songwriters, Hyde integrates the performing arts into the academic experience, encouraging creative expression and exploration. Public Speaking: Students are consistently exposed to high-quality opportunities for public speaking, helping them build confidence and communication skills essential for leadership and success. Our Philosophy By focusing on who students are, rather than just what they can do, Hyde’s academic program enriches minds, builds confidence, and equips students with the tools to excel both in the classroom and in life. This holistic approach ensures that every Hyde student is prepared to lead with integrity, embrace challenges, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
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The Leadership Team
Hyde School • 616 High Street • Bath, Maine 04530 • (207) 443-5584 www.hyde.edu • CEEB: 200068
Head of School Laura Gauld lgauld@hyde.edu
Associate Head of School Rich Truluck rtruluck@hyde.edu
Dean of Faculty Jen Lobozzo jlobozzo@hyde.edu
Director of Academic Studies Shaw Bridges sbridges@hyde.edu
Dean of Students Tom Bragg tbragg@hyde.edu
Director of College Counseling Lisa Geller lgeller@hyde.edu
Chief Engagement Officer Bob Felt bfelt@hyde.edu
Director of Admissions Justin Fahey jfahey@hyde.edu
Chief Financial Officer Vishnu Swaminathan vswaminathan@hyde.edu
Director of Hyde Institute Malcolm Gauld mgauld@hyde.edu
HYDE COMMUNITY Since 1966, Hyde has created a unique learning environment that fosters growth and accountability for high-potential students. Hyde pioneered character education, which has led to life-changing outcomes for many students and their families. Hyde expects a lot of its students and their families. In addition to its academic rigor, Hyde requires participation in athletics, public speaking, and performing arts. Students face challenges and harness their strengths in an environment of remarkable support from peers, faculty, and students’ families.
Hyde has refined character education over time, instilling values that guide students on their path.
ACCREDITATION Hyde School is an Independent School accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
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Academic Life & Support
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HYDE ACADEMICS AT A GLANCE
STUDENT ACADEMIC PLANNING:
Hyde School offers a robust and dynamic academic program that combines rigorous coursework with personalized support, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The curriculum includes a broad range of courses designed to challenge and inspire students, including Advanced Placement (AP) classes and Honors options. These courses provide motivated students with the opportunity to engage in advanced, college-level material and demonstrate academic rigor while pursuing their interests and goals. With a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio, Hyde ensures small class sizes and individualized attention, fostering an environment where meaningful connections between students and faculty can thrive. This intimate setting allows teachers to closely monitor each student’s progress and provide tailored guidance that addresses their unique strengths and areas for growth. Hyde’s grading system is a distinctive feature of its academic philosophy, emphasizing both effort and achievement. By recognizing a student’s attitude, perseverance, and character alongside their mastery of course material, the school promotes a balanced approach to education that values the process of learning as much as the outcomes. Personalized academic support is a cornerstone of Hyde’s program. Faculty members are deeply committed to helping students succeed, offering extra help, guidance, and mentorship as needed. For students facing learning challenges, the school provides a comprehensive Academic Support Program designed to address specific needs and empower them to overcome obstacles. Hyde also offers English Language Learner (ELL) support, creating an inclusive environment where non-native English speakers can develop the skills they need to succeed academically and socially. Through this multifaceted approach, Hyde’s academic program reflects a commitment to excellence, character development, and holistic growth. By combining rigorous academics with individualized support, Hyde equips students with the tools and confidence to excel in school and beyond.
Hyde School provides a comprehensive range of course offerings across all disciplines, emphasizing core fundamentals in the lower grades and encouraging students to explore a broader array of interests in the upper grades. This approach ensures a strong academic foundation while allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and goals as they progress. Before enrollment, the Director of Academic Studies, Registrar, and College Counseling Office conduct a thorough analysis of each student’s incoming transcripts, educational testing, and other relevant reports. Based on this evaluation, the team designs an academic schedule that adheres to Hyde’s college preparatory graduation requirements, honors the student’s academic performance and potential, and challenges their intellectual character and work ethic. If it is determined that a student would benefit from the Academic Support Program, this recommendation is incorporated into the student’s schedule. Parents or guardians must approve this recommendation due to the additional financial commitment associated with the program. Students are generally scheduled for six classes per term. Ninth-grade students and most tenth graders are expected to take a full course load, and students who benefit from a structured schedule are required to do so. While the standard schedule includes six class periods, students may petition the Director of Academic Studies to take five classes if they demonstrate strong time management skills or wish to pursue alternative leadership opportunities. For postgraduate (PG) students, their academic program is individually tailored to strengthen their high school transcripts and prepare them for college and postsecondary admissions. PG students typically enroll in a full course load and are actively involved in leadership roles within the school. This flexibility ensures that students can pursue additional academic opportunities while maintaining a balanced and effective learning experience. Graduation Requirements With an expectation that all students achieve at their intellectual best, Hyde has defined the following minimum requirements for graduation:
Sample Program of Study
Subject Specific Requirements:
English: Four (4) credits. History (3) credits to include World History (9th or 10th grade), U.S. History (11th grade) and Leadership, Ethics & American Democracy (12th grade). Mathematics (3) credits to include Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2. Science (3) credits (two with lab component) to include Biology and Chemistry. Foreign Language (2) credits (of the same language). Electives (3) credits to include 1 year of a Fine Art. Hyde Character and Leadership Seminar (1) credit per year in attendance at Hyde. *One full year is equivalent to one credit. Specific graduation requirements for international students are adjusted based on the number of years in attendance at Hyde School and previous coursework. Please see the Academic Studies Office for more information. 8
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
College Counseling & Post-Secondary Preparation
An Effort-Based Grading System
Final exams are administered at the conclusion of each trimester to assess the student’s cumulative understanding of core course concepts. Trimester Grade Reports, available online within one week of the term’s conclusion, include a teacher’s narrative comment, the student’s Effort Grade, Achievement Grade, and Final Exam Grade for each course. The Final Grade for the year is reported on the spring term grade report and is determined by averaging the three trimester grades. This final calculation assigns a 25% weight to the Effort Grade and a 75% weight to the Achievement Grade. The Effort Grade reflects the student’s attitude, effort, and character in the classroom, while the Achievement Grade evaluates mastery of course material, objectives, and the quality of completed work. Hyde uses a 100-point grading scale with a GPA conversion matrix to the 4.0 scale. When calculating GPA, Advanced Placement (AP) courses are given a 10-point bonus and Honors courses a 5-point bonus. However, these bonuses are not displayed on transcripts or factored into credit earnings. For college application purposes, both weighted and unweighted GPAs are included in the School Counselor’s report submitted to each college. In keeping with the practice of many public and private schools, Hyde does not provide a class rank. For seniors applying to college, the school relies on the student’s GPA, transcript, and accomplishments to represent their academic achievements and future potential. This approach aligns with Hyde’s focus on holistic development and individualized growth.
The college application process can be complex and overwhelming, especially for students managing the demands of academics, athletics, extracurricular activities, and community service. Hyde School’s College Counseling Workshop is designed to provide comprehensive support to seniors and postgraduate students as they navigate this pivotal stage of their educational journey. The College Counseling Workshop is a dedicated academic block focused on preparing students for every aspect of the college application process. During this time, students meet one-on-one and in small groups with counselors to ensure they are thoroughly prepared. The program includes intensive work on application materials, such as crafting the Personal Statement, completing Supplemental Essays, building resumes, and meeting individual application requirements. Students are guided in creating a well- rounded list of colleges and universities, tailored to their interests, goals, and strengths, resulting in well-matched acceptances. With a college acceptance rate of 96 to 98 percent, Hyde’s exceptional college counseling program has a proven track record of preparing students not only for college admissions but also for the challenges they will face in their academic and personal lives beyond high school.
Contact: Lisa Geller Director of College Counseling lgeller@hyde.edu
Courses at Hyde offer a range of levels to academically challenge students. The “general” level of classes provides students with appropriate preparation for both collegiate studies and the rigor of work outside academia. Students looking for a competitive college experience are encouraged to enroll in Honors and Advanced Placement courses, especially if they are interested in applying to selective colleges and universities. Students who would prefer courses at a more structured pace may sign up for regular sections of the core academic subjects. All class sizes are small compared to larger institutions, so, regardless of the level, students can expect the same individualized attention to learning. Each student will sign up for courses appropriate to the academic trail they blaze while at Hyde School. Course Levels The academic year at Hyde is divided into three trimesters: fall, winter, and spring. Progress is monitored regularly, with Progress Grades issued each month and made available to parents and guardians through Blackbaud, the school’s online academic portal. At the end of each trimester, a comprehensive grade report is prepared, providing a detailed evaluation of the student’s performance in each course. Trimester Schedule 9
ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS
Learning Connections Program
Learning Connections is an academic support program that helps students master essential academic skills and develop executive function in order to promote responsible and independent learning.
Students in the program meet in small groups with Learning Connections faculty as part of their daily course rotations. Instruction is designed to reinforce fundamental learning strategies by focusing on study-skill development, successful test-taking, and organization of time, materials, and study spaces. The program also provides scaffolded skill support for class assignments when applicable. The low mentor-to-student ratio fosters the bonds of trust essential to strong working relationships. Hyde values social-emotional learning and the action-reflection cycle. Accordingly, the Learning Connections program includes ongoing reflection on strengths and challenges, creating regular opportunities for students and faculty to develop, implement, and review learning goals, short- and long-term time management strategies, and tailored learning plans. The collaborative learning relationships among students, Learning Connections faculty, and subject teachers facilitate positive academic outcomes and empower students to work towards achieving their academic potential. Meanwhile, we promote students' growth in self-advocacy, academic responsibility, and ownership.
Academic Technology: Blackbaud
Hyde School utilizes Blackbaud as its primary classroom platform, providing a comprehensive electronic management system to enhance teaching and learning. Blackbaud enables teachers to create and post assignments, share videos and website links, make announcements, distribute materials, and communicate effectively with students and parents. The platform also helps teachers stay organized by tracking missing assignments and providing real-time feedback and assessments directly to students. For students, Blackbaud serves as a valuable tool for increasing engagement in the classroom while improving time management and personal organization. By integrating assignments, resources, and communication in one place, the platform supports students in staying on top of their academic responsibilities and allows them to collaborate effectively with their teachers and peers. The use of Blackbaud also prepares students for the demands of modern college learning environments, where similar systems are widely used. By gaining experience with this platform, Hyde students develop critical skills in digital organization and communication, positioning them for success in their future academic pursuits.
English Language Learner Program
Hyde School’s ELL program is designed to support English Language Learners in their transition into mainstream classes while fostering integration into the broader school community. The program provides targeted instruction and assistance in all four critical English language skill areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Through personalized instruction, students develop essential study techniques and critical thinking skills, while building a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary. The program emphasizes practical application of these skills, helping students confidently navigate academic coursework and everyday communication. By focusing on both academic and linguistic development, Hyde’s ELL program ensures that students acquire the skills and confidence needed to excel in a rigorous college-preparatory environment and beyond. This comprehensive approach not only enhances language proficiency but also promotes cultural understanding and personal growth, aligning with Hyde School’s commitment to developing lifelong learners who are prepared for success in college and beyond.
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The Hyde Learning Triangle
Developing Writers, Public Speakers, and Problem-Solvers
At Hyde, we are dedicated to creating an environment that nurtures every student’s potential, guiding them to discover who they are and what they are capable of achieving. Our philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach to education, one that values character development as much as academic success. This commitment reflects our belief that education is not solely about mastering facts or skills but about shaping individuals who are prepared to lead meaningful lives and contribute to the world around them. One of the key pillars of our approach is our emphasis on effort- based evaluation. We understand that effort—characterized by attitude, resilience, intellectual curiosity, and a willingness to embrace challenges—is a fundamental component of success. To this end, we evaluate students not only on their academic achievements but also on the dedication and determination they bring to the classroom. By combining these measures, we provide a more complete and fair assessment of each student’s growth. This dual approach reinforces our belief that learning is a process, and effort is as important as outcomes.
Our commitment to community engagement is another cornerstone of our philosophy. We believe education extends far beyond the classroom, and active participation in leadership, the performing arts, athletics, and community service is essential to a well-rounded education. These experiences challenge students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and form connections with others. In doing so, they build confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. At the heart of our academic program lies the Learning Triangle, which highlights the dynamic and essential relationship between the student, the teacher, and the subject. This framework fosters an active and collaborative learning environment where discovery and inquiry drive the pursuit of knowledge. The Learning Triangle emphasizes the bond between teacher and student, rooted in mutual respect and shared goals. Together, they delve into the subject matter with curiosity and commitment, creating a culture of learning that inspires both personal and academic growth. Central to our mission is the development of the whole person. At Hyde, we recognize that intellectual, spiritual, physical, emotional, and social growth are interconnected. True education supports and integrates all these dimensions of a student’s life. We aim to inspire curiosity, foster emotional intelligence, encourage physical well- being, and cultivate social responsibility alongside academic excellence. This comprehensive approach ensures that students leave Hyde with the tools to succeed not only in their careers but also in their relationships and communities.
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Academic Departments & Course Offerings CORE COURSES
History & Social Sciences (3 credits required) World History * 20th Century World History U.S. History * AP U.S. History
Foreign Languages (2 credits required)
English Department (4 credits required) English 9 *
Spanish 1 Spanish 2 Spanish 3 Spanish 4 AP Spanish Language
English 10 * English 11 * AP English: Language & Composition
AP African American Studies Leadership, Ethics & American Democracy * AP Psychology
Mandarin 1 Mandarin 2 Advanced Mandarin English Language Learners ELL Support
English 12: Trimester Electives * Senior Capstone: Hyde Words in Life & Literature* AP English Literature & Composition
Science Department (3 credits required) Biology * Chemistry * Marine Science Astronomy Sports Physiology Physics AP Physics 1 AP Environmental Science
Mathematics Department (3 credits required)
Algebra 1 * Algebra 2 * Geometry * Precalculus AP Precalculus Calculus AP Calculus AB
ELECTIVE COURSES
Entrepreneurship, Engineering & Leadership Introduction to Engineering and Design EntreX (University of Delaware) dual-enrollment LeadX (University of Delaware) dual-enrollment
The Arts & Design
Advanced Courses
Introduction to Art Ceramics Advanced Art Independent Study in Art AP Art & Design AP Art History Introduction to Music
Most non-AP courses may be completed for Honors Distinction with departmental approval
Other Programs
Music Performance Sound Production & Engineering
Learning Connections College Workshop Hyde Discovery Process
Notes Courses with an asterisk (*) are required for graduation. At least two consecutive years of the same foreign language are required.
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Advanced and Honors Courses
Hyde School’s Commitment to Academic Excellence
Overview Hyde School’s academic program offers motivated students the opportunity to engage in challenging coursework through Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. These rigorous offerings prepare students for the academic expectations of college and promote intellectual growth across disciplines.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses AP courses are designed to mirror the rigor of college-level freshman courses. Students are expected to complete substantial readings and assignments outside of class, demonstrating a high level of dedication and discipline. These courses help prepare students for the independence and academic intensity of higher education. AP Exam Requirement: Students enrolled in AP courses are required to take the national Advanced Placement Exam for each course. These exams are administered on campus each May and may lead to college credit or advanced standing, depending on exam performance and the policies of the student’s chosen college or university. Eligibility & Enrollment: Enrollment in AP courses is selective and based on the following criteria: Teacher recommendation A minimum grade of B+ in similar prior coursework Approval by the Director of Academic Studies A demonstrated commitment to academic discipline and effort This process ensures students are prepared to meet the challenges of advanced coursework and thrive in a college-level academic environment.
Honors Courses Hyde offers an “Honors” designation in most non-AP courses. This provides students the opportunity to pursue enriched coursework within their regular classes.
Honors Designation Requirements: To earn Honors credit, students must:
Enter a formal agreement with the teacher Complete additional advanced work during the trimester Deepen their subject understanding beyond standard course expectations Upon successful completion of this work, the course will be designated as Honors on the student’s grade report and transcript, recognizing their academic ambition and achievement.
AP Courses Offered at Hyde AP Precalculus AP Calculus AB AP Physics 1 AP Environmental Science
AP English Language & Composition AP English Literature & Composition AP U.S. History AP Spanish Language AP Art and Design AP Art History AP African American Studies AP Psychology
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Course Descriptions English Department Mission Statement
The study of English seeks to create a dialogue between the student and language through literature, drama, poetry, and other media. As the act of storytelling is central to the human experience, this is a lifelong relationship. Students are encouraged to develop habits of thoughtful reflection, critical analysis, creativity, fearless imagination, rigor, and clear expression of their emerging voices. Above all, this course of study provides a space where students may examine their sense of conscience and compassion through their growing understanding of community, world, and self.
English 9
English 10
English 9 introduces students to a variety of literary genres including short stories, novels, and poetry with an emphasis on personal writing and class discussion as strategies for exploring literature and its connections with lived experience. Units incorporate relevant nonfiction both to build background knowledge and to develop annotation and summary skills. The course reviews grammar and usage, sentence structure, and paragraph development, and includes practice in a range of writing forms: from personal responses to fiction to more formal academic prose and student-authored short fiction. This course is taught in a combined section with English 10, with students working through complementary and rotating texts concurrently, a structure that reflects Hyde’s commitment to discussion-driven learning and takes full advantage of our intentionally small class sizes.
English 10 advances students’ reading and writing skills with a deepened emphasis on understanding literary works within their historical and cultural contexts, the time, place, and circumstances that shaped both the writer and the text. Units draw on major American and other English-language authors and incorporate relevant nonfiction to build background knowledge and develop annotation and summary strategies. The course deepens students’ command of grammar and usage, with particular attention to complex sentence construction and the development of coherent, well-structured paragraphs. This course is taught in a combined section with English 9, with students working through complementary and rotating texts concurrently, a structure that reflects Hyde’s commitment to discussion- driven learning and takes full advantage of our intentionally small class sizes.
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AP English Language and Composition English | Grade 11 | AP Course
English 11: American Literature English | Grade 11 | Fulfills 11th Grade English Requirement American Literature focuses on American short stories, novels, memoirs, and nonfiction with the goal of helping students understand how authors construct narratives and use literary techniques to communicate meaning and engage readers. Through works such as The Great Gatsby, The Things They Carried, The Catcher in the Rye, Into the Wild , and selected short fiction, students explore themes including identity, conflict, disillusionment, war, and the American Dream while analyzing elements such as plot structure, characterization, symbolism, imagery, tone, allusion, narrative voice, and literary style. The course incorporates relevant nonfiction to build background knowledge and strengthen annotation, close reading, summary, and discussion skills. Ongoing instruction in revision- based writing supports students’ growth as analytical and expressive writers. Students complete literary analyses, discussions, presentations, and personal essay assignments designed to prepare them for college-level reading, writing, and reflective thinking, culminating in a unit on memoir and the personal essay to support future college essay work.
Juniors in AP Language and Composition are challenged to engage as readers, writers, speakers, and problem solvers in their world. The course aligns to an introductory college- level rhetoric and writing curriculum, requiring students to develop evidence-based analytic and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages of drafting. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments, and develop a personal style by making thoughtful grammatical choices. Students also read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in nonfiction texts from many disciplines and historical periods. Over the course of the year, students uncover and polish their own powers of communication through discussion and debate, vocabulary development, and an intensive speaking, writing, and revision process.
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The Gothic Imagination: Fear, Death, and the Uncanny | English | Fulfills one-third 12th Grade English Requirement (Offered in Fall Term). What do the dead want from the living, and what do our fears about them reveal about us? In this course, students explore one of literature’s most enduring and psychologically rich genres, tracing the ghost story from its pivotal role in the rise of the short story form in the nineteenth century through its flowering in the twentieth. Reading works by masters of the uncanny, among them Poe, Sheridan Le Fanu, Edith Wharton, M.R. James, Algernon Blackwood, and Robert Aickman, students will develop a working knowledge of the genre’s defining figures, tropes, and formal conventions, while engaging with the critical debates that have shaped how we read and interpret supernatural fiction. By the end of the term, students will be equipped to analyze the ghost story not merely as entertainment, but as a serious literary form with deep roots in questions of mortality, memory, guilt, and the limits of human perception.
English 12 : Trimester Electives English | Grade 12 | Fulfills 12th Grade English Requirement Hyde's 12th Grade English program gives seniors and postgraduates the opportunity to pursue focused, seminar-style literary study through a series of elective courses. In the fall and winter terms, students select from the following course offerings, each a deep dive into a distinct literary tradition or genre. All seniors conclude their English experience in the spring with the Senior Capstone: The Hyde Words in Life and Literature , a culminating course in which students select one of Hyde's Five Words and trace its meaning across a major literary work and a text in philosophy or ethics, presenting their analysis in a final oral thesis defense. Students enrolled in AP English Literature and Composition follow a separate, exam-focused track, though capstone themes and texts may be incorporated into that course following the AP exam in May.
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Villains, Lovers, and Fools: An Introduction to Shakespearean Tragedy | English | Fulfills one-third 12th Grade English Requirement (Offered in Fall Term). What makes a villain truly terrifying? What drives a lover to ruin? What wisdom hides behind a fool’s laughter? In this course, students enter the world of Shakespeare’s tragic stage through close study of Othello , Macbeth , and Romeo and Juliet , three plays that together map the full terrain of human ambition, desire, and self-destruction. Through careful reading of Elizabethan English, student-led discussion, and analytical writing, students will move beyond surface-level moral judgments to grapple with the genuine complexity of Shakespeare’s characters and the social forces of gender, race, and class that shape their fates. By the end of Fall Term, students will have developed the critical vocabulary and literary confidence to read demanding texts on their own terms, and the self-awareness to recognize something of themselves in every hero, villain, and fool they encounter.
The Arthurian Legend in Medieval Literature | English | Fulfills one-third 12th Grade English Requirement (Offered in Winter Term). What does the legend of King Arthur reveal about the cultures that kept retelling it? This course traces the Arthurian tradition from its roots in the medieval imagination through its culmination in the Elizabethan era. Students work through seminal texts of the tradition — including Sir Gawain and the Green Knight , The Alliterative Morte Arthure , Chrétien de Troyes’s Lancelot , and portions of Edmund Spenser’s The Faerie Queene — alongside film adaptations and selected secondary readings that illuminate the broader cultural and literary history of the legend. Throughout, the course situates each work in its historical moment, asking students to consider how ideals of chivalry, loyalty, honor, and political power were constructed, tested, and contested across centuries of storytelling. Students develop close reading, analytical writing, and discussion skills through sustained engagement with some of the most enduring narratives in the English literary tradition.
Greek Myth and Literature | English | Fulfills one-third 12th Grade English Requirement (Offered Fall & Winter Terms).
This course takes a literary approach to the mythology of the Ancient Greek world. Students will explore some of the most lasting and powerful narratives ever created: stories of the creation of the world, the fall of Troy, the travels of Odysseus, the sins of Oedipus, and the rage of Medea. These texts examine some of the most disturbing and violent of human experiences, as well as some of the most moving — encounters with community, family, war, death, and love. Students will explore the way in which these narratives have shaped the ethical and social codes that underpin Western culture, and devote attention to how these texts are reinterpreted by later authors. Through careful study of these works, students will develop and refine their reading, writing, speaking, and critical-thinking abilities, ultimately acquiring a deeper understanding of the legacy of Greek myth, literature, and culture in the modern world.
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AP English Literature and Composition English | Grade 12 | Fulfills 12th Grade English Requirement | AP Course AP English Literature and Composition focuses on reading, analyzing, and writing about imaginative literature — fiction, poetry, and drama — from various periods. Students engage in close reading and critical analysis to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, and symbolism. Students are encouraged to share their reactions, interpretations, and insights in regular discussions and debates, and then compose clear, original writing that explores ideas gleaned from both reading and class discourse. By the end of the year, students will have acquired a sense of the scope and power of literature and will have developed mastery of the skills necessary to achieve success on the AP Literature Exam.
Visions of the Future: An Introduction to Dystopian Literature | English | Fulfills one- third 12th Grade English Requirement (Offered in Winter Term). Where does the dream of a perfect society end and the nightmare begin? In this course, students trace the arc of dystopian literature from its roots in early twentieth-century utopian writing through its explosive revival in contemporary fiction. Reading landmark works including Orwell’s 1984 , Huxley’s Brave New World , and Burgess’s A Clockwork Orange , students will examine how these imagined futures function as pointed critiques of the real world — and ask how well their warnings have held up. Through close reading, analytical writing, and discussion of the social, political, and ethical questions these texts raise, students will develop the critical tools to evaluate literature not just as story, but as argument. The Winter trimester culminates in a collaborative capstone project in which student teams research, plan, and draft their own fictional utopia or dystopia — putting their ideas about power, freedom, and human nature to the ultimate test.
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Senior Capstone: The Hyde Words in Life and Literature English | Fulfills one third 12th Grade English Requirement (Spring Term: Seniors & post- graduates except those enrolled in AP Literature & Composition) By the spring of their senior year, students will have learned Hyde’s Five Words and Five Principles. They will also have spent time asking what those words actually demand of them — not as abstractions, but as daily commitments. This capstone course challenges students to take this knowledge and experience to the next level by exploring the ways in which courage, integrity, leadership, curiosity, and concern have been wrestled with by writers, philosophers, and ethical thinkers across centuries. The guiding conviction of the course is that character is not a fixed trait but a practice, something built through deliberate effort, honest self-examination, and the willingness to close the gap between the values we claim and the choices we actually make. Students select a Hyde word that resonates with them and spend the trimester tracing its meaning across two texts: a major work of literature and a work of philosophy or ethics. The pairing is intentional. Literature shows us what these values look like when tested by circumstance — how curiosity can illuminate or destroy, how integrity holds or fractures under pressure, how concern for others shapes or complicates a life. Philosophy asks us to think rigorously about why these things matter and what a life genuinely organized around them would require. What would it mean to lead not just skillfully but well? What is the difference between appearing courageous and being courageous, and does it matter if no one else can tell? Is concern a feeling, a habit, or an obligation? The course culminates in a capstone oral thesis defense in which students present a unified analysis of their chosen word, their literary text, and their philosophical source, arguing not just for an interpretation, but for a way of living.
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English Language Learner Program Mission Statement
Hyde’s English Language Learner Support program, ELL Support, complements students’ integration into mainstream classes. It is our goal to support acquisition of the English language, while focusing on a variety of topics including grammar, vocabulary, history, and geography. It also incorporates conversation around cultural awareness and sensitivity to help students adapt to our global community. The goal of Hyde’s ELL program is to provide a supportive and tailored learning environment that helps non-native English speakers become proficient in English, allowing them to succeed academically and socially in the United States.
English Language Learner Classes English | Grades 9–12 | Three proficiency levels: Basic, Intermediate, Advanced
The ELL Support program at Hyde is designed to help non-native English speakers develop the language skills necessary for success in academic courses and daily life. The program provides a structured approach to language acquisition, focusing on grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing, and practical communication. In addition to language skills, students explore topics such as history, geography, and personal finance, while engaging in discussions that promote cultural awareness and sensitivity. By fostering confidence in both academic and social settings, the program equips students with the tools to navigate and contribute to a global community. To accommodate varying proficiency levels, the program offers three levels — Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced — with placement determined by English proficiency assessments including the TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent evaluations administered at Hyde School.
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Mathematics Department Mission Statement
The mission of the Mathematics Department at Hyde is to promote our students' growth as problem solvers and critical thinkers. We aim to foster an appreciation for mathematical subjects and mindsets as well as to challenge our students to effectively communicate their understanding of those subjects. The focus of the mathematics curriculum at Hyde is geared toward real-world applications and experiential understanding of course materials so that students may apply what they learn toward topics beyond the classroom.
Algebra 1 Mathematics | Grades 9–10
Algebra 2 Mathematics | Grades 9–11 | Prerequisite: Algebra 1 This course builds on algebraic and geometric concepts to develop advanced skills in systems of equations, polynomials, imaginary and complex numbers, quadratics, and trigonometric functions. Students develop mastery of algebraic techniques alongside a thorough knowledge of elementary functions and their graphs, preparing them for higher- level mathematics. The course bridges the gap between foundational algebra and the analytic thinking required in pre-calculus and beyond.
Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to succeed in advanced courses. The instructional program emphasizes the use of algebraic skills across a wide range of problem-solving situations, with the concept of function as a central thread throughout. Topics include operations with real numbers, linear equations and inequalities, relations and functions, polynomials, algebraic fractions, and nonlinear equations. Geometry Mathematics | Grades 10–11 | Prerequisite: Algebra 1 This course introduces the study of points, segments, triangles, polygons, circles, solid figures, and their associated relationships as a mathematical system. Emphasis is placed on the development of inductive, deductive, and intuitive reasoning skills, with powers of abstract reasoning, spatial visualization, and logical analysis strengthened throughout. Students apply and extend their Algebra 1 skills across every unit, using geometry as a proving ground for precision and argument in mathematics.
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Pre-Calculus Mathematics | Grades 10–12 | Prerequisite: Algebra 2
AP Pre-Calculus Mathematics | Grades 11–12 | AP Course | Prerequisite: Algebra 2 AP Pre-Calculus provides an in-depth study of functions and their representations, specifically polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and polar functions, at a level aligned with the College Board AP framework. Because AP Pre-Calculus is often the final mathematics course in a student’s secondary education, the course is structured to provide a coherent capstone experience while also preparing students for future coursework in science, business, and related fields. confidence and prepare students for future coursework in mathematics, science, business, and related fields. Pre-Calculus provides an in-depth study of functions and their representations, including polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and polar functions. Students develop problem-solving and analytical skills through algebraic, graphical, and numerical approaches while strengthening their understanding of mathematical concepts and real-world applications. As a capstone mathematics course for many students, Pre-Calculus is designed to build
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Calculus Mathematics | Grades 11–12 | Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus
Calculus is designed for students who have completed the pre-college mathematics curriculum and are ready for an introduction to higher-level mathematical thinking. Students explore the fundamental ideas of differential and integral calculus through graphical, numerical, analytical, and real-world applications. Topics include limits, derivatives, integrals, and their applications, with an emphasis on building intuition for why these tools work alongside proficiency in using them. AP Calculus AB Mathematics | Grades 11–12 | AP Course | Prerequisite: AP Pre-Calculus, Pre-Calculus (by departmental approval) AP Calculus AB is a rigorous course designed as an introductory college-level calculus experience. Students cultivate their understanding of differential and integral calculus through engagement with real-world problems represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally, using definitions and theorems to build arguments and justify conclusions. The course is organized around three major themes: change, limits, and the analysis of functions, preparing students fully for the AP examination in May.
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Science Department Mission Statement
Hyde School’s Science Department endeavors to give students broad exposure to traditional science fields and increase their overall science literacy. Class lectures, interactive lessons, group projects, field trips, and laboratory experiments combine to form a strong foundation of skills and knowledge with the intent that students will pursue further study in the physical and natural sciences.
Biology Science | Grades 9–10
Physics Science | Grades 11–12 | Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry Physics stresses the physical aspects of science and the further development of scientific reasoning. The fundamental concepts of mechanics, heat, light, sound, electricity, and nuclear physics are investigated through extensive use of laboratory exercises and computer-aided analysis. Physics course work requires students to demonstrate advanced math skills, as the mathematical reasoning is rigorous and integral to the discipline.
Biology introduces students to habits of observing, critiquing, and relating general biological topics to the living world around them. They begin to see behaviors and attributes as adaptations to survival and reproduction, and then to apply these concepts to vertebrate anatomy, cell physiology, health, and plant biology. Students become familiar with the adaptive strategies of the full range of life forms. Concepts and terminology are perceived as tools for understanding the complexity of their own lives as they exercise their skills in writing, presenting, analyzing, and applying material from the class, the text, research, and their own experiences.
AP Physics 1 Science | Grades 11–12 | AP Course
Chemistry Science | Grades 10–11 | Prerequisite: Biology
AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course in which students cultivate their understanding of physics by developing models of physical phenomena through inquiry-based investigations. Students build their understanding of physical models as they explore and solve problems in kinematics; forces and translational dynamics; work, energy, and power; linear momentum; torque and rotational dynamics; energy and momentum of rotating systems; oscillations; and fluids. The course prepares students for the AP Physics 1 examination and for further study in the sciences.
This course provides an opportunity for students to understand the nature of chemistry through exploration, experimentation, student-directed projects, and a rigorous study of scientific principles related to the study of matter. Course content will include atomic structure and theory, chemical composition, bonding, and chemical reactions. In addition to gaining knowledge about matter and chemistry, students focus on improving academic skills, as well as developing tools that will be useful for their future as learners.
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