Curriculum by Grade Level (9-12)

The ninth-grade year opens up new opportunities for all students; 25-30% of the class is new to Catlin Gabel, bringing together diverse experiences that enrich the learning environment and broaden perspectives.

Every student becomes part of an Upper School “C&C,” a group of mixed-grade students and faculty advisors. C&Cs  provide support and encouragement throughout the challenges and joys of high school. The faculty advisor provides guidance and mentorship regarding the academic pathway and tracks the development of each advisee.

Ninth Grade Curriculum

English and Social Studies: Students develop skills in analytical reading, research, and writing through texts focused on community and identity. Coursework emphasizes the writing process, discussion, and civic inquiry, including the question: what does it mean to be an active participant in society?

Science: Science I begins a two-year interdisciplinary sequence integrating physics and chemistry. Students investigate core concepts through lab work and build skills in data analysis, modeling, and scientific reasoning.

Mathematics: Students are placed in courses that match their preparation, most commonly algebra or geometry, with some enrolling in higher-level courses such as precalculus or statistics. 

Modern Languages: Students study Mandarin, Spanish, or French, with the option to pursue more than one language. Coursework builds proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing through sustained language practice.

P.E. and Health: Students complete Lifetime Fitness or earn credit through athletics. Health coursework includes human sexuality, substance use, and decision-making, with attention to consent, communication, and aligning choices with personal values.

Electives: Students choose from electives in computer science and the arts, with most arts courses open to ninth graders. Courses are designed to build technical skills while allowing for exploration of individual interests.

Sophomores build on the academic skills and knowledge developed in ninth grade, furthering their critical thinking, reading, writing, and presentation skills. They take advantage of a wide range of electives to further their interests.

C&C advisory groups continue to meet regularly. Faculty advisors work closely with individual students and their parents to help them plan their academic trajectory and respond to the needs of advisees.

Tenth Grade Curriculum

English and Social Studies: Students deepen skills in analytical reading, writing, research, and discussion through texts from British and postcolonial traditions. Coursework examines relationships between power, community, and social change, while Social Studies emphasizes historical thinking and analysis of primary and secondary sources.

Modern Languages, Science, and Mathematics: Students advance in their science, math, and language sequences, building on prior coursework with increasing complexity and independence. Courses emphasize problem solving, analysis, and continued development of discipline-specific skills.

P.E and Health: Students complete a second semester of health focused on mental and physical well-being. Topics include stress management, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships.

Electives: Students choose from a wide range of electives in the arts and computer science, including courses such as playwriting, directing, sewing, and jewelry. These courses provide opportunities to develop technical skills and pursue individual interests in greater depth.
 

Students continue to stay connected with their C&C cohort and faculty advisor, and begin to work with the College Counseling team. Students begin to explore their college goals and interests.

Upperclassmen have increasing independence to pursue solo or small-group projects. Students may choose from electives in various disciplines.

Eleventh Grade Curriculum

English and Social Studies: Juniors choose between American Studies (an interdisciplinary course examining U.S. history, literature, and culture) or a combination of U.S. History and English 11, which follows a chronological study of the nation’s development through primary texts, analysis, and writing.

Science: Students select from advanced electives such as evolutionary biology, experimental chemistry, kinesiology, and pathogens and parasites, with options for honors-level coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics.

Modern Languages and Mathematics: Most students continue into their third year of French, Spanish, or Mandarin, while advancing in mathematics through higher-level courses, including options offered through the Global Online Academy.

The last year of high school begins with a focus on the college selection process and ends with opportunities for  reflection and connection, as seniors celebrate their collective and individual accomplishments.

Twelfth Grade Curriculum

Seniors shape their academic experience around their interests, applying skills developed across disciplines through advanced coursework, leadership opportunities, and a month-long Senior Project with a mentor or advisor.

English and Interdisciplinary Courses: All seniors take a fall English elective and may continue with Senior English or yearlong interdisciplinary courses such as Dialogue for Democracy or the Palma Seminar.

Advanced Study: Students continue in advanced courses across social studies, science, mathematics, computer science, modern languages, and the arts, with increasing independence and specialization.