(based on Math placement results*)

This class is for students who would like to prepare for the freshman year of Mathematics. In Algebra 1, students will review basic mathematics and elementary algebra skills. In Geometry, this course will review Algebra content and introduce elementary Geometry skills.

NOTE: If we have sufficient sign-ups, we may also offer Algebra 1 Honors & Geometry Honors.

* By default, all students that select this course will be placed in Algebra 1. After Math Placement results are released in the Spring, students who were placed into Geometry will have their schedules automatically changed. No action on the family's part is required to initiate the schedule change. Also, as no higher math level than Geometry is available in Freshman Experience, if a student is placed into a higher math than Geometry, the next class in the preferences list will be assigned. Enrollment in these Freshman Experience classes has no bearing on your placement in the fall.

Students will learn the fundamentals of design thinking, 3D printing, and CNC milling in a fun, project-based, creative environment. After becoming familiar with design thinking, students will begin using AutoDesk’s Tinkercad, a user-friendly, browser-based 3D design and modeling tool. Products which the students design will then be manufactured via 3D printing, using our MakerBot Replicator+ and Mini+ printers. Students will also be introduced to 2D & 3D design in the context of CNC Milling, namely using Easel, another user-friendly, browser-based 3D modeling/CAM, to create products using our Inventables Carvey 3 axis carving machines.

Requirements: Students must provide their own internet-enabled laptop with a browser and mouse. More specific software and hardware requirements will be made available prior to Summer.

Fine Arts serves as an introductory course for students who want to express their creativity in multiple mediums. Students work individually and collaboratively on projects that include drawing, painting, mixed medium and fabric arts.

This class explores the the field of graphic arts using graphics software such as Adobe Photoshop© as a medium of expression, while learning the elements of design and art. 

This introductory class gives students the skills needed to be successful in their Freshman Biology class. Topics will include the geological time scale, history of the earth, fossils, biomes, oceanography, the atmosphere, and plate tectonics. Moreover, students will practice skills including reading & note-taking, problem solving & application of principles, using formulas, graph / table creation and analysis, converting units, and conducting experiments.

(based on English placement results**)

This class covers the English 1 / Honors summer reading assignments for freshmen. Students will develop skills in comprehension, analysis and discussion. In addition, the course provides students with an light introduction to writing about literature, focusing on mechanics, voice, imagery, description and organization. Students will be expected to complete homework for this class.

** By default all students that select this course will be placed in English 1. After English Placement results are released in the Spring, students who are placed into English 1 Honors will have their schedules automatically changed. No action on the family's part is required to initiate the schedule change. Enrollment in these Freshman Experience classes has no bearing on your placement in the fall.

This class extensively introduces students to the iPads that students will be assigned during the regular school year -- a must have for students coming from schools that don't have a 1-to-1 iPad program. Through creative and collaborative projects, the course will teach skills needed to succeed with frequently used iPad applications especially in the Remote Learning environment, including the Google and iLife suite of apps, Notability, Explain Everything, iMovie, Comic Life, and Schoology. Students will also practice daily "survival skills," like where and how to print during the school year.

(based on Spanish placement results*)

In Spanish 1, students will cover grammar basics and begin speaking their first words in this small, welcoming environment. In Spanish 2, students will practice speaking more, with a stepped up review of grammar, and tips for working in a class with sophomore students.

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* By default all students that select this course will be placed in Spanish 1. After Spanish Placement results are released in the Spring, students who were placed into Spanish 2 will have their schedules automatically changed. No action on the family's part is required to initiate the schedule change. Also, as no higher level then Spanish 2 is available in Freshman Experience, if a student is placed into a higher level, the next class in the preferences list will be assigned. Enrollment in these Freshman Experience classes has no bearing on your placement in the fall.

In this "club class," you'll learn how Saint Francis' improv comedy team, Shakespeare's Dropouts, makes sold out audiences laugh! This camp is for anyone to learn the fundamentals of improvisation, including the basic tools, rules, and philosophy through games, drills, and simple scenes. No experience in theatre or improv needed!  It's VERY fun, VERY supportive and noncompetitive. Student members of Shakespeare's Dropouts will be on hand to play games and get to know incoming freshmen. This is a great opportunity for students interested in improv comedy and theatre to start honing their skills before auditions in August.

Not sure what Improv Comedy is? Check out this clip from a recent Shakespeare's Dropouts show.

Drawing from the experience of coaches, club moderators, and student government, this course presents basic leadership skills necessary to be Holy Cross leaders here on campus. Class topics include goal setting, self-esteem, leadership theories, effective communication skills, meeting and organizational skills, decision making, and problem solving.

This class introduces students to the Saint Francis Debate Team, including their methods, practice environment, and competitive approach.

This class will review note taking, outlining, memory, and test-taking techniques to help students in their high school classes. The class will also provide an overview of “life at Saint Francis,” such as in-depth tours of campus and traditions of the school.

This course focuses on argumentative writing as students will use it in both Saint Francis English and History classes. Students will evaluate and engage in argumentation, select evidence that supports their claims, analyze point of view, and work on paragraph structure. Students will also practice analysis of a variety of sources and different kinds of writing as they may find in English and History classes. The purpose of this course is to empower students to feel confident in their writing skills before starting their high school career.