Electives

As part of the course work at New England Academy students participate in electives each day.  Electives are offered so that students have the opportunity to take a variety of courses to stretch interests, provide new experiences or pursue a passion. Common electives are: Child Development, Nutrition, Neuropsychology, Art, Drama, Newspaper, Photography, Music Appreciation, Media Analysis, Health, Martial Arts, Yoga, Fitness, and Virtual High School on-line electives. 

Elective Descriptions:

Music Appreciation
Students bring in their own music on a CD and the group as a whole will listen to the song, break down the lyrics to analyze its content, and discuss both the song's meaning and any personal significance of the song. In addition, the class analyzes a variety of musical genres and discuss how music is used in our everyday lives (e.g., to relax).

Art Studio
Art can be used as a way to relay our feelings and emotions, express creativity, relieve stress, and of course…have fun! Students will work together with the instructor on various art projects and be encouraged to express themselves through unique artistic pieces. Time will be allotted for individual interests, free art, and some structured activities. Please let us know particular areas of interest that you would like to pursue!

Health
Overall health and body wellness is important to everyone. A healthy mind and body better enables each of us to achieve our goals and is essential for students pursuing their education. In this interactive class, students will engage in conversation and instruction with the school nurse in such areas as managing stress, building family and peer relationships, nutrition and physical fitness, substance abuse, and preventing disease and injury. If there is a particular area of interest that students would like to discuss, students are highly encouraged to speak with the school nurse.

Mind/Body/Spirit
In this elective students would have an opportunity to learn about the interconnectedness of all parts of the human through hands-on learning. Activities would include; guided meditation, readings on basic philosophy principles, and videos about the power of thought. This elective would provide students with an opportunity for self-exploration as well as many stress relievers and coping skills.

Nutrition/Cooking
In this elective students would learn about the basics of nutrition. While a full kitchen is not available, no-cook recipes would be prepared. Activities would include; readings on nutritional information, videos about the subject such as Supersize Me, meal preparation and internet games that challenge students to learn more about how to build healthy meals. This elective would provide students with an opportunity to learn some independence through meal preparation as well as how to better care for themselves. This elective is also a great opportunity for self esteem boosting.

Women's Studies
In this elective, students will explore various issues related to prominent women throughout history and the changes they have made, the role of women in current society, and other challenges that people face in relationships. This will be an open-discussion forum with minimal research, and appropriate student participation is crucial.

Neuropsychology
This is a YEAR LONG course that will discuss the neurological functions of the brain. This course will cover how the brain works, learning styles, theories of intelligence and brain development. This course will culminate with the students participating in the MIT "Brain Bee".

College Preparation Course
This class is designed for juniors and seniors. Students will explore/plan for their post secondary options and work on improving study skills. As a result of this course, students will learn about various two and four year colleges and universities, preparatory schools, business, trade and technical programs, military training, etc. Students will familiarize themselves and gather important information about various standardized tests such as the PSAT's, SAT's, ACT's, etc. In addition, students will learn about good career options given their personal interests. There will be a variety of presentations given by college representatives and outside resources.

Creative Art 1
A mixed media class that will include pencil and charcoal drawing, water color and acrylic painting, collage with varied materials, clay sculpting, and oil and chalk pastels. Through the use of various art mediums, we will create individual as well as group art products.

Creative Art 2
The focus of this class is relaxation. The class ill include creative writing, stretching, visualization and meditation, and various relaxation techniques. In finding ways to learn how to relax, it can help increase your abilities to focus and decrease feelings of anxiety.

Physical Education
Offered daily at the North Shore Athletic Club next door. Choices are personal training, yoga, or cardio exercise.