Curriculum Overview

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Visual & Performing Arts at MCI

MCI Visual Performing Arts video

Click the image to watch a short video about MCI's engaging visual and performing arts programs available to all students

Humanities

The Humanities curriculum was created with a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities in 1982. The 4-year college-bound student takes a 4-year sequence of parallel history and English classes, structured to emphasize the relationship among the history, literature, art, and music of each period. The general student takes a 3-year sequence in order that s/he may take electives appropriate to their post-secondary goals. At each level, students are required to demonstrate, both orally and in writing, a developmentally appropriate ability to analyze, synthesize, evaluate and integrate historical and literary knowledge. All students are required to take notes, discuss cooperatively, debate, create, and present their ideas both in writing and orally. Humanities courses earn two credits, one in English and one in history, and students register for them as a two-course unit. Students are expected to earn a minimum of four English and three history credits in order to fulfill graduation requirements.

Mathematics

In all mathematics courses, there is a strong emphasis on problem solving, real-world applications and verbally communicating mathematical concepts. Students are active participants in their own learning as teachers aid them in making their own discoveries about mathematics. Algebra, geometry, statistics, probability and discrete math are integrated into all courses, thus connecting the traditional branches of mathematics as they are in the real world.

Placement in specific courses is always dependent on teacher recommendation. Students must earn a minimum of four math credits while at MCI. The courses in the mathematics curriculum (with the exception of pre-algebra) are college preparatory in their structure. MCI provides two sequences of study at this level. The more rigorous level is a fast-paced progression that takes a student from Algebra I through Pre-Calculus or Calculus. High school graduates who wish to pursue careers in math or science related fields, such as engineering, medicine, biology, chemistry, physics, statistical analysis, advanced computer technology and numerous others, should enroll in this sequence. For other career choices, most universities and colleges require students to complete courses in algebra, geometry and advanced algebra. Students who wish to pursue careers in the arts, languages, journalism, history, education and many other fields, would find the general level sequence provides a sufficient foundation in high school mathematics. The courses are full-year unless otherwise noted.

For more information on MCI's redesigned Math Pathways, click here.

Science and Computer Science

Science courses at MCI support students in learning to inquire, understand and solve problems using scientific methods.

Our courses integrate the processes of investigation and communication about the natural world with a scientific body of knowledge that includes concepts, principles, facts, laws, and theories about how our world and universe work. The Science Department offers students a variety of courses and levels from Earth and Space Science in freshman year through AP® courses. All students must complete four credits in science. These must include an earned credit in each of the following: Earth and Space Science; Biology; and Chemistry, Physics or Engineering.

English as a Second Language/ESL/ESOL

MCI wants our students to have the best tools to succeed, which is why we test new international students in English comprehension and communication to determine their enrollment in ESL courses and other academic offerings.

Human Development

Human development courses are built on the “Holistic Wellness” approach. This approach recognizes the symbiotic relationship among physical, mental / intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual health. Because health issues are so dynamic, HD courses strive to give students the skills, resources and knowledge to be healthy, happy, lifelong learners.

Students are encouraged to think for themselves, be knowledgeable consumers and problem solvers and to make educated decisions.

Visual and Performing Arts

MCI offers a variety of instruction and opportunity within the fine arts. Art, music, drama, and dance all help to build a sense of community and contribute to understanding and appreciating diverse cultures. Beyond the classroom, students are able to develop their individual talents, participate in performances and displays and compete for regional awards.

World Languages

World Language offerings are full year, one-credit college preparatory courses. The courses are designed, both in content and academic experience, to prepare students for further study at the post-secondary level and/or the ability to use the language in real life experiences. Successful world language students build a strong knowledge base by being active learners in class and supplementing their class experience with nightly assignments and studying. Courses require students to demonstrate communication skills appropriate to the language they study. Also, students will learn about, reflect on, discuss and share information about the cultures and society of users of the language. A World Language credit is not required for graduation.

Online AP and Concurrent Enrollment Courses

MCI provides Independent Study online Advanced Placement courses for AP classes not offered at MCI. Some of these include AP United States Government and Politics, AP Psychology, AP Music Theory, and AP Statistics through AP4ME. Additional online AP course options are available for academically motivated students. See the Dean of Academics or an Academic Counselor for additional details.

Concurrent enrollment credit-bearing college courses are offered to juniors and seniors on MCI's campus through the University of Maine at Fort Kent (UMFK), as well as onsite and online through  Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) campus and the University of Maine system. Some students may also attend Colby College in an Early College opportunity. Students may enroll in no more than four courses at KVCC per year; students may concurrently take MCI-UMFK concurrent enrollment courses for an additional four courses.

Applications and acceptance into each program are required. See the Dean of Academics or an Academic Counselor for an application and additional details.

SCTC Courses

Courses at the Somerset Career and Technology Center (SCTC) are available to juniors, seniors, and some eligible sophomores from Somerset county school districts. Students must complete an application for the program and attend an interview with the program instructor.