Grade 9

GRADE 9 CURRICULUM

Humanities I
A study of World History, Geography and Cultures from Ancient civilizations through the Renaissance (1500 B.C.E. to 1700 C.E.). This course examines the relationship between geography and cultural developments, the legacy and contributions of Ancient civilizations, the scientific, philosophical, political and artistic discoveries of The Middle Ages and Renaissance, and the beliefs and practices of the major world religions. All units connect the past to current events and contemporary global realities with emphasis on chronological developments, geographical knowledge, and understanding and respect for cultures and cultural differences. This course is entitled “World History I-Geography, Culture, and Religion”

Human Rights Program

The three guiding principles of the Human Rights classes are:
1. The study of history, terminology, and current events; 2. Advocacy, action, and service; 3. Community engagement and support.

Algebra 1 
Algebra I reintroduces students to the real number system, symbolic reasoning, and the properties of the Algebraic process. Students define polynomials and functions of two variables before learning to analyze, factor, and graph them.

Students further demonstrate the intricacies of mathematical modeling by using definitions, equations, and properties of linear, exponential, radical, and quadratic functions. Throughout, course themes are delivered through short and long-term projects, independent explorations, and individual students’ passion projects.

Biology 
Biology at MUSE covers all areas required by the California state standards. The fundamentals covered in MUSE biology include: cells, macromolecules, taxonomy, human body systems, biogeochemical cycles, genetics, and evolution. A special emphasis is placed on biochemistry for the purpose of delving deeper into genetics, cells, and macromolecules and giving students an excellent foundation for chemistry in 10th grade. Biology at MUSE is unique because of the partnership with MUSE’s Seed to Table program and our commitment to sustainability.