Penn Charter’s Upper School program is designed to train students in all academic disciplines and to evoke a joyful curiosity in the pursuit of lifelong learning. A graduate of Penn Charter should read, write, speak, and listen accurately, effectively and honestly. Our graduates should be able to work independently and collaboratively and to relate the experience of the classroom to the realities of the multicultural world around them.

Penn Charter operates on a trimester system. In order to graduate, a student must satisfactorily complete sixty trimester units. Of these, twelve will be in English, ten in mathematics, nine in foreign language, nine in social studies, six in sciences, one in music, two in the visual arts, four-and-a-half in physical education, one-and-a-half in religious studies and, in ninth grade, one unit in music/introduction to theater/computer. The remaining credits will be electives.

To ensure that students fulfill requirements, address weaknesses, and maximize talents and strengths, advisors guide students in the selection of courses. Nine and tenth graders follow a core academic curriculum enhanced by courses in music, art and religion. Juniors and seniors may, in addition to required core courses, choose from a wide range of elective offerings, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and independent study options.

Computer Sciences
• Effective Learning Skills with Computer Applications
• Computers and Research
• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
• Computer Graphics

English
• English IX, X, XI, XII
• Shakespeare’s Open Silences
• The Irish Imagination
• The Problem of Comedy
• Literature and Media
• Literature in the Jazz Age
• Creative Writing
• English in the Brave New World

Foreign Language
• French I, II, III, IV, Advanced Topics and AP
• Latin I, II, III, IV, Advanced Topics and AP
• Spanish I, II, III, IV, Advanced Topics and AP

Health & Physical Education
• Physical Education and Health Education, for 9th grade
• Health Education, for 10th grade
• Aquatics Assistant
• Sports Elective: cross country, football, soccer, field hockey, tennis, basketball, wrestling, squash, swimming, softball, baseball, golf, lacrosse, track
• Aquatics
• Recreational Activities
• Developmental Psychology
• Fitness for Life
• Lifetime Activities
• First Aid & CPR
• PE and Service Learning

Mathematics
The mathematics program in Middle and Upper Schools progresses from pre-algebra through first-year algebra, geometry, second-year algebra, trigonometry and precalculus, to a full year or more of calculus for those who qualify. Courses include:
• Algebra I & II
• Geometry
• Pre-calculus
• Trigonometry
• Advanced Algebra
• Calculus
• AP Calculus (AB, BC)
• Introduction to Statistics
• AP Statistics

Music
• Music Appreciation, for 9th grade
• Music Industry
• History of Rock & Roll
• Electronic Music/Song Writing
• Charter Singers (Choral Ensemble)
• Symphonic Band
• Jazz Fundamentals