For U.S. History, mathematics, and foreign languages, students either begin or complete a yearlong curriculum from their sending school while at Maine Coast Semester. Successful completion of these courses is necessary for the student to progress to subsequent courses at home. In mathematics and languages, in particular, we devote significant effort to
gathering course information, making proper placements, and offering individualized instruction as needed. Because of our small class size, students generally return prepared for or ahead of their classes at home.

United States History

United States History offers a chronological survey of our nation's past. This course emphasizes the political, economic, and social forces which have shaped our history. As much as time allows, the course follows the general curriculum of the Advanced Placement examination in American history.

In the fall semester, we begin with a study of the first English settlements in the New World and end with a study of the Civil War. In the spring semester, we begin with an overview of American life from 1860-1920, emphasizing industrialization, urbanization, immigration, etc. During the second half of the spring semester we will explore American history in the twentieth century. Because the spring semester does not begin until late January, the course does not cover Reconstruction, the New South, or the settlement of the West.

Analytical writing, public speaking, critical reading and discussion skills are emphasized. Readings in both primary and secondary source materials will support lecture and discussion formats. Frequent essays are assigned.

Mathematics

Rigorous mathematics courses in Algebra II, Pre-Calculus and Calculus (Advanced Placement AB and BC) are offered. The mathematics programs of our sending schools play a large part in planning the curriculum. Information provided by the student’s sending school helps determine placement. Classes are designed to fully prepare students to re-enter their sending school math program when they leave the Maine Coast Semester.

Our experience indicates that small, intimate classes and meaningful collaboration naturally lead students to discuss, present, and argue about mathematics. Consistent with the greater MCS philosophy, students are expected to engage in serious intellectual challenge, to think critically, and ask questions that they would not ask in a traditional math classroom. This approach results in strengthened problem-solving skills and a fundamental understanding of mathematics.

Foreign Languages
French and Spanish courses are offered at intermediate and advanced levels (III and higher), including Advanced Placement. The foreign language programs of our sending schools play a large part in the planning of the curricula.  Information provided by the student's sending school teacher, as well as level of ability, helps to determine placement.

Classes are designed to prepare students to re-enter their sending school language program when they leave us and all classes are conducted solely in the language.  Due to small class sizes, the students have the opportunity to focus on speaking ability and their individual language needs.

On an individual basis and at an extra cost, students have also received instruction in Latin, Mandarin Chinese, and German. Please contact us to confirm we can arrange instruction in your language of study.