Math Courses
The mathematics department focuses on helping all cadets develop the problem solving and higher order thinking skills necessary to ensure success in collegiate mathematics course work.
Our college preparatory sequence emphasizes a conceptual understanding of mathematics, which promotes flexible thinking and teaches cadets to apply the knowledge learned to other disciplines.
Advanced Mathematics
With a teacher's recommendation, cadets accelerating in math may take the first year (pre-calculus) and then proceed to calculus. All other cadets will continue with advanced math. Pre-calculus and advanced math provide in-depth coverage of trigonometry, logarithms, analytic geometry and upper level algebraic concepts.
Algebra I (regular or honors)
This course focuses on mathematical problem solving or the application of mathematical concepts in new situations. Cadets learn by working carefully designed problems that lead to the use of productive thought patterns utilizing concepts.
Algebra II (regular or honors)
This course is designed to prepare cadets for pre-calculus. Cadets will continue to study area and volume and be introduced to more abstract geometric concepts, review prior algebra concepts and proceed through trigonometric ratios, rectangular and polar coordinates and on to changing from one coordinate system to the other.
Calculus (advanced placement)
An advanced placement (AP) course in calculus consists of a full high school academic year, which is comparable to college calculus coursework. It is expected that cadets who take AP calculus will seek college credit, college placement, or both, from institutions of higher learning.
Fundamentals of Math
FOM is a transitional course in our math curriculum designed to automate the upper level skills of arithmetic while introducing abstract arithmetic concepts.
Geometry
One of the main objectives of this course is to enhance cadets’ logical thinking skills. The course begins with an introduction to the basic concepts of geometry, such as lines, planes and points, then progresses to the study of various geometric shapes and their properties, and concludes with proofs.
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Algebra is a middle school course that will guide one through the study of integers, one-step equations, inequalities and equations, graphs and functions, percent and probabilities. The Pre-Algebra objectives include: arithmetic properties, place value, arithmetic properties rounding whole numbers, arithmetic properties, regrouping whole numbers, factors and multiples, reading and interpreting data, measurement, fractions, decimals, negative numbers and coordinate plane, ratios, rates and proportions.
Pre-Calculus (regular or honors)
This course provides in-depth coverage of trigonometry, logarithms, analytic geometry and upper level algebraic concepts. Cadets expand their understanding of mathematical concepts through the use of symbolic reasoning and analytical methods to represent mathematical situations, to express generalizations and study the relationships between them.
Pre-College Algebra
The Pre-College Algebra class will allow students to review concepts from previous math courses. This course reviews Algebra I and Algebra II and presents students with Pre-Calculus concepts. This class is designed to prepare students for College Algebra.
Special Topics in Math
This course is designed for those who are about to graduate and who lack skills and basic concepts in math to succeed in higher math courses. In this class we identify the areas of each student’s weaknesses and help him better understand those areas, from basic operations to solving complex equations, graphing and solving systems of equations and higher.
Statistics (advanced placement)
This course introduces cadets to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Cadets will be exposed to four major concepts: exploring data, planning a study, probability as it relates to distribution of data and inferential reasoning and modeling.
Honors and Advanced Placement
Math honors classes deal with more complex problems, greater depth and an accelerated pace.
The advanced placement program prepares cadets to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam for each of the courses offered. Currently, the MMA Mathematics Department offers statistics and calculus AP opportunities.
AP classes offered include:
English Courses
The mastery of English requires extensive study in the areas of grammar, composition, vocabulary, literature, research and speech.
The Marine Military Academy English department consists of five levels of core teaching with advanced courses in grades 9-12. By aligning our curriculum across every level, we allow for these subjects to be continuously reinforced, thereby thoroughly preparing cadets in the fundamentals of reading, writing and public speaking.
English I (regular or honors)
Provides a study of various literary genres, the modes of discourse, research writing, grammar study, and vocabulary improvement. Literature, addressed thematically with emphasis on literary terminology, is reinforced through composition and research assignments and includes assigned novels in addition to weekly anthology selections. Grammar study is comprehensive as is vocabulary study, addressed through literary selections as well as workbook exercises.
English II (regular or honors)
Introduction to world literature through a study of various literary genres assigned through individual novels, poetry collections, plays, short story collections, and anthology selections. Composition instruction addresses basic modes of discourse and research writing and introduces students to literary writing including literary explications focusing on the application of literary terminology. Grammar mastery is assessed through diagramming practice, workbook exercises, and revision assignments. Vocabulary study is addressed weekly.
English III (regular or advance placement)
Provides a survey of American literature within its historical context from the Native American period to the present and extensive instruction in the basics of grammar, composition, vocabulary, and research. Students study a variety of genres in American literature through anthology selections and assigned novels, plays, and short stories. Composition instruction provides practice in the basic modes of discourse, literary writing, research writing, and technical writing with emphasis on the summary, letter of request, abstract, and college-application essay.
English IV (regular or advance placement)
Includes a survey of British literature and the historical context in which it was written with additional emphasis on World literature. Students address grammar in review and study vocabulary weekly. Novels are assigned quarterly in addition to literary selections from the assigned anthology. Students are assigned various compositions including literary analyses, persuasive essays, and several research projects.
Language Arts 7
The course is committed to guiding students toward the goal of being critical thinkers and independent learners. This course expands the academic capacity of all students through systematic skill development in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening, and Research—the four domains of English Language Arts instruction.
Language Arts 8
Addresses five subject areas within the English curriculum: literature, composition, grammar, vocabulary, and research. Literature study involves an overview of various literary genres and an introduction to the terminology associated with each. Composition instruction addresses paragraph and essay development as well as research writing using MLA guidelines. Students review and study the modes of discourse and are introduced to the basics of literary writing. Grammar study is thorough beginning with the parts of speech and extending through clauses, to mechanics, and to sentence structure. Vocabulary improvement, addressed throughout the year, is taught independently through workbook exercises and in context through assigned novels and anthology selections.
Speech Communication
This course provides instruction and practice in speech preparation and delivery. Cadets are expected to deliver a variety of speeches and to acquire the necessary skills to develop a speech, including selecting a topic, drafting an outline, using visual aids and effective delivery techniques.
Technical Writing
This is a one-semester course designed to complement instruction given in core English courses. Grammar skills, paragraph and essay development, and the research process are addressed; in addition, students read at least two novels as a basis for literary writing. Vocabulary is addressed weekly.
Honors & Advanced Placement Courses
Honors courses focus on the development of effective communication through written and verbal discourse. Emphasis is placed on mechanical proficiency and organizational skills in writing essays, research papers and the analysis of style, tone and point of view in literature.
AP classes offer a rigorous program of reading, writing and discussion with the final challenge being placed on taking the advanced placement exam. Cadets must score a three, four or five on the exam in order to receive university credit, which is accepted at most institutions of higher learning in the United States.
Our dual enrollment courses are offered through an agreement with University of Texas at Brownsville. Cadets in an AP or dual enrollment course can earn up to six college credits in a year.
AP classes offered include:
- English III - American Literature
- English IV - British Literature
Social Science Courses
The social sciences department is committed to developing a strong sense of citizenship within cadets by emphasizing self-discipline, responsibility, a system of values and strong work ethic.
The social sciences curriculum helps cadets understand how political, economic, social and cultural forces continue to influence and shape both their lives and our world.
Civics
Students study the theoretical, political and practical aspects of citizenship, as well as its rights and duties.
Economics
The purpose of this course is to help cadets understand and deal with the major economic forces that affect their lives. Topics to be discussed are production, savings, investment, insurance, national income, accounting and membership in labor and business organizations.
Military History
This course is a survey that spans the history of warfare from ancient Greece to the present era. The subject of this class discusses topics of strategy, tactics, morality, professionalism, policy, and technology.
World Geography
This introductory course serves as a foundation upon which subjects of World and U.S. History may be built. World Geography focuses global climates and environments, external and internal forces of the earth, vegetation, animals and the cultures and characteristics of the humans that inhabit various regions.
World History (regular or advance placement)
World History provides an overview of the entire history of humankind. The major emphasis is on the study of significant people, events, and issues from the earliest times to present day. Traditional historical points of reference are identified as cadets analyze important events and issues in western civilization and beyond. Cadets evaluate the causes and effects of political and economic imperialism and of major political revolutions since the 17th century. They also examine the impact of geographic factors on major historical events, identify the historic origins of contemporary economic systems, and analyze the process by which democratic-republican governments evolved as well as ideas from historical documents that influenced that process. They will trace the historical development of important legal and political concepts and examine the history and impact of major religious and philosophical traditions. Additionally, they will analyze the connections between major developments in science and technology and the growth of industrial economies, and use the process of historical inquiry to research, interpret and use multiple sources of evidence.
U.S. Government
This course is a study of the functions of the various branches and the different levels of government. This course includes a look at elections, political parties and interest groups. U.S. foreign policy and national security are also studied.
U.S. History (regular or advance placement)
This course focuses on the political, economic and social events and issues related to the colonial and revolutionary eras, the creation and ratification of the U.S. constitution, challenges to the early republic, westward expansion, sectionalism, The war Between the States and Reconstruction. Content is also focused on the events and issues related to industrialization and urbanization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies of the Cold War and Post-Cold War eras. Cadets use critical thinking skills to explain and apply different methods that historians use to interpret the past, including points of view and historical context.
Honors and Advanced Placement Courses
Our social sciences honors classes involve a more in-depth study of various topics through the use of advanced readings and research.
AP classes emphasize not only on learning content material, but on acquiring and using critical thinking and analytical writing skills. These courses follow the College Board Advanced Placement Program and prepare cadets to take the AP exam for college credit.
AP classes offered include:
Science Courses
Our integrated science program explores the relationship between the various branches of study and provides cadets with a solid foundation for college-level science courses.
The Marine Military Academy science curriculum aims at engaging the tactical, visual, oral and logical senses of our cadets through use of lectures, demonstrations, labs and computer aids. Cadets are strongly encouraged at all levels to develop their sense of investigation and discovery through scientific inquiry and higher-order thinking.
Biology (regular or honors)
A comparative study of anatomical structures of both invertebrate and vertebrate animal phyla. This course provides the opportunity to use the scientific methods in experiments that explore living and preserved specimens. Additionally, it provides a basic foundation of biological and scientific skills that will be used in other related courses.
Chemistry (regular of advance placement)
Chemistry is the study of the structure, composition, and behavior of matter. Emphasis is placed on the investigation of matter, its interactions, and the factors affecting these interactions. The program is laboratory oriented and stresses observation, classification and manipulation of chemical behavior.
Environmental Science (regular or advanced placement)
A comprehensive course that incorporates lessons from physical, life and biological sciences. Topics covered include: human populations, ecology, biodiversity, geology, food resources, water resources and many others.
Integrated Physics and Chemistry
Integrated Physics and Chemistry explores the nature of force, motion, energy, and matter. Course topics include kinematics, force, momentum, waves, atoms, the periodic table, molecular bonding, chemical reactivity, electricity, and nuclear energy.
Life Science
Covers the characteristics of living things, plant and animal cell structures, the characteristics of unicellular and multi-cellular life, genetics, classification of organisms, the structure and function of human cells tissues organs and organ systems, and the structure and function of plants.
Physics (regular or advance placement)
A trig-based course in Newtonian statics and dynamics that introduces cadets to vector math and the study of forces. The program is a balanced approach among lectures, demonstrations, labs, and problem solving. Upon completion, cadets will be well prepared for college level physics.
Honors and Advanced Placement Courses
The biology honors class is designed for cadets who have excellent reading, comprehension and study skills. Instruction emphasizes laboratory investigation, independent research and analysis.
Advanced placement science courses are designed to prepare cadets for the AP exams. Cadets passing these exams with a three, four, or five will receive college credit. MMA offers the following science AP courses:
- Chemistry AP is designed to be equivalent to a first-year chemistry college course. Cadets will obtain an in-depth understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competency in dealing with chemical problems.
- Environmental Science AP offers students the opportunity to engage with scientific principles, concepts and methods required to identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.
- Physics AP is designed for cadets who wish to major in a scientific-related field. Cadets in this course will obtain a fundamental knowledge of the principles of motion, forces, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, energy and modern physics.
Foreign Languages Courses
Marine Military Academy is dedicated to preparing our cadets to meet the challenges of the world around them and instilling an awareness and appreciation of our global society through the study of other languages and cultures.
Our mission is to build linguistic skills and an understanding of the people whose languages we teach. In so doing, we give our cadets training in linguistic analysis and comparison, which will enable them to explore other new languages as their horizons expand.
In order to reinforce classroom learning, cadets also participate in regional and national language competitions and take field trips to points of cultural interest.
Chinese I & II
These courses are intended as a beginning high school two-year curriculum in Chinese. Cadets will begin with intensive language, history, and culture studies, building oral and written proficiency. This will be accomplished through the use of daily readings, intense oral practice, basic vocabulary, grammar structures, written characters, conversation, daily review and activities designed to build cultural awareness.
Chinese III (honors)
These courses provide mastery and expansion of skills acquired by the students in Chinese II. Specific content includes, but is not limited to, expansions of vocabulary and conversational skills through discussions of selected readings. Contemporary vocabulary stresses activities, which are important to the everyday life of the target language-speaking people. These courses focus on important linguistic structures, in order to build and refine cadets’ understanding of Chinese grammar.
Spanish I
An introduction to the language and the cultural heritage of people who speak it. Develops basic vocabulary, communicative skills and strategies for second-language learning.
Spanish II (regular or honors)
Continuing study of language and culture, expanding on skills acquired in the first year. Develops reading and writing skills and explores regional variations of language and culture.
Spanish III & IV (honors)
Reinforces reading and writing skills, developing an appreciation of poetry and short stories while providing opportunities to master grammar and vocabulary. Cadets at this level refine their command of the spoken language.
Honors Courses
The honors courses in Spanish and Chinese emphasize development of higher levels of cultural awareness through various readings, media resources and authentic materials. The skills and knowledge acquired by the cadets in the classroom will help them excel in communicating effectively in their chosen language. This course is aligned in accordance with the standards from the College Board Advanced Placement Program.
Elective Courses
The Marine Military Academy special programs department is designed to complement traditional education and give cadets the competitive edge necessary for success after graduation.
Members of this department are heavily involved in individualized instruction and often tailor a specific program for one cadet. Most instruction involves hands-on experiences and provides opportunities for creative expression. In some cases, cadets take part in setting up their own programs by analyzing their own strengths and weaknesses and regularly conferencing with their teacher for guidance.
Aerospace I (flight training)
A ground school course that prepares cadets to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Private Pilot Written Exam. Flight Training I also helps prepare cadets for the FAA Private Pilot Practical Exam by thoroughly teaching them all of the knowledge required for a private pilot's certificate
Aerospace II (flight training)
An advanced elective designed to teach the material necessary to take the FAA Instrument Pilot Written Exam. Flight training is given in a Cessna 172 or Cessna 152 training aircraft as well as our FAA-approved ATD flight simulator. In addition to these electives, the Air Wing offers additional training leading to the Commercial Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificates.
Band I: Introduction to Band
Cadets will learn basic instrument fundamentals and technique as well as counting rhythms and reading music.
This class is for cadets who have played a band woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument for less than one year
or for cadets who would like to play a band woodwind, brass or percussion instrument.
Band II: Performing Band
Cadets will receive a foundation in musical literacy and instrument proficiency.
This is a performance group for concerts, parades, and ceremonies representing Marine Military Academy
with an emphasis on musical excellence. There are extra rehearsals after school. This course is for
cadets who have at least one year of playing experience on band woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments.
Business Computer Applications
Cadets apply the proper touch-system technique to input data when using the computer, and apply word processing technology in order to format and print documents such as personal and business letters, memos and short reports.
Business Computer Information Systems
An introduction to the use of computer applications in college and business. Through skill building and problem solving, cadets acquire good working knowledge of business program suites used to record, store, retrieve and present information. Placed in real world and simulated situations, cadets learn to create professional documents, spreadsheets, databases and computer presentations. Accelerated cadets will be afforded the opportunity to become a certified Microsoft Office User Specialist (MOUS) in one or more areas of concentration.
Business Management
Business Management/Personal Finance is designed for the development of learning to earn, manage, save and invest money wisely. This course examines budgets, and checking accounts, calculates simple and compound interest, and compares costs of vehicles, mortgages, and energy sources. A variety of loans are investigated, as well as credit card costs, debt plans, vehicle, and homeowners, medical insurance coverages, and retirement and estate planning.
Business Computer Programming I
An introductory course to database programming and development. Cadets will become familiar with database design, development, architecture and integration with Macros using Visual Basic Application Programming.
Business Computer Programming II
An introductory course to programming using Visual Basic. Cadets will learn how Visual Basic can be used to tailor typical business programs for enhanced performance and increased value for specific applications.
Chinese Culture
An overview of Chinese culture, encompassing history, the arts, literature, religion and philosophy,
political events, science, and contemporary lifestyles. This course is designed to give Chinese nationals
practice in describing and explaining their own country and culture to outsiders,
and to give students who are not Chinese an in-depth view of all that makes modern China.
Computer Science (advanced placement)
This course introduces cadets to the logical and structural concepts of computer programming using JAVA and aids in the development and reinforcement of logical thinking and manipulative skills, problem solving, program development and effective use of computer hardware. A strong understanding in math is required for successful completion.
Desktop Publishing
This course uses PageMaker for electronic publishing and advertising graphics in the production of the Pass in Review, MMA's yearbook. Cadets strengthen their writing skills while learning photography, page layout and design, business, professionalism and, ultimately, gain marketable job skills.
Ethical Hacking
Ethical Hacking Associate (EHA) is designed to provide students to establish and govern minimum standards for credentialing entry-level information security specialists in ethical hacking measures, inform the public that credentialed individuals meet or exceed the minimum standards, and reinforce ethical hacking as a unique and self-regulating profession.
Fundamentals of Information Security
This course provides an introduction to the various basic technical and administrative aspects of Information Security, and addresses the foundation for understanding the key issues associated with protecting information assets, determining the levels of protection and response to security incidents, and designing security mechanisms. Students will be exposed to the spectrum of Security activities, methods, methodologies, and procedures. Coverage will include inspection and protection of information assets, detection of and reaction to threats to information assets, and examination of pre- and post-incident procedures, technical and managerial responses and an overview of the Information Security Planning and Staffing functions.
Health
This course teaches cadets how taking responsibility for their own health has a positive effect not only on themselves but also on those around them. It provides a comprehensive study of the body and an explanation of the interdependence of its systems. It also develops the decision-making skills necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Introduction to Digital Forensics
This course focuses on the use of the most popular forensics tools and provides specific guidance on dealing with civil and criminal matters relating to the law and technology. Includes discussions on how to manage a digital forensics operation in today’s business environment.
Introduction to Networking
Learn how to install, configure, maintain and troubleshoot a computer network. It will cover the most important concepts, such as TCP/IP, ethernet, wireless transmission and security.
Music Appreciation
This class explores the elements of music. Learn through the historical context, musicians
and composers, and influence of music from the Middle Ages to the 21st century.
Students will learn how to listen and hear the different music that makes up our world.
Photojournalism
Students will develop the skills necessary to plan, interpret, and critique visual representation,
carefully examining their own product for publication. Students will become analytical consumers
of media and technology to enhance their communication skills. High school students will
study the laws and ethical considerations that impact photography. Publishes photos of
professional journalists, technology, and visual and electronic media
are used as tools for learning as students create, clarify, critique, and produce
effective visual representations. Students enrolled in this course will refine and
enhance their journalistic skills and plan, prepare, and produce photographs for
journalistic publication, whether print, digital, or online media.
Psychology (advanced placement)
Students will explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts and phenomena associated with biological basis of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatments of psychological disorders, and social psychology. Throughout the course the students employ the scientific method, and ethical considerations, as they apply psychological research methods when evaluating claims and evidence, and to communicate research findings.
SAT Prep
A course unique to MMA that affords cadets the opportunity to improve their college entrance exam scores while beginning the college selection and application process through a combination of direct instruction, practice testing, analysis and follow-up drills. It includes a placement test and vocabulary study in an individualized program, plus the time to create a personal file with a resume, an autobiography, at least one college essay and college information charts for their universities of interest.
Advanced Placement Courses
AP classes offered include:
The social sciences department is committed to developing a strong sense of citizenship within cadets by emphasizing self-discipline, responsibility, a system of values and strong work ethic.
The social sciences curriculum helps cadets understand how political, economic, social and cultural forces continue to influence and shape both their lives and our world.
Civics
Students study the theoretical, political and practical aspects of citizenship, as well as its rights and duties.
Economics
The purpose of this course is to help cadets understand and deal with the major economic forces that affect their lives. Topics to be discussed are production, savings, investment, insurance, national income, accounting and membership in labor and business organizations.
Military History
This course is a survey that spans the history of warfare from ancient Greece to the present era. The subject of this class discusses topics of strategy, tactics, morality, professionalism, policy, and technology.
World Geography
This introductory course serves as a foundation upon which subjects of World and U.S. History may be built. World Geography focuses global climates and environments, external and internal forces of the earth, vegetation, animals and the cultures and characteristics of the humans that inhabit various regions.
World History (regular or advance placement)
World History provides an overview of the entire history of humankind. The major emphasis is on the study of significant people, events, and issues from the earliest times to present day. Traditional historical points of reference are identified as cadets analyze important events and issues in western civilization and beyond. Cadets evaluate the causes and effects of political and economic imperialism and of major political revolutions since the 17th century. They also examine the impact of geographic factors on major historical events, identify the historic origins of contemporary economic systems, and analyze the process by which democratic-republican governments evolved as well as ideas from historical documents that influenced that process. They will trace the historical development of important legal and political concepts and examine the history and impact of major religious and philosophical traditions. Additionally, they will analyze the connections between major developments in science and technology and the growth of industrial economies, and use the process of historical inquiry to research, interpret and use multiple sources of evidence.
U.S. Government
This course is a study of the functions of the various branches and the different levels of government. This course includes a look at elections, political parties and interest groups. U.S. foreign policy and national security are also studied.
U.S. History (regular or advance placement)
This course focuses on the political, economic and social events and issues related to the colonial and revolutionary eras, the creation and ratification of the U.S. constitution, challenges to the early republic, westward expansion, sectionalism, The war Between the States and Reconstruction. Content is also focused on the events and issues related to industrialization and urbanization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies of the Cold War and Post-Cold War eras. Cadets use critical thinking skills to explain and apply different methods that historians use to interpret the past, including points of view and historical context.
Honors and Advanced Placement Courses
Our social sciences honors classes involve a more in-depth study of various topics through the use of advanced readings and research.
AP classes emphasize not only on learning content material, but on acquiring and using critical thinking and analytical writing skills. These courses follow the College Board Advanced Placement Program and prepare cadets to take the AP exam for college credit.
AP classes offered include: