General Electives

Cyber Society (CP) – 10th – 12th

0.5 credit

Prerequisite: none

Cyber Society provides students with foundational knowledge of how our growing cyber society affects and relates to their daily lives. We explore topics through case study and class discussion that address current cyber trends and issues as they pertain to high school students. At the conclusion of the course, students should be equipped to make more responsible decisions with social media, have an increased understanding of information threats, know how to protect their permanent electronic records, and ultimately solidify their moral compass while living in a dynamic, dangerous, and ever changing digital world. The course includes study of cyber topics in the following five areas: Law, Business, Ethics, Communities, and Terrorism.

Film Studies (CP) – 10th – 12th 
1.0 credit

Prerequisite: none

Film Studies explores the history and elements of cinema as a mass medium and an art form. The course analyzes visual language and film style, and cinematic codes. Emphasis is on film analysis, films as historical pieces, and understanding the ways that films are produced and directed and how they function expressively will be the primary focus of this course. The examination of translations of literature to film will also be included in this course.

Debate I – II (CP) – 9th – 11th 
1.0 credit

Prerequisite: none; Interview with Debate coach

This course will introduce the basic elements of competitive debate. These include argumentation, rhetoric, case structure, refutation, and cross-examination. Students in Debate I and Debate II are required to travel and compete in three tournaments per semester. Students are responsible for additional entry fees and overnight stays at the tournament locations. Fees may be waived for students of parent volunteers.

Speech (CP) – 9th – 12th 
0.5 credit

Prerequisite: none

Speech is one-semester introductory course dealing with the way people communicate. The course will cover all aspects of the communication process, including verbal and nonverbal communication, listening, and public speaking. The class will also study the effects of social media in today’s society. All students will be able to recognize and apply methods learned in class to become more effective communicators.

Study Skills (CP) – 9th 
0.5 credit

Prerequisite: none

Study Skills is a half-credit fall semester course that is required for freshmen at Loyola College Prep. This course works in conjunction with the freshman level core classes to ensure each student has the skills necessary to academically thrive. Topics included are time management, note-taking, study and test-taking strategies, as well as teacher communication. Study Skills requirement may be waived for students on an honors/scholars path.