Curriculum

This course is for learners who have a solid foundation in basic algebra and sufficient interest to explore statistics as a tool for causal analysis and research. The first term of the course covers one-variable and two-variable data, probability, random variables and distributions, and estimation. The topics in the second term include hypothesis testing for one sample and two sample distributions and regression. Also, we will equip you with any necessary training for the AP statistics test and an exploration report using statistical methods will be required.

This course focuses on a multi-representational approach to calculus with concepts, results, and problems represented in various ways: graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal. The first term of the course covers basic functions and models; limits and continuity; and differential calculus essentials and applications. The second term includes integral calculus essentials and its application; differential equations. We will equip you with any necessary training for the AP Calculus AB test and an exploration report on the application of calculus will be required.

This course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus with concepts, results, and problems represented in a variety of ways: graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal. The first term of the course covers basic functions and models; limits and continuity; differentiation rules and applications; integrals and application of integration. The second term covers differential equations; parametric equations and polar coordinates; infinite sequences and series; and vector analysis. We will equip you with any necessary training for the AP Calculus BC test and an exploration report about the application of calculus will be required.

AP PreCalculus is building on existing knowledge of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. In this course, learners will explore the properties of different functions, solve equations and inequalities, draw function graphs, and analyze their variation patterns. In addition, it will exercise problem-solving skills and provide a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts through various applications. By the end of this course, learners will have a solid foundation in calculus and be fully prepared for further mathematics learning. The course content includes polynomiatals and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric and polar functions, involving parameters, vectors, and matrices.

Math Seminar is a course for learners who are passionate about mathematics and are willing to fully understand the subject. This course is centered around mathematics and humanities. Some courses focus on the history of mathematics, mathematicians, mathematical thoughts and methods, the frontier of mathematics, and other related subjects. Some courses aim to break the artificial barriers of the subject and design the learning content in the form of themes, such as mathematics and life, mathematics and philosophy, mathematics and music, mathematics and art, weights and measures in ancient literature, etc. The journey of exploring mathematics cannot be separated from the active participation of learners. Sharing learning experiences and making classroom presentations based on the content they are interested in is an important part of the course and the main basis for daily grades. A math essay written in English is required for both midterms and finals.

This course is for learners who demonstrate a solid foundation in basic algebra as well as sufficient interest in those majors in college, like AI algorithms, social networks, and graph theory, or advanced microeconomics and macroeconomics, which heavily rely on mathematical concepts. This course will enrich learners' abstract understanding by triggering their thoughts on big ideas including "linear" and "space". The main contents for this course are vector space, matrix, the solutions of linear equations, determinant, eigenvalue and eigenvector, and linear transformation. Learners will also learn to apply the knowledge by basic Python coding on linear algebra computation and modeling analysis.

Multivariable calculus is an extension of single-variable calculus to multiple variables. In this course, the topics include vectors and matrices, parametric curves, partial derivatives, double and triple integrals, and vector calculus in both 2-D and 3-D spaces. This course aims to provide learners with a solid understanding of multivariable calculus concepts and techniques, while also introducing them to the practical application of these concepts using the computational power of Mathematica.

Advanced Electricity and Magnetism is a calculus-based, college-level physics course, especially appropriate for learners planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. The course explores topics such as electrostatics, conductors, capacitors, dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, and electromagnetism. Introductory differential and integral calculus are used throughout the course. The course delves into the fundamental principles of electromagnetism through the powerful tools of calculus. This course aims to provide learners with a deep understanding of the interplay between electric and magnetic fields, their interactions, and their applications in various scientific and technological contexts. Throughout the course, learners will engage in lectures, interactive demonstrations, laboratory experiments, and problem-solving sessions. The course emphasizes the application of calculus to solve complex electromagnetism problems, helping learners develop critical thinking and analytical skills and a strong foundation in this essential branch of physics.

This is an introductory course that provides an overview of chemistry and its application to real life. It encourages curiosity and improves the skills for scientific discovery. This course lays the foundation for further studies in chemistry, material science, life sciences, and environmental sciences. The course contains five learning themes: scientific investigation and chemical experiments, properties and applications of substances, composition and structure of substances, chemical changes of substances, chemistry and society, and interdisciplinary practices. 

We can often hear something amazing in life: Cans can last for over ten years because of the antiseptic, which will lead to cancer if taken for a long term; aspartame does not cause obesity when used as a substitute for sugar in drinks. Are all these statements reasonable? What "principles" are hidden in a seemingly rigorous science article? Let's do an "internet troll" to answer these questions.

A sea of advertisements has flooded into our lives. 99 kinds of stains can be washed away by our new powder, a novel health product with the most excellent effect ever experienced before, a magic spray that can make you cool down immediately after you sprinkle it onto your skin. Do they really have such magical effects? What are the scientific principles behind this? Let's explore and select the best.

This course introduces essential terms, concepts, and laws in chemistry and relates them to materials and events encountered in real life. This course provides learners with a pre-advanced placement (pre-AP) level foundation to support future AP coursework in chemistry. Learners cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations, as they explore content such as atomic structure, molar calculation, redox reactions, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry.

Plus, this framework encourages learners' development of inquiry and reasoning skills such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, creating models and representations, applying mathematical routines, developing a scientific argument, and connecting concepts in and across domains independently.

The Organic Chemistry course is strategically designed to enrich the existing knowledge gained from current compulsory chemistry courses (CHEM1001, 3001, and 5001). It aims to empower learners with a fervor for learning subjects such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science, enabling them to push the frontiers of chemical knowledge. In parallel, the course serves as a catalyst, motivating and guiding learners towards active participation in prestigious international chemistry competitions, including CCC and CCO in Canada, UKCHO in the United Kingdom, and USNCO in the United States. Open to learners from a wide range of grade levels, this course promises to be an enriching journey for all participants. If you have innate curiosity, strong motivation, a passion for chemistry and its applications as well as a willingness to take on challenges, please join us.

Advanced Chemistry is an advanced chemistry course that aims to provide learners with opportunities for deeper understanding and exploration of chemistry. The course covers a wide range of topics in chemistry, including chemical principles, chemical reactions, molecular structures, chemical reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics. In this course, learners will learn the basic concepts and principles of chemistry and enhance their theoretical knowledge through experiments and case studies.

The course emphasizes laboratory skills and practice so that learners can apply the concepts and skills learned in the laboratory. In addition, the course will also emphasize the importance of problem-solving and critical thinking. Learners will learn how to design and conduct experiments, analyze experimental results, and better understand the concepts and principles of chemistry. Moreover, learners will learn how to research and analyze chemical problems and propose solutions.

The Advanced Organic Chemistry course is designed to supplement the knowledge gained from current compulsory chemistry courses (CHEM3002 Intermediate Chemistry, CHEM3003 Organic Chemistry, and CHEM5002 Advanced Chemistry). It aims to empower students with a passion for subjects such as chemistry, biology, and environmental science, enabling them to advance the boundaries of chemical knowledge. Additionally, the course acts as a catalyst, motivating and guiding students towards active participation in prestigious international chemistry competitions, including UKCHO in the United Kingdom, CCC, and CCO in Canada. It is open to students of various grade levels. This course promises to be an enriching journey for all participants.

This introductory course cultivates learners' understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations and project-based learning, as they explore the two topics: Taxonomy and Health. 

Biology is the study of life. The diversity of species makes biology both an endless source of fascination and a considerable challenge. Through the learning of the first topic, learners will know how to simplify the study of numerous species and use their knowledge to protect the living organisms and the environment they share with us. 

The second topic is health, which is a concern for everyone. Learners will get to understand that human health is a consequence of the relationships and interactions between biological processes in our bodies, our lifestyles, and the conditions we live in. 

This course integrates both Pre-AP biology and Chinese high school biology curriculum, which is structured around the core and component ideas: Ecosystems, From molecules to organisms, Heredity, and Biological evolution. You will develop essential biology knowledge by applying science practices (see below) through inquiry-style experiences that will provide you with an organizational framework for connecting knowledge from across disciplines into a coherent and scientifically based view of the world. You will develop the habits of mind that are necessary for scientific thinking and that allow you to engage in science in ways that are similar to those used by scientists.

Adapted from the development of modern biology and life science, the curriculum is divided into five modules thematic areas (cells, genetics, and evolution, the homeostasis and regulation, ecology, and biotechnology). As each module thematic area focuses on one aspect of modern biology, collectively they will constitute a complete system of modern biology discipline. The completion of all module topics indicates the mastery of core concepts in high school biology with an Advanced Placement level. learners will think critically, learn inquiringly, and participate actively in related social issues, which constitute key competencies for a condensed life science learning experience.

This course is designed for learners interested in future studies in medical college, agronomy, medicine, life science, neuroscience, and brain-like intelligence science, man-machine engineering, nutrition and food science, environmental science, ocean science, and related fields. It is suitable for learners planning to participate in the activities of biology competitions at home and abroad; learners who are studying high-level biology are encouraged to take senior high school chemistry and physics courses in the meantime.

Hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and other natural hazards happen every day. Where is it safe to live? How has the global climate changed since the Ice Age? Why is London warmer than Heilongjiang, even though London is closer to the North Pole than Heilongjiang? How do earth processes influence our lives? What stories do landscapes tell? If you are interested in exploring these questions, you're welcome to join this introductory course, which provides you with a basic knowledge of Earth's natural features that affect them. Understanding how earth, an integrated system, functions and how it varies over space and time is crucial for making informed decisions about the use and preservation of Earth's natural environments and resources. Focusing on the four components of the earth system — land, water, air, and life — and their interactions, this course identifies physical phenomena and natural processes and stresses their characteristics, relationships, and distributions. GIS, geographic data, maps, satellite images, and numerous landscape photographs are offered for learners to study and analyze the physical environments around us.

This course is suitable for learners who are attracted and amazed by the beauty of nature and wonder how and why this rich and colorful world is created. Perhaps you may not study earth science or a relevant major in the future, considering that such fields are often financially unfavorable. However, it equips you with the ability to read the signals of nature. In the summer meadows, when a cloud drifts by, you can speculate that there might be a lake below. When walking through a mountain valley at noon, you know that climbing up the hillside will bring a refreshing breeze blowing from behind... These are the romantic experiences unique to those who study Earth science.

This course is also suitable for learners who plan to study Earth science, environmental science, geography, geophysics, ecology, urban planning and other related fields in the future. One of the highlights of this course is the use of GIS (Geographic Information System) which is rarely taught in high schools in China, but it is a recommended skill when applying for earth science-related majors such as geography, environmental science, animal protection, urban planning, and others.

The Advanced Environmental Science course is designed to engage learners with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships within the natural world. The course requires that learners identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.

Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from earth science, biology, chemistry, environmental studies, and environmental science. Course content includes ecosystems, biodiversity, biological and human populations, earth systems and resources, land use, energy resources and consumption, aquatic, atmospheric, and terrestrial pollution, global change, and a sustainable future.

AI, NANO, and DNA, three words that probably have been regarded as KEY WORDs in your science class. But have you ever wanted to try and experience them in real life? If your answer is "YES," Scientific Research Methodology (SCIE5001) is intended for you.

This course is highly suitable for learners who aim to conduct independent research in STEM at MSA. In the course of STEM Research Methodology, learners have the chance to investigate two different cutting-edge scientific topics, design and conduct experiments in different fields to develop credible and valid evidence-based essays, and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, this course aims to build a solid base and equip learners with the transferable skills to be successful in SCIE5002 - STEM Research Project- 1, where learners are required to conduct independent research and produce their own scholarly work.

Do you want to experience and work as a true scientist in your everyday school life? Are you interested in figuring out how a good research idea can be come out from a scientist and transform it into reality? If your answer is YES, come and join us. Scientific Research Project (SCIE5002) is right here for you.

SCIE5002 is highly suitable for learners who are ready to carry out independent research in science. In the course, learners need to conduct independent research based on their own interests, designing and conducting experiments with respect to one specific problem within one specific scientific field with a full discussion with your mentor to develop a feasible research proposal. Ultimately, this course needs you to complete one 5000-word or 6-page research paper. Top candidates have the chance to join the Yau club or initiate SCIE 6002 with the agreement with your mentor.

This course aims to explore the connections between literature and film. During the course, we will read literary works and their adapted film and television works, understand the basic differences and conversion techniques between the two, and discuss creative decisions in the adaptation process, including content selection, application of technology, and expression of ideas. Through an in-depth analysis of both literary works and film and television works, learners will be able to make intertextual comparisons between the text and the image, and understand how the two art forms inspire, borrow from, and integrate with each other.

"The History of Chinese Culture" is an honor class of the Moonshot "Oriental Philosophy" course. It is aimed at all Moonshot learners. The purpose of the course is to provide learners with a window to review and get in touch with Chinese culture, and guide learners to understand Chinese values through Chinese cultural background and phenomena, and cultivate learners' basic ability to understand and use Chinese characters, to help learners establish their own cultural orientation and personality traits.

The course content of "Introduction to History of Chinese Culture" includes "Four Introdcutions" and "Twelve Lectures on Chinese Culture". "Four Introdcutions" uses the four concepts of "China," "culture," "history," and "introduction" to explain China's unique views on the world, culture, history, and education. "Twelve Lectures on Chinese Culture" is based on the twelve developmental stages of Chinese history and the social and political background at that time, respectively describing the creation of civilization and value beliefs produced in each stage.

"Discourse on Chinese Classics" is an advanced course for learners who are interested in continuing to study Chinese classics after completing introductory courses such as "Introduction to Chinese Cultural History" or "Introduction to Chinese Ancient Texts".

The course format of "Discourse on Chinese Classics" starts with learners' questions and takes these questions as the axis. The teacher will propose an extended bibliography for learners to read the texts, and then conduct discussion or research.

The course content covers the research and discussion of the Four Books and Five Classics, the Hundred Schools of Thought, etc.; the appreciation and analysis of excellent works such as poems, songs, and inscriptions; and the experience and sharing of cultures such as qin, chess, calligraphy, painting, tea, and food.

In this advanced ELA course, learners will read and consider texts by a diverse selection of creative writers while composing their own creative texts. Learners will further strengthen their English abilities by building analytical and critical skills, connecting class materials with their own experiences, and using their imaginations to craft original works. The course will focus primarily on three genres of writing: contemporary short fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Learners will become familiar with major techniques, structures, and conventions in each genre and write short texts integrating the new information they have learned. The course will include frequent writing workshops where learners can offer constructive criticism to their colleagues and receive feedback on their own production. After learners integrate this criticism and edit their work, they will choose their strongest texts in each genre to include in a creative writing portfolio that will highlight their growth throughout the year.

The Advanced English Literature and Composition course is designed and taught thematically with an emphasis on core readings along with modern and contemporary selections that illuminate and expand upon a variety of themes. Advanced English Literature and Composition closely follows the requirements described in the AP English Literature and Composition Course and Exam Description (CED), including the fundamentals of literary analysis and introductory college composition. Learners engage in close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, learners consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, and symbolism. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require learners to analyze and interpret literary works.

The Advanced Placement English Language and Composition course prepares students for college-level success and fosters a lifelong love for language and expression. It is designed to equip learners with essential skills needed for academic excellence, critical thinking, and meaningful civic participation. Learners embark on a transformative journey to become astute readers, perceptive writers, and effective communicators. The curriculum is tailored to ignite curiosity and nurture critical thought by delving into a diverse array of texts from various genres, periods, and cultural backgrounds. In this course, learners develop the art of rhetorical analysis, understanding how written language strategically shapes ideas and influences perceptions. By dissecting and interpreting arguments, learners hone their ability to thoughtfully deconstruct and construct persuasive discourse. With an emphasis on writing for diverse audiences and purposes, learners refine their skills in crafting compelling narratives, informed opinions, and persuasive essays. Through a combination of rigorous academics and interactive projects, participants will develop the skills needed not only for success in college, but also for a lifetime of effective communication and informed engagement.

Our English World Literature is designed for learners who are looking for an opportunity to explore literature from around the world at an advanced level. Over the course of the year, we’ll cast a large net: in terms of literary genres, we’ll look at novels and short stories, as well as drama, poetry, and literary nonfiction. Through a comparative and thematic approach, we’ll look at literature from a diverse range of cultures, including the Caribbean, Japan, Nigeria, Germany, Russia, Ukraine, and England. This course will give learners front-row seats for insights into how people think and experience the world. It will expand our imaginative and emotional vocabularies and it will give us reference points for understanding the people around us. Academically, learners taking this course will become more sensitive and articulate writers and more perceptive readers. These skills will support learning in other academic disciplines and help you make a smooth transition into university.

Academic writing is a key factor in a successful university education and in many professional careers. In this course, learners employ their English language skills throughout the process of academic composition in several genres. Learners will read and analyze an array of academic writing while considering factors like audience, tone, syntax, and structure. The course will cover best practices in research, writing, and critiquing the work of others. Each learner will compose original texts in genres like persuasive essays, literary analysis, scientific reporting, and research papers. They will also have opportunities to offer constructive criticism about their peers’ work and integrate feedback as they revise their initial drafts. The course will also discuss the opportunities and drawbacks of AI-based research and writing, as well as the ongoing importance of human creativity and intellectuality in academic publishing.

After Chinese, Spanish has the most native speakers of any language and serves as the primary language spoken in twenty countries across North America, South America, and Africa. It is also an increasingly essential minority language in the United States and Canada. In an increasingly interconnected global society with major flows of human migration, the importance of Spanish worldwide will only continue to grow. SPAN 1001 introduces learners to the Spanish language, building basic skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) and solidifying core vocabulary. The teaching approach is proficiency-oriented, communicative, and task-based, all of which are intended to facilitate communicative competence in the key language skill areas. The course will interweave authentic documents that encourage learners to develop cultural awareness of the heterogeneous Spanish-speaking community. By the course’s conclusion, learners will have built a strong foundation of self-expression, comprehension, and respectful interaction with the various cultures of the Hispanic world.

Advanced Economics is a college-level course that introduces learners to the principles that apply to an economic system as well as the functions of individual economic decision-makers. The course places particular emphasis on the study of national income and price-level determination. It also develops learners’ familiarity with economic performance measures, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economics. The course also develops learners’ familiarity with the operation of product and factor markets, distributions of income, market failure, and the role of government in promoting greater efficiency and equity in the economy.

Learners learn to use graphs, charts, and data to analyze, describe, and explain economic concepts. It is important to note that “college-level” should be taken literally, as learners will earn the equivalent of college credit after a satisfactory score on the end-of-year exams. The first half of the course concerns macroeconomics, and the second half concerns microeconomics. As a result, learners should be prepared for a rigorous, demanding class that is similar to what can be expected at the tertiary level in order to be equipped to take the AP exam for both, separate subjects, equivalent to two college courses spread out over an academic year instead of the typical college semester, which is typically half a year.

The instruction style of the class will be composed of lectures, group discussions, textbook reading, case studies, and project-based simulations.

A successful learner will be able to show passion and interest for a new topic, formulate internal questions and thoughts as they come, pose these questions and thoughts at the appropriate time, become familiar with content through guided practice, and lastly, show an understanding of content via independent practice.

This class is strongly recommended for any learners wishing to know more about business. Economics is such a vast subject that it encompasses many details of the business that people often observe but never have a chance to analyze and discuss professionally. This course will provide that opportunity, with an experienced teacher to guide learners along the way.

This course is comprised of one AP course and one AP exam, like a standard AP class, in contrast to Econ 5003, which has both Macro and Micro in the same year. According to the AP framework, there are six basic units to cover in macroeconomics. The course is divided into six units, with each unit focusing on economics on a macro, larger level rather than individual people or businesses. Such topics of study include Gross Domestic Product, price levels, financial assets, basic accounting, government economic policy, and more. Each unit aligns with the primary textbook, Krugman’s Economics for the AP Course, 4th Edition, where learners can enrich the knowledge from class in detail. Throughout the course, learners will be instructed in economic theory, as well as the creation, interpretation, and application of proper economic models and graphs. Completing all course components should result in learners being prepared to complete the Advanced Placement Exam I in May. Driving questions include: 1. How does the role of a government determine what products are provided for the public? 2. What is the relationship between inflation and unemployment? By the end of the course, learners will be able to create a presentation with graphical and written evidence discussing such topics as how/why capital leaves or enters certain countries, how currency changes in value over time, and what impact inflation has in the long run.

To what extent can we trust our own memory? Can people be entirely shaped by environmental factors beyond their control? How do psychologists draw the boundary between normal and abnormal behavior, and how valid is this boundary? Are people inherently egotistic or altruistic? How do we know the answers to these questions, and how valid are those answers?

If you ever found yourself wondering about these questions (and hoping to prove the extent of your knowledge on a high-stakes, standardized exam), then this course is made just for you. AP Psychology prepares learners interested in taking advanced Psychology and/or college-level courses and conducting research studies in psychology. In the fall semester, we will explore concepts in motivation, emotion, and personality, clinical and developmental psychology, learning, memory, and more. You will learn to understand, interpret and predict human behavior by applying theories and concepts in psychology. The year-long course culminates in the AP Exam in May and in an independent research project and defense conducted on the learners' topic of interest. Periodic performance assessments, including 2 complex projects, are designed to assess your knowledge and skills in the discipline and draw connections between psychology and everyday life.

In the spring semester, we will dive deeper into lower levels of explanation for human behavior, covering the full range of topics from the history of psychology, biological bases of behaviors and sensation and perception. What are the explanations for visual illusions? Why do we dream? What are the origins and nature of consciousness? Can your subjective experience be constructed solely from the interactions amongst your 80 million neurons? More importantly, you will learn about how scientists discover truths about human functioning through experiments and research. You will also be guided through designing, implementing, analyzing and interpreting your own study and data on a topic of your choice.

History is all around us. Beijing is steeped in it. And within this city, our school has its own, brief but fascinating history. Each class you are currently studying, be it mathematics, physics, art, or literature has its own rich history. And of course you too have your own, equally amazing history that is so full of the choices you made or the ways chance may have led you to the path you’re on! With just a little reflection, we can see how these strands come together in so many bewildering ways that can make history both a unique and shared experience. How are we to understand these thick webs of intersecting timelines? What do they mean? In one way or another, we can make sense of these. Yet what the historian argues is that some ways are better than others. It is by attempting to understand past human experience methodologically – by identifying patterns of continuity and change, comparing and contrasting past civilisations and events, and exploring the role of human agency within larger patterns, we can say something both true and profound about who we are, where we come from, and perhaps even where we’re going.

This course will attempt to do so. Over two semesters, we’ll explore a thousand years of world history from roughly 1000 CE to 2000 CE. Themes such as empire, trade, ideas, conflict, and revolutions will be looked at in terms of how they affected individuals, nations, cultures, and, indeed, the world. By taking this course, you will be - not just a curious bystander - but by piecing together a range of primary and secondary documents, you will be actively engaged in the work of a historian. You will be bringing the past back to life in a meaningful way. And importantly, you will be creating a new web of understanding that helps you think about time and our place in it. You’ll be less surprised when the unexpected happens and with that knowledge comes a powerful sense of freedom and agency.

Are emotions discovered or invented? How have psychologists construed emotions throughout their development? How are emotions linked to our consciousness, and might we be able to perceive, feel, and love without a cerebral cortex? What does the study of intelligence, eugenics, and the bell curve have in common, and why might they share a racist history whose legacy continues to resonate in psychometrics today? What might a survey on the development of intelligence tell us about what brains and AIs have in common? And how might a series of letters from Aldous Huxley and Humphry Osmond tell us about the inception of psychedelics - a class of hallucinogens that sparked controversy over both clinical and recreational settings?

This course will take a historical perspective on the development of special topics in psychology - ranging from emotions and intelligence to psychedelics. The course will be delivered as a series of lectures, readings, learner-led discussions, and debates. You will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills, including close reading textual evidence and conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis.

Do heated debates about social issues leave you frustrated? Do you wish youcould understand the "why" behind different viewpoints? This course delves into the most controversial topics shaping our world today. You will employ sociological theories and research methods to analyze the causes and impacts of these topics from different perspectives.

Tentative topics include:

When more people stay single for a longer period of life, is marriage still necessary in modern society?

From Snow White to the remake of The Little Mermaid and Barbie, can the media industry stand at the frontline of fighting racial and gender inequality?

From meritocracy to the "involution(Nei Juan)" and the "lying flat (Tang Ping)" movement, where should the middle class go?

To what extent should environmental protection be weighted against economic development?

Does migration help bridge connections among countries or exacerbate the global divide?

From drug trade, to prostitution, to surrogacy, why do some countries see them as taboos while others legalize them?

This course is an introduction to the periods, thinkers, and main ideas of Western Civilization. The major themes in the development of the West of rationality, freedom, and progress will be explored. Units will focus on close reading of major texts within their cultural context. The emphasis in the course will be on developing an understanding of the modern Western world through knowledge of its history, philosophy, and literature.

This course will inform learners of the culture and core ideas of the Western Tradition by teaching primary texts (e.g., Gilgamesh, Plato’s Republic, Descartes’ Meditations) in the context of culture and history. Philosophy as a discipline broadens the mind by seeing ourselves and the world from a higher perspective.

Photographs are everywhere, from portraits to landscapes, from product to commercial, from narrative to conceptual, and from fine art to documentary. Learn about all these styles and what makes a strong image. Gain valuable tips and tricks to elevate the quality of your photographs. Broaden your existing knowledge and strengthen your skills. Learn how to use your camera to visually communicate your ideas, identify and explore your creative process, and enhance your technical skills (related to aperture, shutter speed, ISO, lighting, post-editing, presentation, etc.) and compositional skills (related to the principles and elements of (design), and your creative problem-solving. Develop a broad-ranging portfolio that explores subjects that interest you as well as subjects and techniques that challenge you to explore new thinking, techniques, and ideas.

Before the invention of the camera, painting was used as the primary recording and narrative tool. What about after the invention of the camera? Is a single image considered a comic? What is the difference between Japanese manga and Chinese comic strips? Besides the typical chronological storytelling, how else can we use images? What are the respective characteristics of illustration, comics, and animation in telling the same story? Welcome to the Narrative Image class to learn more.

When artificial intelligence learns and surpasses every move of ours, what is the media to carry our life from drowning in this flood of digital miracles? 

New media art may not be the answer, but it is a way of diving. This class is designed for all creators who refuse to be confined to a single medium—we will widely study visual, sound, and performance art and make extensive experiments and active collaborations in media of drawing, painting, photography, video, sculpture, sound, music, and performance. Such creative practices do not require any technical background, as long as you have a passion for experiments. 

From perception to thought—the concept serves as the consistent oxygen supply for our dive. We will constructively challenge our abilities to present, listen, and communicate. The expression of language and the delivery of art will strengthen our thoughts. 

Deconstruction and integration are swimming in the currents, keeping us spontaneous no matter how turbulent the environment is. Installation art is the art of the environment. At the end of this class, we will install an exhibition that fully complements the gallery space, with all of our works opening to the public. 

Looking forward to us inspiring each other in practice, opening up new perspectives to perceive and wonder, and enjoying this ever-changing era! 

After a year of studying the Art Track, creators can delve deeper into their personal works based on their individual styles and media. At the same time, monthly art article seminars and group critique sessions will greatly enhance the conceptual depth and thoughtful consideration of everyone's work.