Bible (Four years is required, 100 minutes a week)

Grades 9 through 12 take Bible class together. The students study a different book of the Bible every year. The first year of the Bible class focuses on the life of Jesus in John. In the second year, the students study the book of Romans. In the third year, the students study the book of Proverbs; in the fourth year, the students study the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament. The class has open discussions and times for questions and answers. They study each topic's history, geography, and theology and apply it to their daily lives as applicable. 

 

Language Arts (Four years is required) 

In grades 9​ through 12, students study English grammar, read classical literature, and receive more advanced writing and composition instruction. This comprehensive approach to language arts ensures that students receive a well-rounded education in English. The development of critical reading and the introduction of essential writing skills prepare the students for further study in college. Students take the following English classes during the four years of high school. 

 

1. British Literature, Writing, and Grammar

Students develop their verbal and written expression capabilities, learn to interpret literary meanings in context, and state a response position. Assignments include writing book reviews with a summary and opinion and three 500-word essays. Poets covered include Wordsworth, Coleridge, Shelley, Keats, Tennyson, Robert Browning, Mathew Arnold, Gerard Hopkins, Thomas Hardy, T.S. Eliot, Wilfred Owen, and Robert Graves; Novel studies focus on Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Emma by Jane Austen, A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, The Time Machine by H.G. Wells, and Animal Farm by George Orwell.

 

2. World  Literature, Writing, and Grammar

Students are encouraged to interpret and access literary meaning in terms of content and philosophy while introducing them to the world's classical literature. This course features five units of selected works: Early Literature, Epic Poetry, Medieval-Renaissance, Enlightenment-Romanticism, and the 20th Century. Book studies include The Little Prince by de Saint-Exupery, Antoine; Cry, the Beloved Country by Paton, Alan; The Odyssey by Homer; and World Literature Anthology, Common Sense Press, offering a diverse and enriching cultural experience.

 

3. American Literature, Writing and Grammar

In the American Literature course with Writing and Grammar, students will explore the best of American writing and enhance their inference, comprehension, and vocabulary skills. The course is structured around the major forms of writing: the short story, the novel, the essay, and poetry. Novel studies include The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, The Pearl by John Steinbeck, The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane, Great American Short Stories by Wallace Stegner, and The Mentor Book of Major American Poets by Oscar Williams.

 

4. Literary Criticism, Writing, and Grammar

Students are introduced to various methods of literary criticism and will learn how to apply these methods in their essay writing. By the end of the course, they will have written a short memoir, a college essay, nine five-paragraph essays, three five-page essays, and one ten-page essay, demonstrating their understanding and application of literary criticism methods. The texts studied, including The Trial by Franz Kafka; The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexander Dumas; McBeth by William Shakespeare; Starship Troopers by Robert Heinlein; and A Literary Criticism Anthology, published by Common Sense Press, will serve as practical examples for their learning, giving them the confidence to apply these methods in their future writing.

 

Library

The library teaches students to explore library resources, learn library skills, and develop a love for books. Students go to the Yamanashi Prefectural Library every other week to check out up to three books, two in English and one in Japanese.

 

Every classroom has hundreds of English books for students to read and enjoy.

 

Our Mathematics Courses are comprehensive, covering three to four years of math, which are required depending on the student's program. Regular, honors, and advanced placement classes are available in all math classes, ensuring students are well-prepared for their academic journey.

 

Algebra 1 by Houghton and Mifflin

Students solve and create one-variable equations, evaluate, write, and compare linear functions, graph exponential functions, solve systems of equations graphically and algebraically, solve systems of equations approximately, represent and compare data sets, add, subtract, multiply, and divide polynomials, factoring and graphing polynomials, graph polynomial functions, graph quadratic functions, and apply and compare quadratic functions.

 

Algebra 2

This comprehensive course guides students through various mathematical concepts, including linear equations, inequalities, graphs, matrices, polynomials and radical expressions, quadratic equations, functions, exponential and logarithmic expressions, sequences and series, probability, and trigonometry. This thorough coverage ensures students are well-prepared and confident in their mathematical abilities.

 

Geometry 1

Geometry 1, focusing on congruence, proof, constructions, trigonometry, and three-dimensional figures, equips students with the tools to apply geometric concepts in real-world modeling situations. This practical approach helps students solve novel problems, reason abstractly, and think critically. The course covers congruence, similarity, right triangles and trigonometry, circles, expressing geometric properties with equations, geometric measurement and dimension, and modeling with geometry.

 

Other Math Courses

For students interested in exploring higher math, the fourth year of mathematics courses offers a range of options: Geometry 2, Trigonometry, Pre-calculus, or Statistics. This flexibility empowers students to choose the course that best aligns with their academic interests and future goals. Trigonometry delves into the relationships of sides and triangles and the relevant function of angles, while Pre-calculus includes algebra, trigonometry, and analytical geometry.

 

* All honors or AP courses are taken through SevenStar Academy, an accredited online school. The students take the courses in class at NLIS. These courses offer a more rigorous and challenging curriculum, preparing students for college-level work and potentially earning them college credit. All math courses above are available with honors and advanced placement. There is an extra fee for the honor and advanced placement classes.   

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Social Studies: Two to three courses are required depending on the student's chosen program.

 

World History since 1500

This course aims to give students an overview of world history since the 1500s. Each chapter covers significant events, important historical people, and concepts that developed over time, emphasizing the world's interconnectedness throughout history. This understanding is crucial in our increasingly globalized world. However, due to the school's Japanese setting, more focus is given to Asian history.

 

World Geography

This course examines world geography using various analytical lenses. Topics include world poverty, resource globalization, resource sustainability, and resource relationships to global political and economic systems. By the end of the course, students will have a practical understanding of these international issues, better equipping them to navigate the world and understand their place in it. 

 

Special Research (This course can also be an elective.)

This is an independent class in which the student chooses a research topic and develops a presentation. A teacher will be assigned to this student. The student will do this in class but will probably need to go outside of school to gather, work, interview, etc., for the information based on their report. The student will present their findings to the high school students at the end of the course.

 

Science Classes: Our curriculum offers a diverse range of science classes. Students are required to complete two to three credits, depending on their program. SevenStar provides many choices, including honor and advanced placement classes. All science classes involve experiments or labs, necessitating additional materials.

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Biology

Students in the Biology class will not only learn about different types of energy, such as ionic and covalent compounds, but also understand their practical applications. They will gain insights into the roles of enzymes and inhibitors in biological processes and appreciate the significance of the distinction between organic and other compounds in the study of science. Students will comprehensively understand ecology, distinguishing between ecosystems and the biosphere. They will learn to identify and explain biotic and abiotic factors and use a food web and an ecological pyramid to represent the ecosystem's relationships between producers and consumers. They will also trace the flow of materials through the water, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen cycles. This knowledge is theoretical and has practical applications in environmental conservation, providing a deep understanding of our natural world. In Cytology, Energy, and Information in the Cell, students will explain how energy is stored in ATP molecules and track energy flow from ATP to ADP. They will also compare the structures of DNA and RNA, summarize the model of DNA replication, differentiate between transcription and translation, and explain how a protein comes from DNA. They will also learn the cell processes and the basics of genetics, understand how these concepts are used in real-world scenarios, and appreciate their practical applications. Students will summarize the history of evolutionary thinking, list and define the three primary supports for modern evolutionary theory, recognize the two main differences between biblical creation and evolution, and differentiate between adaptation and evolution.

 

Earth Science

Students will explore Earth Science, an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of physics, chemistry, biology, and geology. They will delve into matter and atom composition phases, learn about radioactivity, detection methods, and measurement techniques, study atomic nuclei, fission, and fusion reactions, examine Enrico Fermi's scientific contributions, and assess nuclear energy uses, advantages, and disadvantages. They will also investigate Earth's historical decoding and scientific methodologies, analyze sedimentary rocks, transportation, deposition, and lithification processes, apply rock unit names, study fossil preservation, analyze crust deformation, and understand relative and absolute time, rock sequences, and dating techniques. The course will also cover astronomy, including scientific notation for astronomical measurements, defining celestial bodies, calculating planetary positions, understanding Bode's Law, classifying stars by brightness, exploring telescope types and developments, and discussing the Earth satellite launch requirements and functions. They will also address human impact on the biosphere, agricultural concerns, waste utilization, and health precautions, explore land construction, erosion, plate tectonics, and Earth's position in the universe, and learn about telescopes, space program functions, atomic structure, and alternative energy sources. 

 

Chemistry  

This high-school college-prep chemistry course covers topics such as the classification of matter, atomic structure, spectroscopy, chemical bonding, molecular geometry, physical change, chemical change, stoichiometry, solutions, ideal gases, acid/base chemistry, reduction/oxidation reactions, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, and chemical equilibrium. Concepts are woven together with their mathematical applications to help students learn to think like chemists. Labs are included in this course.​

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Japanese   

Four credits of Japanese course are required. However, NLIS will work with students who transfer from other schools by substituting other classes for this requirement. To be clear, all NLIS students must take Japanese every year.

 

Students have the opportunity to choose their Japanese courses. They may opt for the traditional track one or track two course. 

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Track One Japanese

Our comprehensive Japanese curriculum equips students to understand the language and culture deeply. Japanese teachers dedicate four hours a week to each grade level over the four years of high school. They guide students in mastering 9th through 12th grade Kanji, reading books, writing letters, and conversing in Japanese. Students also explore Japan's culture through the nationally mandated Japanese language textbook. This class is a thorough and immersive learning experience conducted entirely in Japanese.

 

Track Two Japanese

Our Track Two program, led by bilingual teachers, is designed to prepare students for the Japanese Language Proficiency Tests, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). This choice puts students in the driver's seat, allowing them to shape their learning journey according to their language proficiency and cultural interests. It's important to note that Japanese colleges typically require a minimum score of N2 for admission.

 

Electives: Five to six credits are required. Each semester class is worth 0.5 credits. The courses change and are added annually depending on the teacher and student participation. 

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Sculpture

This course aims to have students create art through different sculpting mediums, including paper, wood, clay, papier mâché, and others. By the end of the course, the students will have created a variety of sculptures using different techniques and themes under varying time restrictions. 

 

Physical Education (course 1)

This course aims to encourage students to exercise for their health while improving their sports skills  These sports include basketball, four square, kickball, and ultimate frisbee. The course ends with a physical fitness exam. By the end of the course, students should be healthier, more agile, and more determined to improve their health. 

 

Physical Education (course 2)

This course encourages students to exercise for their health while improving their sports skills. These sports include table tennis, badminton, and volleyball. By the end of the course, students should be healthier, more dexterous, and more determined to improve their health.      

 

Technology Skills

Throughout this course, which is primarily self-paced, students will progress from mastering the essential functions of word processors, slide shows, and spreadsheets using the Google Suite to understanding the basic logic behind coding and finally learning the basics of HTML or Java. This structured progression ensures that students develop a comprehensive understanding of the technical skills necessary for the modern technological world.

 

Students may choose to continue taking a technology class. The classes will further equip them with the necessary skills to work with a word processing program, collaborate on projects, conduct research, and enhance their work with images from online sources. Students review the basics of word processing programs, including spreadsheet software usage and computer coding, using CS Discoveries at Code.org. They will also delve into topics in computer science, such as programming, physical computing, HTML/CSS, and data. The teacher inspires students as they build their websites, apps, games, and physical computing devices.    

 

Home Economics

Students will first develop proficiency in sewing, crocheting, and knitting, mastering basic techniques to craft practical and decorative items at home and in everyday life. They will learn to follow patterns, select appropriate materials, and precisely execute stitches. Next, students will acquire essential culinary skills, including meal planning, nutrition fundamentals, and basic cooking techniques. They will prepare various meals through practical exercises, focusing on nutrition and flavor while adhering to budgetary constraints.

 

Drama

Students will learn fundamental acting techniques, including voice projection, body language, and characterization. They will engage in improvisation exercises to develop spontaneity and creativity in performance, all within a supportive and encouraging environment. They will analyze characters and study different drama and theatre plays, exploring various genres and styles to understand storytelling and theatrical production. Throughout the course, students will establish an everyday routine to practice reflexes and mind-muscle memory, honing their acting skills through consistent rehearsal and exercises. They will participate in practical activities to apply their skills, gaining confidence in expressing themselves effectively on stage, all while feeling safe and supported.

 

Introduction to Photography

Students will learn the essential principles and techniques of photography using mobile cameras and editing applications/software. They will gain hands-on experience with digital cameras, mastering exposure, composition, and lighting. They will learn and study about inspiring artists who contributed their lives to photography. In practical activities, they will explore portrait, landscape, and still-life photography, developing their skills in visual storytelling. Students will also learn basic photo editing to enhance their images through Adobe Lightroom. The course culminates in a final project, allowing students to showcase their portfolio through a photo exhibition. Feedback throughout the course will help students refine their technical skills and creative expression, developing a solid photography foundation.

 

Introduction to Psychology

This comprehensive introductory course to psychology, open to 9th through 12th graders, is designed to give students a thorough understanding of the foundations of psychological concepts  The class covers the beginnings of psychology, the relationship between biology and psychology, learning processes, the relationship between thought and language, and the various theories surrounding personality  By the end of the course, students should have a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of how psychology is used today.

 

Other electives are available through SevenStar Academy  Some examples are Spanish 1, Spanish 2, Spanish 3, French 1, French 2, and American Sign Language.

 

Non-Course Requirement for Graduation

Students must volunteer (see below) for at least 50 hours over their high school years. This commitment provides practical experience and fosters community and personal growth. Upon completion, students report on their project with a PowerPoint presentation, showcasing their achievements and learnings.

 

*Ideas may include volunteering by working:  

• at local businesses 

• at farming (Yamanashi is the fruit capital of Japan  After school, six students can work together at an organic farm where the farmer speaks Japanese, Chinese, and English.)  

• to teach English to new students or outside the school

• to work with the city volunteer center 

• to work as an assistant for the NLIS summer school for one week

• in any other capacity as approved by the senior teacher

 

*NLIS understands that each student's circumstances are unique and is open to considering other volunteering ideas on a case-by-case basis  This flexibility ensures that every student can fulfill this requirement in a way that aligns with their interests and commitments.

 

Extra-curriculum opportunities

Student Council

Five students are elected each year to help lead the assemblies, order and sell school t-shirts, plan the high school's spirit week, help with the Christmas market, lead a schoolwide forum discussion, and be a spokesman for the students  The student council's work significantly impacts our school community, fostering a sense of pride and involvement  Their involvement also serves as a strong credential for college acceptance, motivating and promoting ambition in our students.

 

After-school classes or clubs

• Japanese for foreigners

• English as a foreign language 

• Eiken (English test)

• Karate – no contact every Monday and Thursday

• High school girls' Bible Club (free)

• High school boys' Bible Club (free)

 

Advanced Placement classes

Students may take several AP or honor classes through the accredited online academy with dual credit with New Life International School. The students take the courses proctored by a teacher. Students who pass the class receive credit for their high school diploma. If the student des res, they may go to Tokyo to take a test. If the student passes the test, it qualifies as college credit. Advanced placement courses are widely accepted as valuable for helping students gain admittance to colleges and earning college credits in high school. There is an extra fee for these classes. 

 

Computers

Students in grades 9 through 12 are required to provide their computer and bring it daily to school.

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