Electives to look out for

With new teacher ideas and higher enrollments, a variety of new and old electives are underway for 2014-2015. Here are some classes to keep in mind when you are looking forward into next year.

Native American Studies

This is Social Studies teacher David Whitacre's newest elective. Whitacre said that one reason for introducing this course was the group's underrepresentation in Social Studies curricula. "They are a group woefully overlooked in our culture. They need to be recognized," he said. Students will learn content through a variety of mediums. Activities will include analyses of the Native American Museum's exhibits, readings and films.

Email Mr. Whitacre at David_M_Whitacre@mcpsmd.org for more information

Blair Leaders Interning For Student Success (BLISS)

If you're looking for a way to give back to Blair before graduating, BLISS might be for you. Through Blair's peer-tutoring program, BLISS tutors can earn internship credit through this class and review basic skills which may help on aptitude tests (SAT/ACT). Senior BLISS co-director, Brieanna Iyomahan, believes that BLISS is a great way for Blazers to interact beyond their Magnet, CAP and academy groups. "I really enjoy how it unites the school as a community," she said. "It lets them get out of their comfort zones." To apply for a BLISS internship, students should talk to internship coordinator Geoffrey Finch.

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Photo: Native American Studies is Whitacre's newest elective for the 2014-2015 year.

Native American Studies is Whitacre's newest elective for the 2014-2015 year.  Photo courtesy of wordpress.com.

Interested in BLISS? Email Mr. Finch at Geoffrey_D_Finch@mcpsmd.org or the BLISS co-directors at bliss.mbhs@gmail.com

Organic Chemistry

Ever wondered how carbon atoms make complex molecules? If you've taken Honors or Magnet Chemistry, than why not give Organic Chemistry a shot? Science teacher Megan Hart, who teaches the class both semesters, said the class is about a medium difficulty level. "The rigor is between an honors class and an AP," said Hart. But don't let this scare you away, as Hart is here to help. Plus, with labs such as synthesizing indigo and extracting caffeine from Mountain Dew, Organic Chemistry with Hart is a fun way to prepare for science courses in college.

For more details about this class, contact Ms. Hart at Megan_K_Hart@mcpsmd.org
Remember Blazers, stick to courses that you're truly interested in but don't be afraid to try something new. After all, with Blair's colorful list of in-depth electives, there's bound to be a class for you.