Noble and Greenough School Course Catalog

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Personal Development IV

The Science of Well-Being:

In this semester-long course, Class IV students will explore what the field of psychology teaches us about how to be happier, how to feel less stressed, and how to thrive in high school. We will discuss all of the things that we mistakenly believe will bring us happiness and the various ways our minds lie to us about what we think we want. Together, we will learn and practice several techniques that have been scientifically proven to 'rewire' our brains to increase our overall happiness and well-being.

  • Open To: IV
  • School Level: Upper School
  • Term Offered: Fall Only


Personal Development IV

Class IV Humane Technology

The Nobles Class IV curriculum utilizes the youth toolkit from The Center for Humane Technology, which states: "The main learning goal is for youth to be able to be a part of the push for humane technology that supports our collective well-being and is a part of a humane, sustainable, and equitable future."

In this course, students will explore:

    The economic motivations and broader systems that prompt tech companies to market user attention and behavior to advertisers

    The methods social media platforms use to capture attention and influence behavior

    The fundamental brain and behavioral science principles that explain how social media keeps users engaged

    The negative impacts of the attention economy and persuasive technology, and why these issues stem from a flawed system

With this understanding, students can more effectively navigate their digital environment and will be encouraged to envision and advocate for humane technology that fosters well-being and connection.

Class IV Humane Technology PD courses are co-taught by trained teachers and members of the student support team, and meet once per cycle for one semester.

  • Open To: IV
  • Term Offered: Spring Only


Personal Development III

Class III Substance Use Awareness:

The Class III Substance Use Awareness course explores the science, treatment, and impact of substance use disorders. Students learn about the complex interactions of biological, psychological, and social causes and consequences of substance use. This class prepares students to develop knowledge of, and skills in, evidence-informed substance use prevention, education, and treatment.

In the spring, both PD III courses will incorporate the national "Teen Mental Health First Aid" curriculum, which teaches students "how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among their friends and peers." Class III Substance Use Awareness Personal Development courses are team-taught by members of the counseling, health, and DEI teams and meet once a week for one semester.

  • Open To: III
  • School Level: Upper School
  • Term Offered: Fall Only


Personal Development III

The Science of Well-Being:

In this semester-long course, Class III students will explore what the field of psychology teaches us about how to be happier, how to feel less stressed, and how to thrive in high school. We will discuss all of the things that we mistakenly believe will bring us happiness and the various ways our minds lie to us about what we think we want. Together, we will learn and practice several techniques that have been scientifically proven to 'rewire' our brains to increase our overall happiness and well-being.

  • Open To: III
  • School Level: Upper School
  • Term Offered: Spring Only


Personal Development II

Class II Focus Groups:

Class II students will have one quarter-long focus group in the fall, to help members of our health and wellness team as we improve and build out our Personal Development program for the future.

  • Open To: II
  • School Level: Upper School
  • Term Offered: Fall Only


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