English
English 1
(Grades: 7th-9th)
Description
This class serves as an introduction to High School English Language Arts. Students will expand their grammar lexicon, strengthen their writing skills, and apply critical thinking and analysis strategies to literature. The aim of the course is to help students grow as confident, clear, and effective communicators and to inspire them to appreciate various types of literature. This class is the perfect foundation for any subsequent English class at Cornerstone and beyond.
Students must be 12 years old by first class; no prerequisites
Supplies and Materials:
-
The Best Little Grammar Workbook, by Arlene Miller
- Sentence Diagramming Level 1
- The Giver, by Lois Lowry
- 100 Best Loved Poems Dover Thrift Edition
- What is Poetry? The Essential Guide to Reading & Writing Poems, by Michael Rosen
Required Technology:
- Access to Google Classroom.
- CamScan App (free) to scan and submit assignments.
English 2
(Grades: 8th-12th)
Description
This class is for students who are comfortable constructing paragraphs and are ready to test their skills with new writing challenges. This class will build upon the skills learned in English 1. Focusing on more challenging and more independent writing. Students will have more opportunities to analyze literature both in the classroom and in their writing. Individual feedback on assignments will continue to be a mainstay in all assignments.
Prerequisite: English 1. Exceptions can be made at the teacher’s discretion after reviewing writing samples.
Tentative Book List:
-
Grammar/Editing Workbook – TBD
- The Hiding Place, by Corrie Ten Boom
- Butterfly Yellow, Thanhha Lai
- A Selection of Shakespeare’s plays – TBD
Required Technology:
- Access to Google Classroom.
- CamScan App (free) to scan and submit assignments.
Faith and Fairy Tales
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
In this class, we will explore the captivating intersections between Biblical narratives and fairy tales. We will read many of the original fairy tales (including Grimms’ and Anderson’s) as well as more modern tales including C.S. Lewis’s Till We Have Faces and A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness. Join us on a literary journey that seeks to understand the universal appeal of these narratives, celebrating the power of storytelling to convey enduring truths across cultural and imaginative landscapes. Along the way, students will be challenged with a variety of writing assignments, both analytical and creative.
Students should be comfortable writing an academic essay and should be prepared for a significant amount of reading (approximately 50-70 pages per week).
A writing sample is required before the start of classes.
Tentative Book List:
-
Fairy Tales – Grimms Brothers and Hans Christian Anderson
- “On Fairie Stories”, J.R.R. Tolkein
- Bible (ESV recommended)
- The Princess and the Goblin, George MacDonald
- Til We Have Faces, C.S. Lewis
- Many Waters, Madeline L’Engle
- Big Fish, Daniel Wallace OR A Monster Calls, Patrick Ness
Required Technology:
- Access to Google Classroom.
- CamScan App (free) to scan and submit assignments.
American Literature
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
This course will be a comprehensive overview of American Literature. We will begin with writings from the earliest known inhabitants of the North American continent and move through to the present day. Students will be exposed to several different styles of writing including: poems, essays, short stories, and novels. Students will become familiar with the historical setting of the writings to better understand the circumstances that influenced the different authors.
Students will be required to answer weekly Critical Reading Questions and take quizzes over the homework selections. There will be a test for each of the six units covered throughout the year. Special projects and/or presentations will also be used to evaluate the students’ understanding of the material.
Text:
- Prentice Hall Literature: The American Experience. Penguin Edition ISBN# 978-0-13-366654-0
- Two novels (TBD) will be required reading for this class.
Literary Lessons from the Lord of the Rings
(Grades: 9th-12th)
Description
Combining the literary magnificence of The Lord of the Rings trilogy with an enthusiastic study of the rich, ancient literature that served as its inspiration and packaging it into a well-organized, easy-to-use study, Literary Lessons from LOTR is a beautiful thing! This course has much to offer the serious high school student: broad exposure to literary terms, excellent overview of ancient literature – Greek epics and the Arthurian Romances, extensive vocabulary studies, an introduction to poetry, and significant writing opportunities designed to develop creativity as well as actual writing skills. All of this is in addition to an in-depth look into the novels (and their author) widely considered to be one of the most influential literary works of the past century.
These studies include author background, linguistics (etymology and philology), setting, map study, ancient epics, introduction to Old English, monsters and heroes, genre (fantasy as literature), poetry, Arthurian romances, theme and motif. This is a one credit, college-prep high school literature course.
Text:
-
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
- LIterary Lessons from Lord of the Rings student workbook.
History, Social Studies, and Theology
Geography
(Grades: 8th-12th)
Description
Geography covers more than country names and places, physical features, and a few cool, random facts. It is a series of connections between physical geography, political and economic features, and varied cultures. Most importantly, it helps us see the world through God’s eyes. Both in and out of class, students will learn deeply about all regions of the world, with focus on key strategic nations and areas of particular concern. At the end of the school year, students will create a country of their own imagination, using the information learned through the year.
Materials
A current (accurate) map book with topographical and political maps for US, Canada, and all the continents
Western Civilization
(Grades: 8th-12th)
Description
Western Civilization weaves the political, economic, religious, intellectual, cultural, and military aspects of history into a gripping story that is as memorable as it is instructive. The student will be exposed to primary source documents that are the foundation for the historical analysis you find in the textbook and other secondary source materials. These documents include letters, poems, songs, and pictures that enliven the past. Through class discussion; study, history becomes relatable to the modern student. Students will apply knowledge of western civilization to various creative projects.
Materials
Abeka World History and Cultures in Christian Perspective, Third Edition
United States History
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
This course will examine our nation’s history from colonial times to the present day, with primary emphasis on the 20th and 21st centuries. Main events of focus include the American Revolution, the Civil War, both World Wars, the Cold War, the Civil Rights movement. Through a variety of projects and assignments, students will develop critical thinking and analysis skills that will be important both in college and in society at large. By the end of the course, students will understand the concepts of man’s desire for liberty and desire to rule himself apart from God, the decay of society as a result, and where the idea of the United States both fits in those two concepts and has changed over the course of the last 245 years.
Prerequisites: Completion of English 1 and English 2.
Materials
United States History in Christian Perspective: Heritage of Freedom (3rd Edition)
United States Government
(Grades: 11th-12th)
Description
This course will examine both the foundation and function of government throughout United States history. Beginning with the Articles of Confederation and moving through the current constitutional amendments, students will gain a holistic understanding of the functions of the United States government according to the Constitution, and what makes the constitutional republic unique from other forms of government. Students will also be able to assess and analyze advantages and disadvantages to the constitutional republic form of government, compared to other forms of government around the world and throughout history. The course will conclude with students creating their own “constitution” for governance, using what they have learned over the course of the school year.
Prerequisites: US History and English 2
Materials
Introduction to Theology and Apologetics
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
Understanding both God and the Bible is not only for church leaders. Theology is for everyone! In this course, students will delve into three main ideas: bibliology, theology, and apologetics. They will discover how we got our Bible, how it was preserved through the ages, and how we today can know it to be true. They will discern who God is, the nature of humanity, and the need for a savior. Finally, they will discuss, in light of what they’ve learned, how to defend their faith when questions come calling from an unbelieving world.
Materials
- A Little Book for New Theologians – Kelly M. Kapic
OR
Who Needs Theology – Stanley J. Grenz and Roger E Olson - RetroChristianity – Michael J. Svigel
- A Good Study Bible (KJV/NKJV/NASB/ESV/NIV)
Medieval History
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
By reading some of the best literature on the subject, students will be encouraged to discuss the new ideas and social changes that emerged during the period from 400 to 1522 A.D. This college-prep class will bring the Middle Ages to life. Rich period literature will demonstrate that the Medieval era was a time when people were forming ideas that still impact us today. It was also a time of exciting discoveries, new innovations, and wonderful stories.
Reading The Song of Roland provides a glimpse into the mores and ethics of a time where the concepts of chivalry were just developing. The story of William Wallace reveals a passionate love of liberty that we still find heroic today. Students will also learn about Martin Luther, King John, King Arthur, Saladin, Queen Eleanor, Joan of Arc, and many others through living books.
Students should plan on a minimum of 2-3 hours of homework per week.
Materials
-
The Medieval World: An Illustrated Atlas – John M. Thompson (this will be a spine text)
- An Anthology of Medieval Literature Edited – Rebecca Manor (this will be a spine text)
- One Thousand and One Arabian Nights – Geraldine McCaughrean
- The Magna Carta – James Daugherty
- The Scottish Chiefs – Jane Porter
- Joan of Arc – Mark Twain
- The World of Columbus and Sons – Genevieve Foster
- Sir Gawain and the Green Knight – Gawain Poet
- Additional content for all sections will be provided via handouts
- Classroom copy Fee: $15
Languages
ASL Levels 1, 2, 3
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
We will dive into learning everyday “talk” in American Sign Language! We will try to immerse ourselves by keeping a “no-voice” environment (except on designated days). This will help us practice the language and our receptive skills and become better at charades (I promise it’ll be important later!)
We will not only focus on the language alone, but also Deaf history and culture. We will gain a basic knowledge of different forms of sign languages out there and how American Sign Language is different from those.
We will have Deaf visitors to teach on important topics, for exposure to the language and norms as well as interpreters. It will be highly encouraged to attend at least one Deaf social or event.
Materials
None Required
Spanish 1
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course introduces students to effective strategies for beginning Spanish language learning, and to various aspects of Spanish speaking culture. It focuses on the four basic language skills: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will be introduced to common vocabulary, phrases, and concepts necessary for daily interpersonal interaction. This course encourages interpersonal communication through speaking and writing by providing opportunities to make and respond to basic requests and questions, to understand and use appropriate greetings and forms of address, to participate in brief guided conversations on familiar topics, and to write short passages with guidance.
Materials
To Be Determined
Spanish 2
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course is designed to review and build upon material presented in Spanish 1. The activities provided are designed to increase the student’s proficiency in the four basic skills: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will increase their knowledge of Spanish grammatical structures and vocabulary, improving their ability to freely communicate ideas using more advanced tenses and awareness of Spanish culture through more advanced reading, writing, and listening activities. There will be expanded opportunities for practicing speaking.
Materials
To Be Determined
Mathematics
Pre-Algebra
(Grades: 7th-9th)
Description
This is a 30 Week course designed to ease students into the world of Algebra. Topics covered include: Absolute Value, Integers, Order of Operations, Exponents, Expressions, Combining like terms, Operations with integers, Equations and Inequalities, Prime and Composite numbers, Factoring (GCF/LCM), Rational Numbers (Fractions), Operations of Rational Numbers, Algebraic Expressions, Percents, Ratio and Proportions, Radicals, Basic Geometry (time permitting), and Area and Volume (time permitting)
Students should be prepared to study no less than 4 hours a week.
Materials
BJU Press Pre-Algebra Grade 8 Student Text ISBN-13: 9781628562910
Supplies and Equipment
- Standard scientific calculator (no more than $12-15)
- Notebook and pencils
- Copy Fee: $15
Algebra 1
(Grades: 7th-11th)
Description
This course covers traditional Algebra 1, including the following: functions and graphs, equations in one and two variables, solving systems of equations, exponents, polynomials, factoring, algebraic fractions, operations on square roots/radicals, solving quadratic equations, and inequalities.
Materials
Elementary Algebra by Harold Jacobs
(prefer copyright 1979 edition) and Solutions manual
Supplies and Equipment
-
Calculator that has a square root sign
- 3 ring binder
- Copy Fee: $20
Geometry
(Grades: 8th-12th)
Description
This course covers classic Euclidean Geometry, with an emphasis on reasoning skills through proofs and the building of an axiomatic system. Topics include: deductive reasoning, points, lines, planes, rays, angles, congruent triangles, geometric inequalities, properties of parallel lines, quadrilaterals, isometries, area, similarity, right triangles and trigonometric ratios, properties of circles, regular polygons, geometric solids, and coordinate geometry. While algebra will not be explicitly taught, algebra review problems are included in most chapters.
Materials
Geometry Seeing, Doing, Understanding (Third Edition), by Harold R. Jacobs and Solutions manual
Supplies and Equipment
-
Scientific Calculator: TI-83 or higher recommended
- Compass (preferably with thumbscrew) and protractor
- 3 ring binder
- Copy Fee: $20
Algebra 2
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
This is a 30-week high school level Algebra 2 class meant to prepare students to be suited for math on the collegiate level. Students will also gain the skills needed to prepare for college placement exams (The Accuplacer) and standardized achievement and content exams (SAT and ACT).
Students should be prepared to study no less than 8 hours a week
Prerequisite: a C or higher in a high school level algebra course and qualification by diagnostic test
Materials
BJU Press Algebra 2 Student Text 3rd Edition ISBN-13: 9781646264759
Supplies and Equipment
- Graphing paper
- Spiral bound notebook or 3 Ring Binder with loose leaf paper
- Pencils, erasers, pencil sharpeners
- TI-83 or higher graphing calculator (or smartphone with “Calc84” app or similar)
- Copy Fee: $15
Pre-Calculus
(Grades: 11th-12th)
Description
Precalculus aims to develop a deep conceptual understanding of functions. Throughout this course, students develop and hone high-level symbolic manipulation skills. They will tackle challenging problems that require creativity and persistence to solve. Students will learn that functions and their compositions, inverses, and transformations are understood through graphical, numerical, verbal, and analytical representations, which reveal different attributes of the functions and are useful for solving problems in mathematical and applied contexts.
Students should be prepared to study no less than 5 hours a week
Materials
Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus (4th edition) by James Stewart, Lothar Redlin, Saleem Watson
Supplies and Equipment
- WebAssign Account (Cost is already included in class fee).
- Engineering/Scientific Calculator (recommend Casio FX-300ES Plus 2)
Calculus
(Grades: 11th-12th)
Description
The course is directly aligned with the textbook. We will generally cover one chapter every two weeks. There will be weekly on-line assignments administered through the on-line homework software WebAssign, which is a required course material. You will get immediate feedback on your progress and will get several chances to ensure it. WebAssign is accessed directly through the course’s Class website Cengage.
Students should be prepared to study no less than 5 hours a week
Materials
Calculus (7th edition) by James Stewart
Supplies and Equipment
- WebAssign Account (Cost is already included in class fee).
- Engineering/Scientific Calculator (recommend Casio FX-300ES Plus 2)
Music & Arts
Beginner Guitar
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course is designed to be an introduction guitar class for aspiring players. The class will cover basics and fundamentals of the guitar giving each student a strong foundation for which to build their skill with the guitar. We will concentrate on topics including: dissecting the guitar, proper posture, notation, chord studies, tab comprehension, rhythm, and more. The course will culminate their studies towards performing for the school. A final concert will be performed at the end of the year in the study hall to encourage their preparation and exemplify their skill on the guitar.
Students are required to provide their own instrument and expected to practice class work diligently during the week.
Materials
Guitar
Advanced Guitar
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course is designed for guitar students with at least two years of guitar studies and who can comfortably play chord charts, musical standards, and tablature/notation. The class will further expound on previous topics as well as implement new concepts and techniques to grow the guitarist’s skill. The course topics will include: melody construction, improvisation, extended harmony, performing experience, band participation, and more. The class will incorporate many musical standards for which the students will learn and perform at the end of each semester in the study hall.
Students are required to provide their own instrument and expected to practice class work diligently during the week.
Materials
Guitar
Art 1
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This 30 week course is designed to explore and develop the fundamentals of fine art. We will start with the basic elements of drawing, proportion, line, texture, tone, value, form, space, perspective and color theory. In the first section, drawing and composition, students will take a classical approach to rendering inorganic and organic subjects. Secondly, color will be introduced through a series of mixed media color exercises designed to help the student become aware of the deliberate color and design schemes in God’s creation all around us. In the third section, students will merge the two sections using watercolor , acrylic and pastel chalk. Each week they will draw landscapes, seascapes, still life, cartoons, graphic design and free draw. Students are required to show their work in a display at the end of the semester in the study area.
Supplies and Materials
- Copy Fee – $20
- Internet access
- Basic drawing supplies
- Sketch paper or similar
- Drawing pencils
- Colored pencils
- Chalk pastels
- Watercolor paints
- Artist quality erasers
Optional Materials
- An art portfolio case
- Large drawing clipboard
- Art markers
- Charcoals
- Acrylic paints
- Electronic drawing pad
- Modeling clay
Art 2
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This 30-week course is for students who have excelled in Art 1 or have been approved for participation by the tutor and parents. Students should have a basic understanding of basic elements of drawing, proportion, line, texture, tone, value, form, space, perspective, and color theory. This course will build on and improve understanding of art theory and use of multiple traditional and non-traditional techniques and mediums.
Students will create professional art portfolios for use in applying for juried art shows, college acceptance, and/or job placement.
In the first section, drawing and composition, students will begin building professional art portfolios using a classical approach to rendering inorganic and organic subjects. Next, students will explore different painting techniques and mediums. After the unit on paints, the students will create and incorporate three dimensional elements to their art. In the final section, students will focus on developing their own unique art styles while continuing to practice and improve diverse artistic skills and techniques by creating projects that are student-led.
Students are required to show their work in a display at the end of the semester in the study area.
Supplies and Materials
- Copy Fee – $20
- Sketch Paper
- Drawing Pencils
- Colored Pencils
- Chalk Pastels
- Artist Quality Eraser
- Multimedia Paint Brushes
- Mixed Media and/or Watercolor paper pad
- Portfolio Case
- Watercolor and/or Gouache paint set
- Acrylic paint set
- Sculpting tools
- Additional supplies may need to be purchased depending on your students’ interests/chosen projects.
Drama
(Grades: 8th-12th)
Description
These courses explore the different elements of theatre: Pantomime, Improvisation, Characterization, Voice and Physical Acting, Stage Areas and Spaces, Producing a play and Theatre History. There will be performances in December and May highlighting the material studied throughout the year. Opportunities to attend theatre events outside this school will be available to interested students and their families.
Students are required to provide their own instrument and expected to practice class work diligently during the week.
Required Texts
Introduction to Drama – Theatre Study for Christian Education
Supplies and Equipment
Students will be asked to bring clothes from home for costumes and any props needed for the shows.
Anatomy and Physiology
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
This course is designed to introduce basic structure and functional relationships of the human body. It is intended for students who are visual learners and have demonstrated proficiency in basic drawing techniques. Students will complete a series of learning activities that will include creating detailed, labeled anatomical drawings, medical vocabulary/etymology, readings, and assignments. The course will include interactive study creating detailed and labeled drawings, full-sized human medical skeleton, anatomy and physiology textbook, and live models.
Students will discover and understand the basic functioning of various body systems and how to promote physical health and optimal wellness across the lifespan. Body organ systems covered in this course will include the skeletal, articulations, muscular, integumentary, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.
Supplies and Materials:
-
Option A (for advanced HS reading level): Anatomy & Physiology Workbook for Dummies with Online Practice by Erin Odya and Pat DuPree | May 8, 2018
- Option B (for early HS reading level): Anatomy & Physiology Made Incredibly Visual! (Made Incredibly Easy) 1st Ed. Apr 1, 2008
- Sketch paper, preferably 11”x14” or larger.
- Drawing pencils
- Artist quality eraser
World Music
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course is an opportunity for students to perform, experience, and identify music from around the world. Working as a team, students will participate in a hands-on-approach to studying various styles of music from cultures in Africa, Asia, The Middle East, Europe, Spain/Latin America, The Caribbean, The United States of America, and The United Kingdom. Although this is a highly performance based class, there will be no public performances.
Audience – This course is offered in two formats. The half credit option, which is recommended for middle school students and high school students seeking a half credit music course, has limited work outside of class. Outside of class time, half credit students are responsible for submitting their class notes, answering a set of review questions, and practicing any assigned music. In addition to this work, they will complete one longer multi-week project per quarter. The full credit option, which is recommended for high school students seeking a full credit music course on their transcript, will have additional reading, listening, and written reflection assignments that expand on the information covered in class.
Required Texts
No books need to be purchased for this class. Material will come from a combination of Will Schmid’s World Music Drumming, World Music Drumming New Ensembles and Songs, and Global Grooves, Higgins and Shank’s World Rhythms, The Arts Professor’s World Music Bundle, and Andrew Lesser’s Folk Music in World Culture, Past and Present
Supplies and Equipment
- Copy Fee: $20
- 1 inch binder with 10 dividers
- Access to Google Classroom and Flat (free web based programs)
Photography
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course teaches the students how to use a Digital SLR camera. There will be discussion of different modes of the camera, including Program, Aperture and Shutter priority but mainly focuses on the manipulation of ISO, Aperture and Shutter in the fully Manual mode. The class concentrates on getting the students to take clear, focused, white balanced images, and explores different types of photos, including close ups, photos utilizing movement of the subject, and topics like adjusting the background and using light in creative ways. Finally, they will learn how to use an adjustable flash to their advantage. The majority of their work will not be printed, as we use Google drive with folders to share weekly assignments, but the goal is to print a few and have a “gallery opening” to show off the best work.
Supplies and Equipment
Your student will need a 35 mm SLR digital camera. A Canon Rebel is a good choice for serious amateurs, and you can buy them used online at KEH.com or Adorama.com, in excellent condition. About 2 months into the class you will also need an adjustable flash, and I will send a link for one that is reasonably priced. You can get that one, or one that is comparable for the last few weeks of the first semester. For the second half of the year, your student will need to have a laptop so that he/she can work on the yearbook. That laptop must be able to hold a charge for the entire class, or the student must also have a cord and plug so that he/she can actually use it for the duration of the class. The yearbook platform is a website, so there is no charge for that.
Science, Health, and Technology
Computer Science
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
Introduction to Computer Science is an introductory class designed to introduce students to a high level survey of computer science topics ranging from digital logic, computer architecture, computer programming, and various other computer topics.
Description
In the first semester, students will learn the ways humans grow and change from youth through senior age, physically, cognitively, emotionally and socially. In the second semester, students will learn more about children-specifically focusing on ages 2-5 for the purposes of classroom planning. Upon completion of the course, the student will have covered the scope and sequence forDevelopment course
Topics covered:
- Prenatal Life
- The Neonate
- The First Two Years
- Preschool Years – Ages Two to Five
- The Elementary Years
- Adolescence
- Young Adulthood
- Middle Adulthood
- Senior Adulthood.
***There will be a good deal of reading, journaling, group work and minimal testing. You must be able to work cooperatively with your peers.
Text:
TBD
Supplies and Materials:
- Copy Fee: $40
- Colored Pencils or Markers
- Notebook
- Writing paper
Health
(Grades: 7th-12th)
Description
This course is designed to introduce basic concepts of health science to teenagers. Topics will be discussed and introduced from a scientific perspective; sexual attraction and gender theories beyond hormone functions and physically observable traits will not be discussed.
Course topics include:
- Physical Fitness
- Nutrition basics
- Physiology basics
- Understanding Disease
- Drugs and Medicines
- Adolescence
- First Aid
- Hygiene and Healthcare
- Healthcare Careers
Students will need a connection to the internet to access free materials in lieu of a textbook.
Supplies and Materials:
- Copy Fee – $20
- Internet access for assigned videos, articles and games
General Science
(Grades: 7th-8th)
Description
General science is a middle school science class and the focus is to help students gain an appreciation for the sciences and the world God has made through careful reading, classroom discussion, and hands-on experiments and activities. Topics include weather, ocean science, human anatomy, and astronomy. At the culmination of each quarter, students design and present projects that showcase a science topic that interests them and displays their knowledge through some creative means (such as a poster display, artwork, sculpture, or any number of things!) This course is designed to prepare students for high school science class and lab experiences.
Daily homework is assigned for Tuesday-Friday and will build on material taught during the Monday classes. Quizzes are held during class time and quarterly tests are assigned as part of a student’s homework.
Supplies and Materials:
-
Master Books General Science 1: books and teacher guide
(note: we are not using “The Mineral Book”)
- DK Human Body: A Visual Encyclopedia
- Copy Fee – $15 copy
Physical Science
(Grades: 8th-9th)
Description
This course is an introduction to the physical sciences. In the chemistry modules students will learn what matter is, how it is classified, atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonds and chemical reactions. In the physics modules they will learn about motion, forces, energy, waves, sound, light, electricity and magnetism. and some earth and space science. In the earth and space modules, students will learn about the earth’s structure and atmosphere. Students will conduct experiments using the experimental method to better understand the concepts we are studying. Expectations and Goals – We will cover a module every 2 weeks. Daily assignments of reading and answering questions will be given on a syllabus and email to be completed for the next class. Experiments will be conducted in class, with lab reports completed in class and at home. The class will consist of reviewing the assigned reading and questions for half the class and conducting labs for the rest of class. Tests will be taken at home and proctored by the parents.
Students are assigned 45 min – 1 hour of homework per day
Prerequisites: General Science and Pre-algebra
Supplies and Materials:
- BJU Press Physical Science (Student), 5th Edition, ISBN 978-1-60682-464-1. Copyright 2014, Authors: Egolf and Congdon
- Graph Paper
- Colored Pencils
- Basic Calculator
- Copy Fee – $20
Biology
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
This course is designed to be the student’s first high school science course and is a college-prep biology course that provides a detailed introduction to the methods and concepts of general biology, heavily emphasizing the vocabulary of biology and note taking. It covers the five-kingdom classification scheme and a survey of it, some basic chemistry, microscopy, biochemistry, cellular biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evolution, dissection, and ecosystems. Students will also gain a strong background in the scientific experimental design: question, hypothesis, materials and methods, graphic analysis of results, research, communication, and conclusion using APA format, in text citations and a reference list.
Prerequisite – Students should have taken Physical Science and at least concurrently be taking Algebra 1 as this is a high school course that builds on these foundations.
Students should plan to spend around 1-1.5 hours a day or about 4-6 hours, not including class time, each week.
Supplies and Materials:
- Discovering Design with Biology. By Dr. Paul Madtes Jr. and Dr. Jay L. Wile and the corresponding Answer Key and Test book
- 2-3 inch ringed binder with dividers for: Reading notes and OYOQs, Study guides, Labs,
- Assessments, and Paper
- Graph paper, lined paper, colored pencils, ruler, glue stick, scissors, simple calculator
- Gmail address for Google Classroom
- Copy Fee – $25
Chemistry
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
The chemistry course uses Berean Builders’ Discovering Design with Chemistry text and will cover fundamental topics & concepts 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. Emphasis will be placed upon integration of mathematics to help students develop necessary skills to think as a chemist.
Class time will primarily be spent conducting many of the experiments included in the text. Some of the labs are quantitative in nature, including calculating percent yield, measuring concentration of a solution, acid/base titration, and determining the change in enthalpy for a chemical reaction. Other labs are qualitative, such as performing flame tests, comparing metals to nonmetals, exploring Boyle’s Law, doing litmus tests, etc..
Daily homework is assigned for Tuesday-Friday and will build on material taught during Monday classes.
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Physical Science, and Biology
Supplies and Materials:
-
Berean Builders’ Discovering Design with Chemistry (and Answer Key book)
- Scientific Calculator
- Copy Fee – $15
Physics
(Grades: 11th-12th)
Description
A Pre-Test will be given before admittance to the class.
This Physics course focuses on the study of motion. Thomas Aquinas states above that motion cannot occur without a mover, and that “first mover” is God. We have the wonderful opportunity to learn how the world God created operates around us by studying Physics. This is a college prep Physics course designed for the student who is leaning toward a college/career experience in the Sciences. They will have completed Algebra I, Geometry, and Chemistry. The student should have had an introduction to basic Trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent and their inverses). The student should have a knowledge of the Scientific Method and Lab Procedures. There is a heavy emphasis on Vector Analysis in both one and two dimensions. Other topics include: Newton’s Laws, Gravity, Periodic Motion, Work and Energy, Waves, Optics, and Electricity.
A typical class includes discussing the assigned reading and reviewing the assigned problems. We also perform labs to demonstrate or explain the concepts currently being studied. Students are required to come prepared for class and actively participate in working problems on the board and group lab work. Tests are given at home every two weeks and proctored by parents.
Students are assigned 2 – 4 hours of homework per week. Quarterly lab write ups will require additional time.
Prerequisites: Chemistry, Algebra 1, Geometry (with basic Trigonometry)
Recommended Grades: 11th and 12th grades, unless they have completed Pre-Reqs and pass the pre-test
Supplies and Materials:
-
Apologia Exploring Creation with Physics, 2nd Edition. ISBN 978-1-932012-42-2;
- Apologia Solutions and Tests for Exploring Creation with Physics, 2nd Edition ISBN 978-932012-43-9
- Notes: Copyright 2004, Author Dr. Jay L. Wile
- Scientific Calculator (with basic Trig functions)
- Colored Pencils
- Graph Paper
- Copy Fees: $20
Anatomy and Physiology
(Grades: 10th-12th)
Description
This course is designed to introduce basic structure and functional relationships of the human body. It is intended for students who are visual learners and have demonstrated proficiency in basic drawing techniques. Students will complete a series of learning activities that will include creating detailed, labeled anatomical drawings, medical vocabulary/etymology, readings, and assignments. The course will include interactive study creating detailed and labeled drawings, full-sized human medical skeleton, anatomy and physiology textbook, and live models.
Students will discover and understand the basic functioning of various body systems and how to promote physical health and optimal wellness across the lifespan. Body organ systems covered in this course will include the skeletal, articulations, muscular, integumentary, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.
Supplies and Materials:
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Option A (for advanced HS reading level): Anatomy & Physiology Workbook for Dummies with Online Practice by Erin Odya and Pat DuPree | May 8, 2018
- Option B (for early HS reading level): Anatomy & Physiology Made Incredibly Visual! (Made Incredibly Easy) 1st Ed. Apr 1, 2008
- Sketch paper, preferably 11”x14” or larger.
- Drawing pencils
- Artist quality eraser