ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
4 CREDITS
PRE-AP ENGLISH 9 PREREQUISITE: NONE
This course will cover all aspects of language arts including reading works of literature, learning grammar, writing essays and papers, oral presentations and viewing. The literature will cover all genres and writing will be emphasized in this course. The goal of this course is to help freshmen become better equipped in the field of language arts. This course will help students become better communicators both orally and on paper. The students will also come away from this course with an increased ability to analyze things. The students, through different novels, poems, and short stories will also become much better readers.
PRE-AP ENGLISH 10 PREREQUISITE: Pre-AP English 9
This course will cover all aspects of language arts including reading works of literature, learning grammar, writing essays and papers, oral presentations and viewing. The literature will cover all genres. The goal of this course is to help sophomores become better equipped in the field of language arts. This course will help students become better communicators both orally and on paper. The students will also come away from this course with an increased ability to analyze things. The students, through the different novels, poems, and short stories will also become much better readers. Writing will also be emphasized in this class as students will write several papers and journals.
ACCELERATED ENGLISH 11 PREREQUISITE: Pre-AP Eng 9 & 10
This language arts course is designed to prepare students for success in college English courses, on the ACT or SAT exams, and in a lifetime of writing situations. Students in the course will identify and analyze the elements of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in American literature to determine the universal meaning in literary works, particularly the novels and plays. Students will manipulate the elements of grammar, style, and structure in a variety of writing situations including literary analysis, argumentation, and persuasion. Students will increase their reading comprehension and vocabulary while reading more sophisticated texts. Students will also prepare a multi-media presentation demonstrating literary analysis skill.
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION 11 PREREQUISITE: Pre-AP Eng 9 & 10
Advanced Placement English is a language arts course designed to prepare students for success on the College Board Advanced Placement English Language Exam and for success on the ACT or SAT exam. The course is equivalent to a college English course and students will be awarded a weighed grade (an “A” will equal 5 points on a 4 point scale) due to the increased expectations and for taking the Advanced Placement Language and Composition Exam. Success in Advanced Placement courses is regarded by highly competitive universities as evidence of both rigorous academic preparation and personal readiness for college work. The course will focus on literary analysis of rhetorical strategies, problem solving, and analyzing stylistic elements in literary essays. A student who declines taking the Advanced Placement Exam will forfeit the weighed grade but is more than welcome to take the class.
ACCELERATED ENGLISH 12 PREREQUISITE: Three years of English
Accelerated English is a language arts course designed to prepare students for success in college English courses, on the ACT or SAT exams, and in a lifetime of writing situations. Students in the course will identify and analyze the elements of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry in British literature to determine the universal meaning in literary works, particularly the novels and plays. Students will manipulate the elements of grammar, style, and structure in a variety of writing situations. Students will increase their reading comprehension and vocabulary while reading more sophisticated texts. Students will write a research paper on a self-selected topic (an element of Senior Project), present a multi-media presentation on a writer, and prepare a personal writing project.
AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION 12 PREREQUISITE: Three years of English
Advanced Placement English is a language arts course designed to prepare students for success on the College Board Advanced Placement English Literature Exam and for success on the ACT or SAT exams. The course is equivalent to a college English course and students will be awarded a weighed grade (an “A” will equal 5 points on a 4 point scale) due to the increased expectations and for taking the Advanced Placement Literature and Composition Exam. Success in Advanced Placement courses is regarded by highly competitive universities as evidence of both rigorous academic preparation and personal readiness for college work. The course will focus on literary analysis, problem solving, and analyzing stylistic elements in literary essays. A student who declines taking the Advanced Placement Exam will forfeit the weighed grade but is more than welcome to take the class. Additionally, students will write a research paper on a self-selected topic (an element of Senior Project), present a multi-media presentation on a writer, and prepare a personal writing project.
MAP ENGLISH 9 PREREQUISITE: None
It is the desire of the MAP English Department to adhere as closely as possible to the curriculum of other LHS English classes in order that all freshmen students may be exposed to the same concepts, ideas, and materials. This course will cover all aspects of language arts including: reading various works of literature, learning grammar, writing various kinds of essays and papers, as well as learning about the writing process and giving oral presentations. The goal of this course is to aid the students in becoming better equipped in the field of language arts. The aim of this course is to teach the students to become better writers, readers, and critical thinkers, while analyzing different works of literature. However, teaching methods and assignments will be modified to accommodate students with learning disabilities.
MAP ENGLISH 10 PREREQUISITE: None
It is the desire of the MAP English Department to adhere as closely as possible to the curriculum of other LHS English classes in order that all sophomore students may be exposed to the same concepts, ideas, and materials. This course will cover all aspects of language arts including: reading various works of literature, learning grammar, writing various kinds of essays and papers, as well as learning about the writing process and giving oral presentations. The goal of this course is to aid the students in becoming better equipped in the field of language arts. The aim of this course is to teach the students to become better writers, readers, and critical thinkers, while analyzing different works of literature. However, teaching methods and assignments will be modified to accommodate students with learning disabilities.
MAP ENGLISH 11 PREREQUISITE: None
It is the desire of the MAP English Department to adhere as closely as possible to the curriculum of other LHS English classes in order that all junior students may be exposed to the same concepts, ideas, and materials. This course will cover all aspects of language arts including: reading carious works of literature, learning grammar, writing various kinds of essays and papers, as well as learning about the writing process, and giving oral presentations. However, there will be a focus on American literature. The goal of this course is to aid the students in becoming better equipped in the field of language arts. The aim of this course is to teach the students to become better writers, readers, and critical thinkers, while analyzing different works of literature. However, teaching methods and assignments will be modified to accommodate students with learning disabilities.
MAP ENGLISH 12 PREREQUISITE: None
It is the desire of the MAP English Department to adhere as closely as possible to the curriculum of other LHS English classes in order that all senior students may be exposed to the same concepts, ideas, and materials. The course will cover all aspects of language arts including: reading various works of literature, learning grammar, writing various kinds of essays and papers, as well as learning about the writing process, and giving oral presentations. The goal of this course is to aid the students in becoming better equipped in the field of language arts, while preparing them for college level thinking. The aim of this course is to teach the students to become better writers, readers, and critical thinkers, while analyzing different works of literature, although there will be a focus on British literature. However, teaching methods and assignments will be modified to accommodate students with learning disabilities.
FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT
1 CREDIT
FOUNDATIONS OF ART PREREQUISITE: None
This is an introductory art course, where the elements and principles of art will be discussed. There will be projects that correspond with each element/principle that is taught. An art history lesson will be taught every other week – illustrating how what is learned in class applies to everyday life. Students will be quizzed on what is discussed in the art history lesson or they will receive a homework assignment that relates to the lesson. Student will be evaluating and analyzing other works of art as well as their own work.
2D ART PREREQUISITE: Founds. of Art
This is an advanced course that allows students to further pursue their talents and creativity in a two dimensional format. Students will continue to develop their skills in drawing through still-life and beginning figure drawing. Students will also be introduced to watercolor paint, acrylic painting, and color theory. Those students interested in continuing their art education after high school will begin collecting projects to establish a portfolio. Student will be evaluating and analyzing other works of art as well as their own work.
3D ART PREREQUISITE: 2D Art
This course involves the student in a variety of hand-building techniques to create three-dimensional sculptural and ceramic pieces, both utilitarian and decorative in nature. Students will use media such as clay, plaster, wire, and wood to construct artwork in three dimensions. An introduction to the potter’s wheel and traditional hand-building techniques will be explored to create a variety of clay vessels. Student will be evaluating and analyzing other works of art as well as their own work.
STUDIO ART PREREQUISITE: Two years of art courses
This is an advanced art class that applies previous art development. Students will work with various mediums and techniques in a independent manner including projects and a culminating portfolio. An overview of art history will also be included in the curriculum. Each student will be expected to show one of their original works in the annual Lutheran High School Spring Exhibition. Concentration will be focused on the process of critiquing art. The student will be evaluating and analyzing other works of art as well as their own work.
LUTHERAN HIGH CONCERT BAND PREREQUISITE: None
By participating in the band course, each musician is provided with a quality instrumental music experience and will have the opportunity to perform for
LUTHERAN HIGH CHAMBER CHORALE PREREQUISITE: None
By participating in the choir course, each musician is provided with a quality vocal music experience and will have the opportunity to perform for
MUSIC APPRECIATION PREREQUISITE: None
The purpose of this course is to help students to understand “classical music” in a historical and cultural perspective from a non-musician’s perspective. This course is an introduction to the creative process and history of music, vocabulary, and descriptive terms used in the musical arts, and how to write about them. This course is ideal for someone who has always wanted to know the basics about classical music even if they have no previous musical experience. This course will also include a study of American pop-culture music. This course includes the study of American popular musical traditions of the past such as ragtime, jazz, blues, gospel, musical theatre, country western, hip-hop, and R&B to name a few. It will include discussions on how these music genres have influenced society over the years.
2 CREDITS
SPANISH I PREREQUISITE: None
This course introduces the Spanish language and the culture of the people who speak it. The class emphasizes vocabulary, basic grammar, oral and written work, in preparation for reading everyday Spanish and carrying on basic conversations in the target language. Communicative competence is best achieved through the constant practice of four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Class will be conducted primarily in Spanish.
SPANISH II PREREQUISITE: Spanish I
This course continues in the development of the student’s linguistic proficiency in Spanish through a fully integrated approach to language learning. This class emphasizes the advanced grammar needed to read, understand, and use the Spanish language in oral and printed forms. It also develops appreciation of Spanish culture and prepares students for college entrance by fulfilling language requirements. Class will be conducted primarily in Spanish.
SPANISH GRAMMAR PREREQUISITE: Spanish 1 &2
This course is designed to help students continue to develop fluency in the language by maintaining their focus on the message being communicated. This course will be focused heavily on the grammar of the Spanish language, preparing them for their Spanish trip at the end of May.
SPANISH IV PREREQUISITE: Spanish Grammar
In this course the student works towards fluency in Spanish by continuing studies started in Spanish III. It involves the reading of novels, short stories, and current publications to develop an appreciation of the literature and culture of Hispanic countries. Class will be conducted primarily in Spanish.
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
4 CREDITS
MAP PRE-ALGEBRA PREREQUISITE: None
Students will learn basic algebra concepts and be prepared for Algebra 1 class. Pre-algebra is designed as the bridge between basic math and the study of algebra. Previous concepts in basic math will be reviewed and strengthened. Students will have the opportunity to apply the concepts they are learning to real-life situations. It is specifically designed for students who need extra help grasping new concepts.
MAP ALGEBRA 1 PREREQUISITE: None
Students will continue to learn algebraic concepts and be prepared for Geometry and Algebra 2 classes. Algebra 1 applies and connects algebraic principles with other areas of mathematics, other disciplines, and real-world applications. These correlate with the main areas of problem solving, critical thinking, and communication. This course teaches the basic concepts of algebra in a step-step approach and meets the standards set by the state of
ALGEBRA 1 PREREQUISITE: None
This course is the first year of basic algebra and the launching pad for the series of high school math courses. Topics include use of variables and positive and negative numbers; solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities; use of radicals, monomials, and polynomials. Emphasis is given to real world application of algebraic equations and formulas. Students who have successfully completed Algebra 1 in Grade 8 do not have to repeat this course, although no high school credits are granted for course work completed prior to Grade 9.
MAP GEOMETRY PREREQUISITE: None
Students will learn geometric concepts and how to apply them in real world experiences. Geometry is designed to develop an appreciation of plane and space geometry as a mathematical system. Basic algebraic skills are strengthened throughout the course, while the main focus remains on the role of inductive and deductive reasoning in mathematical exercises. Students will use coordinate and algebraic means to verify representations and properties of figures in a coordinate plane. It is specifically designed for students who need extra help grasping new concepts.
GEOMETRY PREREQUISITE: None
Geometry is designed to develop an appreciation of plane and solid geometry as a mathematical system. Basic algebraic skills are strengthened throughout the course, while the main focus remains on the role of inductive and deductive reasoning in mathematical exercises. The use of logic and proofs reinforce conclusions to segment, angle, and triangle theorems. We recognize properties of quadrilaterals, find areas of plane figures and surface areas and volumes of solids. Constructions, right triangle trigonometry and coordinate geometry complete this study.
INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA 2 PREREQUISITE: Geometry Teacher Approval
Students will apply pre-learned skills to solving problems and the study of functions. Intermediate Algebra 2 applies the skills and concepts covered in Algebra 1 and Geometry to solving problems and the study of functions. Topics include linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and inequalities, and radical equations. A thorough study is made of linear functions, quadratic functions, polynomial functions, conic sections, and trigonometry. Applications and connections of algebra are made to other areas of mathematics and to real world situations. It is specifically designed for students who need extra help grasping new concepts.
ALGEBRA 2 PREREQUISITE: Algebra 1 and Geometry
Algebra 2 is designed for students who have successfully completed Algebra 1. Algebra 2 will build on the basic concepts presented in Algebra 1 to encourage higher order thinking. Algebra 2 students will represent and analyze mathematical situations. The students will analyze and apply a variety of methods to model and graph linear and nonlinear equations and inequalities. Students will also use algebraic, graphical, and numerical methods for analysis of quadratic equations and functions and polynomials and rational functions. Exponential functions, logarithmic functions, data analysis, and probability will be explored in Algebra 2. Students will be expected to us a TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator to demonstrate an understanding of concepts throughout the course.
COLLEGE ALGEBRA PREREQUISITE: Algebra 2 (Intermediate)
This course provides an adequate foundation for topics in college algebra and trigonometry at the freshman level. It involves writing, critical thinking, discussions, exploration, and real-world applications. After an introductory study on fundamentals the student will become proficient with equations, inequalities, functions and polynomials. Topics in trigonometry include fundamental properties, verify identities, laws of trigonometric functions, vectors and polar coordinates. The course concludes with topics in graphing techniques, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations in more than one variable, and matrices and determinants.
PRE-CALCULUS PREREQUISITE: Algebra 2 and teacher approval
The course is designed as a bridge between algebra classes and the study of calculus. Previous concepts in algebra and geometry will be reviewed and strengthened. It also provides a foundation of precalculus concepts, techniques and applications to prepare for more advanced work. Students will have the opportunity to model real-world data using mathematical concepts and applications. The course begins with topics in relations, functions and graphs and continues with trigonometric topics including graphs, identities and parametric equations. It also includes advanced functions and graphing with conics, exponential and logarithmic functions and discrete mathematics. The course concludes with an introduction to calculus including limits, derivatives, and integrals.
CONSUMER MATH PREREQUISITE: Teacher Approval; Seniors only
Students will participate in learning experiences that will prepare them for life after high school. Consumer Math presents basic mathematical skills and concepts in meaningful, real-life situations such as paying taxes, buying food, banking and investing, and managing a household.
AP CALCULUS PREREQUISITE: Precalculus
This course is designed to provide an adequate preparation for college calculus work and covers the goals of AP Calculus to prepare them for the Advanced Placement Exam. Real-world applications, open-ended questions, photographs, and interesting facts motivate the concepts covered in each chapter. The student should be able to work with functions, graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. They will understand the meaning of the derivative in terms of rate of change and local linear approximations and use it to solve a variety of problems. The student will understand the relationship between the derivative and the definite integral as expressed in both parts of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. With the completion of this course at an “A” or “B” level and the taking of the Advanced Placement Exam in May, the student will be eligible for a weighted grade (based on a 5.0 scale).
PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH DEPARTMENT
1 CREDIT
PHYSICAL EDUCATION PREREQUISITE: None
The physical education class educates students about the various benefits of physical activity, including health and fitness, recreation, and character development. All course work is designed to provide students with knowledge and experiences that will allow them to value and participate in physical activity throughout life. God created the amazing human body and we are called to be stewards of His wonderful gift. All students are required to take one half credit of physical education in a variety of individual, team, and dual sports in order to receive a diploma.
HEALTH PREREQUISITE: None
The health class motivates students to want the fullness of life God has designed for us in our total person. It strives to give some tools to enable this and prevent the pain and misery associated with the main causes of death, disease, and dysfunction in
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
4 CREDITS
PHYSICAL SCIENCE PREREQUISITE: None
This course is the fundamental precursor to all other science classes at
PRE-AP BIOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Physical Science
Students will within the context of the nature of science, apply an understanding of cells to the functioning of multicellular organisms, explain how cells grow, develop, and reproduce and what happens when normal cell function goes awry; explain how epidermiology is used to track infectious disease, study real and simulated epidemics and the microbial pathogens responsible, and evaluate modern disease prevention and vaccination programs, describe how proteins, fats and carbohydrates, basic molecular structure, pH, and enzyme activity relate to the biochemistry of living things; compare and contrast photosynthesis and cellular respiration, investigate and explain the genetic basis for the transfer of biological characteristics from one generation to the next, apply an understand of molecular biology to inheritance through study of meiosis, karyotypes, linage, and the dynamic relationship between DNA and RNAs, address issues and problems resulting from our increasing self-knowledge and ability to manipulate hereditary material with genetic engineering and other biotechnological methods; explain the relationship between human anatomy and physiology, and investigate population and evolution concepts needed to understand the dynamics of groups of organisms and variables that influence and change them. Projects include
CHEMISTRY PREREQUISITE: Physical Science; Teacher Approval
This course is a comprehensive study of the composition of matter and the energy contained within atomic particles and molecules. The more we study God’s great creation, the more readily we see the love he has for us by the design and function of everything around us working together in unison the way He designed it. Attention is given within this course to higher level thinking and problem solving as well as the use of technology. Topics include chemical nomenclature, stoichiometry, heat exchange, bonding, atomic structure, acid – base reactions, and types of mixtures used in chemistry.
PHYSICS PREREQUISITE: Physical Science; Biology
This course will help students appreciate the world around them, enabling them to explain that world with the laws of physics. Students obtain the skills necessary to look at surroundings and events objectively. After completing this course, students are able to consistently draw accurate conclusions about the physical environment. Math proficient students are encouraged to choose physics as a science credit. Units covered include mechanics, energy, sound, light, lenses and mirrors, electricity, magnetism, and relativity. Projects that will be completed throughout the year include
AP BIOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Pre-AP Biology, taking Chemistry prior to or at the same time as AP Biology is recommended but is not mandatory
This high school honors course is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester introductory college course in freshman biology. The content and depth of topics as well as the textbook are college level. The laboratory work is similar to and the equivalent of that used in college biology courses. The course work is cumulative in nature. All students who take AP Biology must take the AP Exam in May. The AP Biology Examination continues to emphasize the concepts and themes of biology. Less weight is placed on specific facts than on the “big ideas” that tie them all together. At the same time, there are two major goals of AP Biology: 1) enable students to develop a real understanding of the principal concepts in biology, and 2) to experience science as a process of problem-solving and discovery.
AP CHEMISTRY PREREQUISITE: Biology, Chemistry
The course provides instruction in structure of matter (Atomic theory and atomic structure, chemical bonding). Also: states of matter, reactions, descriptive chemistry (relationships in the periodic table), and physical manipulations; processes and procedures; observations and data manipulation. The course includes a laboratory component comparable to college-level chemistry laboratories. The course work is cumulative in nature. All students who take AP Chemistry must take the AP Exam in May. Provided which college the student attends, he/she may receive college credit reflective of their AP test score.
ADVANCED PHYSICS/CHEMISTRY PREREQUISITE: A first year in either subject
The availability of these courses is subject to change due to the abilities of the faculty and the demand for the courses within the student body. In either case, the course will continue to build on the knowledge gained in the first year of study within this subject matter. Lab activities are highly stressed in both subject matters to allow students to experience the concepts studied first hand.
MAP ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS PREREQUISITE: Physical Science, Biology
This integrated course utilizes techniques from different fields to encourage science literacy. Students examine the world from different approaches and consider how processes are interconnected. Units covered include geology, meteorology, oceanography, botany, zoology, and ecology. This course will provide the students with the exposure to the latest topics that effect our society in each of these areas of science as well as provide an opportunity for them to gain insight to their beliefs on these some times ethical issues. Projects include a rock sample collection, article reviews, and field trips to gain first hand experience.
HONORS SCIENCE DIRECTED STUDY PREREQUISITE: Teacher approval
The entire purpose of this semester-long class is to give a student with a high interest in science the opportunity to pursue independent research on a topic of their choice, meeting outside of normal class time with the instructor for help, updates, and guidance as needed. The outcome of this research must result in a formal entry into a competition or contest in a public forum, such as the International Science and Engineering Fair in March or other contests like Exploravision Awards Contest or Neuroscience Creativity Awards.
HONORS SCIENCE RESEARCH PREREQUISITE: 3 years of science; Teacher approval
This program provides research experience for students with a strong interest in science and engineering. Students are assigned to cooperating faculty members of various science/medical/engineering research related to departments (such as UAMS, Children’s or heart Hospital, for instance) in the
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT
3.5 CREDITS
WORLD GEOGRAPHY (Semester Course) PREREQUISITE: None
The world we live in is getting smaller and it is important for students to have a basic understanding of that world. Through this course, students will be introduced to the cultures and geography that have an impact on the world. This course allows students to study the world in two different ways. First, it provides students with a tour of the physical, cultural, and environmental geography of our planet. Secondly, it explores the current events surrounding various regions of the world. The course helps students to develop their own views on the rest of the world through class discussions, presentations, possible guest speakers, research projects and the use of multimedia.
CIVICS (Semester Course) PREREQUISITE: None
The government system of our country is very complex. In order to have a better understanding of the system that we live in, students participate in this multidimensional introductory government course. Students will be taught in a variety of methods in order to aid in their retention of the material. Civics is a semester course that focuses on the basic structure and responsibilities of the various components of American government. Students learn through both in-class discussion and hands-on activities. Activities include mock trials, creation of a class constitution and in individual legislative assignment. Through a combination of discussion and simulation-based learning, the students not only learn the information, but they also are given an opportunity to apply that knowledge.
WORLD HISTORY PREREQUISITE: World Geography/Civics
Today, it has become increasingly important to understand the world that we live in. The purpose of this course is to expose students to different cultures and ideas of the world through the examination of historical civilizations and accomplishments. This course is a study of human history in a chronological time frame beginning from prehistoric man through the Industrial Revolution. Emphasis is placed on the progression of civilization and cultural development. Map work will be involved in order to see the changing shape of the region. This course will help students develop their own perspectives on historical events through reading, analyzing data, research projects, simulations, discussion of primary documents, and use of multimedia.
A.P. WORLD HISTORY PREREQUISITE: World Geo/Civics and teacher approval
The main goal of this course is to give students an opportunity to receive a college credit for history by adequately preparing them for the end of the year AP exam. Students will gain a better understanding of essay writing, along with an increased level of vocabulary. Through college-level reading and classroom instruction, students will also be exposed to various viewpoints of their societies. The AP World History Class is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college course and can earn students college credit. This year-long course places an emphasis on non-Western history and traces the development of world history from the emergence of civilization to the present. The course relies heavily on college-level texts, primary source documents, and outside readings. Students will be required to participate in class discussions and individual projects. In addition, objective exams will be given at the end of each unit including a multiple-section and an essay section. The essays are of three varieties: Change-Over-Time (COT), Comparative, and Document Based Question (DBQ@). The purpose of structuring the class this way is to properly prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exams that take place in May. Students that finish the year with an “A” or “B” will be eligible to receive a weighted grade (based on a 5.0 scale). If students receive a “C” or lower, they will not be eligible for the weighted grade. Additionally, students with adequate grades must take the May AP Exam in order to be eligible for the weighted grade.
UNITED STATES HISTORY PREREQUISITE: Two years of social studies
In order for us to move forward effectively, we must understand our past. The purpose of this course is to expose students to our own nation’s past. Through an understanding of where we have been, students will have a clearer vision of where we are headed. This course traces the rise of the
AP UNITED STATES HISTORY PREREQUISITE: World Geog/Civics; World History;
Teacher Approval
Through college-level reading and classroom instruction, students will also be exposed to all aspects of our nation’s past. Through this knowledge, students will gain a better understanding of who we are as a nation and where our future is taking us. AP U.S. History is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college course and can earn students college credit. It is a two semester survey of American history from the age of colonization to the present. Solid reading and writing skills along with a willingness to devote time to homework and study are necessary to succeed. Emphasis is placed on critical and evaluative thinking skills, essay writing, interpretation of original documents, and historiography. Students will be required to participate in class discussion and individual projects. The purpose of structuring the class this way is to properly prepare students for the Advance Placement Exams that take place in May. Students who finish the year with an “A” or “B” will be eligible to receive a weighted grade (based on a 4.0 scale). If students receive a “C” or lower, they will not be eligible for the weighted grade. Additionally, students with adequate grades must take the May AP Exam in order to be eligible for the weighed grade.
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS (Semester Course)
PREREQUISITE: Three years of Social Studies
The main purpose of this class is to further examine aspects of government that were touched upon in ninth grade civics. Students will become involved in more in-depth discussion and continue to improve their vocabulary skills. Students will be examining the legislative process at a local, state, and federal level. Additionally, students will further study various aspects of the law as well as specific court cases. It is a more challenging class and is designed for seniors. Current issues in our government and society will be discussed and analyzed from both a political and lay person point of view.
20TH CENTURY UNITED STATES HISTORY PREREQUISITE: US History
This course is designed to cover a more modern era in United States History. We will study in depth the events and people who shaped the 20th century. The course will begin with the events leading up to World War I and continue through the current day. We will be examining each decade at a time and will focus on the political, economic, and cultural events of each decade. Special attention will be given to the Roaring Twenties, World War II, the cold War,
THEOLOGY DEPARTMENT
4 CREDITS
FRESHMAN THEOLOGY PREREQUISITE: None
This course will prepare students on a foundation of the Christian faith. Students will systematically study the Bible including God, the Bible, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, salvation, man, sin, the church, and last times to help students be confident and ready to present biblical beliefs intelligently and effectively to others.
SOPHOMORE THEOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Grade 10
This course offers background regarding author, purpose, and major themes from the Old Testament. Emphasis is placed on the relationship of the Old to the New, and on the relevance of the Old Testament for today. The objective is to lay a foundation for a more meaningful approach to the Bible. All issues will be studied from a Biblical basis.
JUNIOR THEOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Grade 11
This is a study of the New Testament with emphasis on the life of Christ and the ministry of Peter and Paul. This section of Scripture is then applied to our Christian lives. Emphasis is also placed on Christian doctrine and Biblical interpretation. In conjunction with the New Testament course; issues that face our youth today will be studied and discussed on a regular basis. All issues will be taught from a Biblical point of view.
SENIOR THEOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Grade 12
This course is spilt up into two semesters. One semester will be World Religions and this course will help students sort out the many different religious beliefs of people from various parts of the world. Upon learning of the inadequacies of other religions, it is hoped that our students will strengthen their personal commitment to Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Included in this course will be a study of Martin Luther, Christian doctrine, other Christian denominations, major world religions, and cults. The other semester is Marriage and the Christian Family and this course is designed to direct the student to think and plan for his/her years from present to old age, with emphasis on dating, marriage, and sexuality from a Christ-centered point of view. Other points of interest will include child-raising, family and church relationships, and related topics.
ELECTIVES
4 CREDITS
FRESHMAN COMPOSITION (Semester Course) PREREQUISITE: None
Because good writing skills are so essential to success in high school, the freshman composition course is designed to help students build a strong foundation in writing. The course will include a review and practice in syntax and grammar, practice in writing from the sentence to the essay, writing in the rhetorical modes, making sense of a text, and a review of research skills. The course is a one semester class and is a compliment to the freshman orientation course.
MEDIA/STUDY SKILLS (Semester Course) PREREQUISITE: None
Freshman Orientation is a course that will help students recognize and use their God-given talents and abilities throughout their high school experience. In this course, students will develop skills that will enable them to communicate more effectively and study more efficiently. A significant portion of the class will focus on the use of computer applications in order to produce documents, spreadsheets, and power points. The course will include practical training with any and all forms of technology and media to aid in the student being successful at the high school level.
FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCE PREREQUISITE: Grade 11-12
The Family and Consumer Science course is designed to help students function successfully in today’s society as they grow in independence. The interrelationships among home, work, and society should underline all aspects of Family and Consumer Science. The students will be given the opportunity to develop and use the skills needed to perform tasks necessary for the maintenance of home and family (i.e. cooking, personal finance, etc.) and functioning in the workplace (i.e. resumes, job skills, etc.). Guided instruction and participation in a variety of experiences will facilitate decision-making in all areas. Collecting and assimilating consumer information will make it possible for students to become lifetime learners.
PSYCHOLOGY (Semester Course) PREREQUISITE: Grade 10–12
This course is based on the study of human behavior. Topics will include physical, mental, social, and psychological development as well as sensation, perception, emotion, and abnormal behavior. Areas of study will include the major theories of psychology and their views of human development, personality, intellectual ability, learning and thinking, perception, and conflicts and adjustments. Taught with Christian perspective, students will look at the theoretical and practical approaches to psychology in everyday life.
JOURNALISM PREREQUISITE: Teacher Approval
Journalism will expose students are exposed to the basics of the yearbook, and train them in its various facets: news reporting, photography, caption writing, layout design, proofing, and editing. In addition to learning about the craft, students are given the opportunity to put their lessons into practice as they produce and publish the school’s yearbook. They will also be exposed to the basics of newspaper. Students will study the journalism process. They will create and publish a newspaper for the student body, parents and the community. Students will acquire experience in news reporting and gathering, editorials, advertising and marketing, editing, computers and layout, and a variety of other responsibilities that are involved with publishing a newspaper.
ACT PREPARATORY (Semester credit) PREREQUISITE: Grade 10 – 12
The purpose of this one-semester course is to reinforce those skills needed to raise English, Math,