Timothy Christian High School
2011 – 2012 Course Selection Core Courses and Electives
CORE COURSES – Grades 9-12
BIBLE
Old Testament Survey
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: This course is designed to provide a practical, chronological study of the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi.
Instructional Goals: The students will be able to identify key themes, events and people in the Old Testament. The students will be able to identify key lessons from the material studied and make spiritual and practical application.
Resources: The Bible (KJV, NKJV, NIV); Encountering the Old Testament: A Christian Survey, 2nd edition; Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2008
Survey of Bible Doctrines
Grade Level: 10
Course Description: This course is designed to help students develop a better understanding of the basic doctrinal truths of the Christian faith.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to understand what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ, gain a deeper assurance of their faith, and prayerfully desire to live their life for the glory of God.
Resources: The Bible (KJV, NKJV, NIV); “What The Faith is All About” by Elmer L. Towns; “Basic Theology” by Charles C. Ryrie
New Testament Survey
Grade Level: 11
Course Description: This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the New Testament from the Gospels to Revelation. The study focuses on the Gospel according to Luke, the early church in the book of Acts, and specific study of various epistles.
Instructional Goals: The students will be able to identify major themes, events, people, and principles in the New Testament. The students will be able to identify key lessons from the material studied and make spiritual and practical application.
Resources: The Bible (KJV, NKJV, NIV)
Biblical Studies
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: This course provides an overview of how to study and apply the Bible. General principles of interpretation will be covered as will special issues of interpretation for the various types of biblical literature found in the Old and New Testament.
Instructional Goals: The skills students will begin to develop in this course will enable them to handle issues of interpretation and application that they will face in trying to understand the Bible and find its relevance for their lives.
Resources: The Bible (KJV, NKJV, NIV)
ENGLISH
Intro to Literature and Composition
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: Intro to Lit/Comp is a genre-based course in reading and literary analysis. The course will focus on a few classic works along with genre-based literary units, which address the techniques and terminology necessary to analyze literature on a basic level. Students will read, identify, discuss, and write essays with regard to literary styles, techniques, and terminology from a variety of authors and genres.
Instructional Goals: Students will gain tools to comprehend, analyze, and synthesize texts. Through reading, students will be able to predict what will come next based on textual clues, question the text and author, identify author’s purpose, details from text, and themes, visualize the text with mental pictures, connect: text to other texts, text to self, and text to world, and infer details and nuances of the text. Also, Students will better express themselves through writing by learning how to generate good ideas that are relevant to the prompt, organize their thoughts into coherent and transitional sentences, paragraphs, and papers, use tone to further the depth of their writing, be specific in their word choice, correctly communicate grammatical correctness, use transitions to move from sentence to sentence and paragraph to paragraph smoothly while being relevant to their topic, and format their writing using MLA standards. Students will also improve oral skills, increase their vocabulary, and produce a research paper that will integrate source with their own ideas.
Resources:
Vocabulary Workshop Level D; MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. 7th edition.; Elements of Writing: Third Course, Revised edition, Holt, Rinehart, and Winston, 1998; Prentice Hall Literature. Penguin edition, Pearson Prentice Hall, 2007.
World Literature and Rhetoric
Grade Level: 10
Course Description: World literature explores various genres of literature from 7 geographic locations across the globe. Its focus addresses not only the history of the time period but authors’ styles and purposes as well. In addition, students will reflect on the literature through writing, workshops, research, and essays.
Instructional Goals: Students will read, identify, and discuss literature from various countries and time periods. Students will identify literary styles and terminology representing a variety of work literature. Students will engage in the full writing process by writing compare and contrast essays, critical analysis essays, a research essays.
Resources: Prentice Hall’s World Masterpiece, Sadlier Oxford Vocabulary Workshop Level E; Various novels and anthologies; MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th edition.
American Literature and Rhetoric
Grade Level: 11
Course Description: American Literature presents an overview of American literature from 1600 to the present. This course focuses on literary time periods and a variety of American authors and genres. Students will study novels, plays, short stories, poetry and nonfiction pieces. In addition, students will hone their research skills, learn SAT strategies, write a MLA style research paper, produce several critical analysis essays, as well as present several oral presentations.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to identify major American authors and their contributions. Students will recognize literary devices used by authors and will learn to analyze and write on various themes at a collegiate level. In addition, students will increase their vocabulary and hone their oral presentation skills.
Resources: Adventures in American Literature – Athena Edition, Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich, Sadlier Oxford Vocabulary Workshop, Level F, Various novels and anthologies; MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th edition.
British Literature and Rhetoric
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: This course traces the history of literature in England, from the fifth century until the present day. The course examines major literary themes and elements as well as every genre of writing, including poetry, short stories, novels, plays, and fictional pieces. Learning to write well-crafted compositions is also a key component of this class, as well as a well-documented, MLA style research paper.
Instructional Goals: The students will identify key writers, themes and styles from each period. Students will also learn how to express their thoughts clearly through writing and become proficient at college level research.
Resources: Adventures in English Literature, Pegasus Edition, Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich; Sadlier-Oxford Vocabulary Workshop Level G; MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th edition; selected novels.
Advanced Placement Language and Composition
Grade Level: 11
Course Description: AP Language is a one-year course for juniors who have achieved a 90 or above average in World Literature and who perform well on an essay exam. Students will carefully read and analyze a variety of non-fiction works from different genres, time periods and cultures and provide a thorough critical analysis of the rhetorical devices used to craft the argument in both timed and open essays. SAT test-taking strategies are also part of the curriculum. Intense summer reading assignments are required, and students are assigned readings over school holidays. Regular attendance is a must. It is also mandatory that students accepted into the class pay for and take the AP Language and Composition exam in May.
Instructional Goals: The goal of this class is to prepare students to write and analyze at a collegiate level and to score well on the AP Language exam. Scores of 3 or higher on this exam may exempt the student from certain university English classes. An MLA research paper is required and students will also present several oral arguments.
Resources: Course readings are from such sources as: The Language of Composition, Bedford/St. Martin’s Press; Everything’s an Argument, Bedford/St. Martin’s Press; Adventures in American Literature – Pegasus Edition, Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich; and Adventures in English Literature – Athena Edition, Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich. Students will improve their diction through assignments in the Sadlier-Oxford Vocabulary Workshop, Level F.
Advanced Placement Literature and Composition
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: AP Literature is a one-year course for seniors who have achieved a 93 or above average in American Literature and who perform well on an essay exam, or for juniors who have excelled in the AP Language class and enjoy analyzing fiction and poetry. This course provides an intense study of fictional works such as plays, novels, and short stories, as well as analyzing poetry. Intense summer reading assignments are required, and students are assigned reading over school holidays. Regular attendance is a must. It is also mandatory that students accepted into the class pay for and take the AP Literature and Composition exam in May.
Instructional Goals: The goal of this class is to prepare students to write and analyze fictional works and poetry at a collegiate level and to score well on the AP Literature and Composition exam. Scores of 3 or higher on this exam may exempt the student from certain university English classes. An MLA literary research paper is required and students will also present several oral presentations, as well as a Power Point presentation.
Resources: Course readings are from such sources as: Adventures in English Literature – Athena Edition, Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich; Adventures in American Literature – Pegasus Edition, Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich; Norton Anthology of Poetry, 4th Edition; and Bedford St. Martin’s Introduction to Literature. Students will improve their diction through assignments in the Sadlier-Oxford Vocabulary Workshop, Level G.
HISTORY – Please note: we are in the process of realigning our history curriculum so that World History will be taught in the 9th grade
and US I and US II will be taught in 10th and 11th grades respectively.
World History
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: The purpose of this World History class is to examine the scope of man’s existence from the scattering of people following the Tower of Babel to modern times. It examines the similarities and differences between civilizations through a chronological and topical study.
Instructional Goals: Since proper historical study is dependent on good written records, a great emphasis is placed on developing the students’ ability to express themselves in writing. This course stresses the influence of the past on modern times. Students will learn to see the relevance of history to the making of modern social, cultural, and political life.
Resources: World History – Patterns of Interaction, McDougall-Littell. The online edition is available for home use at www.classzone.com
U.S. History 2
Grade Level: 10
Course Description: This course picks up the story of America in the years immediately before World War I. The students will review the main domestic and international events of the early 1900’s to prepare them for an analysis of the causes of World War I. We will then study the period of the Depression and learn how both the Depression and WWI caused World War II. Our study of the key events of WWII will lead directly into the major political events of the 1940’s and 1950’s, and will include an analysis of the social and economic developments in the US and key foreign nations in the period. The year will conclude with a study of the Cold War Era and the collapse of communism and how these events influenced the world at the end of the 20th century.
Instructional Goals: Students in this course are expected to continue developing their study skills as well as their writing and public speaking skills. They will also continue to build on their knowledge of the key themes, events and people who were instrumental to the development of our country’s political, economic and social systems in the period from 1910 to the present.
Resources: The Americans, McDougal Littell.
Honors U.S. History 2
Grade Level: 10
Course Description: This course offers students the opportunity to examine modern American history in greater detail. It will begin with the influx of immigrants in the 1880’s. The students will examine the social and political changes at the turn of the 20th century that lead to U.S. involvement in World War I and subsequent transformation of U.S. society in the 1920’s. This class will emphasize the connections between the events that propel the United States through the 20th century – from the Great Depression and U.S. entry into World War II into the Cold War and the Vietnam Era. This class will consider not only political developments but also the social changes that have helped create present day American society.
Instructional Goals: Students in this course are expected to continue their development of crucial reading and study skills. In addition to reading from the book, students will be given a series of outside reading meant to provide unique and detailed perspectives on American history. Class participation will be heavily emphasized and the class will be discussion based. Students will also complete several projects that emphasize research and presentation skills. Through class discussions, readings and projects students will gain a broad understanding of the social and political systems that shape modern day America.
Resources: The Americans, McDougal Littell.
World History
Grade Level: 11
Course Description: World History focuses on the rise and fall of various world cultures and civilizations.
Instructional Goals: The major goal of the course is to introduce students to various ideas on religion, culture and society. The course also serves as a lead-in to their senior year Worldview course as it provides background to many of the ideas that are discussed in that course.
Resources: World History – Patterns of Interaction, McDougall-Littell.
Worldview Studies
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: The purpose of this class is to force each student to think through, many for the first time, the different building blocks which make up their personal view-of-the-world. This is not a Bible class nor is it a traditional History class. It is the express goal of this class that by the end of the year, each student will have a firm grasp on what he believes, why she believes it, and why each student thinks the way you do. We will ask the following questions: Where do we come from? What is wrong with the world? How can we remedy humanity’s problems? We will look together at mankind’s attempt to answer these questions in the areas of: Science, Philosophy, the Arts, History, Religion, and Mysticism. Ultimately, these are contrasted with the Biblical Christian alternatives.
Instructional Goals: Students will encounter the primary sources for alternative views to Biblical Christianity in a variety of disciplines. They will then engage the arguments for and against each of these alternative views. The coursework will develop their critical reading and writing skills. Class projects involve extensive public speaking opportunities.
Resources: How Now Shall We Live, Chuck Colson; Season of Blood, Keane; numerous secondary sources.
MATH
Algebra 1A
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: Algebra I-A is intended to help strengthen the student’s pre-algebraic and general mathematical skills before introducing them to further algebraic principles and operations necessary for continuation in subsequent math courses. The algebraic process is fundamental to success in high school math; therefore, this course is designed to provide the student with more time to master these skills before moving to the more complex algebraic processes. This course does not count as a year of HS math.
Instructional Goals: Students will increase their skills and confidence in pre-algebraic as well as beginning algebraic operations. They will be able to learn and apply algebra to general math concepts as well as real life situations.
Resources: Algebra 1, Holt Rinehart and Winston. A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Algebra 1B
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: Algebra I-B is a continuation of the process to help strengthen the student’s algebraic skills. The course will include review of the algebraic skills learned in Algebra 1A as well as the algebraic principles and operations necessary for continuation in subsequent math courses. The Algebraic process is fundamental to success in high school math; therefore, this course is designed to provide the student with more time to master and review these skills before moving to the more complex algebraic processes.
Instructional Goals: Students will increase their skills and confidence in the beginning algebraic operations. They will be able to learn and apply algebra to general math concepts as well as real life situations.
Resources: Algebra 1, Holt Rinehart and Winston. A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Algebra 1
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: Algebra 1 is intended to introduce students to algebraic principles and operations necessary for continuation in subsequent math courses. Concepts and techniques are introduced throughout the course to develop within the students a familiarity with the processes involved in Algebra.
Instructional Goals: Students will increase their skills and confidence in algebraic operations. They will be able to learn and apply algebra to general math concepts as well as real life situations. Students will be challenged to develop their rational thinking skills so that the processes of learning and applying the techniques in algebra will be seen as exercises that will transcend mathematical ends.
Resources: Algebra 1, Holt Rinehart and Winston. A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Geometry
Grade Level: 9-10
Course Description: Points, lines, segments, angle constructions and transformations; reasoning, introduction to logic, and proofs; parallels and polygons; triangle congruence and special quadrilaterals; perimeter and area, Pythagorean Theorem, special triangles and coordinate proofs; shapes in space, surface area and volume; similar figures; circles; introduction to right triangle trigonometry.
Instructional Goals: Students will use appropriate types of reasoning and methods of proof through inductive and deductive reasoning. Students will solve problems using a systemic approach. Students will communicate ideas in geometry using mathematical language, symbols, and diagrams. Students will use basic algebra to solve problems in geometry.
Resources: Geometry, Holt Rinehart and Winston. A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Algebra 2
Grade Level: 10-11
Course Description: After a review of foundational mathematic and algebraic principles, students will use those principles to solve a variety of equations. Basic concepts are expanded for more complex applications.
Instructional Goals: Students will become more confident in the use of algebra to solve problems and apply algebra to real life situations through word problem exercises. Students will be challenged to develop their rational thinking skills with benefits beyond purely mathematical applications.
Resources: Algebra 2, Holt, Rinehart and Winston. A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry
Grade Level: 10-12
Course Description: This course begins with a review of basic algebra skills that are needed frequently throughout the course and in more advanced math. The rest of this course provides the first half of the mathematical background that students need for studying calculus. The concepts that play a central role in calculus are explored from algebraic, graphical, and numerical perspectives. Students are expected to participate actively in developing these concepts by using graphing calculators in classroom discussions and in completing homework assignments. There is a strong emphasis on functions and their graphs, including linear, quadratic, absolute value, higher degree polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions.
Instructional Goals: Students will review basic algebra and the coordinate plane and extend their knowledge of algebra as they study more advanced topics such as equations of circles, arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, complex numbers, exponential equations, and logarithms. Students will discover relationships between functions and their graphs. Students will use algebra, graphs, and numerical methods to solve problems. In studying trigonometry, students will explore angle measurements and solve triangles and trig equations. They will learn the basic trig identities and solve other trig identities and they will study graphs of the trig functions.
Resources: Precalculus: A Graphing Approach, Holt Rinehart, and Winston; A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Pre-Calculus
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: This course begins with a review of some of the trigonometry that was covered in Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry. This course provides the rest of the mathematical background, begun in Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry, that students need for studying calculus and some other areas of mathematics. Mathematical concepts are explored from algebraic, graphical, and numerical perspectives. Students are expected to participate actively in developing these concepts by using graphing calculators, in classroom discussions, and in completing homework assignments.
Instructional Goals: Students will review graphs of trig functions and extend their knowledge of trigonometry as they solve conditional trig equations both graphically and algebraically, derive and use trig identities, solve acute and obtuse triangles, and use polar coordinates and the trigonometric (polar) form for complex numbers. Students will also study vectors and matrices, conic sections, systems of equations, parametric equations, basic probability and statistics, and some introductory topics in calculus.
Resources: Precalculus: A Graphing Approach, Holt Rinehart, and Winston; A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Advanced Placement Calculus
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: This course begins with a very brief review of topics from both Advanced Algebra/Trig and Precalculus such as linear functions, exponential functions and logarithms, and trig functions. Calculus is a branch of mathematics that deals with changing quantities. There are two related branches of calculus: differential calculus and integral calculus. In differential calculus, students calculate the instantaneous rate of change in one variable, produced by a change in another related variable. In integral calculus, students calculate quantities such as the total change of a variable, given its rate of change. Students will use graphical, analytical, numerical, and verbal representations of functions. Students are expected to participate actively in developing these concepts by using graphing calculators, in classroom discussions, and in completing homework assignments. The course will prepare students to take the AB Calculus exam in May.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn the concepts of the derivative and the definite integral using graphical, analytical, numerical, and verbal representations. Students will learn rules related to derivatives and definite integrals and apply them to problems. Students will learn to work, discuss, and solve problems in cooperative groups as well as in the whole class.
Note: Students are required to take the AP Exam (AB Calculus) in May and are responsible for payment of the exam fee (currently $84). A graphing calculator is required (TI-83 or TI-84 Plus Silver Edition).
Resources: Calculus, Addison Wesley Longman, Inc.
SCIENCE
Physical Science
Grade Level: 9
Course Description: Physical Science is a survey Physics and some Chemistry topics. The bulk of the year is devoted to the Physics portion, in which students study the basics of motion, force, energy, heat, waves, sound, light, electricity and magnetism.
Instructional Goals: Students will gain a better understanding Physics and Chemistry in the physical world. Practical application to real-world phenomena and technology will be discussed. Some demonstrations and hands-on exercises will be used as well.
Resources: The Physical World, Bob Jones University Press; demonstrations and lab equipment.
Biology/Lab
Grade Level: 10
Course Description: This lecture/lab course concentrates on topics basic to all biological studies such as the chemistry of life, the history of life, the basic building blocks of life and the continuity of life. An overview of botany, zoology, ecology and human life is included.
Instructional Goals: Students will grasp the major concepts and principles in biology. Students will understand biological information as it relates to the biblical doctrine of creation. Students will recognize and appreciate more fully the beauty and design found in God’s handiwork.
Resources: Biology for Christian Schools, Bob Jones University Press; laboratory materials.
Chemistry/Lab
Grade Level: 11
Course Description: Chemistry is the study of matter – its properties, types, phases and the reactions that it undergoes. The course covers the concepts of chemistry and the application of those concepts in specific cases.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn the properties, types, phases and reactions of matter through lecture, discussion, reading, practice exercises and hands-on experiments.
Resources: Modern Chemistry, Holt, Reinhart and Winston.
Honors Chemistry/Lab
Grade Level: 11
Course Description: Honors Chemistry covers the concepts of the Basic Chemistry course in greater depth, with additional topics also studied.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn the properties, types, phases and reactions of matter through lecture, discussion, reading, practice exercises and hands-on experiments.
Resources: Modern Chemistry, Holt, Reinhart and Winston.
Advanced Biology/Lab
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: In this lab course, information and concepts of the structure and function of the human body are presented using a systematic approach.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to identify the basic anatomy and explain the physiology of the major tissues, organs and systems of the human body. Students will gain a greater sense of awe and wonder of God while examining the body’s amazing design and intricate workings.
Resources: The Human Body: concepts of Anatomy and Physiology, Harcourt Brace College Publishing.
Advanced Chemistry/Lab
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: Advanced Chemistry expands upon the Chemistry curriculum and essentially covers the material found in a first-year college-level Chemistry class.
Instructional Goals: Students will gain a deeper and broader understanding of the principles of chemistry. Students will also be challenged to learn more independently in preparation for college courses.
Resources: Chemistry: The Central Science, Prentice Hall.
AP Biology
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: AP Biology is equivalent to an introductory biology major’s course in college and through it students will build upon their knowledge of the various aspects of biology.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to build on their knowledge of biology, learn about similarities among organisms, and appreciate God’s handiwork in living things, while preparing for the AP Biology test.
Resources: Biology:9th Edition, Raven and Johnson. McGraw Hill Publishing, 2011
Physics
Grade Level: 12
Course Description: Physics is the study of energy and is divided into the topics of mechanics, light and optics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn the concepts and formulas that describe the behavior of physical phenomena through lecture, practical problems and hands-on experiments.
Resources: Physics: Its Methods and Meanings, 6th edition, Prentice Hall; A variety of videos, demonstrations and lab equipment.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: High School Physical Education intends to improve the physical fitness level of the student and introduce him or her to a variety of team and lifetime activities.
Instructional Goals: Students will participate in daily exercises as well as stretching exercises in order to achieve a level of fitness, seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Students will also learn rules of games, sportsmanship, strategies and various types of tournament formats.
Resources: Health and Wellness, Glencoe: AAPHERD Magazine.
Health
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: A marking period course which progresses through the various areas of health over four years.
Instructional Goals: The student will learn about disease, marriage, physical fitness, social issues, nutrition and basic mental health from a Biblical perspective.
Resources: Health and Wellness, Glencoe
ELECTIVES – Grades 9-12
ENGLISH
Creative Writing
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This course will guide students through the creative writing process, honing original skills and challenging the students to produce work in all genres.
Instructional Goals: Students will write effective pieces in many genres and, by the end of the year, they will have compiled a portfolio of their best work.
Resources: The Creative Writing Handbook, Good Year Books, Scott, Foresman; handouts from class; examples of quality writing.
Essay Writing
Grade Level: 9-10
Course Description: This course guides students through the steps of the writing process. Students will learn how to write several styles of essays (definition, compare/contrast, exemplification, literary analysis, etc.) Grammar exercises will be clearly linked to writing improvement. Students will improve their word choices, sentence structures, and begin to establish their own style.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to generate sufficient ideas, organize them properly and compose a coherent well-supported essay.
Resources: Writing First with Readings: Practice in Context, 3rd Edition, Bedford/St. Martin’s.
Writing Lab
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: Writing lab is a course with limited enrollment of juniors and seniors. The goal is to help students improve their writing skills in their other courses. Students are taught research skills, essay writing skills and study skills which they apply to their other classes. Individualized help is given every session. The teacher remains in regular communication with the student’s academic teachers to make sure progress is being made and work is turned in complete and to the teacher’s satisfaction. Writing Lab is the boost some students need to succeed.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn a variety of writing techniques which enable them to be successful in their writing across the curriculum.
Resources: Teacher reproduced materials used.
Journalism
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: In this course, students will acquire writing, edition, reporting, interviewing, page layout, photography, and web journalism skills necessary for the production of a school newspaper. Students will also have the opportunity to gain experience through visiting and partnering with local newspapers.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to produce a monthly newspaper, practice various staff positions within a news room, explain the particular jobs of each member involved in producing a paper, and enter a news study into a local or national high school journalism competition.
Resources: News Reporting and Writing, Bedford/St. Martin’s; The Designer’s Handbook, McGraw Hill; APA style guide, Associated Press.
Debate
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Students learn the foundations of logic and the proper methodology for constructing arguments.
Instructional Goals: Students will develop their critical thinking skills, public speaking ability and research skills.
Resources: A course pack including secondary materials from various sources.
Study Skills
Grade Level: 9-10
Course Description: Study Skills works adjacently to the student’s current course load. It provides the student with personal learning strategies that will help them to become organized, diligent, and successful students during their first two years of high school.
Instructional Goals: Students will be able to discover their personal learning styles and develop techniques using them, practice organizational skills, learn and apply strategies for note-taking, reading, completing homework, studying, and test-taking, create personal learning goals and concrete plans for measuring and reaching them.
Resources: Student Planner
College Study Skills
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: This course focuses on presenting study skills, such as organization, learning styles, reading comprehension, communication, note-taking, homework management, memorization, test-taking and stress management.
Instructional Goals: Students will be exposed to a variety of study methods, for example, SQ3R and the Cornell Method. Students will be able to identify a variety of learning styles and determine which style best suits their own learning personality profile. Students will be able to identify, define and adopt a variety of college-level study strategies including communication, outlining, reading comprehension and organization.
Resources: Handouts; reference books; examples of quality note-taking and outlining formats.
ARTS DEPARTMENT (1 course required for graduation)
PERFORMING ARTS
Concert Choir
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This course is a non-auditioned performance choir for grades 9-12. The course develops and refines performance skills through public performance and adjudication while performing intermediate to advanced level literature of varied styles, periods, genres, cultures and languages.
Instructional Goals: Students will develop and refine skills in vocal technique. Students will increase knowledge of musical elements and in working as a group to achieve a common goal. Students will develop sensitivity to the expression of the text to effectively communicate to the listener, specifically in the realm of sacred music.
Resources: Resources vary as the repertoire changes.
Chamber Choir
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This course is an auditioned, performance choir open to grades 9-12 with a maximum of 24 members. The purpose of the course is to refine performance skills through public performance of advanced level literature with an emphasis on a cappella repertoire of varied styles, periods, genres, cultures and languages.
Instructional Goals: Students will develop and refine skills in vocal technique. Students will increase knowledge of musical elements and ensemble skills. Students will develop sensitivity to the expression of the text to effectively communicate to the sacred music. Students will become more skilled in a cappella performance.
Resources: Resources vary as the repertoire changes.
Men’s Ensemble
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This is a 2 credit course for any young men who love to sing. It is designed for a small group (3 to 8 young men) to challenge their developing voices. Participants will be learning a wide variety of musical styles with the goal of performing some of the selections. There will be emphasis on sight-singing and musical notation. A simple audition is required.
(Students must be able to sing assigned pitches.)
Instructional Goals: The ensemble will be preparing selections to be presented in the school concerts.
Resources: The music selected will be dependent on the group that is formed for the year.
Women’s Ensemble
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Women’s Ensemble is an auditioned, performance choir. The purpose of the course is to develop and refine vocal technique and performance skills through public performance and adjudication of intermediate to advanced level literature.
Instructional Goals: Students will develop and refine skills in vocal technique. Students will increase knowledge of musical elements and ensemble skills. Students will develop sensitivity to the expression of the text to effectively communicate to the listener, specifically in the realm of sacred music. Students will become more skilled in a cappella performance.
Resources: Resources vary as the repertoire changes.
Concert Band
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Admission is by audition – audition material being comparable to four years of study. This is a performance-based class which introduces and builds upon skills related to music performance.
Instructional Goals: Students will build upon their solid foundation in the five elements of music related to their chosen instrument. The goals include, but are not limited to, performing music of various styles which occur throughout music history.
Resources: Various concert band and jazz band pieces from the standard repertoire.
Jazz Band
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Admission is by audition only: A select group of 10 – 20 members – performing a wide variety of styles within the jazz band context. Members also perform in the Concert Band. There will be several concerts held outside of school time.
Instructional Goals: Students will experience and gain skill in the various styles related to jazz. These styles include, but are not limited to: Swing, Latin, Jazz Rock and the Blues.
Resources: Various pieces in the standard jazz band repertoire, sound recordings and videos.
Praise Band
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Praise Band is an auditioned group of student leaders who desire to serve God and lead others in worship with their musical abilities. The Band primarily serves in weekly high school chapels, as well as other special events such as Spiritual Life Conferences, retreats, etc.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn the true purpose of their musical gifts, which is worship. Students will spend time studying the biblical models for praise and worship from Genesis through Revelation. We will also be discussing articles on the subjects of praise and worship. Students will gain skill in the mechanics of arranging music for praise and worship, and learn the importance of servant leadership. The students will learn to work as a unified body toward one purpose.
Resources: Resources vary as the repertoire of music changes.
Music FUNdamentals
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: A beginning course in music theory. The course assumes no prior musical knowledge, beginning at the very basic musical elements and proceeding into basic music theory. Prerequisite: Music FUNdamentals.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn to read music. Students will grow in their understanding of melody and harmony. This will be developed through learning basic piano skills, sight-singing and ear training along with rhythmic and melodic dictation. The course will also cover some of the major composers from the Baroque period until the present day. This course is designed to teach the student what he/she needs to advance to Music Theory.
Resources: Alfred’s Essentials of Music Theory : Complete, Alfred Publishing Company.
Music Theory
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This is a one semester course offered 2 days a week in beginning music theory with an overview of music history. This course assumes that the student has minimal knowledge of music elements. The course will begin with very basic concepts of music with the goal of creating an individual musical composition by the end of the school year.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn how to read music. Students will develop aural skills through ear training and sight-singing. Students will develop analytical skills. Students will develop a working knowledge of rhythm, melody and harmony in the tonal system.
Resources: Essentials of Music Theory, Surmani, Surmani and Manus, Alfred Publishing.
Introduction to Music History
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This course gives an overview of the development of different musical styles. This course is designed to be a broad overview of music from 1400 until the present day. It will highlight composers, performers, styles and genres from the different centuries. Class time will be used to study composers and listen to their works. Most of the work will be done during class. Several short research projects will be required. There are no prerequisites for this class.
Instructional Goals: To learn a wide variety of musical styles from over the years, and to have the students become sensitive to the influences of music from the past on music of the present.
Resources: A textbook is not utilized.
Theatre Arts
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Theatre Arts is, for the most part, a performance intensive class. The students will learn acting based on the teaching of some of the most prominent figures in theatre, including Stanislavski and Hagen among others. Students will also study techniques such as breathing, relaxation, voice work, and script analysis. Theatre history will also be explored.
Instructional Goals: Through scene study and monologue work, students will learn how to build a character, maintain presence on the stage, how to block a scene, and how to break down a scene.
Resources: Introduction to Theater Arts, Meriwether Publishing Ltd.
Technical Theatre
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Technical Theatre provides an introduction to types of theatre stages, staging directions, the roles and titles of the theatre production crew and staff, and elements of scenic construction and design.
Instructional Goals: Students will demonstrate an understanding of the elements and principles of technical theatre such as light, costumes, scenic construction, and production. Students will assist with playbills, props, painting, and lighting in the production of school drama performances.
Resources: Stage Crafts, Hogget, Chris, St. Martin’s Press, 1975 and Stagecraft I: A Complete Guide to Backstage Work, Word, William H., Meriwether Publishing, Third ed., 2000.
Multi Media Arts
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Students will learn to evaluate the process and intentions of various media including magazines, photographs, movie clips, TV trailers and commercials.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn storyboard setups, cinematography and various filming techniques from the director’s perspective, as well as TV, magazine and product packaging advertising strategies.
Resources: A computer is used for some projects. A digital camera is helpful but not required.
Yearbook
Grade Level: [open to all high school students with teacher recommendation]
Course Description: Yearbook is a class that is designed to plan, produce, market and distribute the yearbook for the entire school community.
Instructional Goals: The goal of the Yearbook class is to produce a fine publication. To this end, the students will develop their writing, communication and leadership skills.
Resources: No textbook is used. Taylor Publishing provides an on-line yearbook development program.
FINE ARTS
General Art 1
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Course Description: This beginner level course is for the student who has not yet experienced high school art. It provides a general art experience beginning with a high concentration of drawing and then progressing on to a variety of different mediums.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn basic drawing skills which are foundational in all the areas of art.
Resources: Videos, books, examples in books and art work.
General Art 2
Grade Level: 10 – 12
Course Description: This course is designed for the serious student who may be considering a future in Art. Projects are designed to be of the problem-solving sort and are personally challenging.
Instructional Goals: This course uses skills learned to General Art 1. Using the same media as General Art 1, different projects are assigned to increase students’ exposure to art.
Resources: Videos, books, examples in books and art work.
General Art 3
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Course Description: This course focuses on increasingly advanced art techniques and may result in compiling works to complete an individual art portfolio. Pre-approval is necessary to take this class.
Instructional Goals: Students may work on portfolio material and will further finesse their precision and presentation abilities.
Resources: Videos, books, examples in books and art work.
COMPUTERS
Computer Applications
Grade Level: 9 – 12
Course Description: This course is a study of the five major applications of Microsoft Office 2007: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher and Access. Relevant parts of the Windows XP operating system will also be mastered. Students will learn to use and apply their Microsoft Office knowledge and skills as they assume the role of the Microsoft Specialist in an integrated, real-business setting. Through the use of a Microsoft Office simulation, they will complete business and financial documents, organize date, and create and design marketing documents, databases, and promotional presentations.
Instructional Goals: The students will be able to use Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Access as tools throughout the curriculum at TCS and beyond. The students will become familiar with common business documents and apply technical and creative writing skills in developing these documents.
Resources: Software: Microsoft Office 2007. Text: Skateboards, Inc, Microsoft Office Simulation. Business Education Publishing.
Visual Basic Programming
Grade level: 9-12
Course Description: This beginning level course focuses on the fundamental concepts of computer programming including variables and objects, control and iteration structures, arrays, file processing, and an introduction to database programming. This course is a prerequisite for Java Programming.
Instructional Goals: In the context of problem solving and algorithmic development, the students will develop skills in reading and writing program specifications, form and program design, coding, and testing and debugging software using the Visual Basic programming language.
Resources: Text: An Introduction to Programming using Microsoft Visual Basic, Brown and Presley, Lawrenceville Press. Software: Microsoft Visual Basic 6 IDE. Hardware: 20 2.00 GHz, Intel Celeron Processors running Windows XP Professional.
Java Programming
Grade Level: 10 – 12
Course Description: Within the context of object oriented design, the course emphasizes the development and analysis of algorithms, the use of fundamental data structures, the study of standard algorithms and typical applications, and familiarity with the extensive Java API classes. Students have the opportunity to compete in several local and regional programming contests. This course is a prerequisite for AP Computer Science.
Instructional Goals: The students will design and implement efficient computer-based solutions, in an object-oriented paradigm, to problems in a variety of application areas using appropriate data structures, algorithms, and standard Java library classes from the AP java subset.
Resources: Text: Computing Concepts with Java Essentials, John Wiliey & Sons (also an accompanying AP study guide by Fran Trees and Cay Horstmann). Litvin, Gary and Maria, Java Methods A & AB: Object-Oriented Programming and Data Structures, Skylight Publishing, 2006. Software: Java 5, Xinox Software JCreator IDE, BlueJ IDE, Eclipse IDE. Hardware: 20 2.00 GHz, Intel Celeron Processors running Windows XP Professional.
Advanced Placement Computer Science, Level A
Grade Level: 11 – 12
Course Description: Computer Science A builds on the concepts learned in Java Programming. It continues a study of object-oriented programming methodology with an emphasis on problem solving and algorithm development and is meant to be the equivalent of a first-semester college course in computer science. It also includes the study of data structures and abstraction. Students must take the Advanced Placement exam in Computer Science. Students have the opportunity to compete in several local and regional programming contests.
Instructional Goals: The students will design and implement efficient computer-based solutions, in an object-oriented paradigm, to problems in a variety of application areas using appropriate data structures, algorithms, and standard Java library classes from the AP java subset.
Resources: Text: Computing Concepts with Java Essentials, John Wiliey & Sons (also an accompanying AP study guide by Fran Trees and Cay Horstmann). Software: Java 5, Xinox Software JCreator IDE, BlueJ IDE, Eclipse IDE. Hardware: 20 2.00 GHz, Intel Celeron Processors running Windows XP Professional. Text: Litvin, Gary and Maria, Java Methods A & AB: Object-Oriented Programming and Data Structures, Skylight Publishing, 2006
Robotics
Grade level: 9-12
Course Description: Robotics is a 2 credit course meeting 2 days a week. Students will participate in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Tech Challenge program. The class will function as a team to design, build, program, and troubleshoot a robot in an annual challenge geared around real-world robotic problems in a fun and fast-paced game. This incremental, project-based environment uses a cross-platform version of the C programming language known as Robot-C. Each student will develop a skill set which includes measurement, analysis, calculation, communication, record keeping, individual initiative, teamwork, and group collaboration. Students who wish to participate as team members in scrimmages and qualifying competitions outside of TCS are required to pay a $100 materials fee. This course does not meet the prerequisite for AP Computer Science.
Instructional Goals: Students will use Lego Mindstorms and Tetrix robots to learn about mathematics, engineering, electronics, and programming. They will gain experience in managing projects, designing solutions, analyzing systems, accessing information, working in teams, and problem solving.
Resources: Teaching RobotC for Lego Mindstorms and Tetrix multimedia-based curriculum, Carnegie Mellon Robotic Academy. Online resources at www.ROBOTC.net/lego. Robotic Challenge Table. Software: RobotC compiler, v2.3, for the Lego Mindstorms and Tetrix, NXT Intelligent Bricks Hardware: Lego Mindstorm Basic Educational Set, #9797, with NXT Intelligent Brick, Ultrasonic, Sound, Touch, Light, Infrared sensors, and interactive servo motors. FTC Tetrix building kit.
SOCIAL SCIENCE
Psychology
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: A survey of major theories and topics covered in introductory college psychology courses, using Scripture as a benchmark for determining behavior boundaries. The class includes the biological and emotional causes for human behavior and abnormalities.
Instructional Goals: Students will gain a foundational understanding of the causes and effects of psychology on human behavior.
Resources: lntro to Psychology and Counseling, Baker Books House; Emotions: Can You Trust Them?, Regal Books; Grief and Grieving, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross; Multitudes of articles pertaining to each topic covered in classroom.
Sociology
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: A survey of the major aspects of human relations and interactions and their impact on society and the individual.
Instructional Goals: Students will gain a sensitivity to and understanding of the results of human interactions.
Resources: Sociology: The Study of Human Relations, Holt, Reinhart and Winston.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT (10 credits required for most colleges)
Spanish I
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This course will cover the basic structure of Spanish grammar, including verb conjugation, general vocabulary building, pronunciation, reading and listening comprehension, cultural activities of different Spanish-speaking countries, and memorization of small Bible verses.
Instructional Goals: Students will conjugate all regular verbs in present, preterit, and future. Students will use 400 new words including verbs, prepositions and pronouns. Students will learn proper sentence structure and will practice these sentences to establish a small dialogue.
Resources: Spanish 1 for Christian Schools, Bob Jones University Press.
Spanish II
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: Spanish II begins by reviewing the foundational material from Spanish I, before introducing new vocabulary and verb tenses. Mastering communication in everyday situations is enforced with grammar, dialogue, reading and listening comprehension. The uses on new compound tenses are also introduced. Writing skills are expanded throughout the school year with homework assignments and “in-class” reading exercises. Biblical integration includes verse memory, writing a personal testimony and prayer. Culture of different Spanish speaking countries is taught.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn new vocabulary to familiarize themselves with words and idiomatic expressions used in everyday Spanish. Students will learn grammar as a means to improve their communication skills in the Spanish language. Students will increase their ability to express opinions on specific topics in both written and oral language. Students will be able to memorize various Bible verses in Spanish and the Lord’s Prayer. Students will read selected literature, according to their level.
Resources: Spanish II for Christian Schools, Bob Jones University Press; cassette tape programs; DVD programs; The Bible (in Spanish).
Spanish III
Grade Level 10-12
Course Description: Spanish III begins by reviewing the foundational material learned in Spanish II, before introducing new vocabulary and verb tenses. Mastering communication in everyday situations is enforced with grammar, dialogue and reading. The uses of new compound tenses are also introduced while re-enforcing the compound tenses learned in Spanish II. Writing and reading skills are expanded throughout the school year with homework assignments and “in-class” reading exercises. Biblical integration includes verse memory, memorization of the Lord’s Prayer and I Corinthians 13.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn new and more advanced vocabulary to familiarize themselves with words used in everyday Spanish. Grammar learned in Spanish II is re-enforced and students will learn new grammar as a means to improve their communication skills in the Spanish language. Students will be able to write a complete paragraph in Spanish about a personal life event, their testimony, and a prayer. Students will increase their ability to express opinions on specific topics in both written and oral language and will be able to give their testimony of Jesus in Spanish. They will be required to speak Spanish during the entire class period everyday. Students will be able to say a prayer and memorize various Bible verses in Spanish. Students will be able to recite the Lord’s Prayer and will be able to sing at least one hymn/song in Spanish by the end of the school year.
Resources: Spanish II, Bob Jones University Press; cassette tape programs; DVD programs; The Bible (in Spanish); and popular animated films in Spanish.
Spanish IV
Grade Level: 11-12
Course Description: As an advanced course, Spanish IV will include an overview of the foundational material learned in Spanish I, II, III with an emphasis on conversation. Key component of Spanish IV will entail encouraging the students to master their communication skills to be used in everyday situations in the Spanish language. They will be telling their testimony and be able to pray for others. Another component will be to enhance the student’s reading comprehension in Spanish. Writing and reading skills are expanded throughout the school year with homework assignments and in-class reading exercises.
Instructional Goals: Students will learn new and more advanced vocabulary to familiarize themselves with words used in everyday Spanish. Grammar learned in Spanish I, II and III is re-enforced and students will learn new grammar as a means to improve their communication skills in the Spanish language. Students will be able to write a complete paragraph in Spanish about a personal life event. Students will increase their ability to express opinions on specific topics in both written and oral language and will be able to give their testimony of Jesus in Spanish. Students will be able to say a prayer and memorize various Bible verses in Spanish. Students will be able to present the Plan of Salvation. Students will be able to recite the Lord’s Prayer and will be able to sing at least one hymn/song in Spanish by the end of the school year.
Resources: Spanish III for Christian Schools, Bob Jones University Press. Spanish for Mastery 3 D.C. Health and Company
Chinese I
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: The course will introduce the basics of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will study basic concepts of Chinese history and will celebrate significant Chinese cultural events.
Instructional Goals: The students will learn to read pinyin and pronounce words with proper tones. Along with learning basic Chinese grammar and sentence patterns, the students will be able to write 250 to 300 characters. The grammar and characters learned will be in the context of “greetings”, “family”, “dates”, “time”, “hobbies”, “visiting friends”, “making appointments”, “studying Chinese”, and “school life”. They will be able to recite five Scripture verses and write them in characters.
Resources: Integrated Chinese Level 1 Part 1, 2nd edition, Tao-chung Yao and Yuehua Liu; Integrated Chinese Character Workbook Level 1 Part 1 – Traditional and Simplified Edition, 2nd edition, Tao-chung Yao and Yuehua Liu; Integrated Chinese Workbook Level 1 Part 1 Workbook, 2nd edition, Tawo-chung Yao and Yuehua Liu
Chinese II
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: The course will build on the basics of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will study basic concepts of Chinese history and will celebrate significant Chinese cultural events. Pronunciation and tones will be refined. Additional grammar and sentence patterns will be studied.
Instructional Goals: The students will be able to read and write 500 to 600 characters. The grammar and characters learned will be in the context of “shopping”, “weather”, “transportation”, “dining”, “working at the library”, “asking directions”, “birthday parties”, “seeing a doctor” and “dating”. The students will be able to recite and write ten Scripture verses in characters. The students will be able to read short books of 500 to 750 characters. They will be able to recite ten Scripture verses and write them in characters.
Resources: Integrated Chinese Level 1 Part 1, 2nd edition, Tao-chung Yao and Yuehua Liu; Integrated Chinese Character Workbook Level 1 Part 1 – Traditional and Simplified Edition, 2nd edition, Tao-chung Yao and Yuehua Liu; Integrated Chinese Workbook Level 1 Part 1 Workbook, 2nd edition, Tawo-chung Yao and Yuehua Liu
Business Department electives
Keyboarding
Grade Level: 9-12
Course Description: This is a one semester course offered 2 days a week. With this course, students will obtain a basic grasp of keyboarding, enabling them to produce letters, papers and other documents.
Instructional Goals: The class will produce speed and accuracy on keyboard, which can complement computer skills. Students will grow in their expertise and skill level which they will be able to conceptualize in their finished projects.
Resources: Keyboarding and Typewriting, South Western.
Accounting
Grade Level: 10-12
Course Description: One year course designed to give students a working knowledge of proprietorship and partnerships. Using a one-year cycle of basics simulators students will demonstrate ability to run all phases of business.
Instructional Goals: Students will gain knowledge of all accounting skills including AP, AR, banking, journaling and general ledger work.
Resources: Accounting, 7th Edition, South Western.
