Curriculum | Timothy Christian School

Timothy Christian Middle School 2009-2010 Course Catalog

SIXTH GRADE CORE COURSES

Bible
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course is designed to provide a practical, systematic study of the life and work of our Lord Jesus Christ. The four Gospels will be examined in a chronological method. Each student should receive an increase in knowledge and depth in understanding found in the Bible concerning the life of Christ. Students will learn much about the character of Christ, His purpose in coming to Earth, and His death, burial and resurrection. Each student will learn how to use their Bible to find answers to questions. Students will examine the teachings of Christ and will learn of His eternal pre-existence and deity as well as His humanity. Each student will also memorize a select set of Scriptures.

Resources: The key resource for this course is the Bible. Students will be expected to bring their Bible to class each day. Other resources include the Willmington’s Guide to the Bible, The King James Study Bible, Manners and Customs of Bible Times, Holman’s Bible Atlas, various videos and tapes.

English
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course develops grammar/writing skills. The course guides students step by step through the writing process, learning all aspects of grammar for writing skills. Students will identify and use grammar mechanics and begin to organize thoughts, stressing order and detail in a research paper.

Resources: Elements of Writing: Revised Edition, Holt Rinehart Winston; Elements of Writing: Revised Edition – Language Skills); Vocabulary Workshop Level A, Sadlier Oxford.

Literature
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course uses short stories and full novels to teach figurative language, theme, point of view, etc. with a strong emphasis on vocabulary. A foundation for high school literature is laid in this class. Book reports are given to introduce students to a variety of literary works. Students will identify and use figurative and literary devices, understand plot progress and develop vocabulary.

Resources: Foundations and Frameworks curriculum; Treasures, Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

History
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Students will learn the history and culture of eleven ancient civilizations and trace accomplishments and contributions of these civilizations to modern man. Students will learn and use basic terms of archeology and learn the effect that climate and geography have on cultures. They will learn the role God plays in rising up and bringing down civilizations. They will learn important facts about the ancient civilizations of Sumer, Egypt, Israel, India, China, Greece, Rome, Mayas, Byzantium, Africa and Medieval Europe.

Resources: To Know the Past; Heritage Studies 6 for Christian Schools, 2nd Edition, Bob Jones University Press; Heritage Studies 6 for Christian Schools, Bob Jones University Press.

Math
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Sixth Grade Math focuses on reviewing and reinforcing basic mathematical skills and concepts. It also provides an introduction to algebraic and geometric concepts. Students will be able to master appropriate grade level mathematical skills in order to prepare them for more intensive computations and skill mastery.

Resources: Mathematics Course 1, Holt.

Science
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Sixth Grade Science covers four basic units: Earth Science, Life Science, Physical Science and Space Science from a Christian perspective. The specific areas of study are: A Changing Earth, God’s Living Creation, Energy in Motion and Beyond Our Earth. Students will achieve an understanding of God’s hand in the design of the earth’s surface, the cell and organisms, atoms and molecules, and the planets and stars.

Resources: Science 6 for Christian Schools, 3rd Edition, Bob Jones University Press; Activity Manual for Science 6; Hands-on activities, labs and demonstrations in the Middle School Science Lab.

Middle School Physical Education (Grades 6-8)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Middle School Physical Education builds on motor skills, develops knowledge of team sports and seeks to improve upon the necessary skills to encourage lifetime activity and sport. Students will learn sportsmanship and proper attitude toward others, increase fitness level, become competent in body management, increase physical skills and acquire desirable social standards.

Resources: Includes various books, videos and possible field trips.

Computers 6
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Computers 6 is a basic keyboarding course. Students will learn the basics of keyboarding to accurately type faster than they write. Words per minute will start at 25, moving gradually to 50 words per minute by the end of the course.

Resources: Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing 15, Broderbund (software)

SEVENTH GRADE CORE COURSES

Bible
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course is designed to provide a practical, systematic study of the first five books of the Bible. Starting in Genesis, this course will examine the creation of the world, the fall of man, the antediluvian period, flood, tower of Babel, formation of the nation of Israel, and bondage in Egypt. The course will continue to follow the nation of Israel through the exodus from Egypt and the wilderness wanderings. In Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy students will observe God’s standards and laws. Each student will become more familiar with the use of the sacred Scriptures. The students will also review the Decalogue, Tabernacle and the various laws and commands of God. The character of God is revealed in His law. Each student will also memorize a select set of Scriptures.

English 7
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course covers the basic elements of English grammar and composition: parts of speech, usage, mechanics and writing skills. Students will analyze and apply grammatical concepts in the areas of usage, mechanics and composition.

Resources: Elements of Writing: First Course, Holt Rinehart Winston; Vocabulary Workshop Level B, Sadlier Oxford.

Literature
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Literature of various genre and themes will be read and analyzed. Students will be able to identify specific themes in literature and will begin to read a variety of genres. Students will engage in informal writing assignments and will also complete outside-of-class book reports.

Resources: Adventures For Readers: Book One, Harcourt Brace Jovanich; Vocabulary Workshop – Third Course, HRUS.

History
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Seventh Grade History is a continuation of the sixth grade curriculum, picking up at the end of the Middle Ages and concluding in the second half of the 20th Century. Students will study various time periods throughout the last 1,500 years, the people who helped shape history and the ideas that influenced people. All of this will be studied through the lens of Scripture and its Author, who controls history and interacts with mankind completely within His unchanging character.

Resources: World Studies for Christian Schools, 2 nd Edition, Bob Jones University Press; Student Activities in World Studies for Christian Schools, 2 nd Edition, Bob Jones University Press.

Seventh Grade Math
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Seventh Grade Math reviews and reinforces basic math skills. Algebraic and geometric concepts are introduced to provide readiness for Pre-Algebra. Students will be able to master grade level appropriate basic math skills in order to prepare them for more intensive computations and skill mastery in the area of Pre-Algebra.

Resources: Mathematics Book 2, Holt.

Seventh Grade Pre-Algebra
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Seventh Grade Pre-Algebra provides a reinforcement and mastery of math skills necessary to beginning algebra instruction. The course provides a detailed introduction to algebraic terminology and concepts that form a basis for further algebraic study. Students will be able to master grade level appropriate basic math skills in order to prepare them for more intensive computations and skill mastery in the area of Algebra.

Resources: Mathematics Book 3, Holt.

Life Science
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course covers four detailed units: Foundations of Life Science, Heredity and the Origin of Life, Concepts in Microbiology and Plant Biology, and the Animal Kingdom. Specifically, students will study Classification, Cell Activities, Genetics, Biblical Creationism, Biological Evolution, Plant Activities, Invertebrates and Vertebrates. The students will be able to defend their faith as it relates to the Creator’s hand in the complexity of the design of living organisms. They will understand cellular respiration, cellular organelles, basic genetics, “little-seen kingdoms” and the animal kingdom.

Resources: Life Science for Christian Schools, 2 nd Edition, Bob Jones University Press; Student Activities in Life Science for Christian Schools, 2 nd Edition, Bob Jones University Press; hands-on activities, labs, demonstrations in the Middle School Science Lab.

Resources: Includes various books, videos and possible field trips.

Computers 7
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Computers 7 introduces Microsoft Office Professional. Though the course objectives are numerous, this course introduces each objective with elemental exercises. Students will be able to use and apply Microsoft Office software such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint.

Resources: A Guide to Microsoft Office 2003 Professional, Lawrenceville Press.

EIGHTH GRADE CORE COURSES

Bible
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course is designed to provide a practical, systematic study of the early history of Israel. Starting with the conquest of Canaan in the book of Joshua the study will continue through the united kingdom of Israel under Saul, David and Solomon. Many practical truths can be gleaned from the study of God’s dealings with Israel. The books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth and I and II Samuel will be studied. Each student will become familiar with the character of God as He deals with the nation of Israel. Students will see the sovereign hand of God reach out in love to His people and the world. Each student will also memorize a select set of Scriptures.

English
Course Description and Instructional Goals: In Eighth Grade English, students read, analyze and seek to apply literature of various genres and themes. Students will complete the full study of five novels. In addition, there will be a comprehensive review of grammar fundamentals as well as completion of a variety of writing styles. Students will analyze and be able to identify specific characteristics of genre literature and will identify various literary terms associated with this literature, as well as recognize differences in authors’ writing styles. They will complete 8-10 major essays/reports.

Resources: Elements of Literature: Second Course, Holt Rinehart Winston; Elements of Writing: Second Course, Holt Rinehart Winston; To Kill a Mockingbird,Harper Lee; The Hiding Place, Corrie Ten Boom; The Giver, Lois Lowry; Vocabulary Workshop Level C, Sadlier Oxford.

Civics
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Eighth Grade Civics focuses on students learning the fundamentals of American government and basis of our economy. The course is set up to show students how government works by focusing on key elements. We study the Constitution and all three levels of government: Federal, State and Local.

Resources: Civics – Government and Economics in Action, Prentice Hall.

Eighth Grade Pre-Algebra
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Eighth Grade Pre-Algebra provides a reinforcement and mastery of math skills necessary to beginning algebra instruction. The course provides a detailed introduction to algebraic terminology and concepts that form a basis for further algebraic study. Students will be able to master basic math skills appropriate for their grade level, which will prepare them for more intensive computations and skill mastery in the area of Algebra.

Resources: Mathematics Book 3, Holt.

Eighth Grade Algebra 1
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Algebra 1 is intended to introduce eighth grade students to algebraic principles and operations necessary for continuation in subsequent math courses. Concepts and techniques are introduced throughout the course to develop a familiarity in Algebra. 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 algebraic techniques will be seen as exercises that will transcend mathematical ends.

Resources: Algebra 1, Holt, Rinehart and Winston.

Space and Earth Science
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course covers the study of the celestial sphere, the atmosphere, the lithosphere and the hydrosphere. Specifically, students will study the stars, sun and planets, moon and space exploration, meteorology, geology, rocks and fossils, and the oceans and seas. The student will gain a detailed knowledge of the glory of the stars, characteristics of the planets, the origin of the stars and planets, the weather and atmosphere, storms, weathering and erosion. The student will be able to view the natural sciences from faith and a Christian worldview.

Resources: Space and Earth Science – 3 rd Edition, Bob Jones University Press (including books A & B with student activities); hands-on models, demonstrations and activities in the Middle School Science Lab.

Resources: Includes various books, videos and possible field trips.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Spanish I
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course will cover the basic structure of Spanish grammar, including verb conjugation and general differentiations of the verbs. Students will conjugate all regular verbs. Students will learn proper sentence structure. Students will use 400 new words including verbs, prepositions and pronouns. Students will dialogue about trips, weekend plans and other pertinent themes.

Resources: Spanish 1 for Christian Schools, Beulah E. Hager, MA, Bob Jones University Press.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVES

Introduction to Spanish (grades 6-8)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course is designed to introduce Spanish to students to building a foundation for the languages. It is less intense in duration and content than the 8 th grade Spanish 1 elective options. The course encompasses a study of grammar, vocabulary and basic sentence structure. The class is held three times a week. Students will build vocabulary and language basics, spell and write accurately, speak without a script, read and understand the language and retain learned concepts.

Resources: Spanish – Level 1 ( Latin America), Rosetta Stone.

Middle School Art (grades 6-8)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Middle School Art is offered as an elective to students in grades 6-8, meeting one or two class period per week. Students work with a variety of mediums which build upon skills developed in the lower grades. All materials are provided, some of which include paper, paint, clay, ceramic glazes and glue. Students will grow in their expertise and skill level which they will be able to conceptualize in their finished projects.

Resources: Arts and Activities (a publication for art educators); art reference books in the classroom, pictures, examples, videos.

Middle School Choir (grades 6-8)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Middle School Choir is a non-auditioned performance choir for sixth through eighth grade students. The main purpose is to expose interested students to a diversity of choral music and give a positive experience, resulting in continued singing. It is also designed to prepare students with the knowledge and experience needed in upper level choirs. Emphasis will be placed on sight-reading and ear training by learning musical intervals and rhythmic patterns. Students will develop and refine skills in proper vocal technique. Students will increase knowledge of musical elements and become familiar with choral music of varying styles and genres.

Resources: Resources will vary as the repertoire changes.

Band (grades 6-8)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: Band is offered as an elective to students in grades 6-8. Admission is by audition – audition material being comparable to one year of study. This is a performance-based class which introduces and builds upon skills related to music performance. 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, developing skill in note reading, producing a characteristic tone and music appreciation.

Resources: Accent on Achievement, J. O’Reilly, Alfred Publishing, G. Yaus, Belwin-Mills Publishing Corp.; and various concert band pieces from the standard repertoire.

Computer Programming (grade 8th)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course is an elective offered one day per week to introduce students to selected programming concepts in a simplified visual environment using Jeroo and Visual Basic. The course focuses on the fundamental concepts of object-oriented computer programming including variables, objects, methods, and control and iteration structures. Students will apply these concepts hands-on in the lab through short exercises and a variety of larger projects. In the context of problem-solving and algorithmic development, the students will develop skills in reading program specifications, form and program design, coding, and testing and debugging software using the Jeroo and Visual Basic programming language.

Resources: Software: Java 5, Jeroo IDE, Visual Basic 6 IDE. Hardware: 20 2.00 GHz, Intel Celeron Processors running Windows XP Professional.

Home Economics (grade 8th)
Course Description and Instructional Goals: This course provides a basic understanding of kitchen safety, food poisoning and proper dishwashing and cooking. Students will be given the tools to function in the kitchen safely.

Resources: Hands-on learning.