HIGH SCHOOL COURSES OF STUDY

*Bible: Exceptions to the 4 Bible requirements may be granted to those students transferring from schools not offering Bible classes.
*History: One of the unit requirements must be in American Government and Economics and one in US History.
*Foreign Language: Students must complete 3 units of the same language. Exceptions to the 4 Foreign Language requirements may be granted to those students transferring from schools not offering Spanish classes.
*Electives: Students must complete 1 unit of computer science to include keyboarding proficiency. The computer science requirement can be met through the successful completion of Applied Technology (.5 credit) and Introduction to Business/Careers (.5 unit).

HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC GOALS

BIBLICAL STUDIES

Bible 9 - Change: The Beatitudes

The Beatitudes found in Matthew 5:1 - 10 is the focus of the 9th grade Bible class. Students will study the meaningfulness and practical uses of the Beatitudes and how it relates to their everyday life. Using the curriculum Change: Transforming Principles from the Beatitudes along with the inspired Word of God will produce spiritual growth and change in our lives.

Text Book: Change: Transforming Principles from the Beatitudes, Positive Action For Christ
Credit: 1 Unit

Bible 9/10 – Lightbearers

The purpose of this study is to encourage and enable students to experience all God has in mind for them as individuals, to lead lives full of meaning and purpose, and to have a positive influence on their culture. Students will begin to view God’s “Big Picture” for their lives by asking and finding answers to such questions as: “Where did everything come from?” “Who am I?” “Why are we here?”“What’s right and wrong, and who decides?” “What happens when we die?” Students will learn to search the one true source of truth—God’s Word—to find the answers to life’s most important question and to appropriate its teachings to all aspects of their lives. They will begin to understand that not only do actions have consequences, but that ideas have either positive or negative consequences as well. The two primary goals of this course are: 1) to keep students from being deceived by anti-Christian worldviews, and 2) to train students to actively live out the truth of Christianity in a culture of relativism and confusion—to be “lightbearers” who allow God’s truth to shine through them to bring light to the world around them.

Text Book: Lightbearers, Summit Ministries
Credit: 1 unit

Bible 9/10 - The Inner Man

The purpose of this study is to develop character and maturity in "the inner man." The lessons are written both to impart knowledge and to challenge the student to right action. The lessons are more concerned with what one is than what one knows or does. What one knows and what one does are important, of course, but God's greatest concern is what one is. "We must know in order to be in order to do." This study will seek to teach necessary biblical facts to change each student's inner being that their actions might be godly.

Text Book: The Inner Man, Positive Action for Christ
Credit: 1 Unit

Worldview I & Worldview II
More than ever before, much of what we hear or read is hostile toward Christian values and beliefs, yet often we are not aware of it. How can we determine which views and ideas are biblical and which aren't? Which side should we take on a given issue? When it comes to addressing the latest problems of our day, we find that…

We want to take a stand, but aren't sure where. We want to say what is right, but aren't sure how. We want to take action, but aren't sure what to do.

This two year course will help prepare our students to better know their own faith by understanding the alternatives that are shaping the world. Six worldviews are taught as they relate to ten disciplines: Secular Humanism, Cosmic Humanism, Marxist/Leninism Humanism, Islam, and Postmodernism. Students will understand these ideas accurately in the words of their own proponents. Each worldview will be compared to Biblical Christianity. The comparing and contrasting of these six views affirms the incredible clarity, coherence, and truthfulness of the Christian worldview. Students will be able to challenge other worldviews in such disciplines as Theology, Philosophy, Ethics, Biology, Psychology, Sociology, Law, Politics, Economics, and History. During the first year students look at Theology, Philosophy, Ethic, Biology and Psychology. First year students will produce a research paper tracing these disciplines and explaining how they logically interact with each other and the six worldviews. Students will learn that ideas have consequences that have resulted in various belief systems. These ideas have shaped the times we live in. Second year students work through Sociology, Law, Politics, Economics and History. These students will produce a Christian Manifesto which is a declaration of the principles and intentions that relate to life issues through the lens of the Bible. These students will be going out into various universities, therefore Christian Academy feels it is very important to equip them with biblical principles filtered through real life, so that they can live and work the purposes that out Great and Loving God have prepared for them.

Textbook: Understanding the Times, Summit Ministries
Credit: Worldview I 1 unit; Worldview II 1 unit

ENGLISH

English I Honors: Genres of Literature

The Genres of Literature course encompasses the study of the four foundational areas of literature in the English language: short story, poetry, the novel, and drama. Characteristics and history unique to each of these genres will be examined in contrast to other forms of literature. The instructor will integrate students’ recognition and application of literary terms with practice in analysis of literature and its relevance to a Biblical Christian worldview. Additional components of this course are a parallel focus on mastery of expository writing and a yearlong overview of English grammar.

Literature Text: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes: Platinum Edition, Prentice Hall
Grammar Text: Writing and Grammar Handbook, Prentice Hall
Vocabulary and Spelling Text: Wordly Wise Book 6, EPS
Credit: 1 Unit

English II Honors: British Literature

The British Literature course will continue to focus on the four foundational areas of literature: short story, poetry, the novel, and drama. English II traces British literature from the Old English and Medieval periods to the Modern and Post-Modern periods. Connections are made between the works and the political and social mores of the times in which they were written. Skills developed in the ninth grade are reinforced and refined. Though the focus is the study of literature, composition and vocabulary development are key elements of the course.

Literature Text: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes: The British Tradition, Prentice Hall
Grammar Text: Writing and Grammar Handbook, Prentice hall
Vocabulary and Spelling Text: Wordly Wise Book 7, EPS
Credit: 1 Unit
Prerequisite: English I

English III Honors: American Literature

Students read a wide range of texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, both classic and contemporary works. Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions (e.g. philosophical, ethical, aesthetic) of human experience. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts.

Literature Text: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes: The American Experience, Prentice Hall
Grammar Text: Writing and Grammar Handbook – Ruby Edition, Prentice Hall
Vocabulary and Spelling Text: Wordly Wise Book 8, EPS
Credit: 1 unit

English IV Honors: World Literature

World Literature is a survey of writings from ancient civilizations to modern times, including samples from a variety of world cultures. Various genres will be studied; students will examine the various works in terms of literary/cultural/social/moral teachings and values, and evaluate them in light of Scriptural truth. Grammar review and vocabulary/spelling are also incorporated as students improve their proficiency in expository, persuasive, and research writing.

Literature Text: World Masterpieces, Prentice Hall
Grammar Text: Writing and Grammar Handbook-Ruby Edition, Prentice Hall
Vocabulary and Spelling Text: Wordly Wise Book 9, EPS
Credit: 1 unit

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Spanish I

This is an introduction to oral and written Spanish with emphasis in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a contemporary cultural context. Basic sentences and phrases are used to teach vocabulary and simple grammatical patterns. The student will be able to comprehend and respond to spoken or written messages and commands. In addition, the student will be able to write to meet practical needs.

Textbook: Realidades 1, Prentice Hall
Credit: 1 unit

Spanish II

The skills learned in Spanish I are reviewed and extended. Vocabulary building is emphasized and more complicated language patterns are introduced through reading, audiocassettes, videos, and dialogues. The preterite and imperfect tenses will be presented in meaningful context.

Textbook: Realidades 2, Prentice Hall
Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or above in Spanish I or teacher approval
Credit: 1 unit

Spanish III Honors

This course utilizes an in-depth grammatical review in addition to the study of dialogues and short stories to greatly expand reading comprehension. Continued vocabulary development is emphasized as well. Regular and challenging writing assignments help perfect grammar usage and language fluency. In-class reliance on the spoken language promotes oral proficiency.

Textbook: Realidades 3, Prentice Hall
Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or above in Spanish II or teacher approval
Credit: 1 unit

Spanish IV Honors

This course will provide for the development of Spanish language skills on an advanced level. An intensive review of grammar and composition-skill development will help students expand their knowledge of the Spanish language. This course also emphasizes cultural understanding, conversational fluency, written and oral translation. Students will be reading numerous texts in Spanish as well as participating in discussions, writing essays, and examining the more complex structures of the language.

Textbook: Realidades 3, Prentice Hall & Nuevas Vistas, Holt
Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or above in Spanish III or teacher approval
Credit: 1 unit

MATHEMATICS

Algebra I Honors

The core of the Algebra course involves solving simple to complex equations from the concrete level to the application level. Students will extensively use a graphing calculator to enhance their experiences and to take learning from the classroom to the real-world. Other concepts covered are matrices, probability, inequalities, polynomials, systems, and quadratics.

Textbook: Algebra I, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra
Credit: 1unit

Geometry Honors

This course offers the deduction of the properties, measurement, and relationships of points, lines, angles, and figures in space. Topics to be covered include geometric art, defining geometry terms, reasoning in geometry, using the tools of geometry, discovering and proving polygonal and circle properties, transformations and tessellations, area, volume, similarity, and the Pythagorean Theorem. Students will be facilitated to gradually grow in their understanding of proofs, build their own database of definitions and conjectures, work cooperatively, make conjectures through investigations utilizing a technological rich approach to not only deepen understanding, but allow an approach that is interesting and challenging.

Textbook: Discovering Geometry, Key curriculum Press
Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or above in Algebra I or teacher approval
Credit: 1 unit

Algebra II CP

Algebra 2 is an in-depth study of topics presented in the Algebra 1 course. This math course usually follows the successful completion of the geometry course. Basic techniques and methods used in previous math courses will be utilized. Topics that are addressed include: linear systems, algebraic expressions, quadratic equations and functions, radical functions, rational functions, polynomials, matrices, and conic sections. In Algebra 2, graphing calculators (TI-83 or Plus) are required as part of instruction and assessment.

Textbook: Algebra 2, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Credit: 1 unit

Algebra II Honors

Algebra 2 is an in-depth study of topics presented in the Algebra 1 course. This math course usually follows the successful completion of the geometry course. Basic techniques and methods used in previous math courses will be utilized. Topics that are addressed include: linear systems, quadratic equations and functions, radical functions, rational functions, polynomials, matrices, Exponential functions, logarithmic functions, conic sections, and trigonometric functions. In Algebra 2, graphing calculators (TI-83 or Plus) are required as part of instruction and assessment. Concepts will be taught at a faster pace and in greater depth and difficulty at this level.

Textbook: Algebra 2, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or above in Algebra 1 Honors or teacher approval
Credit: 1 unit

Precalculus CP

Through a four way balanced approached of algebraic, numerical, graphical, and verbal methods this course will emphasize the twelve basic functions as the major theme and focus. A general understanding of functions will be followed by an in depth study with respect to their algebraic properties and modeling applications.

Technology will be integrated through the use of computers and a graphing calculator. Emphasis will be placed on active student participation, utilization of a systematic approach to problem-solving and real data applications. Instruction and techniques will include modeling, explorations, projects, communication, and group activities.

Textbook: Precalculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and Geometry
Credit: 1 unit

Precalculus Honors

Through a four way balanced approached of algebraic, numerical, graphical, and verbal methods this course will emphasize the twelve basic functions as the major theme and focus. A general understanding of functions will be followed by an in depth study with respect to their algebraic properties and modeling applications. As students work through the applications, functions are used to model data and how they can help model real-life data. In conclusion students will be prepared for instantaneous rate of change and continuous accumulation; the two central themes of Calculus. Technology will be integrated through the use of computers and a graphing calculator. Emphasis will be placed on active student participation, utilization of a systematic approach to problem-solving and real data applications. Instruction and techniques will include modeling, explorations, projects, communication, and group activities.

Textbook: Precalculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and Geometry
Credit: 1 unit

SCIENCE

Biology Honors

Biology is the science of life itself. All organisms interact with one another and with the environment in ways that create our planet’s web of life. Throughout this course, students are encouraged to find the perfect design in God’s great plan. Each of the topics covered in this course are taught from a Biblical perspective. Some of the areas that are studied in this course are ecology, cells, genetics, and plant and animal classification,. Evolution is also addressed as part of this curriculum. Students are encouraged to research, question, and discover the fallacies and evidences surrounding different theories. Regular class work integrated with laboratory experiences, both hands-on and on CD-Rom, help to promote an exciting, yet challenging environment for learning.

Textbook: Biology, Prentice Hall
Credit: 1 unit

Marine Biology Honors

This course is designed to help students develop an appreciation for the coastal area of South Carolina through an understanding of its physical and biological processes. The course consists of hands-on investigation, projects, fieldwork, outdoor study, and real world application of concepts learned. Some of the topics to be discussed are air-sea-land interactions, geology of the coastal region, and water mixing in estuaries. There will also be a study of the animal and plant life of the following environments: Our local coastal salt marshes, floating docks, rock jetties, beaches and the intracoastal waterway.

Textbook: An Introduction to the World’s Oceans, McGraw-Hill
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or better in both Algebra 1 and Biology I
Credit: 1 unit

Chemistry Honors

This class is an introduction to chemical concepts using practical issues and applications to illustrate the principles of chemistry. Topics covered are the language of chemistry, scientific method and measurement, experimentation with data collection, and current issues with application to chemical principles. The student will also study the metric system, dimensional analysis, density, physical and chemical properties of matter, formulae, gas laws, stoichiometry, and acids and bases. The student will gain an understanding of these concepts through participating in a variety of labs and research, which will provide a thrilling and hands-on way to learn chemistry.

Textbook: Chemistry, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in both Biology and Algebra 2 or currently enrolled in Algebra 2
Credit: 1 Unit

Physics Honors

Physics is more than a part of the physical sciences; it is a study of the basic laws governing matter and energy and how they interact. The ideas of physics are fundamental to all areas of science. In this course, students will be guided to see physics as the rules of the physical world, and learn how the equations of physics reveal the connections to nature. The topics covered in this course include mechanics, properties of matter, heat, sound and light, and electricity and magnetism. This course is designed to stimulate excitement in students as they gain an understanding of these concepts through a variety of learning experiences. Special emphasis is made in all units to acquaint students with contributions made by men and women of faith to the great principles of physical science, as well as correlating scientific truths with biblical truths.

Textbook: Conceptual Physics, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Biology and Algebra 2
Credit: 1 unit

SOCIAL STUDIES

World History Honors

World History will present history organized by eleven topics. Topics begin with the Human and the Universe and ends with our Postmodern World and the Global Church. The students will research and study major concepts, ideas, and influential people. Course studies will encompass recognition of recurring societal patterns, the rise and fall of major societies, and the societal consequences of developing governmental practices/philosophies that disregard Biblical truth. Students will recognize leaders who influenced the development of democracy and the spread of Christianity. Students will also recognize the errors of false philosophies both in form and spirit of government.

Textbook: World History, Connections to Today, Prentice Hall
Credit: 1 unit

European History Honors

The civilization that developed in Europe over the last 700 years is in many ways the most influential in the modern world. European History explores the most important movements and events on the continent from the Renaissance through the fall of the Soviet empire. During these centuries Europeans re-invented their culture, reformed their religion, redefined their view of nature, settled the new World, revolutionized government and the means of production, won and lost great empires outside of Europe, fought the bloodiest wars in history, and made major strides in unifying the continent. Twenty-first century Americans are among the heirs of this civilization. Through the study of European History, the students will become better informed and more culturally sensitive citizens of the emerging global age.

Textbook: The Western Heritage Since 1300, Prentice Hall
Credit: 1 unit

US History Honors

Honors U.S. History is designed to be a challenging course. It is a two-semester survey of American history from the first migrations to North America to modern time. Solid reading and writing skills, along with a willingness to devote considerable time to homework and study are essential to succeed. An emphasis is placed on critical and evaluative thinking skills, essay writing, interpretation of original documents and historiography. Students learn to assess historical material and determine their relevance to a given interpretative problem, reliability and importance.

Textbook: America’s History, Bedford/St. Martin
Prerequisite: World History, European History
Credit: 1 unit

American Government Honors

This one semester course will provide students with a better understanding of the organization and functions of the American government. Course content will include the political philosophy underlying the Constitution, political parties and interest groups, political ideologies, civil liberties and civil rights and close examination of the federal government’s departments and their operations.

Textbook: Magruder’s American Government, Prentice Hall
Prerequisite: World History
Credit: .5 unit

Economics Honors

The survey of Economics will provide students with a better understanding of the problem of scarcity and ways of dealing with it, thus preparing them to be better decision makers. Topics covered during this one semester course will include scarcity, economic systems, business forms, taxation, supply and demand, and banking.

Textbook: Economics: Principles and Practices, Glencoe
Prerequisite: World History
Credit: .5 unit

ELECTIVE STUDIES

Journalism

Journalism is changing because they way news is being received is changing. In this course, students will learn the basics of journalism; including how to write a news/ feature article, how to interview, ethics of journalism and how these apply to us as Christians. Students will learn how to publish their work via blogs, podcasting, RSS feeds and on our journalism class website (www.casaints.info). Students will also work on the yearbook and will be responsible for their assigned pages as part of our class. In addition, students will also be required to submit at least one journalistic composition in scholastic competition. Students will use their computers in this class as their primary tool. Yearbook design will be on Herff Jones website using their edesign software.

Textbook: Exp3 Journalism: A Handbook for Journalists, Glencoe
A Guide to Yearbook Journalism, Herff Jones
Credit: .5 unit

Applied Technology

The Applied Technology course focuses on Web Design, while also reviewing how the web works and how to evaluate the accuracy and usefulness of information on the Web. The student will continue to develop writing, research and design skills utilized in the ninth grade Journalism class and will acquire new skills in areas such as Digital Photography. This course is intended to help prepare students for the positive uses of technology resources in the 21st century home and workplace. A variety of computer applications will be use in this course with an emphasis on Microsoft FrontPage.

Textbook: Introduction to Web Design Using FrontPage, Glencoe Credit: .5 unit

Business/Careers

The Introduction to Business course will prepare students for the rapidly changing nature of today’s workplace. The course will emphasize workplace skills and competencies, technology, life skills, and professional development. Students will learn about the many career options available to them. This course will also incorporate a school-to-work learning component. A variety of computer applications will be used in this course including Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Publisher.

Textbook: Succeeding in the World of Work, Glencoe Credit: .5 unit

Fine Arts Appreciation

The goal of this class is to bring the ability to understand and use the vocabulary of art with the history and perceptual ability of the times behind it into the classroom. This course is designed to be highly interactive with student participation, personal discovery, research plus the exploration of art through history. The visual format of DVD’s, slides, prints and virtual and real museum visits form the core of the dynamic exploratory atmosphere. The study, involvement, and appreciation of art has long been recognized as a bases of a well rounded, intelligent person and further, as a Christian, art has been seen to stimulate and inspire and make one constantly in awe of the art form of our highest creator Himself, Out Lord. Studio art will also be incorporated into this course. The studio class will give the students a chance to learn the materials of art in 2 and 3 dimensional form further enhancing what they have gleamed from the art appreciation lectures. This will allow students to take what they are learning from theoretical discussion and critical analysis into practical application.

Credit: .5 unit

Psychology

In this course, students will learn about how psychology integrates throughout our everyday lives and thinking. Students will be introduced to approaches to psychology, the brain, body and behavior, cognitive processes, human development and personality adjustment and conflicts. Students will also be introduced to sociocultural influences and a variety of psychological disorders. Studying these topics helps students develop awareness and an understanding of the many forces that influence their behavior.

Textbook: Psychology and You, West Publishing Co.
Credit: .5 unit