CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
2007 – 2008

Core Curricula
 
History   The central focus of the entire curriculum is a timeline approach to history.  Bible, writing, literature, science, art and music are correlated to or integrated with the history program.  A variety of materials, secular and Christian, are used to teach specific objectives at each grade level.

English/Language Arts   Reading begins with a structured study of phonics and continues with a variety of literature sources, including trade books, poetry, and basal readers.  A literature-based program complimenting the period of history is taught in upper grades.  A grammar foundation is laid through a rigorous elementary program.  Emphasis on writing is achieved by teaching specific modes of writing at each grade level. Instruction in grammar and writing fundamentals is supported with Write Source handbooks in elementary grades and Elements of Writing in upper grades. 

Bible   All students take a Bible class. Biblical principles are integrated throughout the curriculum.  Students are equipped with a Biblical world view.

Science   Instruction is discovery based using Christian programs and texts.  Hands-on learning is emphasized in the elementary grades and the scientific process in the upper grades.

Math   The kindergarten through sixth grade math program is from the Association of Christian Schools International.  Components of the program provide students the opportunity to master both mathematical skills and conceptual understanding.  The upper school program is based on the University of Chicago School Math Project; it provides strong basic skills plus student relevant application.

Enrichments

Foreign Language   French is offered to high school students as an elective.  Spanish is offered to middle and high school students.  Latin is introduced to third through fifth graders; vocabulary building, culture government, and art are included to increase understanding of our western heritage.

Physical Education   All students in preschool through ninth grade have physical education.  The elementary program is designed to assist physical development and coordination.  The upper school program teaches game fundamentals and lifelong fitness.

Art / Music   All students in kindergarten through sixth grade take general art and music once a week.  Correlation of art and music history with the period of history being studied is included in general art and music through the fifth grade.  Art and music history are covered in history classes in middle and high school.  High school students take art and music appreciation.  Sixth grade through high school students may take vocal music or art as an elective.  Band is available beginning in fourth grade.

Computer Skills   Keyboarding and computer applications are taught in grades three through six and offered to upper school students who have not completed a course previously.  An in-depth study of computer hardware is the focus of the sixth grade program.  Further computer applications, computer programming, and web design are also available to upper school students.  A networked lab, Internet access in the library and computer lab, and computers in each classroom provide opportunities for remediation and enrichment of core subjects as well as creative projects.

Logic   Upper school students take both informal and formal logic courses.

Library   All students in elementary school go to the library once a week for circulation and library skills instruction.  Upper school students go to the library as needed.