Junior High Course Offerings
2015-2016
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Junior High Course Offerings
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Bible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Fine Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Foreign Languages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Health and Physical Education . . . . . . . . . . .
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Math . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Social Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Electives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Dear parents,
Information in bold lettering concerns scheduling, high school credit, and/or high school GPA;
contact your student’s guidance counselor if you have questions. Our guidance counselors and the
entire junior high team are here to assist as you schedule classes.
In our Lord’s service,
Judy Sewell, PhD
Academic Dean
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INFORMATION
Activity Period Scheduling—Quarter classes described on the following pages are offered during
Junior High Activity Periods. Students will be scheduled for four of these quarter classes each year.
7 Physical Education Computer Concepts 1
Foreign Language Foreign Language
8 Physical Education Computer Concepts 2 @ Health
Art
@Computer Concepts 1 or equivalent required prior to enrolling in Computer Concepts 2. All grade
8 students should be capable of typing 25 WPM prior to enroll in Concepts 2; tutorial work is
available from the Concepts teachers and our librarians.
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Algebra 1—Junior High students on fast-track math take Algebra 1 for high school credit in grade 8.
It is a high school course for those students who have successfully completed Advanced Pre-Algebra
and have the maturity and motivation required for this class. Students are expected to maintain a
“B” average in this advanced course. Students successfully completing Junior High Algebra 1 should
then enroll in Geometry. Following Geometry, those students meeting the honors requirements will
enroll in Algebra 2 Honors. Department approval required for enrollment. The grade earned in this
course is included in the student’s high school GPA; students earning below a “B” average may be
counseled to retake Algebra 1 in high school.
Foreign Language Classes—Junior High foreign language classes are introductory courses designed
to stir a student’s interest in the language. We highly recommend students try new languages (e.g.,
if they had Spanish in elementary school they should not take JH Spanish). These introductory
courses are for our grade 7 students.
Grade 8 students can consider applying to take a High School language. Scheduling for these classes
takes place in February of grade 7. To be considered for a HS course, the student must meet the
following criteria:
 Have submitted an application (available from Foreign Language office)
 Have two faculty references submitted (forms available from Foreign Language office)
 Have excellent grades in English 7, especially in vocabulary and grammar assessments
 Have solid grades in all required subjects, being known as a student willing to work
diligently and inquisitively
At the end of semester 1, each JH student in a HS class will be evaluated to ensure appropriate
placement; if a student’s guidance counselor recommends a student drop the HS class, the course
will not be listed on the student’s transcript (permanent record). For those students remaining in
the HS class, the grades earned in high school courses are included in a student’s high school GPA.
Students are required to take two years of the same language during high school. Students with
high school credit earned during junior high must still take two years of a foreign language during
high school.
Electives—Students may opt to take additional courses as their schedules permit. We offer a yearlong class in Chess, a quarter class of Logic, and a semester class in Sound Technology.
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*****
Bible: Students are required to take Bible each year. Families are encouraged to have their
students read the Bible aloud to the family.
*JH Bible 7 - Life of Christ Annual
This is an introduction to the life and teachings of Jesus through the Gospel of Luke. We begin the
year with a review of the events and promises of the Old Testament and explain how they
foreshadow the coming of Jesus. We then delve into a study of the historical situation into which
Jesus was born to better understand the events of the gospels; we also take some time to learn
Israel's geography. We spend the bulk of the year going through the Gospel of Luke verse-by-verse
in an attempt to understand 1) who Jesus claimed to be; 2) what He accomplished through His life,
death, and resurrection; and 3) what it means to follow Christ. Special attention is given to the
question: “What does it mean to be a Christian?” (i.e., “What should we believe?” “What should our
lives look like?”) Students learn through creative projects, watching movies and writing reflection
papers, working through devotions, journaling about Chapel messages, and completing worksheets
aimed at getting students deep into the Word of God.
*JH Bible 8 - Old Testament Survey Annual
This is a survey course of the Old Testament. Students will come away from this class with an
overview of the Biblical history of the Jewish people. There is a special emphasis on the foundations
of this history as we study the creation, the lives of the patriarchs, and the exodus from Egypt. At
every step along our journey together, we see foreshadowing and glimpses of the coming of the
Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ. To help us to learn the wonderful story of God’s plan for humankind,
we learn 77 “signposts” of the Old Testament—its major events and people. We memorize Bible
verses from both the Old and New Testament; we put together projects in response to what we are
learning; we listen to great music; we watch some content-specific movies; we complete study
guides based on Scripture; and we interact with the Word in journal entries and class responses. In
short, we get closer to Christ by studying the Bible that He Himself used!
*****
English: Students are required to take English each year. Parents are asked to quiz their students
on vocabulary and spelling so students can obtain mastery of these important skills.
*JH English 7 Annual
The seventh-grade English curriculum emphasizes the study of grammar, including the eight parts of
speech, mechanics of capitalization and punctuation, and techniques of outlining, summarizing and
letter writing. Vocabulary development constitutes another part of the curriculum with attention
paid to both spelling and definitions. Literature is taught by means of both silent and oral reading of
short stories, novels, and non-fiction works. Writing gives practical application to the above skills
while developing the knowledge and imagination of the student. Summer Required Reading: The
Magicians Nephew, by C.S. Lewis (to be read individually); and the Gospel of Mark (to be read
aloud with an adult).
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* JH English 8 Annual
English 8 gives students a background in grammar, vocabulary, literature, and composition. An
understanding of the specifics of Standard English grammar is essential to its application in all
written and verbal communications. Much time is devoted to the application of grammar in writing
narrative and expository essays; students also write creative fiction. The literature curriculum
includes short stories, poetry, plays, novels, and biographies. Basic terminology of literary analysis
and structure of the various genres is taught. Summer Required Reading: selections from The Book
of Virtues by William Bennett (electronic copy supplied by Mrs. Holmes [email protected].
*****
Fine Arts: One music performance course (band, choir, handbells, or strings) must be taken in
either seventh or eighth grade, and one art course must be taken in eighth grade. Junior High
students are not required to have any experience in fine arts except where noted.
ART
*JH Art: Grade 8 Quarter
This course introduces students to basic art and design fundamentals, and is a place to create fun
and enjoyable art projects. The course introduces basic art elements and principles used in twoand three-dimensional design. Students focus on learning basic drawing and three-dimensional
techniques through a variety of projects.
BAND
JH Beginning Band: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
Beginning Band is a course designed for 7-11 grade students wishing to learn a band instrument for
the first time or for students who already play a band instrument but need more individual
attention than is possible in a full band class. The course is also open to experienced band students
who wish to change to a different instrument. The goal of the course is for each student to
eventually be placed into the appropriate Junior High or Senior High band at CVCA. Instrumental
music experience is not required. Students will be given direction from the instructor in choosing
an instrument appropriate for their physical make up. Students participating in the course will be
required to obtain their own instrument, with the exception of students who choose some of the
low brass and woodwind instruments, which will be provided by CVCA. Parents are asked to provide
practice space and time for their students.
JH Concert Band: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
Junior High Band is an intermediate level band. Students are expected to have prior musical
experience, either through elementary band or private lessons. The course is designed to build
upon skills students have already developed as well as introduce new skills. Students explore a
variety of musical styles including compositions written specifically for other genres. The music is
generally classical, sacred, or “pop.” Students will also study basic music theory, musical
terminology, and conducting. The group performs several concerts throughout the school year. All
performances are mandatory. The course may be taken multiple years. Parents are asked to
provide practice space and time for their students.
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CHOIR
Junior High Choir: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
The Junior High Choir is open to all 7 and 8 grade students. Students learn the foundations of
singing, including correct posture, breathing, and vocal warm-up techniques. Basic music theory and
music reading is presented with various sight reading method books. Many different music styles
are performed, including hymns, contemporary Christian, and traditional chorale music. The Junior
High Choir performs at least two times annually: Christmas Choral Concert, and Spring Choral
Concert; these performances are mandatory. Other mandatory performances may occur
throughout the year. The course may be taken multiple years. Parents are asked to provide
practice space and time for their students.
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JH Gospel Choir: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
The Gospel Choir is open to students in grades 9-12. Junior High students may take the course if
their schedules permit. The choir sings traditional spirituals and gospel music of many different
styles. Two main performances are held throughout the year: Christmas Choral Concert, and Spring
Choral Concert; these performances are mandatory. This group travels to various other locations to
perform for events such as The Gospelfest Invitational and The National Day of Prayer; Gospel Choir
also performs at area nursing homes and elementary schools. These performances are also
mandatory. Students may sign-up through the Fine Arts Department if they wish to take Gospel
Choir during Community Time; they do not earn credit for this. The course may be taken multiple
years. Parents are asked to provide practice space and time for their students.
Women’s Chorale: Grade 8 Annual
The Women’s Chorale consists of 8-12 grade young ladies. Admission to the course is by audition
the spring prior to the class. This group performs primarily SSA (Soprano, Second Soprano and Alto)
music of various styles including hymns, contemporary Christian, and traditional chorale music. The
foundations of singing including correct posture, breathing and vocal warm-up techniques are
reviewed. Intermediate music theory and music reading is also included through various sight
reading method books. Three main performances are held throughout the year: Children’s Hospital
Tree Lighting Festival, Christmas Choral Concert, and Spring Choral Concert; these performances
are mandatory. Other mandatory performances may occur throughout the year. This course may
be taken multiple years starting in grade 8. Parents are asked to provide practice space and time for
their students.
HANDBELLS
JH Handbells: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
The Junior High Handbell Choir is a group giving emphasis to musical styles, interpretation,
individual skills, technical development, and varied repertoire. The course is open to all Junior High
students, but an audition may be required during the first week of school to fill available positions.
Students must have experience in reading music in both treble and bass clefs. Previous handbell
or piano experience is preferred, but not required. The course meets two days per week. The
course may be taken multiple years. The group performs several times per year and all
performances are mandatory. Membership is by director permission.
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Intermediate Handbells: Grade 8 Annual
Intermediate Handbell Choir is for students who have either played in Junior High Handbell Choir or
who display a high level of music and rhythm reading ability. This is a performing group that plays
for chapels, at CVCA concerts, and also at area Christian schools. All performances are mandatory.
Membership is by director permission. The course meets three days per week. This course may be
taken multiple years starting in grade 8.
STRINGS
Beginning Strings: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
Beginning Strings is a course designed for students in grades 7-11 wishing to learn a string
instrument; violin, viola, cello, or string bass, for the first time. The class may also include students
who already play a string instrument but need more individual attention than is possible in a full
orchestra class. No musical experience or background is necessary. Students will have the
opportunity to try the string instruments and be given guidance from the instructor in choosing an
instrument. Students are expected to supply their own violin or viola while the school will provide
the large cello and bass. The beginning strings students will join the other orchestra students for a
few pieces of music on several concerts during the school year.
String Orchestra: Grades 7 & 8 Annual
The String Orchestra consists of students in grades 7 through 12 with previous experience on a
string instrument; violin, viola, cello, or string bass. Many students in this ensemble take private
lessons outside of class. The course builds upon skills the students already have and performs a
variety of music from classical to modern. The ensemble performs several concerts throughout the
school year, all of which are mandatory.
*****
Foreign Languages: Junior High students will be scheduled for two languages in seventh grade.
These are introductory courses designed to stir a student’s interest in the language. We highly
recommend students try new languages (e.g., if they had Spanish in elementary school they should
not take JH Spanish). Parents are asked to quiz their students on vocabulary and spelling so
students can obtain mastery of these important skills.
Foreign Language Classes—Junior High foreign language classes are introductory courses designed
to stir a student’s interest in the language. We highly recommend students try new languages (e.g.,
if they had Spanish in elementary school they should not take JH Spanish). These introductory
courses are for our grade 7 students.
Grade 8 students can consider applying to take a High School language. Scheduling for these classes
takes place in February of grade 7. To be considered for a HS course, the student must meet the
following criteria:
 Have submitted an application (available from Foreign Language office)
 Have two faculty references submitted (forms available from Foreign Language office)
 Have excellent grades in English 7, especially in vocabulary and grammar assessments
 Have solid grades in all required subjects, being known as a student willing to work
diligently and inquisitively
At the end of semester 1, each JH student in a HS class will be evaluated to ensure appropriate
placement; if a student’s guidance counselor recommends a student drop the HS class, the course
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will not be listed on the student’s transcript (permanent record). For those students remaining in
the HS class, the grades earned in high school courses are included in a student’s high school GPA.
Students are required to take two years of the same language during high school. Students with
high school credit earned during junior high must still take two years of a foreign language during
high school.
JH French: Grades 7 & 8 Quarter
Did you know that French is spoken on five of the seven continents by over 200 million people? In
fact, Americans benefit from the enriching presence of French speakers on our own soil (specifically
Louisiana and New England)! This makes the French Program a logical choice for students
interested in international business, politics, and travel, as students learn not only about French
culture, but also the culture of several other French-speaking countries. Junior High French is an
introductory program which explores a variety of topics in French, such as daily activities, colors,
numbers, food, family, and school. Students also learn to engage in basic conversation and
compose simple sentences. Furthermore, students will grow in their appreciation of French
contributions to society through our studies of important French figures in history. Finally, students
will enjoy watching videos about French culture and playing games in French.
French 1: Grade 8 Annual; 1 credit
French 1 students will study the culture of France and francophone areas. Also, while emphasizing
both listening comprehension and speaking proficiency, French 1 students will learn basic
conversation, including greetings, interests, activities, family, school, and food. In addition, through
workbook activities, some reading activities, and short compositions, students will master the
introductory grammar of the present and past tenses, agreement, and sentence structures. Finally,
to supplement the language learning process, students will also enjoy experiencing French food,
listening to French music, and playing games in French. Eighth graders must have Guidance
approval to enroll. At the end of semester 1, each JH student in a HS class will be evaluated to
ensure appropriate placement; if a student’s guidance counselor recommends a student drop the
HS class, the course will not be listed on the student’s transcript (permanent record). For those
students remaining in the HS class, the grades earned in high school courses are included in a
student’s high school GPA. Students are required to take two years of the same language during
high school. Students with high school credit earned during junior high must still take two years of
a foreign language during high school.
JH Latin: Grades 7 & 8 Quarter
Studies in Latin provide an excellent background for those looking to pursue careers in medicine,
pharmacy, law, literature, teaching, biology, technology, or politics. Junior High Latin is an
introductory course with three major components: (1) Latin vocabulary and English cognates; (2)
ancient Roman history; (3) and Greek and Roman mythology. Emphasis is given to the Latin
derivatives of many English words. Roman history and culture are presented through a Christian
worldview in a very interesting and readable format, with many detailed illustrations that bring the
Latin culture to life. The myths of ancient Rome are stories to be enjoyed with scripturally-informed
discernment.
Latin 1: Grade 8 Annual; 1 credit
Studies in Latin provide an excellent background for those looking to pursue careers in medicine,
pharmacy, law, literature, teaching, biology, technology, or politics. Latin 1 provides the student
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with a solid foundation in Latin grammar. At this level, the four conjugations of Latin verbs and the
first two declensions are emphasized. Students begin studying Roman history including the periods
of the monarchy; the early Republic; and the Punic Wars. In addition, various topics in mythology
are explored such as the Olympians; Jason and the Argonauts; and Cupid and Psyche. This course
strengthens students’ skills in English, and it gives them an appreciation for classical history, culture,
and language. Eighth graders must have Guidance approval to enroll. At the end of semester 1,
each JH student in a HS class will be evaluated to ensure appropriate placement; if a student’s
guidance counselor recommends a student drop the HS class, the course will not be listed on the
student’s transcript (permanent record). For those students remaining in the HS class, the grades
earned in high school courses are included in a student’s high school GPA. Students are required to
take two years of the same language during high school. Students with high school credit earned
during junior high must still take two years of a foreign language during high school.
JH Mandarin: Grades 7 & 8 Quarter
The Chinese economy is currently slated to surpass the U.S. economy by 2020, some say as
early as 2016 (Forbes 3, 2013). In our current global situation, we want to encourage our
students to study the language that they will need to compete in a global
economy. Additionally, there are 1.4 billion Chinese in the world. Many of them live in the
United States and many have never heard the Good News of the gospel. In all levels of Chinese,
students study Chinese language and culture. Chinese is a character-based tonal
language. Chinese culture has a long, rich history which students will study including tradition,
holidays, and most importantly - food! The Junior High Mandarin Chinese class will consist of
learning basic spoken phrases, tones, and pronunciation. Basic reading and writing of characters will
also be included but will not be the focus.
Mandarin 1: Grade 8 Annual; 1 credit
Mandarin Chinese 1 is designed as an introductory course for beginning foreign language
learners. It will set the stage for continued growth in the language through the upper levels of
the program. In Mandarin Chinese 1, students will focus comprehensible input and speaking in
the first year. Reading and writing will be based in the Romanization system of Chinese called
“pinyin.” So, for example, instead of 你好! in characters, students will learn how to write
“Nihao!” in pinyin. Character learning will increase each year and pinyin will decrease as a
focus. Because Mandarin is a tonal language, students must have well-developed listening skills
in order to study Mandarin while in grade 8. Eighth graders must have Guidance approval to
enroll. At the end of semester 1, each JH student in a HS class will be evaluated to ensure
appropriate placement; if a student’s guidance counselor recommends a student drop the HS class,
the course will not be listed on the student’s transcript (permanent record). For those students
remaining in the HS class, the grades earned in high school courses are included in a student’s high
school GPA. Students are required to take two years of the same language during high school.
Students with high school credit earned during junior high must still take two years of a foreign
language during high school.
JH Spanish: Grades 7 & 8 Quarter
Opportunities to speak Spanish with native speakers abound in the United States as well as around
the world. By the year 2015, the population division of the United Nations Secretariat foresees a
world-wide population of 120 million Spanish speakers. In 43 of our country’s states, Spanish is the
most commonly spoken language after English. The rich culture of the Latino population offers
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North Americans much enjoyment as well as insight into our country’s history, language, and
current events. Students who learn to speak Spanish can easily find future employment in our
global community. A bilingual person earns on average $5,000 more per year than a monolingual
person. Jobs are readily available as teachers, translators, interpreters, international businessmen
and women, and federal government employees. Junior High Spanish is an introductory 9 week
course which gives students a taste of the language and culture of Spanish speaking
countries. Students learn to communicate through the use of stories, dialogues, games, and songs.
Spanish 1: Grade 8 Annual; 1 credit
Spanish 1 is designed as an introductory course for beginning foreign language learners and, as
such, will establish a solid foundation for future study of the language. Students will be provided
with many opportunities to practice the lexical and grammatical items introduced in the textbook
and workbook. There is a strong emphasis on the acquisition of a broad base of
vocabulary. Because Spanish is the primary language used by over 40 million people worldwide,
students will be encouraged to develop communication skills as well. An extensive variety of
activities will foster the development of the four essential skills in learning a foreign
language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The textbook for this course is highly integrated
with online activities where students will practice the concepts learned in class. Eighth graders
must have Guidance approval to enroll. At the end of semester 1, each JH student in a HS class will
be evaluated to ensure appropriate placement; if a student’s guidance counselor recommends a
student drop the HS class, the course will not be listed on the student’s transcript (permanent
record). For those students remaining in the HS class, the grades earned in high school courses are
included in a student’s high school GPA. Students are required to take two years of the same
language during high school. Students with high school credit earned during junior high must still
take two years of a foreign language during high school.
*****
Health & Physical Education: Junior High students are required to take a physical education class
each year and health during the eighth grade.
*JH Boys Physical Education: Grades 7 & 8 Quarter
This course is designed to give each student the opportunity to continue developing basic motor
skills (running, throwing, kicking, etc.); to measure physical strengths and weaknesses; to introduce
team games for enjoyment; and to prepare each student for further participation on athletic teams.
Team and individual skills are stressed, demonstrated, and put into a game situation. A variety of
activities are taught over the quarter that may include fitness activities, speedball, soccer, tennis,
basketball, volleyball, aerobics, roller skating, jump rope skills, bowling, recreational games, team
handball, floor hockey, track and field, and softball.
*JH Girls Physical Education: Grades 7 & 8 Quarter
This course is designed to give each student the opportunity to continue developing basic motor
skills (running, throwing, kicking, etc.); to measure physical strengths and weaknesses; to introduce
team games for enjoyment; and to prepare each student for further participation on athletic teams.
Team and individual skills are stressed, demonstrated, and put into a game situation. A variety of
activities are taught over the quarter that may include fitness activities, speedball, soccer, tennis,
basketball, volleyball, aerobics, roller skating, jump rope skills, bowling, recreational games, team
handball, floor hockey, track and field, and softball.
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*JH Boys Health: Grade 8 Quarter
Boys' Health 8 is designed to introduce the student to a number of subjects related to health. It
seeks to develop an awareness of the Christian's stewardship in regard to the care and use of the
body. The units covered include general health and wellness, mental and social health, heredity,
hygiene, nutrition, reproduction, smoking, alcohol and drugs. Scripture is integrated into each
subject. A speaker from "RSVP" (Responsible Social Values Program) presents a four day unit. This
program has a very candid approach and discusses responsible decision-making skills that address
concerns in our society and that affect the students' daily lives.
*JH Girls Health: Grade 8 Quarter
Girls' Health 8 is designed to introduce the student to a number of subjects related to health. It
seeks to develop an awareness of the Christian's stewardship in regard to the care and use of the
body. The units covered include general health and wellness, mental and social health, heredity,
hygiene, nutrition, reproduction, smoking, alcohol, and drugs. Scripture is integrated into each
subject. A speaker from "RSVP" (Responsible Social Values Program) presents a four day unit. This
program has a very candid approach and discusses responsible decision-making skills that address
concerns in our society and that affect the students' daily lives.
*****
Math: Students are required to take math each year. Math is offered in two tracks, regular and
advanced. The regular courses are Pre-Algebra 7 and Pre-Algebra 8. The advanced courses are
Advanced Pre-Algebra 7 and JH Algebra 1. Permission of the department is required for those
students enrolling in the advanced track. Math ability is assessed through the student's consistent
performance on standardized tests. The student's math achievement is based on standardized
tests, grades in fifth and sixth grade math, study skills, teacher recommendations, and entrance test
scores.
JH Pre-Algebra 7 Annual
Pre-Algebra 7 is designed to solidify basic computation in mathematics while introducing concepts
necessary for success in high school Algebra 1. Topics include order of operations, fractions,
decimals, geometric shapes, integers, and basic equations. Upon the successful completion of PreAlgebra 7, students must enroll in Pre-Algebra 8.
JH Pre-Algebra 8 Annual
Pre-Algebra 8 emphasizes the conceptual understanding of math skills necessary in high school
Algebra 1. Topics include integers, solving linear equations and inequalities, graphing linear and
quadratic functions, and simplifying polynomials. This course expands the students’ knowledge of
the number system with an introduction to irrational numbers. Pre-Algebra 8 also introduces
students to geometric concepts, including volume and surface area. This course continues to
develop skills needed to effectively communicate math by verbal and written response. Students
successfully completing Pre-Algebra 8 will continue to Algebra 1 or Basic Algebra 1 as 9 graders.
JH Advanced Pre-Algebra 7 Annual
Advanced Pre-Algebra 7 is a course designed for the self-motivated student who has verifiable math
ability and has demonstrated observable math achievement. The fundamental purpose of the
course is to prepare students for the sometimes abstract concepts they may encounter in Algebra 1.
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Much of the course is directed toward the development of critical thinking skills necessary for a
greater conceptual understanding of mathematics. Students will take an algebraic approach to the
study of integers, rational numbers, linear graphs, geometry, and statistics. A strong foundation in
basic computational skills is assumed. Students are evaluated at the end of the year for possible
enrollment in Algebra 1 in 8th grade with factors such as grades, personal motivation, homework
completion and quality, and enthusiasm for mathematics being incorporated into the decision.
Students are expected to maintain a B average in this advanced course. Department approval
required for enrollment.
Junior High Algebra 1: Grade 8 Annual
Junior High Algebra 1 is a high school course for those students who have successfully completed
Advanced Pre-Algebra and have the maturity and motivation required for this class. The course
begins with a brief review of pre-algebra concepts. Understanding and demonstrating the logical
progression of steps in each algebraic concept is stressed. Topics covered include 1) solving and
graphing equations, inequalities and functions; 2) linear, absolute value, exponential, quadratic,
radical, and rational equations; 3) solving ratios and proportions; 4) simplifying polynomials and
factoring; 5) simplifying exponents and using exponential growth and decay; and 6) data analysis.
Students use the TI-83 graphics calculator to explore and discover math concepts. Students connect
mathematics to real world situations and explain concepts through written response. Students are
expected to maintain a “B” average in this advanced course. Students successfully completing
Junior High Algebra 1 enroll in Geometry in grade 9. Following Geometry, those students meeting
the honors requirements will enroll in Algebra 2 Honors. Department approval required for
enrollment. The grade earned in this course is included in the student’s high school GPA; students
earning below a “B” average may be counseled to retake Algebra 1 in high school.
*****
Science: Students are required to take science both years.
*JH Science 7 Annual
Course content includes characteristics of organisms, structure and function of the cell, genetics,
biomes/ecosystems, climate, and weather. The subject is covered in depth with many supporting
activities. Students are involved in making models, investigating and presenting research, using
microscopes, writing lab reports, and using technology to enhance their education.
* JH Science 8: Annual
Science 8 focuses on two distinct areas: Physical Science and Earth & Space Science. Both are
designed to prepare the student for high school science and the Ohio science standards test. The
class consists of the following units: Genetics; Forces, Matter, and the Atom; Waves; Energy;
Motion; Our Active Earth; The Cosmos; Our Solar System; and Application of Motion – including
rockets!
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*****
Social Studies: Students are required to take social studies both years.
* JH Social Studies 7 Annual
Ancient History presents history in its geographic setting. In studying the history of the world, a
Christian perspective of ancient and related current events is surveyed to incorporate God's Word
to better equip each student for decision making in our ever-changing world.
*JH Social Studies 8 Annual
The chief aim of Early American History is to develop in the student a general understanding of the
unfolding of American history from the late 15th century through the Civil War and to acquaint the
student with the major forces which have shaped history. Other important aims are to develop
historical sense, develop sophisticated political and economic understanding, broaden moral and
ethical perspectives, sharpen powers of thought and expression, and introduce some of the great
figures and events of American history. The course will reveal how Christianity has played a major
role throughout all of American history.
*****
Technology: Students are required to take two junior high technology courses. Students may
practice keyboarding at home, in our library, or in our computer labs during scheduled hours. An
elective technology course is also available.
*JH Computer Concepts 1: Grade 7 Quarter
This is a beginning keyboarding course in which students learn to "type" properly using the correct
fingers for specific keys on the keyboard. They will be proficient typists by the end of this class. In
addition to learning the keyboard, students gain basic knowledge on the operation of a computer as
well as how to operate different software programs. The students are expected to complete the
class typing at least 25 words per minute. Computer Concepts 1 is required prior to enrolling in
Computer Concepts 2.
*JH Computer Concepts 2: Grade 8 Quarter
Computer Concepts 2 is a basic Office software class that teaches documents, presentations, and
spreadsheets; and it focuses on typing. This class also teaches Internet Safety and
Ergonomics. Prerequisite: Concepts 1. Transfer students must prove proficiency prior to enrolling
in Concepts 2. All grade 8 students should be capable of typing 25 WPM prior to enroll in Concepts
2; tutorial work is available from the Concepts teachers and our librarians. The students are
expected to complete the class typing at least 35 words per minute in order to be prepared for
high school classes.
JH Sound Technology: Grades 7 or 8; elective Semester
Junior High Sound Technology is designed for students interested in operating a live sound
reinforcement system in a variety of settings. The course involves both classroom instruction as well
as practical experience outside of class. In addition to classroom lectures, activities, and
assessments, students are required to fulfill observation or participation hours each quarter.
These hours can be fulfilled by operating a sound system or observing a sound system being
operated at different local functions.
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Electives: Students may opt to take additional courses as their schedules permit.
JH Chess Club: Grades 7 or 8; elective Annual
Chess is held one day per week throughout the year. Chess students are assigned to study hall on
non-chess days.
JH Logic: Grades 7 or 8; elective Quarter
Junior High J Logic is a brief and basic introduction to the science and art of reasoning
well. Attention is given to simple logical concepts such as definitions, categorical statements,
syllogisms and informal fallacies. The light workload is complemented by a fun assortment of
games and competitions to help cement these concepts in the mind. This fun course should help
whet the student’s appetite for a more substantial diet of Logic later on. Minimum student
enrollment required to ensure this class will be scheduled.
JH Sound Technology: Grades 7 or 8; elective Semester
Junior High Sound Technology is a course designed for students interested in operating a live sound
reinforcement system in a variety of settings. The course involves both classroom instruction as well
as practical experience outside of class. In addition to classroom lectures, activities, and
assessments, students are required to fulfill observation or participation hours each quarter.
These hours can be fulfilled by operating a sound system or observing a sound system being
operated at different local functions.
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Study Hall is scheduled for all Junior High students. It is time set aside for reviewing lessons,
reading, working on assignments, researching through the library or computer resources, and
reflecting on learning. Study Tables take place during lunch and are not to be confused with Study
Hall.
Academic Support is available for those students needing small-group instruction in study and
organizational skills. It is not a homework study hall, although the Academic Support Program (ASP)
faculty use student assignments as springboards for study skill instruction. Students are assigned to
ASP by the Academic Dean based upon entrance testing, previous records, and teacher
recommendations. Parents may request ASP for their student by contacting the Guidance
Department.