Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Course Description found on page noted
Chorus (p. 22)
Grade
Level
Early Classes
3rd - 12th
Instructor
Student
Limit
Time
Bryant
none
11:55-12:25
Chemistry* (p. 3)
9th – 12th
Osburn
15
11:55-1:40
Advanced Biology* (p. 4)
Hour 1
9th – 12th
Hayward
10
12:30-1:40
Physical Science (p. 5)
7th – 9th
Edwards
20
12:30-1:40
7/6/5 Science – Botany (p. 20)
5th – 7th
Walker
15
12:30-1:40
Literature (p. 6)
8th – 12th
Brace
10
12:30-1:40
Writing B-1 (p. 7)
Hour 2
7th – 9th
Johnson
7
1:45 – 2:40
Writing B-2* (p. 8)
8th – 10th
Dobson
10
1:45 – 2:40
Spanish 1 (p. 9)
9th – 12th
Thompson
15
1:45 – 2:40
Introduction to Debate* (p. 10)
9th – 12th
Judge
12
1:45 – 2:40
Economics (Semester 1 only) (p. 11)
9th – 12th
Cummings
10
1:45 – 2:40
Government (Semester 2 only) (p. 12)
9th – 12th
Cummings
10
1:45 – 2:40
Yearbook (p. 13)
Hour 3
7th – 12th
Kracker
8
2:45 – 3:40
Speech and Communications (p. 14)
8th – 12th
Atkinson
10
2:45 – 3:40
Advanced Writing* (p. 15)
10th – 12th
Dobson
10
2:45 – 3:40
Spanish 3* (p. 16)
11th – 12th
Thompson
15
2:45 – 3:40
Personal Finance (Semester 1 only) (p. 17)
9th – 12th
Nash
12
2:45 – 3:40
Fit for Service (p. 18)
(may be taken one semester)
Latin Primer II* (page 19)
7th – 12th
Siri
15
2:45 – 3:40
4th – 7th
Hayward
12
2:45 – 3:40
7/6/5 Grammar (p. 21)
5th -- 7th
Dynes
15
2:45 – 3:40
Prerequisites: Courses designated with an asterisk (*) have a required or recommended prerequisite. Student must
qualify to enroll.
Study Hall: A study hall for 7th through 12th grade students may be offered each hour depending upon need and
availability of adults to staff the rooms. Please note any study hall requests on the application for enrollment.
Semester Courses: Though it is an option for a family to enroll in only one semester course, every family must
commit to a full-year of CLC involvement.
1
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Regarding textbooks:
Families are responsible for securing their own required textbooks for each course. It is feasible to share some
textbooks between students in the same family, but workbooks generally may not be shared due to their
consumable nature and that is noted next to each consumable text.
New texts – while there are numerous options for purchasing new textbooks, a recommended source, generally
based on lowest price CLC found for the text, has been shown for each course. The estimated price for a new text
is shown behind each ISBN. If a more cost-effective source is found, CLC encourages the sharing of that
information through the CLC website.
For some new textbook purchases, there is a distinct savings by ordering as a group. The teacher or other enrolled
family may be willing to take orders and make the bulk purchase for that particular course.
Used texts – in many cases purchasing used textbooks is an economical way to acquire the needed resources.
Some used textbooks can be purchased through resources such as amazon.com, half.com, ebay.com or other
internet sites. When purchasing used texts, be attentive to the condition of the books and edition you intend to
purchase. Additionally, CLC families often are willing to sell textbooks that they have finished using and may post
their items for sale on the CLC website. On occasion a CLC family will lend a textbook that they are not using for
a particular school year.
The International Standard Book Numbers (ISBNs) have been provided for most textbooks that are required for
CLC courses. Always use the ISBN when searching for books (used or new) in order to find the correct edition.
Enrichment Classes:
The following schedule is the expected 2017/2018 class layout for enrichment age students whose ages are
nursery to grade 6 and not enrolled in CLC courses. It is always possible that certain unforeseen circumstances
may cause the schedule to change.
Early Time
Hour 1
12:30-1:40
Hour 2
1:45-2:40
Hour 3
2:45-3:40
Grades
5&6&7
Chorus
Grades
3&4
Chorus
Grades
PreK - 2
Gym
Under
3 years
Nursery
7/6/5 Botany
4/3 PE
FIAR
Nursery
7/6/5 PE
4/3 Apologia
Science
Science
Nursery
7/6/5 Grammar
Latin Primer II
4/3 MI History
PE
Nursery
See pages 20 - 22 for important Enrichment Classes and Chorus details.
2
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Chemistry
Time: Early Class (11:55-1:40)
Level: 9th – 12th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: Algebra 1
Instructors: Tho Osburn
Required costs: Lab fee $20
Durable equipment fee $5
Course fee $10
Texts: Exploring Creation with Chemistry, 2nd Ed. Text Book ISBN: 9781932012262
Out of print but several are available as used books
Strongly suggested: Solutions Manual ISBN: 9781932012279
Class size limit: 15
Suggested credit: 1 year Science
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper and sections for homework, labs, tests; calculator
Using Apologia Educational Ministry, Inc.’s text, Exploring Creation with Chemistry, 2nd Edition, this course will
cover high school-level chemistry in 16 modules over 32 sessions. The Apologia curriculum is designed to prepare
students with a reasoned defense of the Christian faith in part through a strong scientific education in addition to
adequately preparing the student for a university level chemistry course. The text modules cover significant figures,
units, classification, the mole concept, stoichiometry, thermo chemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and
bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular geometry, the gas laws, and
equilibrium. The text and labs for each session must be read in preparation for each class. Pre-Labs and On Your
Own Questions will be assigned for completion before class. Quizzes will be given covering material from the
reading, assigned On Your Own Problems, and Pre-Labs. Students will be assigned various projects and tests to
be completed at home and returned to the instructor to be graded. Additionally, students will be expected to wear
closed-toed shoes to class to protect skin from chemicals during experiments.
It is suggested that each family have a solutions manual at their home. There are occasions when the teacher is
not able to copy the bi-weekly tests, and it becomes necessary for the parent to provide the test included with the
manual. The book also proves helpful for some parents when they work with their students to understand concepts;
the solutions manual may fill in a knowledge gap for the parent as she works with her child.
Tho and Jon Osburn have seven children and have been homeschooling since 2003. Tho earned her Bachelor of
Science degree in Biology from the University of Michigan in 1995. She enjoys staying at home and teaching her
children as well as reading and cooking. Tho is currently teaching the biology class, has been an assistant in the
chemistry class, and has taught third and fourth grade chemistry/physics.
3
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Advanced Biology – Human Anatomy
Time: Hour 1 (11:55-1:40)
Level: 9th – 12th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: High School Biology, High School Chemistry helpful but not
required
Instructor: Suzanne Hayward
Required costs: Lab fee $40
Durable equipment fee $5
Course fee $10
Texts: The Human Body: Advanced Biology in Creation, Second Edition ISBN13: 978-1-935495-72-7 ($65)
Solutions and Tests for The Human Body ISBN13: 978-1-935-495-97-0 ($19)
Kaplan Anatomy Coloring Book ISBN-13: 978-1618655981 (not optional) ($18)
Advanced Biology Student Notebook ISBN-13:978-1940110387 ($39)
Class size limit: 10
Suggested credit: 1 year Science
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper
Using Apologia Educational Ministry, Inc.’s text, The Human Body: Advance Biology in Creation, this course will cover
high school-level human anatomy in 16 modules over 32 sessions. The Apologia curriculum is designed to prepare
students with a reasoned defense of the Christian faith in part through a strong scientific education. The text modules
cover human anatomy from a cellular and sometimes chemical level to a gross anatomy perspective in order to get a
complete understanding of the human body. There will be dissections done in class. The text and labs for each session
must be read in preparation for each class. Students will be assigned various projects and tests to be completed at
home and returned to the instructor to be graded.
At times during the school year the student will be required to attend an extended class time to complete some
dissections and microscope work. On those occasions the course will usually meet during the science time that starts
at 11:55am.
It is beneficial and highly recommended for each family to have a solutions manual at their home. There are occasions
when the teacher is not able to copy the bi-weekly tests and it becomes necessary for the parent to provide the test
included with the manual. The book also proves helpful for some parents when they work with their students to
understand concepts - the solutions manual may fill in a knowledge gap for the parent as she works with her child.
The Haywards have four sons and began homeschooling in 2004. Suzanne received a Bachelor of Science degree in
biology and chemistry from Salem College (Winston-Salem, NC) in 1985, Master of Public Health degree from UNC
(Chapel Hill, NC) in 1988 and Doctor of Medicine degree from Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, NC) in
1992. After completing a Family Medicine Residency at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, IN, in 1995, she joined
Southwestern Medical Clinic, where her husband, Dan, works as well. Suzanne has continued medical work in various
part-time capacities from the time her children were born as well as served at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya in 2008/09.
Suzanne has taught various science and Latin courses at Covenant Learning Co-op.
Recommended source for texts: Amazon, CBD
4
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Physical Science
Time: Hour 1 (12:30-1:40)
Level: 7th – 9th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: None
Instructor: Rebecca Edwards
Required costs: Lab fee $5
Durable equipment fee $5
Course fee $10
Texts: Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 2nd Ed. with solutions manual, ISBN: 193201277X ($60)
Class size limit: 20
Suggested credit: 1 year 7th/8th Grade Science
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper
Apologia Educational Ministry, Inc.’s text, Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 2nd Edition, is written
from a creationist viewpoint and the 16 modules in this book will be covered in 32 weeks. This overview of
chemistry, physics, and earth science is designed to be the last course a student takes before biology. The
modules cover basic matter and unit conversions, air, the atmosphere, water, the hydrosphere, earth and
lithosphere, factors affecting weather, predicting weather, physics of motion, Newton’s laws, gravity and
circular motion, electricity and magnetism, radiation and atomic structure, light and sound, and astrophysics,
including age of the universe. Class time will include lectures, questions and answers, games and
experiments. Each student will keep a lab journal using the scientific method. Students will be assigned
various projects and tests to be completed at home and returned to the instructor to be graded. Homework
will include reading the text material before class, answering module questions, reading labs, writing up labs,
and taking tests. While Apologia recommends a course sequence of General Science at 7th grade and
Physical Science at 8th grade, students have reversed the sequence with success. Sixth grade students
may find the Physical Science curriculum will be more challenging than the General Science curriculum would
be, therefore, potentially requiring considerable parental assistance in the early modules.
It is required for each family to have a solutions manual at their home. There are occasions when the teacher
is not able to copy the bi-weekly tests, and it becomes necessary for the parent to provide the test included
with the manual. The book also proves helpful for some parents when they work with their students to
understand concepts - the solutions manual may fill in a knowledge gap for the parent as she works with her
child. The ISBN given above is for the text only, but the cost is for the set which includes the solutions
manual.
The Edwards family have been homeschooling their nine children for 15 years and have graduated two
children. Rebecca received a Bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of Toledo and a Masters
degree in Public Health from The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (formerly the
Medical College of Ohio). She worked for the National Association of Local Boards of Heath under a
cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a Project Director for Tobacco
Control until God directed her heart to stay at home and homeschool her children.
Recommended source for text: www.christianbook.com
5
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Literature
Time: Hour 1 (12:45 – 1:40)
Level: 8th – 12th
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Alison Brace
Required costs: Supply fee $5
Course fee $10
Textbooks: To be announced
Class size limit: 10
Suggested credit: 1 year English literature
Additional supplies required: Binder with loose paper or a notebook and a folder
We will be reading an array of literature spanning across the timeline of history. Tracing back to the earliest
English literature, we will begin with classics such as Beowulf and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Select
Canterbury Tales and Shakespearean tragedies bridge the Old English with more modern
examples. Romantic period poets, Dickens and more will round out the overview of the beginnings of English
literature. Ending the year with modern era short stories, novels and poems will bring our course full circle
in our discussion of genre, style, and literary techniques.
Depending on the specific piece, both entire works and excerpts will be assigned. The majority of the class
assignments will focus on the required reading, but discussion questions will be due weekly as well as essays
of varied length throughout the course.
A full list of required reading will be provided mid-summer to allow students to purchase or borrow books
prior to the start of the school year.
Alison Brace, a mom of two teenagers, began homeschooling when her family moved overseas to the mission
field. Her lifelong passion for literature prompted her to pursue her BA in English/Spanish and she hopes to
share her joy of reading and appreciating quality literature through this class.
6
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Writing B-1
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 7th – 9th
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Judi Johnson
Required costs: Supply fee $5
Course fee $10
Texts: §§Institute for Excellence in Writing Student Writing Intensive-Level B Handouts e-book ($10)
Class size limit: 7
Suggested credit: 7th - 9th Grade Composition
Additional supplies required: 2” 3-ring binder with 20 tabs and paper, thesaurus, and dictionary; access to
a computer with word processing program (preferably Microsoft Word) and printer
Good writing is essential. When used effectively, it conveys facts, it persuades, it inspires and much more.
Following lesson plans and DVD presentations from Student Writing Intensive-Level B, produced by Institute
for Excellence in Writing, the student will practice descriptive and informative paragraph writing as well as
weekly grammar and editing exercises. Students will learn to communicate their thoughts intelligently and
creatively starting with the use of key word outlines to begin the writing process. Over the year they will learn
five techniques for “dressing up” their essays and six “sentence openers” to improve a composition’s
readability. Students will need to spend up to one hour daily on assignments depending on the type of writing
being explored. Most assignments will need to be typed. It will be required for a parent to review and verify
the student’s compliance with teacher-supplied objective measurements for each assignment. The student
should possess a good grasp of grammar as well as have a solid understanding of the following parts of
speech: nouns, verbs, pronouns, adverbs, adjectives, and prepositions. Successful completion of Writing B1 satisfies one of the prerequisites for enrollment into the Writing B-2 course.
The Johnson family began homeschooling in 2001, when the oldest of their six children was in third grade.
This life-changing decision emphasized a journey of trusting the Lord, evaluating each child as an individual,
and accepting teaching strengths and weaknesses. The oldest three children are graduates of Covenant
Learning Co-op and currently attend college. Judi received her BA in Special Education from Indiana
University in 1992. She has greatly enjoyed teaching many classes at CLC over the years, including sciences
for the Pre-K through 2nd grade and, most recently, Astronomy for grades 3-7.
§§In order to abide by copyright regulations, each family must own one student notebook for the program
level in which it is enrolling a student. If you already own this notebook, you do not need to purchase it again.
The e-book can be purchased at www.excellenceinwriting.com.
7
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Writing B-2
Time: Hour 2 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 8th – 10th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: Successful completion of Writing B-1 or IEW Level B; basic
understanding of word processing system
Instructor: Kristen Dobson
Required costs: Supply fee $5
Course fee $10
Texts: Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation, 10th Edition ISBN: 9780470222683 ($10)
Class size limit: 7
Suggested credit: 1 year 7th/8th Grade Composition
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper and 5 tabs; access to a computer with word
processing program (preferably Microsoft Word) and printer; e-mail access highly recommended
Good writing is essential. When used effectively, it conveys facts, it persuades, it inspires. Following a
number of basic principles from The Institute for Excellence in Writing – Level B Continuation, by Andrew
Pudewa, as well as additional writing, grammar, and editing exercises, this course will teach students to
communicate their thoughts intelligently and creatively. Building upon skills acquired in Writing B-1, students
will continue to practice different kinds of writing including but not limited to note taking, paragraph formation,
essay writing, research writing, and creative writing. Students will refine their use of the six methods for
“dressing up” their essays to improve readability. These students will also be challenged to expand their
vocabulary and incorporate those stronger words into their compositions. Students will need to spend up to
one hour daily on assignments depending on the type of writing being explored. Most assignments will need
to be typed. It will be essential for a parent to review and verify the student’s compliance with teacher-supplied
objective measurements for each assignment. The student should be very familiar with use of the following
parts of speech: nouns, verbs, pronouns, adverbs, adjectives, and prepositions.
The required handbook will give CLC B level writing courses a standard for grammar rules which occasionally
differ between various curricula that families use.
After graduating from Northland International University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English
education and speech, Kristen taught grammar, writing, and literature for two years at Northland. In 1998,
the Dobsons joined the homeschooling scene when Kristen began offering courses in writing, grammar,
literature, and speech. When their oldest entered kindergarten and homeschooling began in earnest, Kristen
quickly realized why she had NOT become an elementary teacher! However, God has taught her much,
particularly regarding patience, over the past twelve years. She has survived and even enjoyed kindergarten
seven times! Offering classes in her fields of study to various groups of homeschoolers throughout the past
eighteen years has helped maintain her sanity.
Recommended source for texts: www.amazon.com
8
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Spanish 1
Time: Hour 2 (1:45-2:40)
Level: 9th – 12th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: None
Instructor: Lori Thompson
Required costs: Supply fee $15
Course fee $10
Texts:Realidades 1 Student 2003/2004 ed. ISBN: 9780131016873; 2007/2008 ed. ISBN: 9780131340916
($87 new, much less for used texts)
Realidades 1 Practice Workbook ISBN 0130360015 ($14) (consumable)
501 Spanish Verbs ISBN: 9780764197970 ($10 new)
Any Spanish-English dictionary (i.e., Merriam-Webster’s Spanish-English Dictionary ISBN: 0877798249, ($7)
Class size limit: 15
Suggested credit: 1 year Foreign Language
Additional requirements: 3-ring binder with paper, internet access
Spanish is a fun and highly practical language to learn. Learning a second language at an early age:
• Has a positive effect on intellectual growth.
• Enriches and enhances a student's mental development.
• Leaves students with more flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening.
• Improves a student's understanding of his/her native language.
• Gives a student the ability to communicate with people s/he would otherwise not have the chance to know.
• Opens doors to other cultures and helps a student understand and appreciate people from other countries.
• Gives a student a head start in language requirements for college.
• Increases job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset.
• Is easier than learning it at an older age, with greater chance for success.
• Equips one to touch lives cross-culturally for God’s Kingdom.
Students’ grades are based on class participation, homework assignments, tests, and special projects. While this course
will be taught at a high school level, highly motivated 7th/8th grade students may find it practical to their needs as well.
Effective language acquisition requires daily dedication and diligence. Long-term learning will most certainly be attained
through regular, daily exposure with auditory as well as visual components. For this reason, it is crucial that students spend
some time every day reading, listening, and speaking in Spanish. The amount of time needed to complete the weekly
assignments will vary from student to student; but in general, an hour a day is a good goal whenever possible. Parents
should encourage their students to share what they are learning each week and to speak out loud in Spanish often.
After graduating from Alma College in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, Spanish, and Music,
Lori taught 5th-8th graders in Detroit from 1991-1995. She has taught Spanish at CLC since 2009. Having also studied
German, Russian, Bulgarian, and French, Lori loves the practicality and relative simplicity of Spanish and finds no shortage
of opportunities to use it in America and abroad. Lori and Troy have five children and have homeschooled since 2000.
Recommended source for Realidades Practice Workbook Level 1 and brand-new Realidades Student Edition textbooks:
http://pearsonschool.com/index.cfm?locator=PSZu6r&PMDBSUBCATEGORYID=&PMDBSITEID=2781&PMDBSUBSOLU
TIONID=&PMDBSOLUTIONID=6724&PMDBSUBJECTAREAID=&PMDBCATEGORYID=813&PMDbProgramID=29004
Recommended sources for 501 Spanish Verbs, Spanish-English dictionary, and used Realidades Student
Edition textbooks: www.amazon.com, www.half.com, www.ebay.com
9
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Introduction to Debate
Time: Hour 2 (1:45-2:40)
Level: 9th – 12th
Prerequisite: Logic required, Speech helpful
Teachers: Peggy Judge and Becky Atkinson
Required costs: Supply fee $10
Course fee $10
Texts: Introduction to Policy Debate; Author: Christy L. Shipe Spiral-bound: 209 pages Publisher: HSLDA
(2012) ISBN: 978-1-880665-04-6 ($20/ $18 HSLDA member)
Argumentation and Debate: Taking the Next Step; Authors: Christy L. Shipe, D. Bush Haffey and J. B.
Motter Hardback: 332 pages Publisher: HSLDA (2004) ISBN: 1-880665-00-x ($35/ $25 HSLDA member)
Class size limit: 12
Suggested credit: 1 Year Social Studies or Language Arts
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder; library or internet access
Ten reasons to consider taking a debate class
1. It will improve your speaking skills. 2. It will improve your thinking skills. 3. It will increase your confidence. 4. It will
be a great place to practice finding fallacious thinking. 5. It will help you to see both sides of an issue. 6. It will help you
defend your side of an issue. 7. It will help you understand why you believe what you believe 8. It will help you
understand why other people believe what they believe. 9. You will learn a lot about something. 10. You will have a
lot of fun!
Debate is the practice of comparing and contrasting ideas, which is a common part of our experiences as human
beings. Formal debate is an educational way to learn the skills needed to argue effectively in life. Whether one desires
to be a lawyer, an engineer, a plumber, a mother, a doctor, or a teacher; these skills will aid the student in the many
situations in which he or she must be able to give an answer for his or her beliefs, even in the face of another’s
arguments. Whether the situation involves witnessing about the Gospel, applying for a job, trying to convince someone
to take action on a political issue, or reading the newspaper; the skills developed by debate are invaluable. Simply
learning to think analytically and to evaluate arguments will tremendously benefit all areas of a student’s life. The course
will include policy debate, value debate (Lincoln-Douglas), and bit of oral interpretation for fun.
This course will require frequent access to the library or internet to enable research on debate topics. The student’s
grade will be based upon the quantity of research secured on particular topics as well as the degree of mastery of the
debate skills taught.
The Judges have been homeschooling since 1988 and have graduated nine of their ten children from home school.
Peggy received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from St. Norbert College in DePere, Wisconsin, (near
Green Bay) in 1977 and a Doctor of Medicine Degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1983. Feeling God was
leading her to become a stay-at-home mom, Peggy left off her medical education to raise and educate what eventually
became a brood of ten. Peggy has taught chemistry, logic and debate for CLC and home school science classes at
Andrews University. She also occasionally teaches an algebra course at Lake Michigan College.
Becky received an associates degree from Covenant Theological Seminary in Biblical Studies, followed by a Bachelor
in Ministry degree from Christian Leadership University. Becky has also completed certifications in both Lamaze (Wake
Forest University) and Labor Doula, having attended over 50 births. Presently, she joins her husband in pursuing a first
generation farm business. She has been homeschooling her 2 children for over a decade. The oldest will graduate in
2018. Becky’s family joined CLC in 2014; and she has served as a co-art teacher, as well as, assisted in various
classes including speech class.
10
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Economics (Semester 1)
Time: Hour 2 (1:45-2:40) (Semester 1 only)
Level: 9 – 12
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Jenny Cummings
Required costs: Supply fee $10
Course fee $5
Texts: Exploring Economics (Notgrass) Curriculum Kit ($55); Publication Date: 2016,
ISBN-13: 9781609990923
Class size limit: 10
Suggested credit: 1 semester Economics or Social studies
th
th
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper, Bible, internet access for research
Written from a perspective of faith in God and trust in His Word, Exploring Economics surveys Biblical
teachings on money and finance, provides an overview of the economic history of the United States, gives a
clear explanation of terms and concepts used in economics, discusses economic issues confronting us today,
and puts our participation in the national and world economies on a personal level. In a time when economic
activity is challenging classic definitions, Exploring Economics reasserts the importance of the free market
system and enables students to take part in the economy with knowledge and faith. Outside resources will
be used to further facilitate student discussion and learning.
The text includes 15 units with five lessons and one quiz per weekly unit. Each lesson requires a minimum
of one hour of time to complete, allowing for a total of at least five hours of work per week. Supplemental
readings come from Making Choices, a text of readings which is included in the Exploring Economics
Curriculum Kit. Extra projects may be included in the course work.
Jenny Cummings has an Associate’s degree from Lake Michigan College and a Bachelor’s degree from
Siena Heights College. The Cummings have been homeschooling since 2007 and have two children—one
graduated. Jenny has taught preschool through high school over the last nine years at CLC, including such
courses as government and Lightbearers worldviews.
Recommended source for kit: www.notgrass.com, www.christianbook.com
A family must commit to full-year CLC involvement even if a student enrolls in only a one-semester
course.
11
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Government (Semester 2)
Time: Hour 2 (1:45 - 2:40) (Semester 2 only)
Level: 9 – 12
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: None
Instructor: Jenny Cummings
Required costs: Supply fee $10
Course fee $5
Texts: Exploring Government (Notgrass) Curriculum Kit ($55); Publication Date: 2016,
ISBN-13: 9781609990985
Class size limit: 10
Suggested credit: 1 semester Government or Social Studies
th
th
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper, internet access for research, and a Bible.
Using the text Exploring Government, author Ray Notgrass applies Biblical principles toward helping the
student understand the purpose and function the United States Constitution and federal, state, and local
government. A goal of this course is to inspire students to become more prayerful, involved, and informed
about the functions of government in order to become effective citizens. Class discussions will include a
biblical perspective of government, issues currently facing our country, discrepancies existing between our
founding documents and the government’s performance today. Outside resources will be used to further
facilitate student discussion and learning.
The text includes 15 units with five lessons and one quiz per weekly unit. Each lesson requires a minimum
of one hour of time to complete, allowing for a total of at least five hours of work per week. Supplemental
readings come from We Hold These Truths, a text of historical readings which is included in the Exploring
Government Curriculum Kit. Extra projects may be included in the course work.
Jenny Cummings has an Associate’s degree from Lake Michigan College and a Bachelor’s degree from
Siena Heights College. The Cummings have been homeschooling since 2007 and have two children—one
graduated. Jenny has taught preschool through high school over the last nine years at CLC, including such
courses as government and Lightbearers worldviews.
Recommended source for kit: www.notgrass.com, www.christianbook.com
A family must commit to full-year CLC involvement even if a student enrolls in only a one-semester
course.
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Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Yearbook (Layout & Design)
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 7 – 12
Prerequisite: None
Instructor: Stephanie Kracker
Required costs: Supply fee $15
Course fee $10
Texts: Practical Graphic Design, Paul Bunch & Melvin G. Peterman; ISBN: 0-9722058-5-3 ($34)
4-H Focus on Photography Level 1, (included in supplies cost, purchased by teacher)
Class size limit: 8
Suggested credit: 1 year or 1 semester Elective or Art
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Additional supplies required: digital camera, access to a computer with high speed internet, laptop
preferable to bring to class
The main goal of this course is an introduction to layout and design. Students will learn how to create
technically excellent pages based upon the elements and principles of artistic design. Following design rules,
we will use design tools to create pages that capture the viewer’s attention. Composition and photography
techniques will be taught; however, this is not a photography class. Our main focus will be to learn practical
design skills that will lay a foundation for the creation of a yearbook. Production of a yearbook will be our final
class project and will be offered for sale to CLC members.
Enthusiasm, class participation, attention to detail, and the ability to learn yearbook software quickly is
required. There will be homework assignments, photos to take, deadlines to meet, pages to layout, and
advertisements to sell. Communication skills and team work will be a class focus. Designing pages and taking
photos that are pleasing to the eye takes time; therefore, a significant amount of work will be done outside of
class time.
The Kracker family has been homeschooling since 2006 when their oldest started kindergarten. Stephanie
received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration with a minor in computer applications from
Bethel College in 1999. She first had experience in publications while being on the newspaper staff in high
school and continued to join her college newspaper as the advertisement manager. She also did an internship
in the public relations office which gave her some experience with magazine production and other design
projects. After only a year in the working world, she became a stay-at-home mom and continues to make
homeschooling her full-time job.
Recommended source for texts: www.amazon.com (can find used copies); www.rainbowresource.com
13
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Speech and Communications
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 8th – 12th Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: None
Instructor: Becky Atkinson and Michelle Hines
Required costs: Supply fee $10
Course fee $10
Texts: Handouts will be distributed in class
Class size limit: 10
Suggested credit: 1 year English or Elective
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with six dividers and paper and 4x6 index cards
Effective communication is vital in many aspects of life including home, school, church, and the workplace.
In this course students will increase their ability to organize and present information. In addition to giving
speeches of various lengths and on various topics, students will learn and practice everyday communication
skills including making introductions, sharing his/her testimony, sharing the gospel, leading corporate prayer,
planning and sharing a devotional, and more. Biblical examples and scriptural insights will guide in the
process of developing these skills. By the end of the year, students will have delivered six speeches and will
have learned how to conquer fear of public speaking, organize a speech for maximum impact, deliver a
speech with confidence, and reach the heart of an audience.
Becky received an associates degree from Covenant Theological Seminary in Biblical Studies, followed by
a Bachelor in Ministry degree from Christian Leadership University. Becky has also completed certifications
in both Lamaze (Wake Forest University) and Labor Doula, having attended over 50 births. Presently, she
joins her husband in pursuing a first generation farm business. She has been homeschooling her 2 children
for over a decade. The oldest will graduate in 2018. Becky’s family joined CLC in 2014; and she has served
as a co-art teacher, as well as, assisted in various classes including speech class.
Michelle received an associate's degree in nursing from Lima Technical College in Lima, Ohio in 1977, the
same year she married her husband, Greg. She worked in a medical surgical hospital for two years, then at
a health care center for three years, serving as assistant director of nursing for two of those years. After the
birth of their second child, she chose to stay-at-home fulltime and the Lord increased their family to include
ten children. They began homeschooling in 1995. Nine of their children have graduated and attended college.
The youngest of their children, yet at home, will be a senior at CLC this year. Michelle joined CLC in 2015,
and has served as a teacher's aide in various classes, including speech class.
14
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Advanced Writing
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 10th – 12th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: Successful completion of Writing B-2 or Essay Writing; basic
understanding of word processing system
Instructor: Kristen Dobson
Required costs: Supply fee $5
Course fee $10
Texts: Handouts in class
Class size limit: 10
Suggested credit: 1 year 11th/12th Grade Composition
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper and 5 tabs; access to a computer with word
processing program (preferably Microsoft Word) and printer; e-mail access highly recommended
Though not everyone is a writer by profession, everyone writes. Thus, knowing how to communicate one’s
thoughts effectively on paper is a basic and essential skill of life. This course will continue the objective of
the other writing classes: to teach students to communicate their thoughts intelligently and creatively.
Expanding on the writing skills already acquired by the students, we will explore various aspects of creative
writing, response writing, editorial writing, analysis writing, review writing, emailing, writing resumes, writing
eulogies, and editing. These students will also be challenged to expand their vocabulary and incorporate
those stronger words into their compositions. Students will need to spend up to one hour daily on assignments
depending on the type of writing being explored.
After graduating from Northland International University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English
education and speech, Kristen taught grammar, writing, and literature for two years at Northland. In 1998,
the Dobsons joined the homeschooling scene when Kristen began offering courses in writing, grammar,
literature, and speech. When their oldest entered kindergarten and homeschooling began in earnest, Kristen
quickly realized why she had NOT become an elementary teacher! However, God has taught her much,
particularly regarding patience, over the past twelve years. She has survived and even enjoyed kindergarten
seven times! Offering classes in her fields of study to various groups of homeschoolers throughout the past
eighteen years has helped maintain her sanity.
15
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Spanish Year 3
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 11th – 12th
Prerequisite: Spanish Years 1 and 2
Instructor: Lori Thompson
Required costs: Supply fee $15
Course fee $10
Texts: El Amor por la Oración (Alvin VanderGriend) ISBN: 978-1-935012-24-5 ($8)
Any students who were NOT in the 2016/2017 Spanish course will also need to purchase:
Realidades 2 Student Text, ISBN: 9780130359513 or 9780131340923 ($87 new; much less for used)
Realidades 2 Practice Workbook ISBN: 0130360023 ($14) (consumable)
501 Spanish Verbs ISBN: 9780764197970 ($10)
Merriam-Webster’s Spanish-English Dictionary ISBN: 9780877799160 ($7) or any Spanish dictionary
Class size limit: 15
Suggested credit: 1 Year Foreign Language
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper, internet access
Spanish is a fun and highly practical language to learn. Learning a second language at an early age:
• Has a positive effect on intellectual growth.
• Enriches and enhances a student's mental development.
• Leaves students with more flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening.
• Improves a student's understanding of his/her native language.
• Gives a student the ability to communicate with people s/he would otherwise not have the chance to know.
• Opens doors to other cultures and helps a student understand and appreciate people from other countries.
• Gives a student a head start in language requirements for college.
• Increases job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset.
• Is easier than learning it at an older age, with greater chance for success.
• Equips one to touch lives cross-culturally for God’s Kingdom.
Spanish 3 will be an advanced level Spanish club, with conversational Spanish, culture/country studies, creative writing,
skits, and book studies. We will also finish the Realidades 2 text and workbook used in the 2016-2017 school year.
Effective language acquisition requires daily dedication and diligence. Long-term learning will most certainly be attained
through regular, daily exposure with auditory as well as visual components. For this reason, it is crucial that students spend
some time every day reading, listening, and speaking in Spanish. The amount of time needed to complete the weekly
assignments will vary from student to student; but in general, an hour a day is a good goal whenever possible. Parents
should encourage their students to share what they are learning each week and to speak out loud in Spanish often.
After graduating from Alma College in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, Spanish, and Music,
Lori taught 5th-8th graders in Detroit from 1991-1995. She has taught Spanish at CLC since 2009. Having also studied
German, Russian, Bulgarian, and French, Lori loves the practicality and relative simplicity of Spanish and finds no shortage
of opportunities to use it in America and abroad. Lori and Troy have five children and have homeschooled since 2000.
Recommended source for El Amor por la Oración: http://www.prayershop.org/El-Amor-por-la-Oracion-p/pin-vaabk-007.htm
• Recommended sources for 501 Spanish Verbs, Spanish-English dictionary, and used Realidades Student
Edition textbooks: www.amazon.com, www.half.com, www.ebay.com
• Recommended source for Realidades 2 Practice Workbook and brand-new Realidades 2 Student Edition
textbooks:
http://pearsonschool.com/index.cfm?locator=PSZu6r&PMDBSUBCATEGORYID=&PMDBSITEID=2781&PMDBSUBSOLU
TIONID=&PMDBSOLUTIONID=6724&PMDBSUBJECTAREAID=&PMDBCATEGORYID=813&PMDbProgramID=29005
•
16
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Personal Finance (Semester 1)
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40) (Semester 1 only)
Level: 9th – 12th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: None
Instructor: Katie Nash
Required costs: Supply fee $10
Course fee $5
Texts: Foundations in Personal Finance (copyright 2014) ISBN-13: 9781936948192 ($27)
Class size limit: 12
Suggested credit: 1 semester Personal Finance, Social Studies or Elective
Additional supplies required: 3-ring binder with paper
This one semester course will cover financial principles that empower students to make sound financial
decisions for life. Using lesson plans and DVD presentations of Dave Ramsey’s Foundations in Personal
Finance, specifically for homeschooling high school students, this course will cover topics in personal finance
such as: saving, budgeting, debt, consumer awareness, bargain shopping, money and relationships, and
giving. Students will learn about banking tools, financial responsibility and decision making, income and
careers, planning and money management, credit and debt, risk management and insurance, savings and
investment. Through the course, Dave Ramsey teaches about how to save money, live on a budget,
communicate about money, eliminate debt, find bargains, and experience the joy of giving. Class time will
also be devoted to discussions and group activities and will conclude with a career paper presentation at the
end of the semester. Weekly reading and projects will be assigned. Grades will be based on tests proctored
at home, weekly workbook assignments, individual and/or group projects as well as a career paper.
Katie Nash received an AA degree from Cottey College and a BA in Spanish from the University of Minnesota.
She and her husband, Rob, have six children and have been homeschooling since 2014.
Recommended source for text: www.daveramsey.com (will be beneficial to order multiple books together to
save on shipping)
A family must commit to full-year CLC involvement even if a student enrolls in only a one-semester
course.
17
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Fit for Service (Fitness/Health)
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40) May be taken one semester or full-year
Level: 7 – 12
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: None
Instructor: Stacey Siri
Required costs: Supply fee $10 per semester
Course fee $5 per semester
Class size limit: 15
Suggested credit: 1 semester/year Physical Education, possibly 1 semester Health
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Additional supplies required: stability ball/yoga ball (purchase the correct size for the students: 55cm for
5’4” & under, 65cm for 5’5” to 6’ or 75cm for 6’ and taller); yoga mat; hand weights (5 lb. or smaller depending
on what you think is appropriate for your student); loose fitting dark colored sweat pants and a loose-fitting tshirt.
The course will focus on health and fitness for everyday service. The course will spend 75% of the time
experimenting with different exercise modalities. The goal is to expose students to various exercises that
they can adopt into their own home workouts. We will use some weights in class but will also focus a lot on
body weight exercises, which requires no equipment other than your own body. Isn’t that convenient!
Workouts may also include cardio kickboxing (non-contact) and various other styles of aerobic activity. There
is a strong focus on circuit training and HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). Team activities such as
volleyball, soccer and basketball will be included in class time as well as work with a stability ball. The
remaining 25% of class time will focus on lifetime fitness, proper nutrition, outdoor survival skills, and health
maintenance. Fit for Service is designed to expose students to different types of exercise and equipment in
order to encourage lifelong personal fitness habits. Personal fitness goals will be discussed and designed by
each student. Your students will be amazed at the difference in their own endurance and performance once
they compare themselves to the start of the year to the end of the year. Academic work and tests are kept to
a minimum to stress physical activity, but students will be required to keep a fitness journal that will be
checked weekly. Four aerobic exercise workouts per week (aside from class time) for a minimum of 30
minutes each will be required. Please note that household chores (mowing, snow shoveling) and organized
sports practices may not be counted as part of the weekly workout requirements.
Stacey Siri earned an Elementary Education degree from Bethel College and taught kindergarten for one
year before starting her family and staying home with her children. During that time she helped her church
start a preschool program but found her own fitness simply was not a priority. When she was 36 years old,
she ventured into the world of fitness and was immediately drawn into the joy and satisfaction of hard work
and dedication in taking care of her own body through exercise and healthier eating. Stacey has enjoyed
personal training and group training programs through local gyms and has gained hands-on experience in
this way. The Siris have been homeschooling since fall 2006 when their oldest child began kindergarten. The
Siris joined CLC fall 2014; and Stacey has since taught PE, helped with Fit for Service, and mentored in the
enrichment grammar class.
A family must commit to full-year CLC involvement even if a student enrolls in only a one-semester
course.
18
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Latin Primer II
Time: Hour 3 (2:45-3:40)
Level: 4th – 7th
Prerequisite or concurrent requirement: 1 year of Primer I
Instructor: Suzanne Hayward
Required costs: Supply fee $15 (includes National Latin Exam Fee of $7)
Course fee $10
Texts: Latin for Children Primer B ISBN 9781600510069 ($25)
Latin for Children Primer B-Reader ISBN 9781600510106 ($13)
Latin for Children Primer B Activity ISBN 9781600510113 (optional) ($17)
Latin for Children Primer B Answer Key ISBN 9781600510076 ($16)
Class size limit: 12
Suggested credit: Not applicable
Additional supplies required: binder to organize notes and study aids
Why study Latin? Latin reveals a great deal about our own language— its grammar, word formation and
underlying word meaning. It is a precise language, and, thus, it teaches precision. Over half of the English
language is derived from Latin. Thousands of words we use every day keep this “dead” language alive.
Finally, there is no better preparation for later modern language study, particularly the Romance languages
that include French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Romanian.
The Latin for Children curriculum is a creative introduction to Latin which incorporates elements that will
engage students of every learning style. As a step beyond just an exposure to the language, when used as
a whole, this series trains students in grammar, vocabulary and English derivatives in a lively interactive way
that is perfectly suited to students in the grammar and early logic stage. The Latin for Children Primer B
History Reader contains reading selections about historical events from Middle Ages to Reformation. The
activity book has various games and challenges to reinforce the concepts.
At home the student will complete the weekly worksheets and study vocabulary. Weekly quizzes on
vocabulary will be in class. Unit tests will be taken at home and proctored by parent.
In March, students will take the National Latin Exam.
The Haywards have four sons and began homeschooling in 2004. Suzanne received a Bachelor of Science degree in
biology and chemistry from Salem College (Winston-Salem, NC) in 1985, Master of Public Health degree from UNC
(Chapel Hill, NC) in 1988 and Doctor of Medicine degree from Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, NC) in
1992. After completing a Family Medicine Residency at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, IN, in 1995, she joined
Southwestern Medical Clinic, where her husband, Dan, works as well. Suzanne has continued medical work in various
part-time capacities from the time her children were born as well as served at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya in 2008/09.
Suzanne has taught various science and Latin courses at Covenant Learning Co-op.
19
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Enrichment Plus Classes
Enrichment Science Grades 3 through 7: Botany
Instructor: Suzanne Walker
Textbooks: Exploring Creation with Botany, Apologia ISBN: 9781932012491 ($28) one per family
Botany Notebooking Journal, Apologia ISBN: 9781935495062 ($20) one per student
Beginner writers option (K-3rd): Junior Botany Notebooking Journal ISBN: 9781935495635 ($20)
The enrichment students will be giving glory to God as they saturate themselves in the field of
Botany. Together we will learn much new information as we study the differences between angiosperms and
gymnosperms, vascular and nonvascular plants, seeds and spores, pollination and seed dispersal, and many
more plant-related bits of information.
The book has been written in an easy to understand format and, most importantly, of course, a creationist
world view is stressed throughout. Time and time again, God is glorified as the Master Creator of all that the
students are studying. In addition, sections entitled "Creation Confirmation" provide evidence for young-earth
creationism in the context of the topic that the students are studying.Some of the fun ideas and experiments
the author has suggested will also be incorporated into our week’s class period as we study each chapter
and should be useful in reinforcing new terms and concepts.
Both the textbook and notebooking journal will be needed for grades 5-7, as well as a few other minor supplies
such as colored pencils and/or markers. The additional supplies will be specified at a later date. Grades 34 will definitely need the textbook, but can share the same book with an older sibling who participates in the
5-7 class. Whether the Junior Botany Notebook is needed has not yet been determined.
Weekly reading assignments will be given, but the CLC teacher will answer the homework questions during
co-op class time with the students while the topic is being covered. The crossword puzzle will also be
assigned and perhaps a nature journal assignment will be introduced if there is time.
Joe and Suzanne Walker have been homeschooling their ten children for the past twenty-two years.
Seven of their children are grown and are in various stages of life that range from attending college to having
finished college to getting a job, etc. Joe works at ASABE as a Director of Publications, and Suzanne finished
her bachelor’s in business but has been a busy stay at home mom/teacher ever since they were married and
their family started growing. They are both thankful to have been able to homeschool all of their children.
Recommended source for text: www.finders-keepers.net or www.christianbook.com
20
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Enrichment Plus Classes
Enrichment Grammar Grades 5, 6, and 7
Teacher: Patti Dynes with additional teacher/mentor
Texts: Junior Analytical Grammar set (student & teacher) ($40)
Additional student workbooks ($20)
Junior Analytical Grammar Mechanics set (student & teacher) ($40)
Additional student workbooks ($20)
Recommended source for text: www.analyticalgrammar.com (it is recommended that a group order be
placed to take advantage of a homeschool co-op discount from the publisher)
The enrichment grammar class will use the Jr. Analytical Grammar and Mechanics curriculum which is a
program intended to introduce the ideas of English grammar to younger students. Included in the subject
matter are all the parts of speech and parts of the sentence, phrases and clauses, classic sentence
diagramming, rules of punctuation and capitalization, and common usage errors. The curriculum is
"interactive" as far as the parent is concerned. Rather than the student reading notes, the "notes" are really
a series of questions and activities designed to help the child understand the grammatical concepts. Each
unit builds on the one before, so students use what they've already learned to master the next concept.
Jr. Analytical Grammar: Mechanics is the part of the curriculum written in response to frequent requests for
instruction in punctuation, capitalization, and usage designed for younger children. Many punctuation rules
are based on knowledge of advanced grammar; however, this curriculum pulls together those punctuation,
capitalization, and usage rules which students with a thorough understanding of basic grammar can
comprehend. Again, each unit builds on the previous one in a "spiral" approach.
The Analytical Grammar junior versions are a gentle, easy introduction to the concepts of English grammar,
punctuation, and usage. They are straightforward to teach and fun for both teacher and student.
The Dynes have 12 children and have been homeschooling since 2014 after Patti retired as CEO of Lettuce
Duit, Inc. Patti graduated from St. Joseph High School and studied at Lake Michigan College majoring in
Language Arts and Literature.
21
Covenant Learning Co-op
2017/2018
CLC Course Descriptions
Enrichment Plus Classes
Chorus
Time: Early Class (11:55-12:25)
Level: 3rd - 12th
Instructor: Jeannie Bryant
Required costs:
Course fee $10
Class size limit: None
Additional supplies required: 1” Black 3-ring binder with pockets on the inside of the cover, two sharpened
pencils at each rehearsal
God loves to hear us sing! He loves it so much He put an entire book of Songs in His Holy Word. It’s a way
to worship, it opens pathways to learning in the brain in a way nothing else can, and it’s FUN! In chorus this
year, we will be learning proper breathing and vocal techniques, reading musical notation, practicing counting
rhythms, and doing movement activities. Additionally, in the process of learning our music, we will develop
our musical ears (ear training) and learn to sing harmony as a group. The music we sing will be in a variety
of styles and will be uplifting, worshipful, and God-glorifying. We will also be developing our students’
presentation skills as we sing, not only for our co-op family, but as we take our music into the community to
share with others.
The Bryants have four girls and have been homeschooling since 2003. Jeannie graduated from the University
of Georgia in 1995 with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, majoring in flute and minoring in voice. She
taught elementary general music in the public school until her first child was born and has since been actively
involved in teaching children’s music in her church and community, including leading children’s choirs,
preschool music, and VBS musicals, as well as serving as a clinician in various District Honor Choruses.
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