Academic Catalog. Michael D. White Interim Head of School

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1 Academic Catalog We invite you to come take a closer look at one of the reasons why Westbury Christian is so unique. Academics are one of three dimensions that are at the core of our mission as we strive to prepare youth for here and eternity. In the pages that follow you will see a myriad of class offerings. What you need to know is that inside the classroom of each of those courses is a qualified Christian teacher that recognizes that truth comes from God s Word and it is that foundation and origin upon where true education takes place. Rigorous curriculum and passionate, professional teachers on a safe campus is an excellent recipe for college preparation and maturing to reach each student s potential and purpose in life. The information in this booklet will give you a good idea of the thorough structure that supports our academic dimension. Please let us know if we can assist you in learning more about what makes Westbury Christian a great educational environment. Michael D. White Interim Head of School

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3 Table of Contents Lower School Pre K3 Pre K4 Curriculum Guide Kindergarten 4 th Grade Curriculum Guide Middle School Grades 5 6 Plan of Study Grades 7 8 Plan of Study Middle School Curriculum Guide Upper School Grades 9 12 Plan of Study Graduation Requirements Timetable for College Bound Students Distinguished Achievement Program Descriptions of Pre AP and AP Courses Upper School Curriculum Guide Community Service Form Preparing Youth for Here and Eternity 3

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5 Lower School Pre-K3 4 th Grade Mr. Michael D. White Mrs. Jennifer White Mrs. Debbie Curtis Mrs. Sheila Kaldis Mrs. Jean Lander Interim Head of School Lower School Principal Lower School Administrative Assistant Primary School Coordinator Director of Guidance The daily learning experience for Pre K3 through 4 th grade students captures and supports the learning of important skills and concepts needed for their future educational readiness. Our curriculum, composed of Texas state adopted text books in all core classes, contains age specific activities that promote creativity, family involvement, and the development of the whole child. WCS teachers are committed Christians who provide a warm, nurturing learning environment based on sound educational theories of child development and learning. As children mature and progress, they will encounter a higher level of learning that challenges growth while still having fun! 5

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7 Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Curriculum Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 7

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9 Reading and Language Arts Pre K3: The DLM Early Childhood Express curriculum from McGraw Hill Wright Group is a holistic, childcentered program that nurtures each child by offering carefully selected and sequenced learning experiences. It provides a wealth of materials and ideas to foster the social emotional, intellectual, and physical development of children. At the same time, it nurtures the natural curiosity and sense of self that can serve as the foundation for a lifetime of learning. With The DLM Early Childhood Express, children develop concrete skills through experiences with music, art, storytelling, and teacher directed lessons that, in addition to skills development, emphasize practice and reflection. Literacy concepts include: Listening Comprehension Vocabulary Verbal Expression Phonological Awareness Print and Book Awareness Letter Knowledge and Early Word Recognition Motivation to Read Developing Knowledge of Literary Form and Written Expression Cross curricular connections are a powerful way to reinforce lesson concepts and expose children to the full spectrum of knowledge. Content connections include: Fine Arts Music & Movement Science Social Studies Health and Safety Physical Development Personal and Social Development. Pre K4: The Imagine It! Pre K reading and language arts curriculum from SRA/McGraw Hill combines the strength of proven, research based instruction with the fun, friendly, and engaging features in a complete reading program. Thought provoking themes and genres introduce students to new worlds, new ideas, and new ways of thinking. Science, social studies, math and fine arts content are covered for cross curricular connections. Imagine It! addresses the five key areas of reading, which research shows is necessary for a strong reading program: 9

10 Phonemic awareness is the ability to hear, think about, and manipulate the individual sounds in spoken words. It helps children learn to read and spell. Phonics instruction teaches children the relationships between letters of written language and individual sounds of spoken language. It improves children s comprehension. Fluency is the ability to read a text accurately, quickly, and with prosody. Repeated and monitored oral reading improves fluency and overall reading achievement. Vocabulary skills are correlated to achievement throughout school. The purpose of vocabulary instruction is to introduce students to new words and to teach students a range of strategies for learning, remembering, and incorporating unknown vocabulary words into their existing reading, writing, speaking, and listening vocabularies. Text Comprehension is getting meaning from what is read. Comprehension is improved by instruction that offers readers the ability to use specific strategies and skills. Writing strategy and skill instruction is necessary for students to be able to express themselves and write for an audience. Mathematics Pre K3 and Pre K4: The Pre Kindergarten Everyday Mathematics curriculum from McGraw Hill Wright Group is a program in which children do mathematics. The program relies on discussion, experimentation, and discovery. Students are introduced to number concepts informally, in the context of everyday activities, which builds a firm foundation for later mathematical learning. Students will participate in fun hands on activities that promote early number sense. They will become aware of shapes and patterns all around realizing geometric shapes are part of everyday objects. Students will also have lots of opportunities to learn about sorting, patterning, spatial relationships, rote and rational counting, ordinal numbers and sequencing, and measurement comparisons. Learning Centers Young children are interested in the world in which they live; learning centers are a symbolic representation of their world. The accessible, open ended, multi level learning environment of a center provides unique opportunities for discovery. Young children learn best by being active learners who are permitted to touch, feel, experiment and create. Play is an essential component of a quality early childhood program. During play, children develop problem solving skills by trying different ways of doing things and determining the best approach. Small groups of three to four students rotate through four to five carefully planned centers from the following: Block, Art, Sand and Water, Library, Science/Nature, Dramatic Play, Math, Home Life, Writing and Listening. 10

11 Bible and Chapel Children are taken on an exciting journey through the Old and New Testament using the NIV Read to Me Bible for Kids, High Reach Learning Curriculum and the Positive Action Bible Curriculum. Each day, teachers and students join in prayer, singing, and praising God. Students will learn about major Old Testament and New Testament Bible stories and characters, with a focus on Jesus and His life and teachings. Character traits, such as love, compassion, and kindness are the foundational principles established in every student. The teaching of Christian values and character is at the core of each Bible lesson, as well as the entire learning process. Pre K3 and Pre K4 students come together for chapel three times each week. They join the K 4 th Grade students periodically throughout the year to participate in special Lower School Awards Chapels. They also join K 12 th grade students in All School Chapel throughout the year. In addition, once every grading period a student from every class is honored in a special Student of Character Chapel and one department winner is honored in an All School Chapel in which parents are welcome to attend. Enrichment Classes To further enhance the development of the whole child, students participate in daily enrichment classes. These classes are taught by teachers who are specialized in the subject they are teaching. Depending on the days enrolled, students will experience the following classes: Physical Education: As part of this developmentally appropriate program, students participate in activities that improve both their fine and gross motor skills, teach the importance of being physically fit, as well as sportsmanship and how to interact with their peers through the SPARK Program. Music: Musical games & movement, fun songs, steady beat, and rhythm stick activities are all a part of our music program. Students will learn listening skills as they learn to accompany songs with simple instruments. At least once a year students will participate in a music program as well as special events such as Grandparent s Breakfast and Veteran s Day Salute. Technology: Students begin an introduction to computers in their classroom during learning center time. Basic skills are developed to start their journey toward technological literacy. Both desktop computers and I pads are utilized. Spanish: Children are introduced to Spanish vocabulary while participating in planned activities revolving around interactive games, songs, stories and dialogue. These activities will expand their knowledge of the Spanish language while extending their speaking, writing and listening skills. Curriculum used is Pasaporte al espanola. 11

12 Library: The librarian reads to the children during story time followed by table time where children have the opportunity to discover Bible stories, fairy tales, nursery rhymes and action stories. Students also enjoy special readings by award winning and popular authors and drama presentations of classic children s books. Art: Students are allowed to experiment with materials in new ways in order to further their individual creativity. Art is used in these grades to reinforce their classroom curriculum and the lessons taught during Chapel and Bible. Students also utilize the art lab one time each week with direct instruction about various techniques. Enrichment Activities Students also have opportunities to participate in enrichment activities. These activities reinforce concepts learned in our classrooms, encourage the well rounded development of our students, and align with our three dimensional philosophy of education in academics, spirituality and student activities. Depending on the days enrolled, students will experience the following classes: Community Service: Preschool students have the opportunity to join with our older students in projects such as A Salute to Veterans program, collecting coins for an orphanage in Honduras and in Haiti, as well as food and toy drives for the needy. Recess: Gross motor activities, free play, and lots of time to socialize are crucial to a young child s development. Children are taken outside daily, weather permitting. Field trips: Students may attend one or two field trips a year. Age appropriate trips to locations such as theatres, museums, and farms are carefully chosen to teach students about their community and their world. In School Presentations: Throughout the school year, special presentations, performances, and visitors enrich the student s school experience. After School Enrichment: Westbury Christian School offers a rich assortment of after school activities. Past offerings include: ballet, gymnastics, karate, piano lessons, mini soccer, and little dribblers. Extra fees are charged for these activities. 12

13 Kindergarten 4 th Grade Curriculum Children are a gift from the Lord. They are a reward from Him. Psalm 127:3 13

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15 Reading/Language Arts Kindergarten: A kindergarten student engages in meaningful and organized activities to increase oral language, foster listening comprehension, develop phonological awareness, and most importantly, nurture a love of reading. When visiting your child s classroom, look for many manipulative activities. These not only help build concepts but also develop and refine gross and fine motor skills. Each child participates in a variety of instructional settings such as whole group investigations, small group collaboration, and independent play to meet individual needs at the appropriate level. Through these meaningful experiences, your child builds a solid foundation for early literacy. 1 st Grade: A first grade student continues to develop oral language and communication skills and moves to become a more independent reader and writer. Each child participates in a variety of instructional settings such as guided reading and writing, as well as readers and writers workshop, to meet individual needs at the appropriate level. Daily reading of a variety of texts and writing for a variety of audiences increase your child s fluency and comprehension in the literacy process. 2 nd Grade: A second grader reads and writes independently and has many opportunities to use spoken language. The student automatically recognizes a large number of words and uses a variety of word identification strategies. Reading familiar classic and contemporary works, a second grader increases fluency and demonstrates understanding by producing a variety of projects. The student transitions to reading longer texts with less picture support. Second graders compose and begin to revise and edit their own writing to make ideas clear, precise, and legible. 3 rd Grade: A third grader spends significant blocks of time reading and writing independently. Using increasingly complex word identification strategies, the student builds vocabulary and enhances comprehension. A third grader reads from a variety of classic and contemporary works and supports ideas and inferences by citing portions of text. Writing is more elaborate and detailed. The student revises and edits to produce final products. A third grader listens critically to spoken messages to make contributions during discussions. 4 th Grade: Fourth graders have a student anthology which has six units on thought provoking themes. The students learn skills and strategies to help understand the text they have read. Students read a wide variety of genres and cultures written and illustrated by award winning authors and illustrators. Open Court focuses on word analysis (vocabulary), spelling, writing process and grammar usage, and forms of writing. The students become better spellers as they learn the spelling patterns and rules. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5 15

16 Social Studies Kindergarten: A kindergarten student focuses on the foundations of social studies. Concepts are built through examination, discussion, and exploration. The study of our state and national heritage begins with exploring celebrations of patriotic holidays and the contributions of historic people. A student compares family customs and traditions to develop cultural appreciation. The student learns about the geographic concept of location, as well as the physical and human characteristics of places. Basic human needs of clothing, food, and shelter, and the ways people meet these needs are introduced. Technology and social studies skills are an essential part of the social studies curriculum. 1 st Grade: A first grade student continues to build upon early social studies concepts through literature, discussions, hands on exploration, and simulations. The student develops patriotic identity through the study of historic figures, national anthems, state anthems, and mottoes. Students develop cultural appreciation by describing the importance of family customs and traditions. A first grader creates and uses simple maps to draw conclusions about physical characteristics of places and their impact on daily life. Concepts of time and chronology are developed by distinguishing between past, present, and future events. 2 nd Grade: A second grade student focuses on a study of community. The student will learn about important individuals and events in the history of the community, state, and nation. Students continue to develop concepts of time, government functions, and basic economic principles. The student acquires knowledge of important customs, symbols, and celebrations that represent American beliefs and principles. In geography a student locates places and compares information found in different sources. 3 rd Grade: A third grade student learns how individuals changed their communities and consequently their world. The lives of heroes and how their contributions resulted in new ideas, new innovations, and new communities are explored. The student investigates the responsibility of local government and how it meets the needs of our communities. The student uses geography skills and concepts to find places on maps and globes and to create their own maps. Economic and governmental vocabulary is acquired. 4 th Grade: A fourth grade student studies important events, issues, and people of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. The student examines Texas history from ancient times to the present in regard to human and natural characteristics of the regions of Texas. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of the impact of Native Americans, European explorers, and Mexican influences, as well as other cultural groups on Texas. Computer and technology tools are used for support. 16

17 Science Kindergarten: A kindergarten student uses simple investigations to develop the skills of asking questions, gathering information, communicating findings, and making informed decisions about the natural world. Using the five senses and common tools, the student makes observations and collects information. The student learns about the natural world by identifying and investigating rocks, water, soil, living organisms, and objects. The student is introduced to the concept of a system as a collection of cycles, structures, and processes that interact. Computers and information technology tools are used for support. 1 st Grade: A first grade student continues using simple investigations to develop the skills of asking questions and gathering information. The student also makes measurements, constructs explanations, and draws conclusions using non standard units and tools to extend the five senses. The student identifies and investigates components of the natural world including rocks, soil, natural resources, heat, interdependence, and living versus non living things. 2 nd Grade: More than a traditional science program and more than an online science textbook, Pearson Interactive Science creates an exciting multi model learning environment fusing print, digital, and handson experiences. Student plans and conducts investigations to develop the skills for making measurements using non standard and standard units. Components and processes of the natural world, including the water cycle and use of resources, are identified. The second grader observes melting, evaporating, weathering, and pushing and pulling of objects. The student also observes living and nonliving things, needs of plants and animals, functions of plants, and how living organisms depend on their environment. The student continues to explore change and constancy in systems. Computers and information technology tools are used for support. 3 rd Grade: More than a traditional science program and more than an online science textbook, Pearson Interactive Science creates an exciting multi model learning environment fusing print, digital, and handson experiences. Students plan and implement investigations to collect information using tools such as microscopes. The student also makes inferences, communicates conclusions, and makes informed decisions. The student identifies the importance of components of the natural world including rocks, soil, water, atmospheric gases, and forces that change the Earth. The student explores magnetism, gravity, needs of organisms, habitats, and competition within an ecosystem. Students continue to explore constancy and change in systems. 4 th Grade: More than a traditional science program and more than an online science textbook, Pearson Interactive Science creates an exciting multi model learning environment fusing print, digital, and hands on experiences. Student identifies components and processes of the natural world such as properties of soil, effects of oceans, the role of the sun as our energy source, the physical properties of matter, and the causes of change in the states of matter. The student observes the roles of living and nonliving components and recognizes the differences between learned characteristics and inherited traits. Computer and technology tools are used for support. 17

18 Mathematics Kindergarten: A kindergarten student develops whole number concepts using concrete models. Basic foundations of math concepts are built through exploration of patterns, sorting, counting, making math connections, and problem solving. Problem solving skills are demonstrated through the use of informal language to communicate early understanding of connections within and outside of mathematics. Technology and math tools are an essential part of the math program. 1 st Grade: A first grade student develops an understanding of addition and subtraction number concepts using concrete objects. Basic foundations of math concepts are built by using patterns, sorting, counting, making math connections, and problem solving. A student creates and uses representations to organize, record, and communicate emerging math ideas. 2 nd Grade: A second grade student continues to build a basic foundation of math concepts. A student uses numbers to compare and order when solving problems. Whole number addition and subtraction problems are solved first with concrete models and then with symbolic representation to achieve fluency. Using informal and formal language, a student communicates math reasoning in verbal and written forms. Technology and math tools continue to be integrated into the math program. 3 rd Grade: A third grade student has mastered the addition and subtraction of whole numbers and further advances that understanding by using concrete and pictorial models to develop the concepts of multiplication and division. An additional emphasis is the connection of fractional models to symbols. The student begins to use estimation and mathematical reasoning to solve real world problems and is able to rationalize and communicate decisions effectively. Throughout third grade mathematics, the student evaluates, adapts, and selects appropriate strategies, vocabulary, and tools to solve problems. 4 th Grade: A fourth grade student learns to create and apply mathematical concepts in a more abstract manner than in earlier grades. The primary focal points of fourth grade are the application of place value concepts, comparing and ordering fractions and decimals, long division, and developing ideas related to measurement and statistics. Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 18

19 Bible Kindergarten: Learning About God Kindergarten students learn about God through Bible stories. Major characters throughout the entire Bible will be introduced. Activity ideas will help children comprehend and apply Bible truths. 1 st Grade: Enjoying God s Gifts First graders will learn that all we have comes from God and that the ultimate gift that God gave us is His Son, Jesus Christ. This study will focus on the many gifts of love provided for us by God. Emphasis will be on aspects of creation, our families, friends, possessions, Jesus Christ and God s care for us. Stories from everyday life are used to encourage the development of inner character traits. 2 nd Grade: Finding God s Promises The life of Moses and his leadership of Israel are used to teach second graders that God rewards obedience. Students will learn that when God gives a command, He also gives a promise. Finding God s promises helps students see that obedience to God s commands brings blessings as God fulfills His promises in their lives. 3 rd Grade: Growing with God The lives of Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, and Daniel have a lot to teach third graders about the rewards of living for God. All of these men faced rejection, but all of them remained faithful to God. Students will develop strong character as they draw upon the experiences of these men. 4 th Grade: Building Life Castles The Bible studies will include the life of Christ from the Gospels; a study of the Holy Spirit from the Gospels, Acts and the Epistles; an understanding of how Christian character develops using Paul s epistles and the life of Paul from the book of Acts. The students are assigned a memory verse each week. 19

20 Homework Kindergarten: Ideas for fun, family based activities such as simple math activities, reading together, and reviewing sight words are assigned by our kindergarten teachers. These activities are required. 1 st Grade: Students will receive a weekly homework packet which may include spelling, math, reading, writing, science, social studies and Bible. During the second half of the year students will spend time reading for AR (Accelerated Reader). 2 nd Grade: Students will receive a weekly homework packet which may include spelling, math, reading, writing, science, social studies and Bible. Students will receive a study guide for social studies and science prior to a chapter test. 3 rd Grade: Students will receive a weekly homework packet which may include spelling, math, reading, writing, science, social studies and Bible. Students will need to spend time each week studying a list of vocabulary words, a Bible verse, and reading for AR (Accelerated Reader). Students will receive a study guide for social studies and science prior to a chapter test. 4 th Grade: The fourth grade student will receive daily homework. Each student is given a planner at the beginning of school; homework is written down for the entire week on Monday in this planner. The students receive study sheets for science and social studies tests before chapter tests. There is a Bible memory verse to learn each week. Art Students in grades K 4th visit the Lower School Art Lab for a unique blend of studio art and art history. Basic elements are introduced to students in relation to major artists and their work. A variety of medium is used throughout the school year in order to provide each child the opportunity to experiment with new materials. The focus of this class is to help students express their personal creativity and individual insight into the world around them. (Weekly) Computer Technology experience is integrated into the curriculum using an Apple MacBook Mobile Computer Lab, which consists of 24 wireless laptops and I pads. These are also known as Computers on Wheels (COW). The computers are used to enhance classroom instruction, build computer skills, and to do research on the internet with teacher guidance. 20

21 Physical Education Students have an organized P.E. class twice every week. They participate in activities that improve both their fine and gross motor skills, teach the importance of being physically fit, introduce them to the concept of teambuilding, as well as develop sportsmanship. Activities are supplemented with the CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) Curriculum. Spanish K 1st Grade: Students are introduced to Spanish vocabulary while participating in planned activities such as interactive games, songs, stories and dialogue. These activities will expand their knowledge of Spanish while extending their speaking, writing and listening skills. (Weekly) 2nd 4th Grades: To broaden their knowledge of Spanish vocabulary, student s studies include geography, culture and an introduction to the basics of grammar. (Weekly) Music Kindergarten: Musical games & movement, fun songs, steady beat, and rhythm stick activities are a part of our music program. Students learn to sing in unison and develop listening skills as they learn to accompany songs with simple instruments. Curriculum used is Spotlight on Music. 1st 3rd Grades: Musical games, movement, fun songs, steady beat, rhythm sticks, pitched and unpitched instruments, and extended rhythm studies are a part of our music program. In addition to singing in unison and rounds, students learn to sight read, begin 2 part singing, and are introduced to composers and instrument families. Curriculum used is Share the Music. 4 th Grade: Fourth grade students combine instruction in recorders and choral singing in 2 and 3 part harmonies. Students learn to sing and recognize full scale pitches, and are introduced to syncopated rhythms as well as reinforcing straight rhythms by reading and playing written mixed rhythms. Written music is translated to sound by creating rhythm, melody and accompaniments on pitched and unpitched instruments. Dances and games reinforce songs and allow exploration of a variety of rhythms and styles from diverse cultures. Students are encouraged to participate in the Music Memory listening 21

22 competition in the yearly academic meet. Both Spotlight on Music and Share the Music curriculum are used, and students have an opportunity to try out for the 4 th 6 th grade Honor Choir. Dance Second and third grade students will participate in a dance course teaching the basics of creative movement. Instruction will include focused movements, spatial recognition, rhythm, social interactions, and cultural and folk history. Fourth grade students will learn basic units of dance steps in a musical choreography class. Instruction will prepare students for participation in the annual fourth grade musical, which includes choreographed dance sequences. (Weekly) Library The library provides resources and programs to develop reading comprehension and research skills for students. Library skills are taught each week that support classroom concepts and students are allowed to check out books. Families are encouraged to participate in reading newly published books to their children with the READ TO ME PROGRAM, a program that rotates about 15 newly published, noteworthy books throughout the K3 2nd grade classes. Yearly Book Fairs provide parents the opportunity to refresh their own book collections while raising money for author visits and more books for the library. Each grading period students have the opportunity to shop at the Accelerated Reader Store with their accumulated AR points. Special Author Visits and Drama Presentations encourage reading and bring books to life. Recess Gross motor activities, free play and time to socialize are crucial to a young child s development. A daily recess is provided on the outside playground for K 4th grade. In the case of inclement weather, alternate activities are planned indoors that still provide socialization, play and movement. Field Trips Age appropriate field trips to locations such as children s theatres, museums, and farms are carefully chosen to teach each student about their community and their world. These trips are taken in connection with and to enhance classroom studies. At the end of the year, fourth grade students go to Austin to make their Texas History come alive. All Lower School Students participate in Special Programs at Christmas and/or in the spring, with additional performance opportunities at Grandparent s Breakfast, PTO functions, Chapel and other special presentations. 22

23 Middle School Grades 5 8 Mr. Michael D. White Mrs. Annette Turner Mrs. Jean Lander Interim Head of School Middle School Administrator Director of Guidance Every aspect of our middle school program is designed to help your child prepare for adolescence spiritually, mentally and physically. At WCS we are given the unique opportunity to have all of our 5 th and 6 th grade students set apart from the rest of our school. We believe, and research shows, that this is a very important stage of development in a student s life. We can all remember the fear and excitement of approaching our teenage years and the feeling of not knowing what was coming around the next corner. We want to help make the upper school transition as smooth as possible for your child. Our students are really at a time of discovery, they are experiencing independence and responsibility in a way they never have before. Our staff does a great job of nurturing your child while at the same time pushing them at a slightly uncomfortable pace helping them to grow and mature in ways that will make you proud to be their parents. 23

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25 5th and 6th Grade Plan of Study 5 th Grade Courses Bible 5 Reading/Language Arts 5* Math 5 Science 5 Social Studies 5 Study Skills** Band Physical Education Dance Spanish 6 th Grade Courses 6 th Grade Electives (Pick One) Bible 6 Reading/Language Arts 6* Math 6 Science 6 Social Studies 6 Band Physical Education Art Athletics Chorus Drama Football/Basketball Robotics *Students spend time in the library weekly with their Reading teacher. Additional check in/check out and testing times are also provided to support the Accelerated Reader program. Students are encouraged to participate in state and national reading programs: the Bluebonnet and Crown Reading Programs. A store is offered each 6 weeks to support the Accelerated Reader program where students may buy items with Accelerated Reader points. **Study strategies and organizational skills help to prepare the students for future educational endeavors and supports academic content areas as appropriate. 25

26 7 th and 8 th Grade Plan of Study 7 th Grade Courses 7 th Grade Electives (Pick Two) Bible 7 Language Arts 7 Math 7 Science 7 Texas History Computer/Writing Art Athletics Basketball* Chorus Band Drama Speech P.E. Robotics 8 th Grade Courses 8 th Grade Electives (Pick Three) Bible 8 Language Arts 8 Pre Algebra or Algebra I Science 8 or IPC American History Art Athletics Basketball * & Football Chorus Band Drama Classical Ballet P.E. Spanish I Computer I Robotics Sports Practiced After School: Baseball * / Football*/Track & Field / Softball * / Volleyball * / Golf * / Cross Country * All students wanting to participate must try out. Course taken for high school credit. 26

27 5 th 8 th Grade Curriculum But without faith, it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 27

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29 Reading/Language Arts Reading/Language Arts 5: A fifth grade student continues to spend significant blocks of time engaged in independent reading and writing while refining and applying knowledge and skills in increasingly complex tasks. The student analyzes and evaluates classic, contemporary and information literature to enhance comprehension and create new understanding. Additionally, a fifth grade student selects and uses various forms of writing for specific purposes. Utilizing multiple resources, a fifth grader gains proficiency in creating polished final products including multimedia presentations as well as a variety of written texts. Reading/Language Arts 6: The student is actively involved with a variety of texts, including electronic media. The student reads for different purposes and employs multiple strategies to build vocabulary and increase comprehension. As students make connections beyond the text, reading responses reflect higher level thinking. Sixth grade writers develop polished pieces with increased organization and varied sentence structure. Students have multiple opportunities to use language as a tool for collaboration. They listen to, research and produce oral performances and visual/textual presentations. Language Arts 7: Students in this course will define and utilize vocabulary words in context; study and analyze a vast array of genres including: Adventure, Realism, Folk Tales, Fantasy, and Poetry; and analyze a minimum of three full length novels. They will explore the complex English grammar system by looking at the parts of speech, learning the parts of a complete sentence, utilizing correct capitalization and punctuation, and diagramming sentences. Students will learn how to organize sentences in paragraphs to begin creating well developed essays. Writing/Computer 7: This class is designed to develop students writing and computer skills. To bring about the development of these skills students will write in many different modes on widely varied topics and will learn to use computer software, while also integrating grammar conventions and vocabulary. Students will study and put the writing process to use when writing for a variety of audiences and purposes including informing, entertaining, describing, and persuading. Students will revise, rework, and restructure writing by developing several drafts and presenting the final work. The computer aspects of the course focus on familiarizing students with computer programs and teaching them how to use those features throughout their academic careers. During the class students utilize three programs from the Microsoft Office Suite Word, Excel, and PowerPoint as well as specific Apple products such as Garage Band and imovie. Language Arts 8: Students will study and analyze a vast array of genres including mythology, realism, science fiction, humor, and poetry as well as read and analyze a minimum of two full length novels. Students will define and utilize vocabulary words in context. Additionally, they will explore and utilize the complex English grammar system through investigating the parts of speech, learning the elements of a complete sentence, utilizing correct capitalization and punctuation, and diagramming sentences. Students will study and put the writing process to use when writing for a variety of audiences and purposes including informing, entertaining, describing, and persuading. Students will continue to develop writing skills by covering the necessary elements needed to write a proper paragraph and a three to five paragraph essay. 29

30 Foreign Language Spanish I (Grade 8): The purpose of Spanish I is to help each student attain proficiency in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will also develop an insight into the contemporary Spanish speaking world and the various cultures that it includes. (High School Credit: 1) Social Studies Social Studies 5: A fifth grade student learns about the history of the United States from its early beginnings to the present. The roots of the national democratic government as well as important ideas in the Declaration of Independence and the U. S. Constitution are identified. Through social studies, the fifth grade student uses critical thinking skills (sequencing, categorizing, summarizing information, and making inferences while drawing conclusions) to study the history of the United States. Social Studies 6: A sixth grade student understands the concept of diversity in our world from the study of contemporary world cultures and their contributions to civilization. The student identifies the relationship of ancient cultures and their influences on our modern society. They are able to locate geographic features that help them analyze the ways people adapt and modify their physical environment. Higher levels of thinking are developed by the use of primary and secondary sources, maps, and the study of scientific discoveries and technological innovations. Through the understanding of world history and its contributions, the student learns to better understand the important role of a citizen in a democratic society. Texas History (Grade 7): Students study the geography and history of Texas beginning with the prehistoric period to the present. During this course, students will learn about Native Americans in Texas; early explorers in Texas; the geography of Texas, including regions, natural landforms, and latitude/longitude; the Spanish influence on Texas, both past and present; the Texas Revolution, including an insight on what led to it and its aftermath; Texas becoming a part of the United States; Texas involvement in the Civil War and the aftermath; and an insight into Texas politics, government, and its constitution. American History (Grade 8): Students study the geography and history of the United States beginning with the prehistoric period to the early 1900s. During this course students will learn about Native Americans and how they got here, early exploration and significant explorers, Colonial America and its growth, causes of the American Revolution, the American Revolution and its aftermath, the type of government adopted by the early citizens of the United States, political parties and their effect on the United States, and the basic principles of important documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Students will also study the Christian principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, how our government operates within the framework of the three branches of government, the Jackson era and the growth of our nation, the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the reshaping of the nation, including the growth of industry and the growth of urban America. 30

31 Science Science 5: A fifth grade student understands that science is a way of learning about the natural world. The student investigates science as a vast body of changing and increasing knowledge described by physical, mathematical, and conceptual models. The student develops skills in the areas of investigation and use of scientific equipment. The emphasis of study covers the structures and functions of life science, earth science, and physical science. The student investigates that change and constancy in systems can be observed and measured as patterns. Computers and information technology tools are used for support. Science 6: A sixth grade student understands that science is a way of learning about the natural world. The student knows that science has a vast body of changing and increasing knowledge described by physical, mathematical, and conceptual models. The student develops skills in the areas of investigation, use of scientific equipment, and technology. The emphasis of study is life science, earth science and physical science. The student recognizes that there are patterns that exist within cycles, structures, and processes that interact. Computers and information technology tools are used for support. Science 7: Students continue to learn about the natural world in which they live. As the concepts increase in depth and complexity, the student develops problem solving skills to think critically and make informed choices. The student uses models of objects and events as tools for understanding the natural world and systems. Emphasis is placed on life science, specifically on topics such as the structure and function of human body systems, sexual and asexual reproduction, and genetics. Students will also explore the relationships between force and motion and apply what they learn to biological systems such as the heart and circulation. Students will study about gravity and the phases of the moon within our solar system and the effects of forces of nature on the earth, such as hurricanes and earthquakes. They will explore chemical and physical properties of substances and the periodic table. This is a laboratory based class that provides students with the opportunity to conduct field and laboratory investigations. 31

32 Science 8: Earth Systems are a primary topic of study in the 8th grade. Students examine the altering effects of human activity on the Earth. They study the cycles of the earth systems including the lunar cycles and the geochemical cycles. Astronomy places special emphasis on stars and galaxies. Basic Chemistry and Life Science are also integrated in the course of study. Laboratory and field investigations are used to learn about the natural world. Students are required to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. * Robotics (Elective Grade 6, 7 or 8): MS Robotics uses a multimedia curriculum for LEGO Mindstorms NST developed by the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy. This hands on program introduces robotics as a way to learn and to further develop STEM concepts. Students will learn how to program basic robot behaviors. This math and engineering rich curriculum uses problem based learning involving programming, movement, sensors, and further research. Challenge questions reinforce key educational outcomes. IPC Integrated Physics and Chemistry (Grade 8): An Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) student studies the natural world. The student conducts field and laboratory investigations and uses critical thinking, in addition to problem solving skills, to make informed decisions. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry. Topics include motion, waves, energy transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter and solution chemistry. (High School Credit: 1) Mathematics Math 5: A fifth grade student applies a strong foundation of whole numbers to develop a deeper understanding of decimal and fraction concepts. A student independently integrates and applies knowledge of different mathematical strands to make meaningful connections and solve problems. The primary focal points of fifth grade are representing and interpreting data in graphs, applying whole number operations in problem solving situations, and extending concepts related to measurement and geometry. Fifth grade students sharpen their skills by justifying thinking and communicating understanding using appropriate language and tools. Math 6: A sixth grade student further develops algebraic thinking, formal and informal reasoning, and communication of mathematical ideas. The focus of sixth grade shifts from basic operations with whole numbers to describing proportional relationship and addition and subtraction of decimals and fractions. Using various strategies, a student estimates, solves real world problems, evaluates reasonableness of answers and justifies processes and outcomes. Throughout sixth grade, a student uses technology along with other mathematical tools to enhance conceptual understanding. A student also uses ratios to describe proportional situations and make predictions. Math 7: Math 7 is designed to prepare students for their high school mathematics courses across the five math strands of number operation and qualitative reasoning: patterns, relationships and algebraic thinking; geometry; measurement; and probability and statistics. It emphasizes a development of a solid background in the following areas: whole numbers, decimals, number theory, simple equations, fractions, measurements, geometry, ratios, proportions, percents, statistics, and integers. 32

33 Pre Algebra (Grade 8): Math 8 is designed as a preparatory course for Algebra I using the five math strands of number operation and qualitative reasoning: patterns, relationships and algebraic thinking; geometry; measurement; and probability and statistics. Students review many of the topics from the 7th grade year and are introduced to problems which are more detailed and complex. New topics include: equations, inequalities, graphing, rational numbers, and polynomials. Algebra 1 (Grade 8): The goals for this course are to develop proficiency with mathematical skills, to expand understanding of mathematical concepts, to improve logical thinking, and to promote success across the five math strands of number operation and qualitative reasoning: patterns, relationships and algebraic thinking; geometry; measurement; and probability and statistics. Basic topics include linear, quadratic, and other non linear functions; equations and systems of equations; integer exponents; polynomial products; factoring; and the analysis and solution of word problems. (High School Credit: 1) Bible Bible 5: Students will focus on God s covenant promises in the Old Testament and connect to their New Testament fulfillment. Students will be challenged to consider ways that God is preparing them to work in His Kingdom. Bible 6: Students will make connections between the Old Testament through a study of Jesus ministry, death resurrection and ascension. Students will learn how to share the gospel message through the examples of Paul, Peter and others and develop their understanding of how ordinary people are used to build God s Kingdom. Bible 7: Students will investigate the Bible as they explore Old Testament themes and form connections to Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Students will also study the book of Proverbs as instructions for how they are to live as God s children. Bible 8: Eighth graders spend the year studying the life of Jesus as portrayed in the book of Luke. The course covers the entire Gospel, beginning with an in depth look at John the Baptist. Students will have daily reading quizzes in which the questions are taken directly from the scriptures. Extensive memory work is required, focusing on selected passages as well as ancient hymns. The goal of the course is for the student to be able to accurately answer anyone who makes the request to, Tell me the story of Jesus. 33