All our Tuesday Courses are listed below.
If you prefer to look at them on a printable PDF, click the button:
If you prefer to look at them on a printable PDF, click the button:
Tuesday Courses (2018-2019)
WRITING I: This course uses the Excellence in Writing, Level B curriculum, which The Schoolhouse Review Crew 2015 Blue Ribbon Awards calls the "#1 pick for English composition.” Along with structure, students will be taught stylistic techniques. Divided into 9 units, structure includes: note taking, summarizing from notes, narrative stories, references, writing from pictures, research reports, inventive writing, formal essays, and critiques. Stylistic techniques encompass a combination of 28 grammatical writing enhancements. Style checklist rubrics guide students, providing frameworks for writing, and promoting editing skills. In completing all assignments, pupils cover the entire nine units of the curriculum in one school year. Plan on two hours of homework per week, and a year-end binder project showcasing the year’s work. Materials fees: $19.00 per family for required IEW binder, and $8.00 for copies. Taught by Carol de Vries.
WRITING 1 PLUS: This transitional class has been designed specifically for students who have successfully completed Writing 1 or its equivalent but who are not quite ready for the more advanced work required in Writing 2. Many students benefit from the shoring up of skills learned in Writing I before attempting the more rigorous writing of our advanced courses. This class is also ideal for younger students who have successfully completed Writing I but who have not yet met the minimum grade requirement for Writing 2. Using IEW's World History-Based Writing Lessons and Fix It! Grammar, students will once again work through all nine structural models introduced in Writing I with increased attention given to decorations, syntax, grammar, and punctuation. IEW offers several excellent theme-based writing programs to shore up structure and style skills learned in Writing I, and this world history volume is no exception. While encouraging increased independence, the lessons utilize source texts touching on people and events in world history from Gutenberg to the twenty-first century. Prerequisite - successful completion of Writing I and permission of instructor. Plan on 2-3 hours of homework per week and a year-end binder project showcasing the year’s work. Materials fees: $35.00 for required text and copies. Taught by Carol de Vries.
WRITING 2: This class is for those who have successfully completed Writing I or its equivalent. Although this class reviews all the basic Excellence in Writing techniques learned in Writing I and adds more advanced stylistic devices, it puts much more emphasis on the cohesiveness, clarity, and content of the student’s writing. Students will write a variety of paragraphs, as well as expository, argument, and narrative essays. Conducting research is a major emphasis of Writing II, so students write a 12-paragraph research paper. For this they learn invaluable skills such as how to choose reliable sources, construct a thesis statement, organize an outline from multiple sources, integrate supporting quotations, and cite their sources. In addition, students spend time analyzing and imitating famous authors, writing descriptively using imagery and figurative language, and learning the structural forms and language of poetry. For creative writing students create an anthology of their own original poetry. Prerequisite: Students must have taken and successfully completed Writing I or its equivalent without much help from their parents; otherwise, Writing 2 may not be a good fit for them at this time. Also, because of the research paper, even if younger students have successfully completed Writing I, this class is best suited for 8th grade and up and any student younger than 8th grade must get permission from the instructor in order to take this class. Although grammar is taught contextually in this course, it is paramount that students have completed some formal grammar BEFORE taking this class. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell. Please note: The source texts used for many of the assignments vary every other year so that students can take this class for two consecutive years to achieve greater mastery. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
WRITING 3: Using several Excellence in Writing advanced materials – Student Writing Continuation C, The Elegant Essay, and The Advanced Communication Series – This course reviews the basic IEW units and stylistic techniques, but with added and fun elements (ie an interview essay rather than a biography, imitating some of the great authors, and writing a creative short story together), also adding word roots, some advanced stylistic techniques, expanded essays, summarizing, quotations and citations, the art of persuasion including letters to the editor, advanced note-taking techniques, college application essays, and a little fun with common grammatical mistakes. We spend most of the second quarter completing one short paper while working individually on the various parts of an essay: forming thesis statements, types of introductions, effective support, powerful conclusions. Students apply what they’ve learned by writing a term paper during the third quarter, after being set free from the IEW checklist. Because the class is generally small, lots of individual attention is possible. Students should plan on a little more work than Writing 2, and should have successfully completed level 2 or its equivalent. Assignments can easily be integrated with work in other classes. Each student should also have a loose leaf binder with dividers, two- inch or larger. Materials: $40, which includes The Elegant Essay student workbook. Taught by Julie Shorey.
A question about the writing classes: How do you decide in which class to enroll your student if they’ve taken one of them already? Writing is a process, and we never come to the place where we have learned it all. All the way through school we’re going back to writing words and sentences, paragraphs and papers. If your students completed a level well, and were able to be nearly independent and do the assignments fairly easily, they probably are ready to move to the next level. They will receive much more benefit from taking a class they’ve already taken and becoming more competent than by taking one for which they are not ready; even though they are enrolled in the same class, they will definitely be working at a higher level. Students will often remain in the same level to more fully practice the concepts, achieving greater mastery. Tutors are happy to help you decide on the correct level. What are the options if my student isn’t really ready to go to Writing 2? You should not see this as a failure to learn, but as the need to benefit from cycling through the skills again. They could repeat the same level – many of our students have done that, with great success. But you could also practice with them the things they’ve learned in order to become more comfortable, perhaps using one of the theme-based books sold by Excellence in Writing. For more information about our writing courses and other options for completing at home, check out www.excellenceinwriting.com.
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION: This is an introductory college-level writing course to prepare high school juniors and seniors for the AP English Language and Composition examination in May. Students will read and analyze a wide variety of primarily non-fiction works with an emphasis on the study of rhetoric, the art of effective or persuasive speaking and writing. We will focus on how language works and why writers use language as they do. Weekly reading assignments will be from a range of letters, articles, essays, speeches, product advertisements, and political cartoons and ads. Assignmentswill feature personal, analytical, expository and argumentative texts. Students will use skills learned to improve their own writing. Writing assignments will include expository, narrative, persuasive and descriptive writing in the form of journal entries, formal and timed essays, and several major creative projects with presentations to the class. Learning to write well is the primary objective of this class, so students should expect to write frequently! The class will be a lot of work, but the writing instruction will be invaluable, the reading fascinating, and the discussions lively and entertaining! Students will receive a list of books and materials to purchase. Copy fee: $10. Taught by Tammy Bankston.
BEGINNING PUBLIC SPEAKING: One of the greatest fears for the majority of adults, public speaking is a skill best conquered while young. How many adults wish they had been forced to overcome this fear while they were still in grade school? In this class, students will be introduced to a range of speech styles and both speech writing and presentation skills will be learned. More specifically, projection, enunciation, and poise, storytelling, information gathering, and research skills, as well as learning how to write a thesis statement will all be covered. From early on, students will have the opportunity to be giving shorter speeches during class, and will work up to longer speeches that they will spend several weeks writing. They will practice these speeches during class time throughout the year, and one piece will be chosen to present at the Speech Presentation Showcase in April. Most students in this class begin the year barely being able to stand up in class and awkwardly speak for 30 seconds, yet confidently (even if somewhat nervously) present a 5-minute memorized speech to an audience for our presentation night! We will conclude the year with several weeks spent on learning how to present an impromptu speech, a skill we all use in our day to day lives, from sharing with others our faith or values to being interviewed for a job! Although material will be drawn from a few different resources, IEW’s Speech Boot Camp will be our main curriculum. What is expected from the student? Completion of weekly homework builds class unity as well as personal confidence. The only way to actually get comfortable with public speaking is to do it! Mark your calendars now for the required speech presention night on Tuesday, April 9th. Our one day in-house practice speech competition in February or March, which is strongly encouraged for students who are ages 12 and older. Please note: this class is intended for students in 6th – 10th grades and is often repeated a second year to build further confidence and skills. Writing and memorizing is required. Those who are ages 13 and up may choose to compete in an NCFCA-sponsored tournament second semester; however, the beginning class is not specifically geared toward preparing students for those competitions. Materials: $15 (This fee includes the Speech Boot Camp Workbook and copies). Taught by: Carleen Perkins.
ADVANCED PUBLIC SPEAKING: It is more important now than ever that we raise our children to be excellent communicators. The Advanced Public Speaking class is for students who have completed Beginning Public Speaking or its equivalent and wish to further develop their speaking skills personally and competitively. This is a high school level class, which requires extensive memorization. To effectively communicate the Christian worldview, students will learn to listen well, anticipate questions, and formulate reasonable responses, sometimes with very little time to prepare (Impromptu). Students will research a heroic figure in order to learn from their example and to tell others of their impact (Biographical Narrative style). They will learn the skill of searching and finding echoes of the Gospel of Truth, which lives in almost every piece of great literature, and to bring that message alive for the benefit of an audience (Interpretative). In addition, students will identify an issue about which they are passionate and present a speech designed to inform and impact listeners regarding that issue (Original Oratory). We are compelled to confidently articulate the gospel message in “the marketplace of ideas” (Pilgrims Progress, Bunyan) and this course is intended to help in that process (I Peter 3:14-15). Students will test the hypothesis that it can be FUN and exhilarating to embrace challenges which the Lord presents to us without fear (or at least learn to rely on the Lord instead of fear!). Academically, these skills have been proven to serve the students well in college, career, ministry, and adult life. Although there will be extensive writing as a part of this course, it is not a tutorial in writing, so students should have completed Writing 2 or its equivalent level. What is expected from the student? Participation in at least one competitive public speaking opportunity (e.g. NCFCA tournament or other competitive venue); Affiliation to NCFCA www.ncfca.org for the 2018-2019 academic year (we will be using resources from the NCFCA website); participation in the one day GCT in-house tournament in March; participation in speech presentation night in late April. Students should come to first class with their own copy of Secrets of Great Communicators: Simple, Powerful Strategies for Reaching Your Audience, Student Text, by Jeff Myers. Copies: $15.00. Taught by Amy Gaudet.
*A question about competition: Why is competition necessary? It takes a big commitment of both time and finances. Don’t we just want our kids to get experience in front of people? We have found that NOTHING motivates kids to continue to strive for excellence like competition. If our kids just practiced acting, but never performed; or just practiced football skills, but never played the game; or just practiced the piano without a recital or performance, the outcome would be very different. Winning competitions is NOT the goal –the goal IS becoming effective communicators for Christ, and competition has proven to be an effective means to that end.
APOLOGETICS: This is only one category of 10 in NCFCA competition. Apologetics is a valuable course for helping students know what they believe and be able to present the Christian faith to others. That’s the goal, after all; the competition just provides the necessary motivation to keep students working up to their potential. Students will read, study and learn to articulate answers to at least 25 of the 100 questions in the NCFCA Apologetics category: the doctrines of God, the Scriptures, Christ, Man, and Salvation. They will share research, create a card file for competition, and practice speeches, so as to be equipped to compete in the NCFCA competition, with first year students completing at least 25 cards, and repeat students refining their work and creating at least another 25 cards. All students and parents should plan to participate in a mini-competition in this category in February or March, and are encouraged to take part in NCFCA competition as well. The content and workload gear this class toward high school students, but it may be taken by younger students if their parents feel that they are mature enough. This class is also open to parents/adults who would like to take it. Due to the spiritual nature and the work required, an interview with the instructor is required before acceptance into the class. You can contact Aaron at filipe.aaron@gmail.com. Required books and materials for both tracks: Grudem’s Systematic Theology, a 4x6 file box with cards, and of course, Bibles. Apologetics workbook: $25.00. Taught by Aaron Filipe.
DEBATE: How many skills can be learned in debate? Current events, logical thinking, research and organization skills, persuasive speech, effective listening, and the list goes on. This class focuses on preparing students to compete NCFCA-sanctioned tournaments, and generally has a mix of both new and experienced debaters. Students will learn to form arguments, research background information, and develop cases. These critical thinking skills are beneficial in all areas of life, and can be especially helpful in other areas of study. Considerable time will be spent examining the annual topic selected by the league, and analyzing it in depth. The main focus of each class time will be on learning the theory and structure of debate, as well is some time spent in practice rounds, drills, and other exercises. In order to facilitate effective learning during the class time, students are expected to do as much work on their own debate cases and skills as homework, Private tutoring can also be arranged with the tutor for those wanting extra help for competition preparation. Competition is a requirement for second semester participation in this class, as the focus is there. If students would like to study debate first semester, participating in class time debates with no formal competition, they may take the class for the first semester only. Taught by Aaron Filipe.
INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE: In this middle school class your students will gain a solid foundation for high school literary analysis, strengthen their reading comprehension skills, and learn how to discuss books in a group setting. Students will practice the Socratic method of questioning what they read, grounding everything they say with evidence from the text, and drawing conclusions from what is implied in the story. Identifying basic plot elements, conventional story patterns, figurative language, and common literary devices are also important aspects of every class. Incremental lessons ensure that writing a variety of different paragraphs and one literary analysis essay are manageable for all students. Students will read books from a variety of genres that are chosen for their text complexities, such as multiple characters and plots, symbolic elements, archaic language, non-linear time sequence or varied points of view. This year the books we will use include: Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb, Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry by Mildred Taylor, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis, and The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. Each week students will read and complete work in study guides or reading response journals. Additionally, there are many practical, but invaluable skills that are taught in this class, such as: following a class syllabus, preparing test study guides, and learning how to complete a project. One of the most important skills directly taught in this class, however, is learning how to be part of a robust class discussion. Please note: The books for this class are rotated every other year, so that students can take Introduction to Literature for two consecutive years during middle school. Tales from Shakespeare is used every year; however, different stories from the book are studied each year. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
AMERICAN LITERATURE: The purpose of this high school course is to familiarize students with American literature and its authors and worldviews. The literature selections for this class include such works as To Kill a Mockingbird, The Scarlet Letter, The Crucible, Alas Babylon, Fahrenheit 451, and The Glass Menagerie. In addition, we will analyze classic short stories and poetry and will end the year with a fun analysis of political agendas in Dr. Seuss’ stories. Students will receive a complete list of books and materials to purchase. Students should expect 50-75 pages of reading per week, as well as study guides, dialectical journals, creative projects, and literary analysis essays. They should also be prepared to participate in lively class discussions! Prerequisite: It is assumed that students who take this course have successfully completed an introductory or fundamentals literature course. Copy fee: $7.00. Taught by Tammy Bankston.
UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES: This course by Summit Ministries focuses on six fundamental worldviews of Western Civilization: Marxist Leninism (communism), Secular Humanism, Cosmic Humanism (New Age movement), Islam, Post-Modernism, and Biblical Christianity. Students learn to understand how worldview affects all other disciplines and how to defend their own faith. Try taking this excellent (and free) worldview test yourself and then have your high schooler do it, to perhaps give to give yourself some real insight into the need: www.secretbattlebook.com/checkup.html Where apologetics is mostly studying the basics of the Christian faith from the Bible, this course involves studying what the other worldviews believe and how they compare to Christianity, also using the Bible as the final authority. You have heard the statistic that 50% of professing Christian students leave the faith in college? Instruction in the biblical worldview dramatically changes those numbers. The lively discussion/application format is very effective in encouraging students to interact about the things that really matter, and it is what the students love most about this class, along with the video lectures by experts in every field we study. Arrangements have been made by Summit with Bryan College to give college credit for this high school course to students meeting
the extra requirements and making arrangements with them. More information will be given regarding the college credit option, but you can check out this option at understandingthetimes.com/college-credit/. The material was written for juniors and seniors in high school, but, though challenging, it need not be limited to that age. This class meets for 1.5 hours per week. All the materials for the course are available online and licensing fee does not include a hard copy of the textbook unless you pay an extra $20.00. License/Materials fee: $45.00. (plus $20.00 if you want the hard copy of the text). Taught by Julie Shorey.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURE: Travel around the world using the Trail Guide to World Geography curriculum, for mature 8th graders and early high school credit! This course guides students throughout the world - continent by continent. Students will create their own geography notebooks by comparing and contrasting countries and cultures using the required texts. Small writing assignments will include topics such as: world news, famous landmarks, wildlife, people groups, and one winter geography project. Students will also study and label maps from all over the world. During class, students will enjoy hands-on projects, foods from many cultures, guest speakers, and student oral presentations. Required Materials: Answer Atlas by Rand McNally (out of print) OR Atlas of World Geography by Rand McNally www.geomatters.com; World Geography in Christian Perspective - Student Text with Political and Cultural Profiles (ABeka book); and one “Heavy Duty” 2 inch wide 3 ring binder (usually has clear plastic pocket in front). Due to the high research demands of this course, computer/printer access is required. Materials/copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Dana Cloutier.
SPANISH 1A: This course focuses on interaction and conversational Spanish, concentrating on the four aspects of communicating: listening and speaking, writing and reading. The students will converse in Spanish using basic vocabulary to talk about their interests and the world around them. Grammar is taught to support the effort to speak and understand this language, as students explore the various cultures of Hispanic people around the world. The class includes studies of geography, history, cultural traditions, art, music, and daily life, all from someone who has experienced it firsthand and uses that knowledge to make the language come alive in the classroom. This course works well for middle school students looking to get a head start on language or high school students who would like to work at a slower pace, breaking Spanish 1 into two years to ensure comprehension. Taking both Spanish 1A and Spanish 1B is the equivalent of one year, one credit of high school Spanish, meaning that students would still take a Spanish 2 class in order to fulfill the two-year language requirement. All teacher-made materials mean no textbook, but students will need a binder and should plan on about 3-4 hours of homework per week. Materials fee: $25.00. Taught by Mikaela Shorey.
SPANISH 1B: This course is the continuation of the conversation-based Spanish 1A class. It is a communicative course that focuses on interaction to learn language effectively. The students converse in Spanish using basic vocabulary and grammar. Students will experience a continued balanced development of the four basic skills: reading and writing, listening and speaking. The content focuses on students talking about themselves and others, their likes and dislikes, feelings, giving directions, travel, food, description of where they live, and what their daily routines look like, hobbies, plans, and healthy living. Grammar concepts focus on the formation of the present tense. Students will begin to show, in oral and written form, some spontaneity and creative language use in response to an oral or written question, a situation, or a visual. This class, combined with the preceding Spanish 1A, is the equivalent of one year of high school Spanish, meaning that students would still take a Spanish 2 class in order to fulfill the two-year language requirement. (But don’t be surprised if they learn to love it, and want to pursue more language years than required!). All teacher-made materials mean no textbook, but students will need a binder and should plan on about 3-4 hours of homework per week. Materials fee: $25.00. Taught by Mikaela Shorey.
STUDY SKILLS AND READING STRATEGIES. (1st semester) Appropriate for students in grades 8 – 12 Please Note: This class has been revised and no longer includes SAT/ACT prep! SAT/ACT prep is now offered in a separate class 2nd semester. Success in high school and college depends heavily on a student’s ability to comprehend challenging non-fiction reading passages, manage time well, and study effectively. Students in this class will learn basic speed reading skills, along with summarizing and recall strategies, which will improve both their reading rate (words per minute) and their reading comprehension. There has been, for 80% of the students taking this class, an increase in their reading rate of at least 100%. That means that if they started with a reading rate of 150 wpm (words per minute), then they increased their reading rate to 300 wpm. This is NOT a class where we are trying to attain extreme speed reading rates; instead students work on steadily increasing their reading pace and improving their comprehension so that they are able to complete assignments more efficiently. Even for homeschoolers who are avid readers, I have found in my literature and SAT prep classes that their reading speed and comprehension are not what they should be. The reality for most students is that they need to be explicitly taught reading strategies and study skills. Any student planning to go to college (regardless of how high functioning you think they are academically) should consider taking this class to improve their reading abilities, as well as to learn specific strategies for studying, note taking, task analysis, and time management. This class is geared for students who are 8th grade and above. Copy fee $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
COLLEGE VERBAL TEST PREP CLASS (for SAT, ACT, and college application essay) (2nd semester): Appropriate for 10th-12th graders) Please note: this is a separate class is being offered to prepare students for a variety of college tests and essays. Students will review all areas of the SAT and ACT writing tests. This includes the grammar section, as well as the timed essay. Learning to write a timed essay is invaluable prep for college where tests often require students to formulate their thoughts and write an essay within a limited time frame. Additionally, students will spend an equal amount of time preparing for reading tests that require students to read challenging passages and then answer complicated questions about what was read. This class also works on citing evidence in complex texts which is now a big part of the new SAT reading test. Lastly, students will learn how to write a college application essay. Please note: The writing homework for this class is not extensive, because of the fact that the writing is timed, so students can easily take this class along with another writing or literature course. Prerequisites: In order to get the full benefit of this class, students should be in 10th grade or above and have completed one year of high school grammar and Writing 2 or its equivalent. They should read at a sufficient high school level, and be willing to take ownership of their own learning. If your student struggles at all with reading or is a slow reader they should take the fall study skills class before enrolling in this class. There will be a workbook you will need to purchase which will be determined in the fall before the class begins. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
ALGEBRA 1: This high school math course meets TWICE per week (see Thursday). Prerequisite to admission into this class is successful completion of the Math Concepts class or passing an Algebra readiness test administered by the instructor. [If a student is not ready for Algebra 1, the Math Concepts course offered on Thursdays is a great place to begin.] . This format allows for more in-depth interaction
with the concepts. The course requires about an hour of DAILY work outside of class. A goal of this course is to help students understand why the concepts work, not just how to find the answer. This helps promote mathematical reasoning and conceptual growth which allows students to analyze new situation and deduce answers. The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course. Some of the other
topics covered include integers, word phrases and algebraic expressions, solving equations and inequalities, polynomials and factoring, radical and quadratic equations, rational expressions and equations, and quadratic functions. Additionally, statistics topics (which are now included in the SAT exam) are introduced as well: probability, multiplication principle of counting, permutations, combinations, standard deviation, and standard normal distribution. Please purchase: Algebra I Student Text, by Bob Jones University Press (2nd edition). Although it is optional, it is highly recommended that parents purchase the teacher’s edition (Algebra I Teacher’s Edition, 2nd edition) and check their student’s daily work. Also required is a calculator that can handle trig. functions and logarithms (the Casio FX-300 ES PLUS, the
Casio fx-300MS, and the TI-30XS MultiView can be purchased for under $20). Do not purchase a graphing calculator. Materials and copies: $15. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
GEOMETRY: This is a high school level math course that meets TWICE per week (see Thursday). Prerequisite to admission into this class is successful completion of the Algebra 1 class or passing an Algebra Exit test administered by the instructor. [If a student is not ready for Geometry, the Algebra 1 course is a great place to begin.] This format allows for more in-depth interaction with the concepts. The course requires about an hour of DAILY work outside of class. A goal of this course is to help students understand why the concepts work, not just how to find the answers, promoting mathematical reasoning and conceptual growth which allows students to analyze new situation and deduce answers. Topics include include: parallel and perpendicular line, triangle relationships, similarity, polygons and area, surface area and volume, right triangles and basic trigonometry, and circles. Please purchase: Holt McDougal Geometry Concepts and Skills (2010 edition). Also required is a calculator that can handle trig. Functions and logarithms (the Casio FX-300 ES PLUS, the Casio fx-300MS, and the TI-30XS MultiView can be purchased for under $20). Do not purchase a graphing calculator. Materials and copies: $15. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
SAT MATH PREPARATION: (1st OR 2nd semester) If you are nervous about the SATs, this course should help. In this one semester class (offered both semesters) we will review and practice the topics covered in the math portion of the SATs. The topics covered will include numbers and operations (including percent increase and decrease, average speed, and sequences), algebra and functions (including factoring, exponents, variations, and absolute value), geometry and measurements (including geometric figures, properties of parallel lines, angle relationships, area and perimeter, and coordinate geometry), data analysis, statistics, and probability. We will cover not only a review of the math topics, but also strategies to improve your score. There will be weekly homework assignments and periodic practice tests. Students need to have completed Algebra 1 and Geometry before taking this course. Calculators are only allowed on part of the math test but students will need to have a scientific calculator for the second part. These need to be brought to class weekly. If you don’t already have one, I recommend the Casio FX-300 ES PLUS, the Casio fx-300MS or the TI-30XS MultiView. Materials and copies: $25.00. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
FORMAL LOGIC: This is a full year, high school level course in formal logic, which teaches us how to examine the structure, or form, of an argument in everyday language to determine its validity. We all use reasoning every day whether we are evaluating someone’s claims, sharing our own views, or trying to make decisions about future endeavors. What makes a difference, however, is how well we reason. The study of logic helps us improve the quality of our arguments as well as enhance our ability to evaluate the arguments of others. It also gives us the skills to be able to defend the positions and beliefs we hold. Additionally the study of logic helps us to better understand all other subjects: history, science, math, computer science. Learning to think logically also assists us in understanding the Scriptures so we are not “tossed to and from by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.” (Ephesians 4:14). Topics include: self-supporting and supported statements, square of opposition, syllogisms and validity, arguments in normal English, informal fallacies, propositional logic, truth tables, truth trees, and developing formal proofs. This should be an exciting endeavor to take together; as the Lord says in Isaiah 1:18, “Come, let us reason together.” Materials (which includes the book) and copies: $45. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
FORENSIC SCIENCE: This high school level lab science explores the exciting field of crime scene investigation, covering topics in biology, chemistry, and physical science. Students will use a unique hands- on program to perform intriguing investigations weekly as they seek to discover the culprits in The Mystery of Lyle and Louise. Topics include: blood detection, blood spatter analysis, evidence processing, forensic entomology, footprint analysis, questioned document and handwriting analysis, fingerprinting, bite mark analysis, gunshot residue, bullet striations, and drug testing. To learn more about the program, visit this website: www.crosscuttingconcepts.com/about-mystery-lyle-and-louise. In addition to the labs, there will be an online forum, reading and workbook assignments, quizzes, and short oral reports about historical crime cases. There are no textbooks to purchase as all written material is available online. Due to the lab- intensive nature of the course, there is a $100 lab fee. Taught by Tammy Bankston
PERSONAL FINANCE: This high school elective class, using Dave Ramsey’s “Foundations in Personal Finance” course, has value way beyond the transcript, as our students stand on the edge of adulthood and a world that increasingly encourages debt and instant gratification. Through lively discussion, hands-on activities, entertaining video clips, very manageable homework, and lots of practical lessons, this class will deal with saving and investing, budgeting, the dangers of debt, consumer awareness, bargain shopping, career choices, taxes, insurance, car purchases, building credit, and more. Students are very quickly going to be making decisions about college debt and buying a car, and credit card ads will begin arriving in the mail right around graduation time. In this class they should become motivated to make wise choices as they begin adult life, but don’t be surprised if they are anxious to begin applying the principles right away. According to Dave Ramsey, financial problems are the number one cause of both divorce and male suicide. Jesus talked about money even more than heaven and hell combined. The goal is not becoming rich, but being free from the financial bondage that takes so many by surprise and then frames the rest of their adult lives. Because of the content of this course, it is as valuable for college students and adults as for high schoolers, so please feel free to attend by yourself or with your student, and encourage any young adults in your life to jump on board as well. Materials and copies: $40.00. Taught by Julie Shorey.
ALL ABOUT ART (1st semester): This is a multi-level basic art course that will include the elements and principles of art, and is appropriate for both middle school and high school. We will be using different types of mediums, to give a variety of experience to the students, including pencils, paint, and clay. Assignments will include: discovering LINE through drawing, SPACE and depth through collage, sculpting a comic character that will be designed by the student, and brushstroke and techniques of paint and COLOR. We will be completing the semester with an original watercolor painting, and will display student projects during the last day of classes. A supply list will be provided. Materials: $5.00. Taught by Erin Hazen.
DRAWING (2nd semester): Thisrawing class meant to follow All About Art, but can stand alone also, especially for students with a little art experperience. We will build on what we have already learned and go more in depth into the area of drawing. This class begins with basic drawing using line, value, texture, shape, and form, so students new to art are welcome, and then continues with still lifes, faces (we will do a large portrait), figures, animals, nature, landscape, and even a little bit of technical drawing to illustrate an invention the student will create,. Students will build their own sketch journals during the semester, and will experiment with charcoal, graphite, colored pencils, pen & ink, and various blending tools. During this class, we will look at several artists and their sketches and drawings. We will have an art display during the final day of classes where the students will have their work from the semester on display. Materials: $10 (and supply list provided). Taught by Erin Hazen.
CALLIGRAPHY (1st semester): Learn Italic calligraphy to apply to invitations, letters, envelopes, scrap booking, and more. Using the book kit, Calligraphy 1 by Beth Wilson and three chisel tip felt markers, students become competent in all upper and lower case letters, and the numerals 0-9. With instruction, apprentice calligraphers discern subtle changes in letter formation, slant, self-correction and letter width. These subtleties make all the difference in Italic lettering. Practice at home is necessary, but it’s loads of fun! Students who have previously taken Calligraphy I are able to use their new skills to bless others, as well as improving their handwriting. This class is open to adults as well as students. Materials: $25 (for Calligraphy 1 Book and Kit) and additional supplies. Taught by BB Wolf.
MUSIC MASHUP (Grades 9-12) (1st semester): This non-performance, Music Appreciation class has a smattering of everything: singing, listening, sight-reading, ear-training, music theory, music history, and discussion! It is a high school level class designed for focused music students who want to deepen their knowledge. By the end of the semester, students should have a basic understanding of music history, notation, and will have developed skills in sight reading and ear training. Some prior music experience is required (choir, instrument, voice, etc.), but students do not have to be advanced musicians. Students will need to come to the first class with a 1 or 2 inch 3-ring binder, and their own copies of Sing at First Sight, Foundations in Choral Sight-singing Level 1 by Beck, Surmani, & Lewis (7.99 through Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/073903152X/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) Internet access is required, as homework may include online listening and reading assignments. Copy fees: $10.00. Taught by Jennifer Baker.
MUSIC: LESSONS FROM CAROLS: (Grades 5-12, any skill level) (1st semester): Examining the astonishing story of Jesus’ birth and the time surrounding it, this class will spend a good part of the semester learning parts to several of the most beloved of the carols that were written to portray the miracles and anticipation surrounding Christ’s birth. In addition to learning music, students will be memorizing scripture, presenting poems, and hearing stories of well known Christmas Carols. The end goal will be a simple yet beautiful retelling of this blessed time through a presentation night including song and story. Student instrumentalists and soloists will be included, if possible. Also, what a beautiful ministry to bless others with this meaningful and heart- warming music! Please plan on participating in AT LEAST ONE evening of caroling in a neighborhood, TBD. Our Christmas presentation will be on Tuesday, December 11th. Caroling dates to choose from will (tentatively) be Saturday, December 8th and Tuesday, December 18th. This class is intended for all ages! Weekly homework will include music practice and may also include memorizing scripture and research. Materials fees: $15. Taught by Carleen Perkins.
SPRING CHOIR: TIME TRAVEL THROUGH THE 20TH CENTURY (Grades 5-12) (2nd semester): Come enjoy our eclectic and fun choir class open to both experienced and inexperienced, focusing on popular hits from the 1930’s on up through the 20th century, noting how culture shaped music and vice versa. Repertoire will be mostly secular music, carefully selected and taught from a biblical perspective (but we’ll sing some sacred music too, as this century saw the creation of contemporary Christian music!). Students must have a plain, 1 or 2 inch, 3-ring black binder. Internet access is a must as we utilize a GCT choir website. A spring time choir retreat for extra fun & practice for concert will be planned for a Saturday in early April. Students and/or parents interested in accompanying choir or participating in our end of the year concert, please contact Mrs. Baker. Please note that music is rented and returned at the end of semester. Materials Fee: $20.00. Taught by Jennifer Baker.
DRAMA: PRODUCTION, High School and Middle School (Grades 5-12) (1st semester): Students will participate in presenting a period drama, to be announced at auditions, after students have registered. The play will be an ensemble piece, meaning there is no one main character. This class will focus on character development, commanding a strong stage presence, and team building. Class will meet from 3:30pm- 5:00pm each week until after Thanksgiving at which time class will meet until 5:30pm. If you register for this play, please put on your calendar the following dates: December 14th,10:30am-10:00pm for the dress rehearsal and performance, December 15th, 3:00pm-10:30pm for the second performance, and an extra class for auditions on Tuesday, August 28th, 2:00-4:00pm, following the orientation (all at the GCT location). Space is limited. Materials: $20.00. Taught/Directed by Rebekah Tracy.
DRAMA: ACTING INTENSIVE, Middle School (Grades 5-8) (2nd semester): Acting Intensive class for grades 5-8 will focus on several areas of personal growth including listening, watching, awareness of others and self, attentiveness to personal space, how to give and take, and more. Students understanding of the senses will also be explored. All this will be taught through drama games and activities. These skills will not only improve students acting abilities, but they also help on a personal level in relationship to others and
the world around them. Copies: 5.00. Taught by Carleen Perkins.
DRAMA: SHAKESPEARE, High School (Grades 9-12) (2nd semester): Shakespeare wrote with a medieval mind-set. He could not conceive of a time when people would not be familiar with the Bible. He could not conceive of a time when people would believe anything was “meaningless” or of a time in which each individual determines his own meaning. In this high school class, students will perform pieces of Shakespeare’s works from his Histories, Tragedies, Comedies and Sonnets in order to present the underlying biblical truths therein. We will end the semester with a staged presentation, in which students will perform scenes, monologues and sonnets for a delightful “Evening of Shakespeare,” at the end of the semester. Materials: $20.00. Taught by Amy Gaudet.
WRITING 1 PLUS: This transitional class has been designed specifically for students who have successfully completed Writing 1 or its equivalent but who are not quite ready for the more advanced work required in Writing 2. Many students benefit from the shoring up of skills learned in Writing I before attempting the more rigorous writing of our advanced courses. This class is also ideal for younger students who have successfully completed Writing I but who have not yet met the minimum grade requirement for Writing 2. Using IEW's World History-Based Writing Lessons and Fix It! Grammar, students will once again work through all nine structural models introduced in Writing I with increased attention given to decorations, syntax, grammar, and punctuation. IEW offers several excellent theme-based writing programs to shore up structure and style skills learned in Writing I, and this world history volume is no exception. While encouraging increased independence, the lessons utilize source texts touching on people and events in world history from Gutenberg to the twenty-first century. Prerequisite - successful completion of Writing I and permission of instructor. Plan on 2-3 hours of homework per week and a year-end binder project showcasing the year’s work. Materials fees: $35.00 for required text and copies. Taught by Carol de Vries.
WRITING 2: This class is for those who have successfully completed Writing I or its equivalent. Although this class reviews all the basic Excellence in Writing techniques learned in Writing I and adds more advanced stylistic devices, it puts much more emphasis on the cohesiveness, clarity, and content of the student’s writing. Students will write a variety of paragraphs, as well as expository, argument, and narrative essays. Conducting research is a major emphasis of Writing II, so students write a 12-paragraph research paper. For this they learn invaluable skills such as how to choose reliable sources, construct a thesis statement, organize an outline from multiple sources, integrate supporting quotations, and cite their sources. In addition, students spend time analyzing and imitating famous authors, writing descriptively using imagery and figurative language, and learning the structural forms and language of poetry. For creative writing students create an anthology of their own original poetry. Prerequisite: Students must have taken and successfully completed Writing I or its equivalent without much help from their parents; otherwise, Writing 2 may not be a good fit for them at this time. Also, because of the research paper, even if younger students have successfully completed Writing I, this class is best suited for 8th grade and up and any student younger than 8th grade must get permission from the instructor in order to take this class. Although grammar is taught contextually in this course, it is paramount that students have completed some formal grammar BEFORE taking this class. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell. Please note: The source texts used for many of the assignments vary every other year so that students can take this class for two consecutive years to achieve greater mastery. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
WRITING 3: Using several Excellence in Writing advanced materials – Student Writing Continuation C, The Elegant Essay, and The Advanced Communication Series – This course reviews the basic IEW units and stylistic techniques, but with added and fun elements (ie an interview essay rather than a biography, imitating some of the great authors, and writing a creative short story together), also adding word roots, some advanced stylistic techniques, expanded essays, summarizing, quotations and citations, the art of persuasion including letters to the editor, advanced note-taking techniques, college application essays, and a little fun with common grammatical mistakes. We spend most of the second quarter completing one short paper while working individually on the various parts of an essay: forming thesis statements, types of introductions, effective support, powerful conclusions. Students apply what they’ve learned by writing a term paper during the third quarter, after being set free from the IEW checklist. Because the class is generally small, lots of individual attention is possible. Students should plan on a little more work than Writing 2, and should have successfully completed level 2 or its equivalent. Assignments can easily be integrated with work in other classes. Each student should also have a loose leaf binder with dividers, two- inch or larger. Materials: $40, which includes The Elegant Essay student workbook. Taught by Julie Shorey.
A question about the writing classes: How do you decide in which class to enroll your student if they’ve taken one of them already? Writing is a process, and we never come to the place where we have learned it all. All the way through school we’re going back to writing words and sentences, paragraphs and papers. If your students completed a level well, and were able to be nearly independent and do the assignments fairly easily, they probably are ready to move to the next level. They will receive much more benefit from taking a class they’ve already taken and becoming more competent than by taking one for which they are not ready; even though they are enrolled in the same class, they will definitely be working at a higher level. Students will often remain in the same level to more fully practice the concepts, achieving greater mastery. Tutors are happy to help you decide on the correct level. What are the options if my student isn’t really ready to go to Writing 2? You should not see this as a failure to learn, but as the need to benefit from cycling through the skills again. They could repeat the same level – many of our students have done that, with great success. But you could also practice with them the things they’ve learned in order to become more comfortable, perhaps using one of the theme-based books sold by Excellence in Writing. For more information about our writing courses and other options for completing at home, check out www.excellenceinwriting.com.
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION: This is an introductory college-level writing course to prepare high school juniors and seniors for the AP English Language and Composition examination in May. Students will read and analyze a wide variety of primarily non-fiction works with an emphasis on the study of rhetoric, the art of effective or persuasive speaking and writing. We will focus on how language works and why writers use language as they do. Weekly reading assignments will be from a range of letters, articles, essays, speeches, product advertisements, and political cartoons and ads. Assignmentswill feature personal, analytical, expository and argumentative texts. Students will use skills learned to improve their own writing. Writing assignments will include expository, narrative, persuasive and descriptive writing in the form of journal entries, formal and timed essays, and several major creative projects with presentations to the class. Learning to write well is the primary objective of this class, so students should expect to write frequently! The class will be a lot of work, but the writing instruction will be invaluable, the reading fascinating, and the discussions lively and entertaining! Students will receive a list of books and materials to purchase. Copy fee: $10. Taught by Tammy Bankston.
BEGINNING PUBLIC SPEAKING: One of the greatest fears for the majority of adults, public speaking is a skill best conquered while young. How many adults wish they had been forced to overcome this fear while they were still in grade school? In this class, students will be introduced to a range of speech styles and both speech writing and presentation skills will be learned. More specifically, projection, enunciation, and poise, storytelling, information gathering, and research skills, as well as learning how to write a thesis statement will all be covered. From early on, students will have the opportunity to be giving shorter speeches during class, and will work up to longer speeches that they will spend several weeks writing. They will practice these speeches during class time throughout the year, and one piece will be chosen to present at the Speech Presentation Showcase in April. Most students in this class begin the year barely being able to stand up in class and awkwardly speak for 30 seconds, yet confidently (even if somewhat nervously) present a 5-minute memorized speech to an audience for our presentation night! We will conclude the year with several weeks spent on learning how to present an impromptu speech, a skill we all use in our day to day lives, from sharing with others our faith or values to being interviewed for a job! Although material will be drawn from a few different resources, IEW’s Speech Boot Camp will be our main curriculum. What is expected from the student? Completion of weekly homework builds class unity as well as personal confidence. The only way to actually get comfortable with public speaking is to do it! Mark your calendars now for the required speech presention night on Tuesday, April 9th. Our one day in-house practice speech competition in February or March, which is strongly encouraged for students who are ages 12 and older. Please note: this class is intended for students in 6th – 10th grades and is often repeated a second year to build further confidence and skills. Writing and memorizing is required. Those who are ages 13 and up may choose to compete in an NCFCA-sponsored tournament second semester; however, the beginning class is not specifically geared toward preparing students for those competitions. Materials: $15 (This fee includes the Speech Boot Camp Workbook and copies). Taught by: Carleen Perkins.
ADVANCED PUBLIC SPEAKING: It is more important now than ever that we raise our children to be excellent communicators. The Advanced Public Speaking class is for students who have completed Beginning Public Speaking or its equivalent and wish to further develop their speaking skills personally and competitively. This is a high school level class, which requires extensive memorization. To effectively communicate the Christian worldview, students will learn to listen well, anticipate questions, and formulate reasonable responses, sometimes with very little time to prepare (Impromptu). Students will research a heroic figure in order to learn from their example and to tell others of their impact (Biographical Narrative style). They will learn the skill of searching and finding echoes of the Gospel of Truth, which lives in almost every piece of great literature, and to bring that message alive for the benefit of an audience (Interpretative). In addition, students will identify an issue about which they are passionate and present a speech designed to inform and impact listeners regarding that issue (Original Oratory). We are compelled to confidently articulate the gospel message in “the marketplace of ideas” (Pilgrims Progress, Bunyan) and this course is intended to help in that process (I Peter 3:14-15). Students will test the hypothesis that it can be FUN and exhilarating to embrace challenges which the Lord presents to us without fear (or at least learn to rely on the Lord instead of fear!). Academically, these skills have been proven to serve the students well in college, career, ministry, and adult life. Although there will be extensive writing as a part of this course, it is not a tutorial in writing, so students should have completed Writing 2 or its equivalent level. What is expected from the student? Participation in at least one competitive public speaking opportunity (e.g. NCFCA tournament or other competitive venue); Affiliation to NCFCA www.ncfca.org for the 2018-2019 academic year (we will be using resources from the NCFCA website); participation in the one day GCT in-house tournament in March; participation in speech presentation night in late April. Students should come to first class with their own copy of Secrets of Great Communicators: Simple, Powerful Strategies for Reaching Your Audience, Student Text, by Jeff Myers. Copies: $15.00. Taught by Amy Gaudet.
*A question about competition: Why is competition necessary? It takes a big commitment of both time and finances. Don’t we just want our kids to get experience in front of people? We have found that NOTHING motivates kids to continue to strive for excellence like competition. If our kids just practiced acting, but never performed; or just practiced football skills, but never played the game; or just practiced the piano without a recital or performance, the outcome would be very different. Winning competitions is NOT the goal –the goal IS becoming effective communicators for Christ, and competition has proven to be an effective means to that end.
APOLOGETICS: This is only one category of 10 in NCFCA competition. Apologetics is a valuable course for helping students know what they believe and be able to present the Christian faith to others. That’s the goal, after all; the competition just provides the necessary motivation to keep students working up to their potential. Students will read, study and learn to articulate answers to at least 25 of the 100 questions in the NCFCA Apologetics category: the doctrines of God, the Scriptures, Christ, Man, and Salvation. They will share research, create a card file for competition, and practice speeches, so as to be equipped to compete in the NCFCA competition, with first year students completing at least 25 cards, and repeat students refining their work and creating at least another 25 cards. All students and parents should plan to participate in a mini-competition in this category in February or March, and are encouraged to take part in NCFCA competition as well. The content and workload gear this class toward high school students, but it may be taken by younger students if their parents feel that they are mature enough. This class is also open to parents/adults who would like to take it. Due to the spiritual nature and the work required, an interview with the instructor is required before acceptance into the class. You can contact Aaron at filipe.aaron@gmail.com. Required books and materials for both tracks: Grudem’s Systematic Theology, a 4x6 file box with cards, and of course, Bibles. Apologetics workbook: $25.00. Taught by Aaron Filipe.
DEBATE: How many skills can be learned in debate? Current events, logical thinking, research and organization skills, persuasive speech, effective listening, and the list goes on. This class focuses on preparing students to compete NCFCA-sanctioned tournaments, and generally has a mix of both new and experienced debaters. Students will learn to form arguments, research background information, and develop cases. These critical thinking skills are beneficial in all areas of life, and can be especially helpful in other areas of study. Considerable time will be spent examining the annual topic selected by the league, and analyzing it in depth. The main focus of each class time will be on learning the theory and structure of debate, as well is some time spent in practice rounds, drills, and other exercises. In order to facilitate effective learning during the class time, students are expected to do as much work on their own debate cases and skills as homework, Private tutoring can also be arranged with the tutor for those wanting extra help for competition preparation. Competition is a requirement for second semester participation in this class, as the focus is there. If students would like to study debate first semester, participating in class time debates with no formal competition, they may take the class for the first semester only. Taught by Aaron Filipe.
INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE: In this middle school class your students will gain a solid foundation for high school literary analysis, strengthen their reading comprehension skills, and learn how to discuss books in a group setting. Students will practice the Socratic method of questioning what they read, grounding everything they say with evidence from the text, and drawing conclusions from what is implied in the story. Identifying basic plot elements, conventional story patterns, figurative language, and common literary devices are also important aspects of every class. Incremental lessons ensure that writing a variety of different paragraphs and one literary analysis essay are manageable for all students. Students will read books from a variety of genres that are chosen for their text complexities, such as multiple characters and plots, symbolic elements, archaic language, non-linear time sequence or varied points of view. This year the books we will use include: Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb, Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry by Mildred Taylor, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis, and The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. Each week students will read and complete work in study guides or reading response journals. Additionally, there are many practical, but invaluable skills that are taught in this class, such as: following a class syllabus, preparing test study guides, and learning how to complete a project. One of the most important skills directly taught in this class, however, is learning how to be part of a robust class discussion. Please note: The books for this class are rotated every other year, so that students can take Introduction to Literature for two consecutive years during middle school. Tales from Shakespeare is used every year; however, different stories from the book are studied each year. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
AMERICAN LITERATURE: The purpose of this high school course is to familiarize students with American literature and its authors and worldviews. The literature selections for this class include such works as To Kill a Mockingbird, The Scarlet Letter, The Crucible, Alas Babylon, Fahrenheit 451, and The Glass Menagerie. In addition, we will analyze classic short stories and poetry and will end the year with a fun analysis of political agendas in Dr. Seuss’ stories. Students will receive a complete list of books and materials to purchase. Students should expect 50-75 pages of reading per week, as well as study guides, dialectical journals, creative projects, and literary analysis essays. They should also be prepared to participate in lively class discussions! Prerequisite: It is assumed that students who take this course have successfully completed an introductory or fundamentals literature course. Copy fee: $7.00. Taught by Tammy Bankston.
UNDERSTANDING THE TIMES: This course by Summit Ministries focuses on six fundamental worldviews of Western Civilization: Marxist Leninism (communism), Secular Humanism, Cosmic Humanism (New Age movement), Islam, Post-Modernism, and Biblical Christianity. Students learn to understand how worldview affects all other disciplines and how to defend their own faith. Try taking this excellent (and free) worldview test yourself and then have your high schooler do it, to perhaps give to give yourself some real insight into the need: www.secretbattlebook.com/checkup.html Where apologetics is mostly studying the basics of the Christian faith from the Bible, this course involves studying what the other worldviews believe and how they compare to Christianity, also using the Bible as the final authority. You have heard the statistic that 50% of professing Christian students leave the faith in college? Instruction in the biblical worldview dramatically changes those numbers. The lively discussion/application format is very effective in encouraging students to interact about the things that really matter, and it is what the students love most about this class, along with the video lectures by experts in every field we study. Arrangements have been made by Summit with Bryan College to give college credit for this high school course to students meeting
the extra requirements and making arrangements with them. More information will be given regarding the college credit option, but you can check out this option at understandingthetimes.com/college-credit/. The material was written for juniors and seniors in high school, but, though challenging, it need not be limited to that age. This class meets for 1.5 hours per week. All the materials for the course are available online and licensing fee does not include a hard copy of the textbook unless you pay an extra $20.00. License/Materials fee: $45.00. (plus $20.00 if you want the hard copy of the text). Taught by Julie Shorey.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND CULTURE: Travel around the world using the Trail Guide to World Geography curriculum, for mature 8th graders and early high school credit! This course guides students throughout the world - continent by continent. Students will create their own geography notebooks by comparing and contrasting countries and cultures using the required texts. Small writing assignments will include topics such as: world news, famous landmarks, wildlife, people groups, and one winter geography project. Students will also study and label maps from all over the world. During class, students will enjoy hands-on projects, foods from many cultures, guest speakers, and student oral presentations. Required Materials: Answer Atlas by Rand McNally (out of print) OR Atlas of World Geography by Rand McNally www.geomatters.com; World Geography in Christian Perspective - Student Text with Political and Cultural Profiles (ABeka book); and one “Heavy Duty” 2 inch wide 3 ring binder (usually has clear plastic pocket in front). Due to the high research demands of this course, computer/printer access is required. Materials/copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Dana Cloutier.
SPANISH 1A: This course focuses on interaction and conversational Spanish, concentrating on the four aspects of communicating: listening and speaking, writing and reading. The students will converse in Spanish using basic vocabulary to talk about their interests and the world around them. Grammar is taught to support the effort to speak and understand this language, as students explore the various cultures of Hispanic people around the world. The class includes studies of geography, history, cultural traditions, art, music, and daily life, all from someone who has experienced it firsthand and uses that knowledge to make the language come alive in the classroom. This course works well for middle school students looking to get a head start on language or high school students who would like to work at a slower pace, breaking Spanish 1 into two years to ensure comprehension. Taking both Spanish 1A and Spanish 1B is the equivalent of one year, one credit of high school Spanish, meaning that students would still take a Spanish 2 class in order to fulfill the two-year language requirement. All teacher-made materials mean no textbook, but students will need a binder and should plan on about 3-4 hours of homework per week. Materials fee: $25.00. Taught by Mikaela Shorey.
SPANISH 1B: This course is the continuation of the conversation-based Spanish 1A class. It is a communicative course that focuses on interaction to learn language effectively. The students converse in Spanish using basic vocabulary and grammar. Students will experience a continued balanced development of the four basic skills: reading and writing, listening and speaking. The content focuses on students talking about themselves and others, their likes and dislikes, feelings, giving directions, travel, food, description of where they live, and what their daily routines look like, hobbies, plans, and healthy living. Grammar concepts focus on the formation of the present tense. Students will begin to show, in oral and written form, some spontaneity and creative language use in response to an oral or written question, a situation, or a visual. This class, combined with the preceding Spanish 1A, is the equivalent of one year of high school Spanish, meaning that students would still take a Spanish 2 class in order to fulfill the two-year language requirement. (But don’t be surprised if they learn to love it, and want to pursue more language years than required!). All teacher-made materials mean no textbook, but students will need a binder and should plan on about 3-4 hours of homework per week. Materials fee: $25.00. Taught by Mikaela Shorey.
STUDY SKILLS AND READING STRATEGIES. (1st semester) Appropriate for students in grades 8 – 12 Please Note: This class has been revised and no longer includes SAT/ACT prep! SAT/ACT prep is now offered in a separate class 2nd semester. Success in high school and college depends heavily on a student’s ability to comprehend challenging non-fiction reading passages, manage time well, and study effectively. Students in this class will learn basic speed reading skills, along with summarizing and recall strategies, which will improve both their reading rate (words per minute) and their reading comprehension. There has been, for 80% of the students taking this class, an increase in their reading rate of at least 100%. That means that if they started with a reading rate of 150 wpm (words per minute), then they increased their reading rate to 300 wpm. This is NOT a class where we are trying to attain extreme speed reading rates; instead students work on steadily increasing their reading pace and improving their comprehension so that they are able to complete assignments more efficiently. Even for homeschoolers who are avid readers, I have found in my literature and SAT prep classes that their reading speed and comprehension are not what they should be. The reality for most students is that they need to be explicitly taught reading strategies and study skills. Any student planning to go to college (regardless of how high functioning you think they are academically) should consider taking this class to improve their reading abilities, as well as to learn specific strategies for studying, note taking, task analysis, and time management. This class is geared for students who are 8th grade and above. Copy fee $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
COLLEGE VERBAL TEST PREP CLASS (for SAT, ACT, and college application essay) (2nd semester): Appropriate for 10th-12th graders) Please note: this is a separate class is being offered to prepare students for a variety of college tests and essays. Students will review all areas of the SAT and ACT writing tests. This includes the grammar section, as well as the timed essay. Learning to write a timed essay is invaluable prep for college where tests often require students to formulate their thoughts and write an essay within a limited time frame. Additionally, students will spend an equal amount of time preparing for reading tests that require students to read challenging passages and then answer complicated questions about what was read. This class also works on citing evidence in complex texts which is now a big part of the new SAT reading test. Lastly, students will learn how to write a college application essay. Please note: The writing homework for this class is not extensive, because of the fact that the writing is timed, so students can easily take this class along with another writing or literature course. Prerequisites: In order to get the full benefit of this class, students should be in 10th grade or above and have completed one year of high school grammar and Writing 2 or its equivalent. They should read at a sufficient high school level, and be willing to take ownership of their own learning. If your student struggles at all with reading or is a slow reader they should take the fall study skills class before enrolling in this class. There will be a workbook you will need to purchase which will be determined in the fall before the class begins. Copy fee: $20.00. Taught by Allison Desautell.
ALGEBRA 1: This high school math course meets TWICE per week (see Thursday). Prerequisite to admission into this class is successful completion of the Math Concepts class or passing an Algebra readiness test administered by the instructor. [If a student is not ready for Algebra 1, the Math Concepts course offered on Thursdays is a great place to begin.] . This format allows for more in-depth interaction
with the concepts. The course requires about an hour of DAILY work outside of class. A goal of this course is to help students understand why the concepts work, not just how to find the answer. This helps promote mathematical reasoning and conceptual growth which allows students to analyze new situation and deduce answers. The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course. Some of the other
topics covered include integers, word phrases and algebraic expressions, solving equations and inequalities, polynomials and factoring, radical and quadratic equations, rational expressions and equations, and quadratic functions. Additionally, statistics topics (which are now included in the SAT exam) are introduced as well: probability, multiplication principle of counting, permutations, combinations, standard deviation, and standard normal distribution. Please purchase: Algebra I Student Text, by Bob Jones University Press (2nd edition). Although it is optional, it is highly recommended that parents purchase the teacher’s edition (Algebra I Teacher’s Edition, 2nd edition) and check their student’s daily work. Also required is a calculator that can handle trig. functions and logarithms (the Casio FX-300 ES PLUS, the
Casio fx-300MS, and the TI-30XS MultiView can be purchased for under $20). Do not purchase a graphing calculator. Materials and copies: $15. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
GEOMETRY: This is a high school level math course that meets TWICE per week (see Thursday). Prerequisite to admission into this class is successful completion of the Algebra 1 class or passing an Algebra Exit test administered by the instructor. [If a student is not ready for Geometry, the Algebra 1 course is a great place to begin.] This format allows for more in-depth interaction with the concepts. The course requires about an hour of DAILY work outside of class. A goal of this course is to help students understand why the concepts work, not just how to find the answers, promoting mathematical reasoning and conceptual growth which allows students to analyze new situation and deduce answers. Topics include include: parallel and perpendicular line, triangle relationships, similarity, polygons and area, surface area and volume, right triangles and basic trigonometry, and circles. Please purchase: Holt McDougal Geometry Concepts and Skills (2010 edition). Also required is a calculator that can handle trig. Functions and logarithms (the Casio FX-300 ES PLUS, the Casio fx-300MS, and the TI-30XS MultiView can be purchased for under $20). Do not purchase a graphing calculator. Materials and copies: $15. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
SAT MATH PREPARATION: (1st OR 2nd semester) If you are nervous about the SATs, this course should help. In this one semester class (offered both semesters) we will review and practice the topics covered in the math portion of the SATs. The topics covered will include numbers and operations (including percent increase and decrease, average speed, and sequences), algebra and functions (including factoring, exponents, variations, and absolute value), geometry and measurements (including geometric figures, properties of parallel lines, angle relationships, area and perimeter, and coordinate geometry), data analysis, statistics, and probability. We will cover not only a review of the math topics, but also strategies to improve your score. There will be weekly homework assignments and periodic practice tests. Students need to have completed Algebra 1 and Geometry before taking this course. Calculators are only allowed on part of the math test but students will need to have a scientific calculator for the second part. These need to be brought to class weekly. If you don’t already have one, I recommend the Casio FX-300 ES PLUS, the Casio fx-300MS or the TI-30XS MultiView. Materials and copies: $25.00. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
FORMAL LOGIC: This is a full year, high school level course in formal logic, which teaches us how to examine the structure, or form, of an argument in everyday language to determine its validity. We all use reasoning every day whether we are evaluating someone’s claims, sharing our own views, or trying to make decisions about future endeavors. What makes a difference, however, is how well we reason. The study of logic helps us improve the quality of our arguments as well as enhance our ability to evaluate the arguments of others. It also gives us the skills to be able to defend the positions and beliefs we hold. Additionally the study of logic helps us to better understand all other subjects: history, science, math, computer science. Learning to think logically also assists us in understanding the Scriptures so we are not “tossed to and from by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.” (Ephesians 4:14). Topics include: self-supporting and supported statements, square of opposition, syllogisms and validity, arguments in normal English, informal fallacies, propositional logic, truth tables, truth trees, and developing formal proofs. This should be an exciting endeavor to take together; as the Lord says in Isaiah 1:18, “Come, let us reason together.” Materials (which includes the book) and copies: $45. Taught by Sandy Tracy.
FORENSIC SCIENCE: This high school level lab science explores the exciting field of crime scene investigation, covering topics in biology, chemistry, and physical science. Students will use a unique hands- on program to perform intriguing investigations weekly as they seek to discover the culprits in The Mystery of Lyle and Louise. Topics include: blood detection, blood spatter analysis, evidence processing, forensic entomology, footprint analysis, questioned document and handwriting analysis, fingerprinting, bite mark analysis, gunshot residue, bullet striations, and drug testing. To learn more about the program, visit this website: www.crosscuttingconcepts.com/about-mystery-lyle-and-louise. In addition to the labs, there will be an online forum, reading and workbook assignments, quizzes, and short oral reports about historical crime cases. There are no textbooks to purchase as all written material is available online. Due to the lab- intensive nature of the course, there is a $100 lab fee. Taught by Tammy Bankston
PERSONAL FINANCE: This high school elective class, using Dave Ramsey’s “Foundations in Personal Finance” course, has value way beyond the transcript, as our students stand on the edge of adulthood and a world that increasingly encourages debt and instant gratification. Through lively discussion, hands-on activities, entertaining video clips, very manageable homework, and lots of practical lessons, this class will deal with saving and investing, budgeting, the dangers of debt, consumer awareness, bargain shopping, career choices, taxes, insurance, car purchases, building credit, and more. Students are very quickly going to be making decisions about college debt and buying a car, and credit card ads will begin arriving in the mail right around graduation time. In this class they should become motivated to make wise choices as they begin adult life, but don’t be surprised if they are anxious to begin applying the principles right away. According to Dave Ramsey, financial problems are the number one cause of both divorce and male suicide. Jesus talked about money even more than heaven and hell combined. The goal is not becoming rich, but being free from the financial bondage that takes so many by surprise and then frames the rest of their adult lives. Because of the content of this course, it is as valuable for college students and adults as for high schoolers, so please feel free to attend by yourself or with your student, and encourage any young adults in your life to jump on board as well. Materials and copies: $40.00. Taught by Julie Shorey.
ALL ABOUT ART (1st semester): This is a multi-level basic art course that will include the elements and principles of art, and is appropriate for both middle school and high school. We will be using different types of mediums, to give a variety of experience to the students, including pencils, paint, and clay. Assignments will include: discovering LINE through drawing, SPACE and depth through collage, sculpting a comic character that will be designed by the student, and brushstroke and techniques of paint and COLOR. We will be completing the semester with an original watercolor painting, and will display student projects during the last day of classes. A supply list will be provided. Materials: $5.00. Taught by Erin Hazen.
DRAWING (2nd semester): Thisrawing class meant to follow All About Art, but can stand alone also, especially for students with a little art experperience. We will build on what we have already learned and go more in depth into the area of drawing. This class begins with basic drawing using line, value, texture, shape, and form, so students new to art are welcome, and then continues with still lifes, faces (we will do a large portrait), figures, animals, nature, landscape, and even a little bit of technical drawing to illustrate an invention the student will create,. Students will build their own sketch journals during the semester, and will experiment with charcoal, graphite, colored pencils, pen & ink, and various blending tools. During this class, we will look at several artists and their sketches and drawings. We will have an art display during the final day of classes where the students will have their work from the semester on display. Materials: $10 (and supply list provided). Taught by Erin Hazen.
CALLIGRAPHY (1st semester): Learn Italic calligraphy to apply to invitations, letters, envelopes, scrap booking, and more. Using the book kit, Calligraphy 1 by Beth Wilson and three chisel tip felt markers, students become competent in all upper and lower case letters, and the numerals 0-9. With instruction, apprentice calligraphers discern subtle changes in letter formation, slant, self-correction and letter width. These subtleties make all the difference in Italic lettering. Practice at home is necessary, but it’s loads of fun! Students who have previously taken Calligraphy I are able to use their new skills to bless others, as well as improving their handwriting. This class is open to adults as well as students. Materials: $25 (for Calligraphy 1 Book and Kit) and additional supplies. Taught by BB Wolf.
MUSIC MASHUP (Grades 9-12) (1st semester): This non-performance, Music Appreciation class has a smattering of everything: singing, listening, sight-reading, ear-training, music theory, music history, and discussion! It is a high school level class designed for focused music students who want to deepen their knowledge. By the end of the semester, students should have a basic understanding of music history, notation, and will have developed skills in sight reading and ear training. Some prior music experience is required (choir, instrument, voice, etc.), but students do not have to be advanced musicians. Students will need to come to the first class with a 1 or 2 inch 3-ring binder, and their own copies of Sing at First Sight, Foundations in Choral Sight-singing Level 1 by Beck, Surmani, & Lewis (7.99 through Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/073903152X/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) Internet access is required, as homework may include online listening and reading assignments. Copy fees: $10.00. Taught by Jennifer Baker.
MUSIC: LESSONS FROM CAROLS: (Grades 5-12, any skill level) (1st semester): Examining the astonishing story of Jesus’ birth and the time surrounding it, this class will spend a good part of the semester learning parts to several of the most beloved of the carols that were written to portray the miracles and anticipation surrounding Christ’s birth. In addition to learning music, students will be memorizing scripture, presenting poems, and hearing stories of well known Christmas Carols. The end goal will be a simple yet beautiful retelling of this blessed time through a presentation night including song and story. Student instrumentalists and soloists will be included, if possible. Also, what a beautiful ministry to bless others with this meaningful and heart- warming music! Please plan on participating in AT LEAST ONE evening of caroling in a neighborhood, TBD. Our Christmas presentation will be on Tuesday, December 11th. Caroling dates to choose from will (tentatively) be Saturday, December 8th and Tuesday, December 18th. This class is intended for all ages! Weekly homework will include music practice and may also include memorizing scripture and research. Materials fees: $15. Taught by Carleen Perkins.
SPRING CHOIR: TIME TRAVEL THROUGH THE 20TH CENTURY (Grades 5-12) (2nd semester): Come enjoy our eclectic and fun choir class open to both experienced and inexperienced, focusing on popular hits from the 1930’s on up through the 20th century, noting how culture shaped music and vice versa. Repertoire will be mostly secular music, carefully selected and taught from a biblical perspective (but we’ll sing some sacred music too, as this century saw the creation of contemporary Christian music!). Students must have a plain, 1 or 2 inch, 3-ring black binder. Internet access is a must as we utilize a GCT choir website. A spring time choir retreat for extra fun & practice for concert will be planned for a Saturday in early April. Students and/or parents interested in accompanying choir or participating in our end of the year concert, please contact Mrs. Baker. Please note that music is rented and returned at the end of semester. Materials Fee: $20.00. Taught by Jennifer Baker.
DRAMA: PRODUCTION, High School and Middle School (Grades 5-12) (1st semester): Students will participate in presenting a period drama, to be announced at auditions, after students have registered. The play will be an ensemble piece, meaning there is no one main character. This class will focus on character development, commanding a strong stage presence, and team building. Class will meet from 3:30pm- 5:00pm each week until after Thanksgiving at which time class will meet until 5:30pm. If you register for this play, please put on your calendar the following dates: December 14th,10:30am-10:00pm for the dress rehearsal and performance, December 15th, 3:00pm-10:30pm for the second performance, and an extra class for auditions on Tuesday, August 28th, 2:00-4:00pm, following the orientation (all at the GCT location). Space is limited. Materials: $20.00. Taught/Directed by Rebekah Tracy.
DRAMA: ACTING INTENSIVE, Middle School (Grades 5-8) (2nd semester): Acting Intensive class for grades 5-8 will focus on several areas of personal growth including listening, watching, awareness of others and self, attentiveness to personal space, how to give and take, and more. Students understanding of the senses will also be explored. All this will be taught through drama games and activities. These skills will not only improve students acting abilities, but they also help on a personal level in relationship to others and
the world around them. Copies: 5.00. Taught by Carleen Perkins.
DRAMA: SHAKESPEARE, High School (Grades 9-12) (2nd semester): Shakespeare wrote with a medieval mind-set. He could not conceive of a time when people would not be familiar with the Bible. He could not conceive of a time when people would believe anything was “meaningless” or of a time in which each individual determines his own meaning. In this high school class, students will perform pieces of Shakespeare’s works from his Histories, Tragedies, Comedies and Sonnets in order to present the underlying biblical truths therein. We will end the semester with a staged presentation, in which students will perform scenes, monologues and sonnets for a delightful “Evening of Shakespeare,” at the end of the semester. Materials: $20.00. Taught by Amy Gaudet.
