Secondary Course Descriptions (Course offerings may vary from year to year)
English
FORTY CREDITS REQUIRED FROM THE FOLLOWING:
AMERICAN LITERATURE
This course involves students in a study of themes in American literature. Essays, speeches, poetry, novels, drama, and short stories from the 17th Century to the present are arranged in thematic units. Students explore these themes and works of literature through a wide range of expository and creative written, oral, and visual projects. Two semesters 10 credits
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION
The goal of the class is to enable students to write effectively and confidently in their college courses across the curriculum and in their professional and personal lives. Students prepare for the AP exam by reading prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and contexts, and by writing critical and analytical essays. To receive college credit, students must pass AP exam with a 3 or above. Two semester 10 credits
CREATIVE WRITING
This course leads students to practice a variety of writing techniques. After reading brief examples, students try writing various forms of narratives and short stories, and poetry. They maintain a portfolio and produce a major project each quarter. One semester 5 credits
ENGLISH I - INTRO TO LITERATURE
This course is a study of language and of literature. Intro to Literature focuses on the use of language in studying, everyday communication, and the media. It also provides an overview of the writing process and grammar. An introduction to the main types of literature – short stories, poetry, novels, and drama – involves students in writing essays and creative pieces. Freshman Class Two semesters 10 credits
ENGLISH II - WORLD LITERATURE
This course examines the role of world literature in culture and in our personal lives. Students explore themes such as growing up, love, and prejudice in poetry, short stories, novels and drama. Throughout these studies students continue to refine their writing and editing skills and develop their public speaking skills. Sophomore Class Two semesters 10 credits
PATTERNS FOR COLLEGE WRITING AND READING
This class helps students develop their critical thinking, reading, and writing skills through the study of nonfiction literature. Students will respond to reading selections through class discussions and explore ideas of their own through writing. As a result, students will be better prepared to tackle college-level writing and reading.
SPEECH & DEBATE
Emphasizes the theoretical and practical aspects of the communicative arts. Students participate in a variety of speech activities from informal conversation techniques to formal speaking situations. Recommended for college preparatory program. One semester 5 credits
THEMES IN LITERATURE
The central aim of the class, achieved through a variety of projects, is to help students hone their writing skills in preparation for college and the job market. In addition, students study themes in world and British literature. One semester 5 credits
ART
Students will explore various “hands on” art media, including drawing, printmaking, sculpture & costume design, photography and layout design, in an actual art studio. Class will be taught off campus at Rae Studio. Studies will cover art history basics, artists and techniques and practical uses for InDesign and Adobe Photoshop.
One semester 5 credits
BAND
The band is open by permission of the director. Students joining band must participate in all concert performances, which include some weekend appointments. Performance class – may be dropped only at semester.
Two semesters 5 credits
PAC - PERFORMING ARTS CLASS
This class combines choir and drama into a class rich with performance opportunities. During the first semester, students participate in a beginning-of-the-year retreat and daily workshops where students can practice refining their acting and singing talents. Students have many opportunities for performance locally and on touring trips in and out of state. Second semester culminates in a spring musical production.
Parts are assigned by audition only.
Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.
Two semester 5 credits
PRAISE BAND
This group is a mix of instruments and vocals which meets after hours for practice, practice times and length varies weekly, a minium time of two hours is spent on practice and performances. Musical selections are Christian Praise. Students need to play by ear, come to practice with good spirit and praise God with your talent and music.
Two semesters 2.5 credits
Prerequisite: By invitation only
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
Credit arranged by permission only. 34 hours 2.5 credits
SPANISH I - Required
The principal emphasis of the first year of Spanish is understanding the language to speak it through the study of grammar and vocabulary. The class also attempts to build a better understanding of the customs, language, culture, and peoples of the Hispanic world. Two semesters 10 credits
SPANISH II
The second year of the language seeks to expand the students’ knowledge of grammar and vocabulary so that they may communicate and understand the language on a more advanced level. Writing and reading the language is also emphasized as well as an appreciation of and exposure to the Hispanic culture. Prerequisite: a grade of B- or higher in Spanish I, or permission from the teacher. Two semesters 10 credits
TWENTY CREDITS ARE REQUIRED. THIRTY CREDITS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE ENRICHED DIPLOMA.
ALGEBRA I
A study of the processes involved in the solution of problems by algebraic methods. Study is given to positive and negative numbers, equations, square roots, radicals, factors, graphs, quadratics and trigonometry of the right triangle.
two semesters 10 credits
ALGEBRA II
A review of topics from Algebra I and further study of quadratic equations and functions, linear and quadratic systems, graphs, and introduction to functions, exponents and logarithms, elementary analytic geometry and trigonometry.
Prerequisite: Algebra I.
Two semesters 10 credits
CONSUMER MATH
A review of math concepts in practical settings with real life application.
Must have permission of Instructor, Registrar and or Principal.
Two semesters 10 credits
GEOMETRY
A study of the principles of Euclidean geometry. The techniques of deductive reasoning will be used in the designing of acceptable proofs and constructions. Units on analytic geometry and trigonometry are included.
Prerequisite: Algebra I.
Two semesters 10 credits
PRE-CALCULUS
Highly recommended for students considering science, math, or computer-related careers. Topics include: functions, circular functions, advanced trigonometry, limit theory, elementary functions, vectors, matrices and conics. Prerequisite: Algebra II.
Two semesters 10 credits
BASIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION - Required
This class introduces students to better skills in sports activities, knowledge of rules, and physical fitness. Emphasis is places on team sports but includes some individual sports as well.
Four quarters 10 credits
LEISURE TIME ACTIVITIES
A variety of activities will be available for upper grade students. These may include: football, volleyball, life saving, racquetball, skiing, weight training, aerobic exercise, basketball, tennis, and golf. Leisure Time Activity credit is arranged with instructor’s permission by contract only. Contracts available in the PE office.
20 CREDITS REQUIRED
KEYBOARDING AND 10 COMPUTING CREDITS REQUIRED. FIVE ADDITIONAL CREDITS ARE REQUIRED FROM PRACTICAL ARTS OR COMPUTER SKILL ELECTIVES.
COMPUTER APPLICATION
This course concentrates on one or two computer applications at a more in-depth level than the introduction to computing class. Applications that could be covered vary and may include the following: spreadsheets, databases, desktop publishing, web page creation, animation, and programming. One semester 5 credits
DRAMA PRODUCTION
Instead of performing in the spring musical, students have the option of working behind the scenes as stage managers, lighting directors, costume and makeup technicians, and set designers.
Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. One semester 2.5 credits
INTRO TO COMPUTING
Introduces the student to the use of personal computers and correct keyboarding techniques. Emphasis is on speed, accuracy and they use of Microsoft Office software. Covered topics include advanced features of application software, communications, graphics, Novell network software, and programming. One semester 5 credits
HOME ECONOMICS Introduces the student to basic knowledge of food preparation, nutrition, management and valuable food and home etiquette. The class offers instruction and practice in cooking, menu, planning, food shopping, kitchen safety, personal nutrition and sanitation.
NEWSPAPER PRODUCTION
Fundamentals of journalism skills and techniques are learned and applied through writing activities. Experience in news writing, feature writing, interviewing, and layout is given. Student articles are printed in the school paper and in other designated publications. Two semesters 5 credits
ON YOUR OWN
This one-semester course attempts to answer the question, “What do students need to know, and what should they be able to do, when they leave home and begin to live on their own? The class offers instruction and practice in job finding, money management, housing, transportation, food, clothing, and health. Taught alternate years. One semester 5 credits
WEB DESIGN
An introductory course in designing WebPages. Students will gain experience in creating and editing images for use on the web; organizing information and directory structures; building and maintaining WebPages; applying design theory and page layout to create professional websites. Emphasis will be placed on overcoming the technical challenges associated with building WebPages. One semesters 5 credits
YEARBOOK
Students will learn the skills and steps involved in producing publications while producing the school’s yearbook. Students are responsible for all aspects of this project from budget, design, layout and deadlines. Students may specialize in writing, photography, layout, or marketing, but all students will have some involvement in all these aspects of publication. Students will use InDesign program. credit arranged varies
TEN CREDITS ARE REQUIRED FOR EVERY YEAR IN ATTENDANCE.
RELIGION I: HUMAN ORIGINS
A four unit course focusing on the relationship between God and the individual. A study of creation and the lives of the patriarchs and their families in Genesis, followed by a study of Jesus’ life as reported by Matthew. Development of a personal, practical relationship with Jesus is the goal. Two semesters 10 credits
RELIGION II: HISTORY OF RELIGION God’s church from the Exodus to the present is surveyed in this course. God’s efforts to organize His people to share His love with the world are studied. Two semesters 10 credits
RELIGION III: INTRO TO CHRISTIAN IDEAS
A general survey of Christian ideas. This course surveys the major philosophical thought of Christianity including the basic doctrines and fundamental teachings of scripture. Practical ways to share these truths with others are considered. Two semesters 10 credits
RELIGION IV: CHRISTIAN PERSONAL ETHICS
An introduction to moral philosophy. This course emphasizes the important of a personal code of ethics and provides a survey of historical ethical thought. A unit on career interests and capabilities focuses on assisting students in establishing a Christian philosophy of work; a unit on traditional Judeo-Christian values in family and home life covers friendship, dating, marriage, and family planning. Sharing God’s love with the community in which we live is studied in context of the book of Acts. Two semesters 10 credits
TWENTY CREDITS ARE REQUIRED. THIRTY REQUIRED FOR ENRICHED DIPLOMA.
AP BIOLOGY
The Advanced Placement (AP) Biology course is the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year. This course differs significantly from the usual first high school biology course with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the type of laboratory work done, and the time and effort required of students. Topics include molecules, cells, physiology, heredity, evolution, taxonomy, structure and function of plants and animals, and ecology.
See http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/ for more information.
Instructor permission required. Lab course. Two semesters 10 credits
BIOLOGY
The study of life and living things through classroom, laboratory, and field activities. Topics include chemistry of living things, cells, energy, genetics, the diversity of living things, and ecology. Numerous laboratory and field activities are included in this course to enable students to learn the methods of science as well as the concepts. Lab course. Two semesters 10 credits
CHEMISTRY
A study of the structure and changes of matter. Topics of study include symbols, elements and compounds, measurement, problem solving, atoms, molecules, ions, chemical names and formulas, the periodic table, states of matter bonding, reactions and equations, solutions, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory work is required. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Taught alternate years (odd). Lab work required. Two semesters 10 credits
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
Study of the structure, characteristics, and processes of Earth and Space. Topics include geology, astronomy, meteorology, and oceanography. Pre-requisite: successful completion of one year of science. This course is offered as needed and students may take one or both semesters. Lab course. Two semesters. 5 credits per semester.
HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
The study of structure and functions of the human body. Topics include anatomical landmarks, tissues, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Laboratory work includes microscopic observations of tissues, physiology experiments, observations of the human skeleton and other specimens, and mammalian dissection. Lab course. One semester 5 credits
NATURAL HISTORY OF THE NORTHWEST
A study of the environments, living things, and seasonal changes of the northwest. Students will learn about the common plants (flowering and non-flowering), animals (invertebrates and vertebrates), fungi, and protists in the context of the various habitats, seasons, and climates of northwest environments. Students will learn through classroom, laboratory investigations, and field trips. Projects required each quarter. Pre-requisite: successful completion of one year of science. Two semesters. 5 credits per semester
MARINE BIOLOGY
An introductory course on the characteristics of seawater, tides and currents, marine algae and phytoplankton, invertebrates, vertebrates (reptiles, fishes, mammals, birds), marine habitats, importance of ocean resources, and special or unique marine ecosystems. Laboratory work will include microscopic examination of marine plankton, classification and recognition of common marine organisms, sea urchin spawning, and field trips to analyze a variety of marine habitats. Prerequisite: successful completion of one year of biology. Taught alternate years as needed. One semester 5 credits
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
This is an introductory course about basic concepts and properties of matter, the scientific method of inquiry, and the structure, changes, and surroundings of the Earth. Activities include density, buoyancy of objects in water and air, hot air balloons, mineral and rock identification, observations of volcanoes and glaciers, electricity, magnetism, solar observations, and others. Students will participate in classroom, laboratory, and field activities. Lab course. Two semesters 10 credits
PHYSICS
A study of the fundamental laws of physics as related to the following fields: mechanics, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism and atomic-nuclear physics. Intended to meet the needs of a student who may be required to take an introductory course in college physics. Laboratory work is required. Prerequisite; Algebra I. Two semesters 10 credits
Middle School Science Class: Omar Cruz, Alex Winters
Physics Class: Cameron Marchmonte, Elena Cunningham, Erica Fiedler, Johnny Vargas, Alex Kelly and Ruben Betancourt.
TWENTY FIVE CREDITS REQUIRED.
THIRTY FIVE CREDITS REQUIRED
CIVICS IN AMERICA
This course will cover from the foundation of the U.S. government to the evolution of the American legal, political, economic, and justice systems. Students will explore the role of citizens in the country and the country’s role in the world. Emphasis on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship. One semester 5 credits
CURRENT WORLD PROBLEMS - Required
This course stresses the constitutional rights of the individual, and explains the responsibilities of American citizenship. Local, state, national, and international levels of government will be discussed. Special emphasis is placed upon current events and politics. Two semesters 10 credits
INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY
This course will teach both social structure and social interaction, and introduce the student to main sociological literature, both the classic theorists and contemporary research. The study will stimulate the students’ sociological imagination so they can better perceive how the “pieces” of society fit together, and what this means for their own lives. One semesters 5 credits U.S. HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT - Required
This course focuses on major periods, events, and people that shaped America. It covers the period of time from 1452 until post-World War II. It provides and enlarged base for comparison and evaluation with major emphasis on American democracy, natural unity, and the role of the United States in world affairs. Two semesters 10 credits
WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY - Required
Designed to acquaint the student with the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing the state of Washington. The industrial, cultural, governmental, and social developments are studied with geography, discovery, and exploration. Required for graduation in the state of Washington. Students who have completed Washington State History in 7th or 8th grade do not have to repeat this class. One semester 5 credits
WORLD HISTORY
A survey of ancient, medieval and modern history directed toward understanding the backgrounds of current nations, present-day cultures and conditions, and the development of God’s purposes for humanity. Taught alternate years (odd). Two semesters 10 credits
WORLD GEOGRAPHY
Students will explore distant places and cultures and relate them to their own lives along with making comparisons between physical and human geography by looking at the similarities and difference across cultures. Maps, charts and graphs will be studied and comparisons in case studies and relevance of geography to current events. Two Semesters 10 credits
Thomas Jefferson Memorial: Andrew Block, Jessica Winters, Serena Aufderhar, Sarah Nordin and Logan Miller
