Bluegrass United Academic Center

The Core Program

CORE CLASSES

Course offerings are listed in their recommended sequence.  If you choose to take them in a different order than what is listed, you may experience difficulty in getting the classes you need. 

 

Click on one of the colored links to go directly to specific subject areas.

 

 

Math

          Algebra 1

          Geometry

          Algebra 2

          Pre-Calculus

 

Social Studies

          Ancient Civilizations

          Western Civilizations

          U.S. History

          Civics/Government

 

Science

          Physical Science

          Biology

          Chemistry

          Physics with lab

          Anatomy

         

         (Biology and Chemistry labs offered through Asbury University - see additional programs)

 

English

          English 1

          English 2

          English 3-4

          Critical and Creative Writing Lab

 

Languages

         Latin 1, 2

         Spanish 1, 2, 3

 

Other Core Class Options

          New Testament Survey

          Test & College Prep

           Family & Faith

           Logical and Persuasive Speaking and Writing

 

Study Hall

           Offered each period

           

 

          

ABOUT CORE CLASSES

  • Classes meet throughout the day on Tuesday and in the morning on Thursday.
  • Some classes meet once a week and some, like Math and Spanish, meet twice.
  • Most classes are intended to be full year classes which meet for two 17-week semesters.  Exceptions to this are noted in the course descriptions.
  • Core classes are taught by experienced and qualified instructors.
  • Instructors set objectives and establish rules and expectations for each class.  Students not complying with these may be asked by the instructor to withdraw from the class.
  • Instructors will evaluate students and send home semester and mid-semester reports.   
  • For specific information regarding core classes, such as content and expectations for students, please e-mail instructors directly.
  • High school credit may be assigned for each class per the discretion of the parent. 
  • Tuition is specified in each course description.  First semester tuition is mailed in the summer per the instructions given on the Core Tuition Fee Sheet (or at Late Registration).  Second semester tuition is paid directly to the instructor in December.  
  • In addition to tuition, copy and supply fees are collected by each instructor per semester or per year as indicated.
  • Study halls are offered for students with free periods between classes.  Two nonconsecutive study halls are permitted on Tuesdays and one is permitted on Thursdays.  The cost of each study hall is $50 per semester.

MATH

BUAC math courses cover a wide range of material. While they differ greatly in content and level of difficulty, they are similar in structure and in the following components:

·         development and mastery of specific skills

·         integration of new skills with old

·         focus on understanding of mathematical concepts 

·         application of skills in the “real world”

·         critical thinking and problem-solving

 

Students in all math classes will be required to complete daily assignments designed to provide sufficient practice of new skills.  In addition, they must check and correct completed assignments in order to identify and learn from mistakes.  Quizzes and tests will be given periodically to assess mastery.

 

Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2 should be taken in sequence as each builds on the concepts learned and skills mastered in the previous course.  While Geometry may seem like a detour between Algebra 1 and 2, it requires mastery of Algebra 1 and enhances the students’ understanding of Algebra 2.  It is also strategically placed to help the student progress from concrete to more abstract relationships and principles. 

 

Students should only progress from one class to the next upon confident completion of the previous course.  Students who have not completed a BUAC math course will be required to take a math placement test. This will be done prior to registration. 

 

 

Pre-Algebra  – Beth Augsburger, Instructor

lbaugsburg@windstream.net

 

This course functions as a bridge between basic math and algebra, reviewing operations with decimals, fractions, percents, and integers and covering topics in geometry, algebra and statistics.  Students in the class will learn how to use algebraic concepts and strategies in conjunction with their fine-tuned skills to solve many different types of problems.  The course is open to 8th-12th grade students.  Pre-Algebra meets twice a week, on Tuesdays for 1 hour at Stonewall Wesleyan Church and on Thursdays for 1 hour at BUAC.  Expect to spend approximately 6 hours per week on assignments outside of class.  Time will vary depending on the student’s confidence, ability, and previous experiences in math.  Tuition each semester is $204, which translates to $408 for the entire year of Pre-Algebra.  There will also be a copy fee of $10 per semester.

 

Text:  McDougal Littell Middle School Math, Course 2, Larson, Boswell, Kanold, and Stiff.  C.2005.      ISBN #0-618-50815-5

Calculator:  TI-30XIIS

 

Algebra 1 – Beth Augsburger, Instructor

lbaugsburg@windstream.net

This course focuses on the principles of algebra, covering the following topics: the rules of algebra, linear equations, inequalities, systems and constraints, powers and roots and radicals, exponential growth and decay, quadratic equations, polynomials and factoring, proportions and rational equations, and functions.  The course is open to 8th-12th grade students who demonstrate mastery of basic math and pre-algebra skills.  Algebra 1 meets twice a week, on Tuesdays for 1.5 hours and on Thursdays for 1 hour.  Expect to spend between 6-8 hours per week on assignments outside of class.  Time will vary depending on the student’s confidence, ability, and previous experiences in math.  Additional help from the instructor is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays as indicated on the schedule as well as through email during the week.  While there is no additional charge for extra help, students must be registered in study hall to attend the Tuesday/ Thursday help sessions and there is a fee for study hall ($50 per semester).  Tuition each semester is $238, which translates to $476 for the entire year of Algebra 1.  There will also be a copy fee of $10 per semester.

Text: McDougal Littell’s  Algebra 1,  Larson, Boswell, Kanold, & Stiff.  c. 2001.       ISBN 0-395-93776-0

Calculator:  TI-30XIIS (or TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator which will be needed in Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal.)

Geometry – Beth Augsburger, Instructor 

lbaugsburg@windstream.net

This course focuses on the principles of geometry, covering the following topics: deductive reasoning, proofs, triangles (trigonometry and Pythagorean Theorem), quadrilaterals, other polygons, congruence and similarity, circles, area and perimeter of a plane figure, surface area and volume of a solid, coordinate geometry, locus and constructions, transformations and inequalities.  This course is open to 9th – 12th grade students who have successfully completed Algebra 1.  Geometry meets twice a week on Tuesdays for 1.5 hours and on Thursdays for 1 hour.  Expect to spend between 6-8 hours per week on assignments outside of class.  Time will vary depending on the student's confidence, ability, and previous experiences in math.    Additional help is available from the instructor on Tuesdays and Thursdays as indicated on the schedule as well as through email during the week.  While there is no additional charge for extra help, students must be registered for study hall in order to attend the Tuesday/Thursday help sessions, and there is a fee for study hall ($50 per semester). Tuition each semester is $238, which translates to $476 for the entire year of Geometry.  There will also be a $10 copy fee per semester.

 

Text: McDougal Littell's Geometry, Larson, Boswell, Kanold, & Stiff.  c.2001.    ISBN # 0-395-93777-9

Calculator:  TI-30XIIS (or TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator which will be needed in Algebra 2 and Pre-Cal.)

 

 

Algebra 2 – Grant Robbe, Instructor

gkrmath@windstream.net  

 

This course uses Algebra 1 as a springboard for more advanced studies in Algebra.  Topics include:  linear equations and inequalities, graphs and functions, polynomials and factoring, rational expressions and equations, radicals and complex numbers, quadratic equations and inequalities, systems of equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences, series and probability.  This course is open to 10th – 12th grade students who have successfully completed Algebra 1 and Geometry.  Algebra 2 meets twice a week, on Tuesdays for 1.5 hours and on Thursdays for 1 hour.  Expect to spend between 6 to 8 hours per week on assignments outside of class.  Time will vary depending on the student's confidence, ability, and previous experiences in math.  Tuition for each semester is $238, which translates to $476 for the entire year of Algebra 2.  There will also be a $10 copy fee per semester.

 

Text:  Algebra 2.  Larson, Boswell, Kanold & Stiff.  McDougal Littell publisher,  ISBN # 0-618-25020-4 

Calculator:   TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator

 

 

Pre-Calculus – Mark Tucker, Instructor

mark.tucker@insightbb.com

 

This course builds on the skills learned in Algebra II as well as introducing new studies in Math.  Topics include: graphs and functions, polynomials, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometry, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices and determinants, and analytic geometry.  This course is open to 11th -12th grade students who have successfully completed Algebra II.  Pre-Calculus meets twice a week, on Tuesdays for 1.5 hours and on Thursdays for 1 hour.  Expect to spend between 6 to 8 hours per week on assignments outside of class.  Time will vary depending on the student's ability, confidence, and previous math experience.  Tuition for each semester is $238, which translates to $476 for the entire year of Pre-Calculus.  There will also be a $10 copy fee per semester.

 

Text:  Pre-calculus with Limits, Larson.  McDougal Littell, publisher  ISBN # 0-618-66089-5 

Calculator:   TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator

SOCIAL STUDIES

Recommended Sequence: Ancient Civilizations, Western Civilizations, American History and Civics/Government

 

 

Ancient Civilizations – Reid Thomas, Instructor

reidthomas@lifebridgelex.com   

Through lively class lectures, class discussions and required reading, students will gain a deeper understanding of the Ancient and Medieval historical periods (ranging from about 3000 BC to 1600 AD). Particular attention will be given to how events and persons during these periods have impacted the development of western civilization.  Furthermore, students will engage in the process of viewing and evaluating history from a biblical perspective. This class meets once a week and the tuition is $136 per semester which translates to $272 for the entire year.  There will also be a one-time $10 copy fee.

Western Civilization by Jackson Spielvogel

Comprehensive 6th Edition   ISBN # 0534646026

 

The Holy Bible (New International Version) 

 

 

Western Civilizations - Reid Thomas, Instructor

reidthomas@lifebridgelex.com

 

Through lively class lectures, class discussions and required reading, students will gain a deeper understanding of the Late Medieval and Modern historical periods (ranging from about 1600 AD to Today). Particular attention will be given to how events and persons during this time have impacted the development of western civilization.  Furthermore, students will engage in the process of viewing and evaluating history from a biblical perspective. This class meets once a week and the tuition for is $136 per semester which translates to $272 for the entire year.  There will also be a one-time $10 copy fee.

 

Required Texts:

 

Western Civilizations by Jackson Spielvogel

Comprehensive 6th Edition   ISBN# 0534646026

 

The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom   ISBN# 0800794052

 

The Holy Bible (New International Version)

 

 

U.S. History - Lenore Breeden, Instructor

lbreeden@insightbb.com

 

This course will be a survey of American history from pre-colonization to modern times. Students will make use of primary as well as secondary sources as they encounter the people and events that helped shape the United States. The full range of social studies (history, geography, economics, political science, and sociology) will be incorporated. Each week students will read and discuss one or two chapters of A Brief American Pageant. Though assignments will vary weekly, most weeks students will be given a questionnaire with identifications, multiple choice questions, and an essay prompt that will be due the following week. Student will also take a midterm and final exam each semester. In the past some students who have completed this course have felt prepared to take the U.S. History Advanced Placement exam in May. Students who take the AP exam are exempt from the spring final. In the fall semester students will be required to read a brief biography of a prominent American and to write a book review. Classes will alternate between 1 hour and 2 hours each week. These extended periods every other week will allow for films and more comprehensive discussion. Tuition will be $170 per semester ($340 for the entire year)

 

Civics and Government – Lenore Breeden, Instructor

lbreeden@insightbb.com

 

Christians are called to actively engage in and transform culture.  Students who take Civics and Government will more thoroughly equip themselves to fulfill this calling.  Students will begin by analyzing different forms of government, as well as the development of key principles which shaped our government.  Students will gain a thorough knowledge of the crucial philosophies and laws which govern the United States, as expressed in our Constitution and Declaration of Independence.  Students will analyze the three branches of our government and issues related to these branches such as the formation and functioning of political parties, the voting process, campaigns and elections, and the defense of civil liberties.  Although the format of this class will certainly contain some lecture, students will spend a great deal of time discussing and analyzing current public and government issues in order to gain a more complex understanding of how they may be responsible, engaged citizens.  Students will find this class challenging, yet enlightening and relevant.  Students should expect to spend some time out of class reading and preparing for class discussion.  Students should also expect to write several short position papers and participate in at least one class debate or mock trial.  Civics and government will meet for 1 hour each week.  Tuition will be $136 per semester or $272 for the entire year. 

 

Textbook:

                America at Odds:  the Essentials (3rd edition)

 

 

SCIENCE

Recommended Sequence:  Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy

 

 

Physical Science – Kimberly Taylor, Instructor

howardandkimberly@gmail.com

 

This course contains one semester of introductory Chemistry and one semester of introductory Physics.  We will meet once a week for an hour and a half.  Course topics first semester will include:  metric system, proper lab reports and experimental design, matter, atomic structure, the periodic table and chemical reactions.  Second semester topics include: work, fluid mechanics, statics, dynamics, and energy.  The course will explore these two disciplines using hands on activities, projects, discussions and applications.  Students should expect to spend 3-4 hours per week outside of class time on assignments.  No prerequisites are necessary, but concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1 is recommended.

 

Tuition is $170 per semester ($340 for the year)

Supply fee for labs and copies will be $10 per semester

 

Text: Physical Science: Concepts in Action, by Wysession, Frank, and Yancopoulos.  Prentice Hall. ISBN-13 # 978-0-13-362817-3

 

Biology – Kimberly Taylor, Instructor

howardandkimberly@gmail.com  

 

This course will be an overview of general biological principles.  Topics will include cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, classification, and study of the kingdoms of life.  The course will be taught from a Christian worldview, utilizing both secular and Christian materials.  The Scriptures will be honored and integrated into discussion of the many ethical issues in biology.   One goal of the course will be to help students thoughtfully articulate Christian perspectives on scientific issues of the day.  Students should expect to spend 3-4 hours per week on assignments outside of the normal 1 ½ hour weekly class time.  Many homework assignments will involve technology, including visiting websites that are applicable. The instructor will use email frequently.  Class time will consist of lecture, group discussions and hands-on activities or mini-labs.   Participation in a biology lab outside of class is highly recommended.  Application forms for the lab at Asbury are available on this site under additional programs.   

 

Tuition: $170 per semester ($340 for the year)

Supply fee:  $10 per semester

 

Text and required materials:

Biology, Prentice Hall ISBN 0-13-436265-9, publication year 2000

Case for a Creator, student edition, by Lee Strobel

2 inch binder with loose leaf paper

Colored pencils or fine point markers

 

                  

Chemistry - Robert Littrell, Instructor

robert_littrell@yahoo.com

 

This is an introductory chemistry course that gives the student a rigorous foundation in chemistry and prepares him or her for college-level chemistry.  Major areas of focus include significant figures, units, classification, the mole concept, stoichemistry, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular geometry, the gas laws and equilibrium. 

 

This course is open to 10th - 12th graders. Students who have not successfully completed Algebra 1 and Geometry at BUAC will be required to take a basic math and physical science assessment prior to registration for this course.  Students should expect to spend 4 to 8 hours outside of class completing each week's assignments.  Lab experience is also required outside of class and is recommended to be fulfilled at Asbury University or can be done at home with a parent.  (For more information on the Asbury labs, please email Mrs. Laura Walther at lwalther@asbury.edu.)  Class will meet once per week for 90 minutes.  Tuition is $170 per semester, which translates to $340 for the entire year of Chemistry.  A copy fee of $10 will be collected at the beginning of the year.

 

Texts needed: Chemistry: Connections to Our Changing World, 2nd Edition, Prentice Hall – available as a hardcover at Amazon.com.

 

Additional Supplies needed: 3-ring binder with loose-leaf paper for class notes and homework

Pens and pencils

Calculator

 

 

Physics - Sam Augsburger, Instructor

sfaugsburg@windstream.net 

 

Physics is a study of the behavior of the universe, from small sub-atomic particles to grand galaxies millions of light-years away.  It is experimental, mathematical, and theoretical.  It requires observing, analyzing, questioning, and theorizing.  Areas of study will include motion, energy, fluid dynamics, waves, thermodynamics, electricity, relativity, quantum mechanics, and the cosmos.  The course will include lectures, hands-on experiments, problem solving, readings, and written work.  Due to limited class time much will be required of the students on their own outside the classroom.  Additional help from the instructor will be available by email.  This class will meet once a week for 90 minutes on Tuesdays and 1 hour every other week on Thursdays for a lab. Tuition is $204 per semester or $408 per year.  There is an additional $20 lab fee per semester. 

 

Course Prerequisites

Mathematics through Algebra 2.

 

Text

Holt Physics 2006, Serway and Faughn, Holt Rinehart and Winston, ISBN:  0030735483

 

 

Anatomy and Physiology - Lorry Smith, Instructor

desdoc@aol.com  

 

Fearfully and wonderfully made!! Come explore the exciting world of Anatomy and Physiology in this introductory course! This course will include lecture, hands on, discussion, written work and fun. Mrs. Smith believes that learning is an interactive exchange of ideas that build a sound knowledge base, confidence and inspire students to seek out further learning opportunities. The class will meet once a week for 90 minutes on Tuesdays. Tuition is $170 per semester or $340 per year. A copy/ interactives fee to be determined. Text is pending.

 

 

 

 

ENGLISH

The goal of all English classes is to prepare the high school student for the life beyond high school, including higher education.  Quality literature and in-depth analysis prepare students for further study of English, as well as for any other subject requiring synthesis, analysis, and effective communication of ideas.  To that end, English classes are sequenced to present a full range of reading and writing experiences to prepare students to be thoughtful, discerning adults.  English classes are designed for students who are self-motivated and dedicated to making the most of each educational experience.

 

New Student Prerequisites for all English Courses:

  • Writing sample—to be written on site at designated time
  • Reading comprehension test—to be completed on site at designated time
  • List of literature pieces completed in previous year(s)

 

English I - Susan Samples, Instructor

susansamples@hotmail.com

 

English I is a literature and writing course focusing on genre and literary devices, as they are used to achieve specific purposes in writing. This course is designed for students who are self-motivated and dedicated to making the most out of each educational experience.   Readings, drawn from world literature, fit the categories of short stories, poems, non-fiction, plays, and novels.  The course syllabus includes many short reading selections from Holt Rinehart, Winston’s Elements of Literature Third Course, as well as Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Gibson’s The Miracle Worker.  In addition, students read 5 to 6 additional plays and novels.  As far as writing is concerned, the writing topics and skills are chosen to correlate with the literature and to teach students how to synthesize, analyze, support, and effectively communicate ideas.  In addition to weekly writing assignments connected to readings, students will write 6 to 8 essays, including a research paper.  Students should expect to spend 4 to 8 hours outside of class completing each week’s assignments. Tuition each semester is $170, which translates to $340 for the entire year of English I.  In addition, there is a one-time copy fee of $20.

 

The following texts will be utilized:

 

Holt, Rinehart, Winston’s Elements of Literature Third Course, copyright 2000 (must  be the student edition)  ISBN: 0030520622 

Write for College by Sebranek/Kemper/Meyer ISBN 0669444022  Pub. by GreatSource Company

John Steinbeck’s The Pearl

Homer’s The Odyssey (translated by Robert Fitzgerald, poetry version)

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

John Knowles’ A Separate Peace

J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit or Orson Scott Card’s Ender’s Game.

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express

 

 

English II - Susan Samples, Instructor

susansamples@hotmail.com

 

English II is a literature and writing course focusing on genre and literary devices, as they are used to achieve specific purposes in writing. This course is designed for students who are self-motivated and dedicated to making the most out of each educational experience.   Readings, drawn from world literature, fit the categories of short stories, poems, non-fiction, plays, and novels.  The course syllabus includes many short reading selections from Holt Rinehart, Winston’s Elements of Literature Fourth Course, as well as Antigone and Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar.  In addition, students read 6 to 7 additional plays and novels.  Readings contain adult themes and ideas will be discussed from a biblical perspective.  As far as writing is concerned, the writing topics and skills are chosen to correlate with the literature and to teach students how to synthesize, analyze, support, and effectively communicate ideas.  In addition to weekly writing assignments connected to readings, students will write 6 to 8 essays, including a research paper.  Students should expect to spend 4 to 8 hours outside of class completing each week’s assignments.  Tuition each semester is $170, which translates to $340 for the entire year of English II.  In addition, there is a on-time copy fee of $20.

 

The following texts will be utilized:

 

Holt, Rinehart, Winston’s Elements of Literature Fourth Course, copyright 2000 (must be the student edition)  ISBN: 0030520630

Write for College by Sebranek/Kemper/Meyer ISBN 0669444022  Pub. by GreatSource Company

Alan Paton’s Cry, the Beloved Country

Ernest Gaines’ The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman

Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston’s Farewell to Manzanar

George Orwell’s Animal Farm

Chaim Potok’s The Chosen

Elie Wiesel’s Night

Sandra Cisneros’s The House on Mango Street

Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart

 

 

English III/IV - Susan Samples, Instructor

susansamples@hotmail.com

 

English III/IV is unique in that it is an upper high school level literature and writing course taught using American literature and British literature on a two year rotating schedule.  (Students earn one English credit per year, but may take the class two years in a row since the material alternates.)  The 2010-2011 English III/IV syllabus utilizes American literature to deepen students’ understanding of literary devices, styles, and techniques in a variety of genres.  Readings, drawn from American literature, fit the categories of short stories, poems, non-fiction, plays, and novels.  This year’s course syllabus includes many short reading selections from Holt, Rinehart, Winston’s Elements of Literature Sixth Course, as well as 10 to 12 additional plays and novels.  As far as writing is concerned, the writing topics and skills are chosen to correlate with the literature and to teach students how to synthesize, analyze, support, and effectively communicate ideas.  In addition to weekly writing assignments connected to readings, students will write up to 10 essays, including 2 research projects.  Students should expect to spend 8 to 10 hours outside of class completing each week’s assignments.  Students taking this course will need to be self-motivated and dedicated to making the most of thier educational experience.  Tuition each semester is $170, which translates to $340 for the entire year of English III/IV.  In addition, there is a one-time copy fee of $20.

 

The following texts will be utilized:

 

Holt, Rinehart, Winston’s Elements of Literature Fifth Course, copyright 2000 (must be the student edition)   

     ISBN: 0030520649

Write for College by Sebranek/Kemper/Meyer ISBN 0669444022  Pub. by GreatSource Company

Strunk and White’s The Elements of Style

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter

Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

Herman Melville’s Moby Dick

Willa Cather’s My Antonia

Henry James’ Daisy Miller

Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea

Thornton Wilder’s Our Town

John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby

Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie

 

 

Critical and Creative Writing Lab - Mary Bradshaw, Instructor

mary.bradshaw81@gmail.com

 

The ability to write with excellence and confidence is a crucial skill for all students to possess.  In this writing class, students of all writing levels will be empowered to take their writing to the next level.   The teacher will train students in the writing process.  Furthermore, as students work through various time-tested writing assignments, they will conference with the teacher on a regular basis so that students may overcome obstacles they face in organizing and expressing their thoughts.  During the first semester, students will practice several different writing styles, such as informative, persuasive, analytical and narrative writing.  Students will learn to utilize vivid vocabulary and literary devices in order to express their own unique writing style effectively.  During the 2nd semester, students will use the skills they have learned during the first semester to write a research paper.  Students will also receive training in MLA format, which they will use for their paper.   Students who complete this writing lab will gain confidence in tackling challenging writing assignments, which will aid them further writing for high school and college.  Students will write each class period and should expect to do some writing at home almost every week, in order to practice and solidify their writing skills.  Writing assignments will include assignments gleaned from various writing systems such as the Institute for Excellence in Writing and the progymnasmata, which is a time-tested, classical approach for training students in all genres of writing.   The Critical and Creative Writing Laboratory will meet once a week for 60 minutes.  The price for each semester will be $136  ($272 for the entire year). 

Textbooks:   

  • Classical Rhetoric through Structure and Style:  Writing Lessons Based on the Progymnasmata by Adam Muller
  • The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation available at the Institute for Excellence in Writing website for $15
  • The Essentials of MLA Style:  A Guide to Documentation for Writers of Research Papers by Joseph F. Trimmer (available at Amazon Books)
  • The Merriam-Webster Dictionary of Quotations by Merriam-Webster (available at Amazon Books)

Other Supplies:  paper, writing ustensils, folder or notebook for storing papers (this may be shared with other courses)

 

LANGUAGES

Latin 1, 2 - Mary Bradshaw, Instructor
 
It has been noted that over 60% of English words and over 80% of words in Romance languages are derived from Latin.  Therefore, students who take Latin gain excellent skills which unlock the mysteries of English vocabulary and grammar, as well as lay an excellent foundation for any future language study.  In Latin class students will actively engage with both spoken and written Latin.  They will learn vocabulary words every week to build their proficiency in Latin translation, and they will also study English derivatives of these words, which will aid them in reading and writing in all their other classes.  In addition, students will work through Latin grammatical concepts in an incremental, methodical, thorough manner with much practice and review so that throughout the year, they are able to handle increasingly difficult Latin sentences and passages. This will not only increase their confidence in Latin, it will also increase their confidence in handling challenging problem solving in other subjects.  Furthermore, students will study Roman culture and tradition, which has made a marked impact on Western culture. Students who take Latin will find they not only have a deeper understanding of language and culture but that they are better equipped to master challenging reading, writing, language study and problem solving throughout the rest of their high school and college careers.  The goal of the Latin program is to prepare students to read excerpts from original Latin masters.    Latin I and II will each meet for an hour and a half once a week.  The price for each semester will be $170 ($340 for the entire year)  There will also be a $10 copy fee. 

Latin 1:   

Cambridge Latin Course, Unit 1- The North American 4th edition

Cambridge Latin Course Unit 1 Omnibus Workbook

A Students’ Latin Grammar (The Cambridge Latin Course), Robin M. Griffin &Ed Phinney

Latin 2:  

Cambridge Latin Course, Unit 2- The North American 4th edition

Cambridge Latin Course, Unit 2 Omnibus Work book

A Students’ Latin Grammar (The Cambridge Latin Course), Robin M. Griffin &Ed Phinney

Spanish 1- Instructor pending

 
This course is open to 9th –12th grade students. Spanish 1 presents the basics of the Spanish language. Students learn greetings, verb conjugations, vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammatical structures. They are also exposed to cultural and historical highlights and get a glimpse of the Spanish-speaking world as a mission field. Students develop a beginning reading and conversational ability. The material emphasizes understanding and practical application rather than rote memory.
 

This course will be taught twice per week on Tuesday and Thursday and will require 2 to 21/2 hours of prep time per week outside of class.

 

Cost: $238 per semester ($476 per year)

Text and Materials:  to be determined

 

 

Spanish 2 – Instructor pending

 
This course is open to 9th – 12th grade students who have successfully completed Spanish 1. Spanish 2 builds on the foundation of Spanish 1. Students learn to communicate in everyday situations, such as in schools, restaurants, stores, hotels, offices, banks, airports, and at sporting events. They continue to learn key grammatical principles including reflexive verbs, direct and indirect object pronouns, and verb conjugations. Emphasis is placed on correct pronunciation and comprehension of dialogues.

 

This course will be taught twice per week on Tuesday and Thursday and will require approximately 3 hours of prep time per week outside of class.

 

Cost:  $238 per semester ($476 per year)

Text and Materials:  to be determined

 

 
Spanish 3 - Instructor pending

 

This course is for students who have successfully completed Spanish 1 and 2. Spanish 3 will further develop the student's mastery of vocabulary, oral communucation skills, and grammatical structure with a special focus on verb forms.

Cost:  $238 per semester ($476 per year)

Text and Materials:  to be determined

OTHER CORE CLASS OPTIONS

New Testament Survey - Reid Thomas, Instructor

reidthomas@lifebridgelex.com

 

Through lively class lectures, class discussions and personal Bible reading, students will gain a deeper understanding of the breadth and depth of theological themes of the New Testament. Particular attention will be given to how the New Testament fulfills the prophecies of the Old Testament, as well as to the various literary forms and historical/cultural contexts of the New Testament. Furthermore, the skills of inductive Bible study will be taught so that each student will be prepared for life-long, life-changing study of the Bible. The tuition for this course is $136 per semester which translates to $272 for the entire year.  There will also be a one-time $10 copy fee.

Required Text: The Holy Bible (New International Version

 

Family and Faith - Chris Kiesling, Instructor

Chris.Kiesling@asburyseminary.edu

 

This course description will be available soon.  This course will be offered once a week on Tuesdays during second semester.

 

 

Logical and Persuasive Speaking and Writing - Mary Bradshaw, Instructor

mary.bradshaw81@gmail.com

 

This course will begin by examining the foundation for a Christian view of logic.  Then it will transition to a focus on the basics of classic deductive and inductive logic.  Students will learn the basics of deductive reasoning such as the rules of inference and techniques for using Socratic reasoning and questioning, as well as constructing and analyzing syllogisms for validity and soundness.  Students will also learn how to construct inductive arguments through the use of Aristotle’s common topics.  In addition, students in logic class will study common formal and informal fallacies and learn how to detect and avoid them in arguments.  Students will consistently practice their logic skills by engaging in frequent class discussions or seminars.  They will also write several short persuasive essays and participate in at least one formal debate.  Outside class work will entail some reading, writing and review of argument rules.  As part of their study of deductive logic, we will read and discuss together three of Socrates’ most famous dialogues:  “Euthyphro”, “The Apology”, and the “Crito”. Students will find logic a challenging but empowering class. Freshmen and sophomores who take logic will find themselves well-equipped to engage in analysis, critical thinking and argumentation for their other high school classes.  Juniors and seniors will gain excellent preparation for tackling challenging issues in the college environment.  Logic will meet for 60 minutes each week, and the tuition will be $136 per semester or $272 for the entire year.  There will also be a $10 copy fee.

Textbooks:

  • Discovery of Deduction by Joelle Hodge and Aaron Larsen, with Shelly Johnson (published by Classical Academic Press)
  • The Argument Builder by Shelly Johnson (available at Classical Academic Press, Amazon Books, and Veritas Press)
  • Plato: The Trial and Death of Socrates:  4 Dialogues.  Dover Thrift Edition (available at Amazon books).

Other supplies: paper, writing utensils, folder or notebook for storing papers (this may be shared with other courses)

 

 

ACT / SAT / PSAT / College Prep - Susan Ormsbee, Instructor

sormsbee@insightbb.com

 

The goals of the ACT / SAT / PSAT / College Prep workshops are to:

  1.  help the college bound home school student to be fully prepared and have confidence in taking college admissions tests, 
  2. motivate students to take an individualized approach in preparing for college.
  3. improve the students’ aptitude for college level thinking skills.
  4. provide information and strategies to help students prepare for and succeed in college.

Student prerequisites: English 1, Algebra 1, and Geometry (may be taken concurrently).  This course may be taken again by last year’s students who would like additional practice for the tests and all new workshops for college preparation.

This course will consist of 34 distinct workshops:

  • 20 workshops (10 math, 2 vocabulary, 2 reading, 2 English grammar, 2 scientific reasoning, 1 essay writing, and 1 practice full-length college admissions exam) will teach test-taking strategies and problem solving skills necessary to conquer the college admissions tests (ACT/SAT/PSAT).  Students will gain familiarity with each test and develop the kind of mastery that will give them confidence and self-assurance when taking the exams. Practice will include real test questions and an ample supply of study helps.  We will also spend time in talking about physical, emotional, and spiritual preparation for testing.  We will deal with test taking anxiety, difficulty with memorization and concentration, and analyzing questions.
  • 3 workshops will deal with time and stress management.  This will include strategies on how to effectively use a planner and how to set long and short term goals.  Other organizational skills for success in college will also be addressed.
  • 3 “how to” workshops will be devoted to paying for college.  Students will learn how to win and obtain scholarships and grants as well as how to apply for FAFSA and financial aid for college. 
  • 2 workshops will help students learn to how to narrow the college choice, apply to college, write the winning college essay, and develop an eye-catching resume.
  • 2 workshops will deal with note-taking, study strategies, and communication skills necessary for college success.
  • 2 workshops will explore careers and college majors.  This will involve interest inventory testing and counseling.
  • 2 workshops will be field trips to nearby college campuses (one large public university and one small private college) to provide experience and opportunities to learn how to manage and evaluate an actual college visit.

Workshops will consist of 90 minutes of class time once a week with the exception of the college visits and “practice” exam which are 3 hour sessions.  Students should expect to spend 2-4 hours outside of class completing each week’s assignments.   Tuition will be $10 per class for a total of $170 per semester.  ($340 for the year)  A copy fee of $10 will be collected at the beginning of the year.

Also, each student will need a copy for personal use of:

CollegeBoard’s  The Official SAT Study Guide (2005 edition) ISBN-13: 978-0874477184

      Peterson’s The Real ACT Prep Guide  (2008 edition) ISBN-13: 978-0768926750

A calculator will be needed for the math workshops.

STUDY HALL

Study Hall - Jennifer Ferguson, Instructor

jenferg@windstream.net

Study Hall is available to students who have a "down hour" inbetween classes or are onsite waiting for a ride home.  It is intended to be a quiet place where students study and complete school work; it is not intended to be a social time.  Students are permitted to work together in small groups as long as their communication is no louder than a whisper.  The exception to this is when the gym is open on Tuesday afternoons.  Students in study hall are then given the opportunity to go to the gym for physical activity and social interaction.  The maximum number of students allowed in each study hall is 30.  Students are permitted up to two nonconsecutive study halls on Tuesday and one on Thursday.  The cost for each study hall is $50 per semester.