Curriculum

Old Testament Survey

This one-year course is designed to prepare and guide students to read and study the entire Old Testament (Hebrew Bible). Students will be given numerous opportunities to explore their understanding of Biblical literature through engaging multimedia, reflective exercises, and formal training for conducting critical Scriptural study through hermeneutics and exegesis.  Students will be expected to identify and draw upon textual details in order to explain or interpret Scripture, and written assignments/projects should reflect an appropriate use of learned vocabulary, as well as knowledge of Scriptural contexts.

Grades: 9 Prerequisite: None

New Testament Survey

In order to create an awareness of basic Christian truth and prepare students for a life of faith, this course will lay a foundation for understanding the New Testament and dynamic Christian living. Students’ will learn the basic layout of the New Testament and the important themes of its different sections and books, as well as the life of Jesus, His Chosen, and future Revelation. The class will consist of a great deal of discussion and exploration of personal beliefs. The course will contain seven units of study, beginning with a look back at the Old Testament in order to understand the beginning of God’s narrative story plot, before diving into the New Testament. Based on their values and beliefs, students will consistently examine how to deal with issues that arise in daily living and current culture.  Students are invited to share their evolving beliefs and questions they have regarding God and Christianity.

Grades: 10 Prerequisite: None

Cultural Renewal

Students will learn how to approach their culture from a Biblical worldview. This involves interpreting contemporary culture according to the story of human culture in the Bible. Emphasis is placed upon faithfully embodying the presence of God within culture, as opposed to conforming to or standing opposed to culture. Various concepts of culture are evaluated and the history of the church's involvement with culture will be explored. Select cultural topics like technology, the arts, creation care, politics, economics and justice will also be specifically addressed. 

Grades: 11 Prerequisite: None

Apologetics

Students will understand philosophical issues within Christian thought and evaluate philosophical arguments against Christian orthodoxy. Students will be equipped to think critically about their faith and its embodiment in the real world. Special focus is given to the basis of Christian epistemology (how Christians know things), the Bible: What it is and is not; its grand storyline; what it says about God; How to interpret it; and how to embody its own priorities in the real world. Other topics include various arguments for and against the existence of the God of the Bible; good and evil; science and faith; truth; "the problem of evil"; and theories of the atonement. 

Grades: 12 Prerequisite: None

Local Missions

This class is designed for students to develop a deeper experiential relationship with God while also being taught the value of service and sacrifice. Students will engage in various outreach opportunities and will be equipped to grow in love for God and others in practical and tangible ways.

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Bible teacher recommendation

Global Missions

This class is an intensive Bible course geared toward students with a heart to serve others in the arena of world missions. Students will learn how to share the gospel and defend their faith in order to be effective in various cultural settings. Students will participate in various outreaches and are required to take part in the winter break overseas missions trip.

Grades: 12 Prerequisite: Local Missions, Bible teacher recommendation, commitment to participate in the overseas missions trip

English 9

This one-year course is a survey of the major literary genres: short stories, nonfiction, drama, poetry, folk literature (Greek mythology), and a selected novel. Students will strengthen their critical thinking, writing, and organizational skills by interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating literature from a Christian worldview. Students will strengthen their ability to cite strong textual evidence to support their analyses. These skills will be applied to writing narrative, informational, and argumentative essays. In addition, students will construct a research paper utilizing all of the skills they have learned.

Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None 

Advanced English 9

This one-year course is a survey of the major literary genres: short stories, nonfiction, drama, poetry, folk literature (Greek mythology), and selected novels. Students will strengthen their critical thinking, writing, and organizational skills by interpreting, analyzing, and evaluating literature from a Christian worldview. Students will strengthen their ability to cite strong textual evidence to support their analyses. Bi-weekly writing assignments and /or essays will be devoted to the application of these skills. Three types of writing— narrative, informational, and argumentative essays—will be emphasized. In addition, students will construct a research paper utilizing all of the skills they have learned.

Grade: 9 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in 8^th grade English and a “4” on the writing proficiency test, and/or teacher recommendation with a required summer assignment

English 10

This one-year course is designed to equip students to engage in critical thinking skills and to communicate successfully, both orally and in writing. The course covers reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar skills. An understanding of the English language is developed from a Christian perspective. Literature is studied using short stories, drama, nonfiction, poetry, and a novel. Students are taught to write narrative, informative/expository, and argumentative papers, including a research paper.     

Grade: 10 Prerequisite: None 

Advanced English 10

This one-year course is designed to equip students with communication skills necessary for success in higher education and in life. The course covers reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar skills. The focus is on writing and exposes students to narrative, informative/expository, and argumentative styles, including a research paper. Literature is studied using short stories, drama, nonfiction, poetry, and multiple novels. This class moves at a faster pace than English 10 and includes more literature and more writing.
Grade: 10 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in 9^th grade English, and/or teacher recommendation, with a required summer assignment

American Literature 11

This one-year course in American literature emphasizes writing, literature, grammar and vocabulary. Literature from the Puritan era to Post-Modernism, focusing on the history of the periods and the influences of race, class, and gender on society, will be explored through the analysis of each work. Students will be exposed to genres of fiction, non-fiction, drama, poetry, and short story. Writing is practiced through journaling, literature responses, and the creation of a research paper.

Grade: 11 Prerequisite: None  

AP® English Language and Composition

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement (AP) exam in English Language and Composition at the end of the school year.  The course includes a careful study of representative works by American and British authors, as well as some that come from other cultures and have been translated into English.  These texts will primarily consist of nonfiction and will present students with opportunities to identify and critically analyze the use of rhetorical strategies and techniques. In addition to reading the texts, students will critically analyze the texts for literary devices that are unique to specific genres and analyze how graphics and visual images may be used in relation to written texts or as alternative forms of text in their own right. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Grade: 11 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in 10^th grade English, and/or teacher recommendation, with a required summer assignment

English Literature 12

This one-year course is a survey of important British authors and literary trends from Beowulf to the present.  In addition to reading the texts, the students will critically analyze the texts for literary devices and explore the biographical and historical contexts that led to their creation.  The course will cover the Medieval Era, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, the Romantic poets, the Victorians and twentieth century literature.

Grade: 12 Prerequisite: None  

AP® English Literature and Composition

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement (AP®) exam in English Literature and Composition at the end of the school year. The course is also designed to make a careful study of representative works by British and American authors, as well as some that come from other cultures and have been translated into English. These texts include works of fiction (both novels and short stories), poetry, and drama from the 14^th century to the present. In addition to reading the texts, students will critically analyze the texts for literary devices that are unique to the specific genres and explore the biographical and historical contexts that led to their creation. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Grade: 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in 11^th grade American Literature, teacher recommendation, and a required summer assignment 

Speech

This one-semester course focuses on the elements of communication. Students will learn about the process of communication and how it affects their life. Students will learn to be effective communicators. They will also gain a better understanding of the skill of listening. Students will participate in a variety of public speaking projects to increase their confidence. They will prepare and present speeches to inform, persuade, and entertain. They will deliver weekly impromptu speeches.  Students will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing the power of words and their usage, and apply this knowledge as they prepare, present, and critique speeches.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Algebra I

This one-year, college-preparatory course is designed to meet the requirements of the University of California and the California State University Systems. The course covers concepts such as fractional polynomials, word problems, linear and quadratic equations, simplification of exponentials, mixed numbers and decimals, area and volume of complex polygons, percent, ratios, order of operations, and the beginning concepts of Algebra II. In addition, students learn the importance of quality note-taking skills, and the clear presentation of a mathematical argument.

Prerequisite:  Successful Completion of Pre-Algebra

Geometry

This one-year, college-preparatory course is designed to offer students a practical alternative to the purely algebraic-style of mathematics, using tangible figures and shapes while helping students to improve problem-solving skills. The course covers the fundamentals of Euclidean Geometry and mathematical problem-solving, such as the language of geometry, algebraic proofs, geometric shapes, geometric translations, working backwards, and drawing diagrams, figures, and graphs.

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Algebra I

Algebra II

This one-year, college-preparatory course meets the second-year mathematics requirements of the California State University and the University of California School Systems. It is designed to develop advanced algebra skills while providing an introduction to trigonometry and pre-calculus. The course is taught using lecture, homework, group problems, and study groups. The skill of explaining concepts to others is emphasized. A graphing calculator is required for this course.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I, and Geometry

Pre-Calculus

This one-year, college-preparatory course is for students to gain a deep understanding of the fundamental concepts and relationships of functions.  Students will expand their knowledge of quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions to include power, polynomial, rational, piecewise, and trigonometric functions.  Students will investigate and explore mathematical ideas and develop multiple strategies for analyzing complex situations.  Graphing and modeling are used to build understanding, make connections between representations, and provide support in solving problems.  Pre-Calculus is highly recommended for students who plan to continue their formal education beyond high school.  Mastery of topics studied in this course is a prerequisite to enrolling in

AP® Calculus AB. A graphing calculator is required for this course.

Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in Algebra II

AP® Calculus

This one-year college-level course in calculus is designed to prepare the student for the AP® Calculus AB exam.  The course covers the calculus of functions of one variable.  The appropriate use of technology will be integrated into the course through the use of graphing calculators.  Ideas are explored graphically, symbolically, and conceptually.  Topics covered include limits, continuity, derivatives, antiderivatives, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, and techniques and applications of integration, separable differential equations and slope fields. A graphing calculator is required for this course. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in Pre-Calculus and departmental approval

AP® Calculus BC

This one-year college-level course is designed as an intensive, fast-paced course, and rigorous study of single-variable calculus.  The course prepares students for the AP® Calculus BC exam. Topics include all those listed under AP® Calculus AB plus polar and vector functions, differential equations and Euler’s method, applications of integration, polynomial approximations and infinite series, including Taylor Series. A graphing calculator is required for this course. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in AP® Calculus AB and departmental approval

Personal Finance

This one-year course is designed empower students with knowledge and application of basic financial principles so that they can make sound financial decisions for life. This class uses the curriculum designed by Dave Ramsey specifically for high school students. The goals of this course are to enable students to develop informed money-management strategies, enhance students’ financial literacy, and inspire students from all backgrounds to achieve financial well-being and to foster an understanding and appreciation of ethical money management. Students will develop flexible knowledge, effective problem-solving skills, effective collaboration skills, and intrinsic motivation through the use of a variety of individual and group activities.

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Algebra I

Statistics

This class introduces students to descriptive statistics and inferences, probability, random variables and distributions, confidence intervals, regressions and correlations, and chi-squared tests. Students will focus on data collection and learn how to represent data in multiple forms (text, graphs, charts, etc.) and effectively analyze the data qualitatively and quantitative.

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Algebra 2

High School PE

This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to different PE options offered at CCHS. Brief units will give the students a wide variety of activities to help them discover what lifetime activities they enjoy most. Along with class participation, written and skill tests will be given to evaluate the students’ progress in each sport. Lifetime fitness is stressed through weekly fitness workouts.

Grades: 9 Prerequisite: None    

Weight Training

This course is designed to give the students the skills and opportunity to discover the benefits of weight training. The course covers weight room etiquette and safety, as well as lifting techniques and correct spotting. Students will also be introduced to basic training principles that will be put into practice.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None    

Health

This purpose of this one-semester course is to provide the tools and information to the students that will help impact positive healthy choices across the four dimensions of health: Physical, Emotional, Social and Spiritual.  Topics that are covered are: Defining Health and Wellness, Components of Physical Fitness, Nutrition, Human Development, Lifestyle Choices and Personal Safety. Current events and information will also be brought into the class, as these can help shape our opinions and views.

Grades: 9 Prerequisite: None    

Biology

This one-year course is designed to give students a better understanding of our living world.  The lab course covers truth in science, cell biology, genetics, creation and evolution theories, classification, and the six kingdoms of living things. Each chapter of the course is taught from a Christian worldview.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Marine Biology

This one-year course is designed to expose students to the ecosystem of marine environments. Marine Biology focuses on the study of the major marine ecosystems, the organisms that live in them, and the interaction between the two.  All subject matter is taught from a Christian worldview.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Biology

Anatomy/Physiology

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to gain a better understanding of how fearfully and wonderfully our body is made. We begin by looking at the organizational levels of the human body, starting with the cellular level and tissue level, then to the organ systems that make up the whole human being. We enhance the learning process by dissecting several organs and a whole mammal, studying the similarities it has to the human body. The course is taught from a Christian perspective, recognizing Jesus Christ as Creator and Sustainer of life. (Colossians 1:16)

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in Biology

Physics

This course uses word problems about forces, heat, movement, fluids, light, gases, waves, electricity, and mirrors. With computers and equipment, those concepts are applied. Writing is required for labs, historical, or apologetics to material. Most of the mathematics is done on the trigonometric or algebraic level with a few calculus ideas. Students who are intending to major in the fields of sciences, engineering or mathematics should take this course.

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in Algebra II

Chemistry

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to gain an understanding of the science of Chemistry. This course covers the properties of matter, including vocabulary and definitions, application of concepts, problem analysis and solving, laboratory performance and presentation, and critical scientific method and communication. Mathematical problem solving is a major emphasis.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in Geometry (or currently enrolled in Geometry)

Honors Chemistry

Honors Chemistry is designed to provide more challenging chemistry curriculum to prepare the students well for the level of rigor they will experience when they enroll in AP Chemistry a one-year course designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry class usually taken during the first years at college. Strong emphasis is placed on solving challenging problems that would develop their critical thinking skills and analytical skills. Some of the lab activities include Inquiry labs, which will ask the students to make a claim or address a challenge, solve a problem and provide evidences by experimentation and data analysis and explain the claim in the same manner that a scientist approaches a research question. Honors Chemistry places much greater emphasis on the complex aspects of Stoichiometry, Intermolecular forces, Bonding, Kinetics, Thermodynamics, Spectroscopy, Chemical equilibrium and Electrochemistry.

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in Algebra II (or currently enrolled in Algebra II)

AP® Chemistry 

This one-year course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry class usually taken during the first years at college. Topics include structure of matter, states of matter, reactions, equilibrium, kinetics and thermodynamics, descriptive chemistry, and laboratory. The laboratory work will develop students’ reasoning power, the ability to apply chemical principles; as well as acquaint student with chemical laboratory techniques. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Grades: 10, 11, 12   Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry and Algebra II with grades of “B” or better, plus a teacher recommendation (through an interview).  There is also a mandatory one hour class each week after school.

World History

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to see the hand of God in the events of world history. The course covers ancient Greek and Roman civilizations; the Renaissance and Reformation periods; the American, French and Industrial Revolutions; the expansion of European culture; the Modern World; World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and the Vietnam War; Democracy, Nazism, Fascism, and Communism; the Sixties Movement; and the present era. The focus is a biblical philosophy of world history.

Grade: 10   Prerequisite: None

AP® World History

This one-year course provides a lens through which to understand history and a foundation from which to view the complexities of today’s global arena. This course highlights the nature of changes in global frameworks, their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. Its emphasis on encounters and interactions provides a framework that is especially important. This engaging and rigorous curriculum fosters critical thinking, decision-making, analytical and problem-solving that will help students develop skills and abilities that allow them to be a part of the learning process. The course, which adopts the periodization approach to analyzing global events and interactions from the foundations of history to the present, is designed to challenge students to become “owners” and creators of independent ideas by maintaining a student-centered classroom environment. The long-term objective is for students to demonstrate an understanding of how the big picture of world history assists in understanding the complexities of today’s global arena.

Grade: 10   Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

United States History

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to gain an understanding of the history of our country from a biblical perspective. The course covers American history, the role of the Reformation and subsequent movements, nation building, slavery, reform movements, immigration, World War I, World War II, the Civil War, the Cold War, the Korean/Vietnam Wars, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movements, Nixon to Bush, and America’s reaction to the New World Order. The focus is on Christian foundations and influences throughout America’s history.

Grade: 11 Prerequisite: None

AP® United States History

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement (AP®) U.S. History exam at the end of the school year. The course is also designed to call students as servants in God’s kingdom, and to be responsible citizens in their roles in families, schools, counties, states, and the nation. The course covers significant persons, events, movements, trends, and challenges that have shaped the development of American history from before the European colonization to the present day; using a biblical perspective to examine patterns of sin and God’s grace that are woven into the fabric of American history. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Grade: 11 Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Government/Economics

This two-semester course (Government first semester, Economics second semester) is designed to prepare students to consider what they can do to affect/infect the world with Jesus Christ. The course covers the fundamentals of Economics and American government, the Constitution, American rights, the branches of federal and local governments, and elections. The focus is on equipping students with the necessary tools to become responsible Christian citizens of the United States of America.

Grade: 12   Prerequisite: None

AP® U.S. Government and Politics

This one-year course is a survey of a variety of topics relating to current American public, political and state standards for economic life. Students will gain an understanding of the basic form of American government as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, including the principles and origins of our federal system, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, our economic system, as well as state and local government. Special attention will be paid to the recent history of America (Terrorism, Cold War, Vietnam, Watergate, Clinton Impeachment, Gulf War) as well as to the previous presidential elections that have refined the political landscape, domestic policy and foreign policy of our relatively young nation. All students enrolled in AP® Government will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Grade: 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in US History and/or teacher recommendation

Psychology

This one-semester course is designed to introduce students to the study of psychology. The course covers physiological and neurological bases of human behavior, human learning, memory, motivation, sensation and perception, development of personality, abnormal behavior, social groups, and psychology in the work place. The focus is on a Christian perspective of each of these issues.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Art I

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to attain proficiency in the skills of creating, evaluating, classifying, and presenting art pieces in a way that makes the visual arts a meaningful activity. The course covers media, techniques, processes, and artistic viewpoints from within the context and view of Christians in the world today. The focus is on two and three-dimensional art forms. Students will experience drawing, painting, sculpture, and other various art forms and techniques.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Art II

Art II is an advanced art applications course. Art skills will be reinforced and strengthened in the areas of basic art, drawing, color and design, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and art history. Students will demonstrate these skills through advanced techniques in projects utilizing colored pencils, pastels, pen and ink, watercolor, acrylic painting, wire, and sculptured materials. Students conduct exercises in evaluation and presentation of art work. Students will develop and express a personal philosophy of art consistent with their community, cultural and Christian values. The expression of the students’ personal philosophy of art and related values will be evaluated along with specific art skills related to the course content.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Art I

Art III

Art 3 offers concentrated study in areas selected cooperatively between the art student and art teacher. Projects are designed to increase the student’s skill level and dexterity with the media of their choice as they focus on more independent projects than they did in Art 2. Students will write their own proposals for projects that are focused on a particular style or theme which they wish to intensely explore in their work. They will be encouraged to attempt artworks that are ambitious on both a creative and technical level. Students will be challenged by the teacher to evaluate their art in the areas of concept, design, skill development, and personal artistic expression. This will include analyzing the work of other artists and their influences and then deciding how these pieces relate to their own work. By the end of this course, the student should have a firm grasp on their own artistic style and voice while also demonstrating mastery in their selected medium.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Art II

AP® Art and Design

The AP Art and Design program consists of three different courses and AP Portfolio Exams—AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and AP Drawing—corresponding to college and university foundations courses. Students may choose to submit any or all of the AP Portfolio Exams. Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry through art and design and development of materials, processes, and ideas over the course of a year. Portfolios include works of art and design, process documentation, and written information about the work presented. In May, students do not take an exam but instead submit portfolios for evaluation based on specific criteria, which include skillful synthesis of materials, processes, and ideas and sustained investigation through practice, experimentation, and revision, guided by questions. Students may choose to submit any or all of the AP Portfolio Exams.

Grades 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Art 2 and/or teacher recommendation

AP Drawing Portfolio

This portfolio is designated for work that focuses on the use of mark-making, line, surface, space, light and shade, and composition. Students should consider marks that can be used to make drawings, the arrangement of marks, the materials and processes used to make marks, and relationships of marks and ideas. Although labeled, “Drawing” it also includes painting and other media that focus on mark-making.

AP 2-D Art and Design Portfolio

This class is portfolio is designated for work that focuses on the use of two-dimensional (2-D) elements and principles of art and design, including point, line, shape, plane, layer, form, space, texture, color, value, opacity, transparency, time, unity, variety, rhythm, movement, proportion, scale, balance, emphasis, contrast, repetition, figure/ ground relationship, connection, juxtaposition, and hierarchy. Students should consider how materials, processes, and ideas can be used to make work that exists on a flat surface.

AP 3-D Art and Design Portfolio

This portfolio is designated for work that focuses on the use of three-dimensional (3-D) elements and principles of art and design, including point, line, shape, plane, layer, form, volume, mass, occupied/unoccupied space, texture, color, value, opacity, transparency, time, unity, variety, rhythm, movement, proportion, scale, balance, emphasis, contrast, repetition, connection, juxtaposition, and hierarchy. Students should consider how materials, processes, and ideas can be used to make work that involves space and form

Band

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to practice communication through the idiom of music. Musicians use their instruments to worship and exalt the Lord, and to perform at various venues throughout the community and state. Performances include pep bad at rallies and various sporting events, jazz ensembles at outreaches, concert band at the festivals and school productions. The course covers increased skill and knowledge of various musical forms, scales (rudiments for percussion), rhythmic concepts, ensemble proficiency, and music theory. The focus is on providing an opportunity for students to explore their interests in the field of instrumental music. The band also plans one major trip a year.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Band Director approval

Choir

This one-year course is designed to offer students a positive, enjoyable atmosphere for singing and learning about music. No previous experience is necessary. The course covers vocal technique and performance skills, basic music theory knowledge, listening and critique of various music styles, classical music performance - a cappella or with accompaniment, both sacred and secular, show tunes with choreography, and music from other countries. Students will participate in at least three major concert performances per year, including the ACSI Choral Festival. Students will be expected to purchase a choir uniform for the year.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Vocal Ensemble

This one-year course is designed for students with advanced vocal abilities. Previous experience is necessary as well as an audition by the teacher. Students will be chosen for their vocal and musical abilities as well as their spiritual demeanor.  The course covers vocal technique, advanced music theory, music history as it pertains to the music performed, as well as performance skills in preparation for numerous performances for the school and community at large. This group will be ambassadors for CCS as they perform for civic groups, private industry, and local churches as requested. The audiences will hear music of all styles and musical eras. Students will be expected to purchase a choir uniform for the year.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12   Prerequisite: Audition and teacher recommendation

Computers

This one-semester course is designed to introduce students to fundamental computer concepts, Internet applications, multi-media presentations, logo creation, business simulation, web 2.0 software and the MS Office suite including: Word, Excel, Power Point, and Publisher.  Emphasis will be placed on using file management and keyboarding skills. Students will learn how to use the Internet to effectively conduct searches for school projects.  Special attention will be devoted to each student learning about legal issues, copyright law, and Internet safety including cyber bullying, texting, phishing, spam, viruses, social media, and other safety topics. Application of using their learned technology skills to be used in the workplace will be emphasized.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Web Design

This one-semester course is designed to teach information-age students how to effectively create a website using HTML programming language, CSS, and Adobe Creative Suite CS5, the leading software used in the Web Design Industry. Students will learn raw html coding, web technologies, web page layout, Dream weaver, Fireworks and Flash animation to design and create their own web page project. Careers in web design and graphic design will be explored as part of the course work.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Computers

Computer Science Essentials (CSE)

With emphasis on computational thinking and collaboration, this year-long course provides an excellent entry point for students to begin or continue the PLTW Computer Science K-12 experience. CSE will expose students to a diverse set of computational thinking concepts, fundamentals, and tools, allowing them to gain understanding and build confidence. In CSE, students will use visual, block-based programming and seamlessly transition to text-based programming with languages such as Python to create apps and develop websites, and learn how to make computers work together to put their design into practice. They’ll apply computational thinking practices, build their vocabulary, and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them. CSE helps students create a strong foundation to advance to Computer Science Principles, Computer Science A, and beyond.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Computer Science Principles (CSP)

This one-year course uses Python® as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation, this course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. Computer Science Principles helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation. PLTW is recognized by the College Board as an endorsed provider of curriculum and professional development for AP® Computer Science Principles (AP CSP). This endorsement affirms that all components of PLTW CSP’s offerings are aligned to the AP Curriculum Framework standards and the AP CSP assessment.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials

Computer Science A

Computer Science A focuses on further developing computational-thinking skills through the medium of Android App development for mobile platforms. The course utilizes industry-standard tools such as Android Studio, Java programming languages, XML, and device emulators. Students collaborate to create original solutions to problems of their own choosing by designing and implementing user interfaces and Web-based databases. This course aligns with the AP CS A Course.

Grades: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Computer Science Principles

Photography

This one-semester course is an exploration of the fundamental principles, techniques and applications of digital camera imaging.  It explores the techniques and applications of capturing, manipulating and outputting digitized photographic images utilizing Adobe’s Creative Suite 5.  Technical skills for digital photography are covered including refinement of exposure, post-image capture processing, and manipulation with computer-based photo projects. Emphasis is on the development of the student’s self-expression. 

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Photography II

This one-semester course is for students who wish to further their photography education and get a solid grounding of professional camera techniques. It explores the manual settings of digital cameras, learning to use aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual set ups for shooting. Low light and night shooting will be explored along with using tri-pods to capture these images. Students will be exploring techniques to capture sports, weddings, animals, advanced portraiture, and product photography. Advanced digital darkroom skills will be learned in Photoshop CS5. There will be an emphasis on creativity and self expression.

Grades:  9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite:  Photography I

Yearbook

This one-year course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to create the school’s yearbook. The course covers journalism, photography basics, manual application and computer technology, assignment prioritization, working under pressure, meeting deadlines, and working toward a common goal.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, Computers

Study Hall

This one-semester course is designed for students to have a place to work on homework and study during the school day in a quiet environment.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Student Leadership Class

This one-year course is designed to encourage students to engage in Christian leadership methods and to have success with peer ministry. The course is scripture-based, and includes Bible study and prayer meetings. Emphasis is on rationale, methodology, guest speakers, and projects.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Students elected or appointed to ASB

ASL I

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to gain an understanding of Deaf history and culture, and to train them to sign and read signs at a conversational level with the Deaf. ASL I covers, manual alphabet - finger-spelling, grammar, reading, basic classifiers, expression, numbers and over 300 word signs used to effectively communicate with the Deaf, and prepare them for ASL II. Students will also learn to sign sing, meet with or attend a deaf community event, and have the ability to engage fully with the Deaf.

Grade: 9, 10, 11 Prerequisite: None

ASL II

This is a one-year American Sign Language Course that continues to expose students to the culture and history of American Sign Language while actively developing students' ability to comprehend and express themselves in American Sign Language.  Students will be evaluated for grammar use and structure, comprehension, communication strategies, and cultural awareness. Students will have the opportunity to engage with the Deaf community and will be fully prepared for ASL III.

Grade: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in ASL I

ASL III

This is a one-year American Sign Language Course will continue to expand student’s communication development by engaging in more complex learning activities. Students will learn to describe places, objects, and events. Students will participate in higher level class demonstrations, discussions, gloss translations, and have a better understanding of Deaf Culture and History. Students will be prepared for ASL IIII.

Grade: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in ASL II

Honors ASL IV

This is a one-year American Sign Language Course will continue to build on the knowledge and skills students acquired during ASL I, ASL II, and ASL III. Students will receive rigorous instruction on a wide variety of topics. Students will practice by teaching the class, present stories, and create videos. Furthermore, students will be challenged with Deaf history, linguistics, classifiers, and vocabulary.

Grade: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in ASL III

Spanish I

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to attain proficiency in the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a way that makes language learning a meaningful activity. The course covers grammar, vocabulary, listening, reading, writing, and verbal skills. The focus is to present the language within the context of the contemporary Spanish-speaking world and its culture. Christian songs and Bible verses are used on a regular basis to teach and review grammar and vocabulary.

Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None

Spanish II

This one-year course is designed to prepare students to continue the development of Spanish language skills in the areas of speaking, listening comprehension, reading, and writing. The course covers a wide range of activities. CD-ROMs are used to enhance listening skills. The course also includes Christian songs, prayers, and memorization/recitation of Bible verses to improve and support vocabulary, grammar pronunciation, and enunciation. Students learn about the cultural similarities and differences between the Spanish-speaking countries and the United States. Students participate in field trips to Spanish-speaking restaurants and churches to enhance their verbal and listening skills. Participation in a language and culture educational trip is encouraged.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in Spanish I

Honors Spanish II

This one-year course is designed for students to gain continued proficiency in the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a way that makes language learning a meaningful activity.  They will also increase their levels of comprehension and mastery of the language at the honors level through various reading and vocabulary meaning in the context as well as various writing, listening, and conversational Spanish activities. The Spanish language will be presented within the context of the contemporary Spanish-speaking world and its culture.  This course will provide the students with the opportunity to demonstrate aptitude and interest in the learning of Spanish language, display eagerness to improve his/her overall language skills, and learn organization skills and work ethic.

Grades: 9, 10 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” of better in Spanish I and/or teacher recommendation

Spanish III

Spanish III is designed for the college-preparatory students who have successfully completed Spanish I and II, and wish to further their Spanish language studies. This course begins with an overview of basic grammatical structures and continues with conversation/composition skills, written work, verbal activities, listening activities (CD ROMs and MP3 files), and reading comprehension. Participation in a language and cultural educational trip is encouraged. Students participate in field trips to Spanish-speaking restaurants and churches to enhance their overall verbal and listening skills. Christian songs and Bible verses are used on a weekly basis to teach or review grammar and vocabulary.

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in Spanish II

Honors Spanish III

This one-year course expects students to use Spanish at all times in class to develop language proficiency. Special emphasis will be placed on reading and listening comprehension, writing, and conversation through activities that will include cultures of the Spanish speaking countries and the integration of technology.  Emphasis is placed of grammatical structures that are particularly troublesome. Through this course, students will be encouraged to elaborate on ideas, ask and answer questions, and read, narrate and describe oral and written passages. They will practice and excel in the four language skills to become more accurate in the language they produce and comprehend.

Grades:  10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Grade of “B” of better in Spanish II and/or teacher recommendation

AP® Spanish Language

This course will be conducted entirely in the Spanish language. The students will develop a strong command of their target language while all four of the language skills are being integrated through quality, authentic, and level appropriate materials and activities. The students will improve and expand their interpersonal, formal, and informal communication; understand conversations, short and long dialogues and narratives and lectures; interpret a variety of spoken material; improve and broaden reading skills through authentic materials; integrate grammar and vocabulary correctly in the application and implementation of all Spanish language skills; broaden their culture awareness by understanding cultural practices of different peoples from Spain and Hispano America. All students enrolled in AP® will be expected to take the Advanced Placement examination as scheduled by the College Board in May of each year.

Grades: 11, 12  Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in Spanish III, Honors Spanish III, or Spanish IV

Study Skills (NILD) National Institute of Learning Development

This three to five year course in NILD Educational Therapy stimulates students’ areas of weakness in perception and cognition to function effectively through individualized, intensive, interactive stimulation; producing independent learners in a one-on-one setting. In addition, this course focuses on personal organization, day planner organization, managing time, and preparing for and taking tests. Also, other strategies that are presented help students to learn and think logically, and to become confident learners.

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Identified Learning Disability with testing of Woodcock Johnson III, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children IV, Bender Motor Gestalt. There is tuition for NILD in addition to school tuition.