CUrriculum

ENGLISH 9
Through the integrated study of literature, composition, grammar, and oral communication, grade 9 students develop their use of language as a tool for learning and thinking and as a source of pleasure. Students practice identifying, analyzing, and composing with different elements, structures, and genres of written language.

Literature instruction focuses on reading and comprehending a broad variety of literature while applying appropriate reading strategies to enhance literary skills and appreciation.  Specifically, students will identify and analyze elements of story structure, identify literature by genre, identify the author’s purpose and perspective, recognize bias, analyze elements of drama, and survey a variety of poetic styles. Students will also use reading as a vehicle for vocabulary expansion.

The composition component of language arts requires students to write for various audiences and purposes while strengthening skills in paragraph and multi-paragraph writing.  The course will emphasize nature-based descriptive poetry and prose, culminating in the creation of a short story.  The writing process will include prewriting, drafting, revising, and publishing.  Technology will be used to enhance the overall presentation.

Grammar instruction will focus on identifying parts of speech, utilizing guidelines for proper punctuation, and correcting common usage errors.

Oral communication emphasizes effective listening and speaking techniques and provides opportunities for students to integrate other reading and language arts skills as they learn to express ideas verbally.  Oral presentations will include a well-researched and coherently organized message, effective delivery techniques, audience rapport, and proper speech mechanics.  Critical listening and participant skills include identifying and analyzing characteristics of a speaker’s presentation, active participation in group discussions, note-taking, and peer collaboration for group assignments.

ENGLISH 10
Language arts instruction is cumulative.  Therefore, grade 10 reinforces many of the activities and skills of grade 9.

Literature assignments will focus on opportunities to respond critically, reflectively, and imaginatively to short stories, drama, and poetry selected from a variety of world cultures.  Specifically, students will identify and analyze elements of story structure, identify literature by genre, identify the author’s purpose and perspective, recognize bias, analyze elements of drama, and survey a variety of poetic styles.  Students will also use reading as a vehicle for vocabulary expansion.

The composition component of language arts requires students to write for various audiences and purposes while strengthening skills in paragraph and multi-paragraph writing. Composition will emphasize sensory description and revision skills, culminating in the creation of a short story. The writing process will include prewriting, drafting, revising, and publishing.  Technology will be used to enhance the overall presentation.

Advanced instruction is given in proper grammar, punctuation, and usage to solidify command of the material covered in English 9.

Oral communication skills are also promoted.  Oral presentations will include a well-researched and coherently organized message, effective delivery techniques, audience rapport, and proper speech mechanics.  Critical listening and participant skills include identifying and analyzing characteristics of a speaker’s presentation, active participation in group discussions, note-taking, and peer collaboration for group assignments.

ENGLISH 11
Through the integrated study of literature and composition, grade 11 students further develop their use of language as a tool for learning and thinking and as a source of pleasure.  In English 11, students move from predominantly analyzing and using elements of written language to making judgments based on their analysis. 

This course provides a survey of American literature from various periods.  Literature instruction focuses on opportunities to develop criteria for judging and analyzing literary works such as short stories, novels, speeches, essays, and poetry.  Students will select appropriate reading strategies to distinguish elements in literature that make it a reflection of the social, economic, or cultural thought of its time and place.  In addition to fostering critical thinking skills, literature assignments will be used to enhance vocabulary.

Composition assignments will focus on literary and historical analysis.  Essays and papers will involve having a thesis, topic sentences, supporting points with specific examples, and an identified audience.  The writing process includes outlining, drafting, revising and editing, peer feedback, and publishing using word-processing technology.  A major research paper will highlight the academic writing process.  Students will learn and follow guidelines from the MLA style manual.

A review of grammar will be conducted, including instruction on punctuation and usage.

ENGLISH 12
Grade 12 continues to refine students’ ability to learn and communicate about language and literature.  English 12 will reinforce and enhance the writing and analytical skills introduced in English 11.

This course will survey British literature from Anglo-Saxon times to the modern era. Literature instruction focuses on opportunities to develop criteria for judging and analyzing literary works such as short stories, novels, speeches, essays, and poetry.  Students will select appropriate reading strategies to distinguish elements in literature that make it a reflection of the social, economic, or cultural thought of its time and place.  In addition to fostering critical thinking skills, literature assignments will be used to enhance vocabulary.

Composition assignments will focus on literary and historical analysis.  Essays and papers will involve having a thesis, topic sentences, supporting points with specific examples, and an identified audience.  The writing process includes outlining, drafting, revising and editing, peer feedback, and publishing using word-processing technology.  A major term paper will highlight the academic writing process.  Students will learn and follow guidelines from the MLA style manual.

Oral communication instruction centers on a persuasive speech, which will include a well-researched and coherently organized message, effective delivery techniques, audience rapport, and proper speech mechanics.  Critical listening and participant skills include identifying and analyzing characteristics of a speaker’s presentation, active participation in group discussions, and note-taking.

A review of grammar will be conducted, including instruction on punctuation and usage.

CONSUMER MATH

Prerequisite: Math 8
Consumer math combines the foundational mathematical concepts from Algebra and Geometry and applies them to the real world. The course focuses on mastery of fundamental skills and exposure to new skills that are required for higher mathematics. Topics include linear equations, area, volume, insurance, taxes, mortgages, and much more.

ALGEBRA I
Prerequisite: Math 8 and Satisfactory Completion of the Math Placement Exam
Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students who will take other advanced college-preparatory courses.  In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations.  The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course.  Topics covered include properties of real numbers; solving, graphing, and writing linear equations and linear inequalities; solving systems of equations and systems of open sentences in two variables; exponents and exponential functions; solving quadratic functions by factoring, graphing, and the quadratic formula; basic operations with polynomials; rational expressions; and properties of radicals.  The use of graphing calculators to explore functions is emphasized and encouraged throughout the course.  A student who receives an “F” for the first semester will not be allowed to continue into the second semester of this course.

ALGEBRA II
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Algebra II is a course that expands on the topics of Algebra I and provides further development of the concept of a function. Topics covered include: linear equations and functions; systems of linear equations and inequalities; matrices and determinants; quadratic functions; polynomials and polynomial functions; power functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; rational equations and functions; conic sections; sequences and series; trigonometry; and introductory topics from probability and statistics. Use of graphing calculators to explore functions is emphasized and encouraged throughout the course.  A student who receives an “F” for the first semester will not be allowed to continue into the second semester of this course.

GEOMETRY
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Geometry provides students with experiences that deepen their understanding of shapes and their properties.  Deductive and inductive reasoning as well as investigative strategies in drawing conclusions are stressed.  Properties and relationships of geometry figures include the study of:  angles; lines; planes; parallel and perpendicular lines; congruent and similar triangles; ratio and proportion; polygons and their areas; circles; properties of special right triangles; trigonometry; constructions; volumes of solids; and coordinate geometry.  An understanding of proof and logic is developed.  A student who receives an “F” for the first semester will not be allowed to continue into the second semester of this course. 

PRECALCULUS
Prerequisites:  Algebra II with a grade of C or above
Precalculus is a course that expands on the topics of Algebra II as well as provides an introduction to calculus. Topics covered include: functions and graphs; polynomial functions; power functions; rational functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; logistic modeling; trigonometric functions; analytical trigonometry; polar coordinates; vectors; matrix algebra; systems of equations; analytical geometry; discrete mathematics; and introductory topics from calculus such as limits, derivatives, and integrals. The use of graphing calculators to explore functions is emphasized and encouraged throughout the course. A student who receives an “F” for the first semester will not be allowed to continue into the second semester of this course.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
Students will have the opportunity to learn the structures of the human body, chemical, electrical, and other physiological processes, and how they interact to maintain the intricate balances needed for optimal health. Labs, dissections, and computer aids will demonstrate the concepts learned. Especially recommended for any student considering a health-related profession.
 
BIOLOGY
Biology I provides, through regular laboratory and field investigations, a study of the structures and functions of living organisms and their interactions with their environment. At a minimum, this study exposes the functions and processes of cells, tissues, organs, and systems within various species of living organisms and the roles and interdependencies of organisms within populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere. Students have opportunities to: (1) gain an understanding of the history of the development of biological knowledge, and the scientific evidence on various sides of the origin of life theories; (2) explore the use of biology in various careers; and (3) cope with biological questions and problems related to personal needs and social issues.

Quarter 1: Nature of science and biology. Chemical principles and their basis in life. Cell structure and function. Ecology.
Quarter 2: Cell energy balance in respiration and photosynthesis. Nucleic acids and protein synthesis. Cell growth and division. Introduction to genetics.
Quarter 3: Genes and chromosomes. Human heredity and genetic engineering. Origins of life - the theories of Creation and evolution and the scientific evidence for each.
Quarter 4: Survey of the five kingdoms - Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, Animalia.
 
CHEMISTRY
This course is designed for students who are planning a career in medicine and/or other biological sciences. It allows students to synthesize useful models of the structures of matter and the mechanisms of its interactions through laboratory investigations of matter and its chemical reactions. Students have opportunities to: 1) gain an understanding of the history of chemistry; 2) explore the issues of chemistry in various careers; 3) cope with chemical questions and problems related to personal needs and social issues; and 4) learn and practice laboratory safety.

Topics covered include the study of matter; the atomic model; the periodic table; chemical formulas; chemical bonding; the mole; chemical reactions and equations; properties of the elements and groups of elements; molecular structure and geometry; polar molecules; thermodynamics; states of matter; solutions; and acids and bases.

INTEGRATED PHYSICS & CHEMISTRY (IPC)
Integrated Chemistry-Physics introduces the fundamental concepts of scientific inquiry, the structure of matter, chemical reactions, forces, motion, and the interactions between energy and matter. This course will serve students as a laboratory-based introduction to possible future coursework in chemistry or physics while ensuring mastery of the basics of each discipline. The ultimate goal of the course is to produce scientifically literate citizens capable of using their knowledge of physical science to solve real-world problems and to make personal, social, and ethical decisions that have consequences beyond the classroom walls.

PHYSICS
This course is designed for students who have a strong background in mathematics and/or are planning a career in mathematics, engineering, or other areas of science. Emphasis is given to the use of mathematics in the solution of practical problems. Students have opportunities to: 1) acquire an awareness of the history of physics and its role in the birth of technology; 2) explore the uses of its models, theories, and laws in various careers; and 3) cope with physics questions and problems related to personal needs and social issues. Lab experiments are integrated throughout the course.

Topics covered include the study of the metric system; one and two-dimensional motion; acceleration; forces; vectors; gravity; momentum; work and energy; mechanics; wave motion; sound; light; reflection and refraction; mirrors and lenses; series and parallel circuits (electricity); magnetism; electromagnetism; and atomic and nuclear physics.

ECONOMICS
Economics includes a study of the allocation of scarce resources and their alternative uses for satisfying human wants. This course examines basic models of decision making at various levels and in different areas including: (1) decisions made as a consumer, producer, saver, investor, and voter; (2) business decisions to maximize profits; and (3) public policy decisions in specific markets dealing with output and prices in the national economy.
 
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
United States Government provides a framework for understanding the nature and importance of responsible civic participation and for learning the rights and responsibilities of individuals in a constitutional democracy.  The course enables students to explore the historical origins and evolution of political philosophies into contemporary political and legal systems.  Constitutional structure and the processes of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the national, state, and local levels of government are examined.  Students learn to draw conclusions about the impact and interrelationships of history, geography, and economics upon our system of government. They also learn to demonstrate an understanding of the governmental structures of the United States and other political systems, as well as the relationship of the American government to world affairs. Students learn to analyze theories of individuals and groups in the political process by identifying and analyzing political issues. They also learn to access data from primary and secondary resources and use current technology to access relevant source materials and as a tool for producing documents in support of learning projects. Students have opportunities to take, defend, and evaluate positions on current issues that impact political decision-making. They should understand their ability to influence policies and decisions as individuals and in groups.

Related learning experiences in the school and community enable students to learn how to participate effectively in the political process.  The study of the United States government also offers students opportunities to develop knowledge, inquiry skills, and the means to preserve and improve our constitutional democracy.

A survey of the backgrounds, origins, and development of government in the United States of America with an introduction to the fundamental philosophies of government, Christian and non-Christian, viewed in comparison and contrast.
 
UNITED STATES HISTORY
United States History emphasizes national development in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries and builds upon concepts developed in previous studies of American history.  Students in this course also identify and review significant events, figures, and movements in the early development of the nation. After providing such a review, the course gives major emphasis to the interaction of historical events and geographic, social, and economic influences on national development in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries.  A chronological, topical, or comparative approach can be used in developing themes from America’s past as they relate to life in Indiana and the United States today.

Students demonstrate the ability to trace and analyze chronological periods and examine the relationships of significant themes and concepts in United States history.  Students will be able to sequence historical events, examine cause and effect, identify different perspectives, and relate historical situations to current issues.  Opportunities are given to develop inquiry skills by gathering and organizing information from primary source material and a variety of historical and contemporary sources, accounts, and documents.  Investigation of themes and issues includes analysis of the importance of cultural pluralism and diversity of opinion in American society.  Students learn to exercise their skills as citizens in a democratic society by engaging in problem-solving and civic decision-making in the classroom, school, and community settings.

Investigation of themes and issues includes an analysis of the importance of cultural pluralism and diversity of opinion in American society.  Students are given opportunities to exercise their skills as citizens in a democratic society by engaging in problem-solving and civic decision-making in the classroom, school, and community settings.

United States History is the study of the development of the United States from pre-colonial times to the present day.  Whenever possible, it is studied in the light of the Spirit of Prophecy. Past political problems are studied in reference to today’s situations.
 
WORLD HISTORY
World History and Civilization provides for a study of selected world cultures, past and present.  The content of this course provides a basis for students to compare and analyze patterns of culture, emphasizing both the diversity and commonality of human experience and behavior.  This course emphasizes the interaction of local cultures with the natural environment, as well as the connections among civilizations from the earliest times to the present.  This course may be designed to focus on:  (1) prehistory; (2) early world civilizations, including the rise of civilizations of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia; (3) the classical civilizations of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America; and (4) the development of modern societies.  This course might also trace important themes in human history or be designed to focus on a comparative study of two or more selected societies.

A survey of the origins and development of Western Civilization emphasizes the response of history to the prophecies of the Bible in the framework of the Great Controversy and God’s eternal purpose.

BIBLE 9
A study of the plan of salvation as it relates to the young Christian. The establishment of that plan and its application to early humanity is set forth in the book of Genesis and its ratification by Jesus Christ as is outlined in the book of Matthew. In addition to studying these two Bible books and related texts, the course explains the origin and history of the Scriptures.
 
BIBLE 10
A guide to a better understanding of the heritage, principles, and operation of God’s church.  Students will survey Old Testament history from Exodus to the rebuilding of Jerusalem under Nehemiah.  Major emphasis will also be placed on the development of Christianity from apostolic times through the rise of Roman Catholicism, the Reformation, and the more recent religious movements.  The founding and growth of Seventh-day Adventism will conclude this overview of Christian history.

BIBLE 11
Basic Bible truths are brought into focus through a study of the books of Romans, Hebrews, Daniel, and Revelation.  In addition, one unit of study is devoted to Bible Beliefs.

BIBLE 12
In a world where so many secular sources are fighting to tell you your identity, we dive into God's explanation of your identity. Looking at the deep love of the God of the Old Testament that comes to fruition in Christ.

SPANISH I
This foreign language course provides instruction enabling students to discuss the many reasons for learning a language and to develop an understanding of the people who speak it.  Students are able to apply effective strategies for language learning and show a willingness to experience various aspects of Spanish culture.  Within this context, the course provides students with opportunities in Spanish reading, translation, pronunciation, conversation, and culture that will enable the student to build and grow in his knowledge of the second most important language in the United States today.  Additionally, students will learn about nonverbal communication, awareness of current events, major holidays and geographical features of various Latin countries, salutations, courtesy behaviors, and appropriate etiquette in a variety of social settings.
 
SPANISH II
Level II Spanish language courses enable students to participate in classroom and extracurricular activities related to the language studied as well as to participate in conversations dealing with daily activities and personal interests. Students are able to: ask questions regarding routine activities; participate in conversations on a variety of topics; relate a simple narrative about a personal experience or event; interact in a variety of situations to meet personal needs, such as asking permission, asking for or responding to an offer for help, and expressing preferences pertaining to everyday life; understand main ideas and facts from simple texts over familiar topics; read aloud with appropriate intonation and pronunciation; and write briefly in response to given situations, for example: postcards, personal notes, phone messages, and directions, as well as write letters using culturally appropriate format and style. Additionally, students become: familiar with major geographical features, historical events, and political structures of the country(ies) being studied; familiar with different aspects of the culture, including the visual arts, architecture, literature, and music, using the foreign language where appropriate; able to extend and respond to hospitality as a host or a guest; and aware of time expectations, such as arriving for appointments and social engagements. 

HEALTH EDUCATION
The purpose of this class is to develop a proper understanding of health concepts important to young people that they can use for life.

High school health education provides the basis for continued methods of developing knowledge, concepts, skills, behaviors, and attitudes related to student health and well-being.  This course includes the major content areas in a planned, sequential, comprehensive health education curriculum as expressed in the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventist Curriculum Guide: (1) Growth and Development; (2) Mental and Emotional Health; (3) Community and Environmental Health; (4) Nutrition; (5) Family Life; (6) Consumer Health; (7) Personal Health; (8) Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Substance Abuse (9) Intentional and Unintentional Injury; and (10) Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.
Students are provided with opportunities to explore the effect of health behaviors on an individual’s quality of life.  This course assists students in understanding that health is a lifetime commitment by analyzing individual risk factors and health decisions that promote health and prevent disease.  Students are also encouraged to assume individual responsibility for becoming competent health consumers.  A variety of instructional strategies, including technology, are used to further develop health literacy.
 
PHYSICAL EDUCATION I 
Students are taught the importance of taking care of the body God has given them through involvement in such sports as running, football, soccer, volleyball, and softball.  This course addresses the application of rules and sportsmanship, as well as cooperative skills.  Ongoing assessment includes written and performance-based skill evaluation. 
Physical Education I continues the emphasis on health-related fitness and developing the skills and habits necessary for a lifetime of activity.  This program includes skill development and the application of rules and strategies of complex difficulty in at least three of the following different movement forms: (1) health-related fitness activities (cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, endurance, flexibility, and body composition), (2) aerobic exercise, (3) team sports, (4) individual and dual sports, (5) gymnastics, (6) outdoor pursuits, (7) aquatics, (8) recreational games.  Ongoing assessment includes both written and performance-based evaluations.
 
PHYSICAL EDUCATION II 
Physical Education II emphasizes a personal commitment to lifetime activity and fitness for enjoyment, challenge, and social interaction.  This course provides students with opportunities to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical fitness and increase their knowledge of fitness concepts.  It includes at least three different movement forms.  Movement forms may include: (1) health-related fitness activities (cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, endurance, flexibility, and body composition), (2) aerobic exercise, (3) team sports, (4) individual sports, (5) outdoor pursuits, and (6) recreational games.  Ongoing assessment includes both written and performance-based skills evaluations.  

ADVANCED CHORUS/KEYNOTES
This advanced choir fulfills the fine arts requirement for graduation as well as several of the goals included in the mission statement of the school.  It also addresses the aesthetic development portion of the stated curriculum of Indiana Academy. Its purpose is to sing a variety of religious and secular music and to improve the music skills/aptitude of each student. Music styles will range from the Medieval to the Modern periods. Songs included may be in different languages or sung a capella. It will include learning choral/vocal music skills, cooperative learning strategies for improved instruction, and a solid basis for the completion of national and denominational standards in the arts. Membership is by audition only and depends on many factors, including satisfactory school citizenship and deportment, as well as faithful attendance at rehearsals and concerts. Concurrent enrollment in Beginning Chorus--Choralanas is required.

APPLIED MUSIC/PRIVATE LESSONS
Applied music offers high school students the opportunity to receive small group or private instruction designed to develop performance skills. Instruction is designed so that students are enabled to associate music study with other disciplines. A variety of music methods and repertoire is utilized to refine students' abilities in listening, analyzing, interpreting, and performing. Private lessons are open to all students in voice, piano, organ, conducting, and band instruments. Lessons are scheduled during the school week at a convenient time for students/faculty. It is the responsibility of the student to meet all appointments. A minimum of 10 lessons per semester constitutes credit.
 
BEGINNING CHORUS/CHORALANAS
The concert choir fulfills half of the fine arts requirement for graduation as well as several of the goals included in the mission statement of the school. The goal is to sing a variety of religious and secular music and to improve the music skills/aptitude of each student. Music styles will range from the Medieval to the Modern periods. It also addresses the aesthetic development portion of the stated curriculum of Indiana Academy.  It will include learning choral/vocal music skills, cooperative learning strategies for improved instruction, and a solid basis for the completion of national and denominational standards in the arts. Performances include singing at two major concerts and possible trips to Indiana churches and schools.  A voice check is done upon entrance into the organization for placing students in the correct voice parts.
 
HANDBELL CHOIR/GRACENOTES  
This course fulfills half of the fine arts requirement for graduation as well as several of the goals included in the mission statement of the school.  It also addresses the aesthetic development portion of the stated curriculum of Indiana Academy. Its purpose is to play a variety of music styles ranging from the Medieval to the Modern-day musical period. It will include learning instrumental music skills, cooperative learning strategies for improved instruction, and a solid basis for the completion of national and denominational standards in the arts. Also, it will further develop Handbell ringing techniques, music reading skills, and performance abilities. This is an auditioned ensemble with limited space. Programs include Music department functions and other special events on campus, and representing the academy in off-campus performances.

ART
The objective of this course is to introduce students to the elements and concepts of two-dimensional art. Students will explore two dimensional art from drawings and paintings to photography, illustration, and prints. Students will have the opportunity to express their creativity, themselves through their artwork, and gain confidence in themselves and their artistic abilities.

BAND
Secondary Music Education Standards for Seventh-day Adventist Schools seek to ensure that the beliefs and values of our Adventist Christian faith are integrated into the curriculum. These standards should lead to instruction that helps students appreciate the richness of music expression, develop an emerging interest and skill in music performance, and assist in making informed musical choices that will influence them throughout their lives. Instruction in music from this type of curriculum should help students learn to reflect God’s image while developing proficiency in understanding, analyzing, applying, and evaluating all aspects of music. This kind of education fosters the balanced development of the whole person to prepare them for earthly service and heavenly citizenship.

ESSENTIALS OF LIVING (EOL)
This course provides an introduction to and practice in basic skills useful for living on your own. It will cover topics such as healthy food choices and preparation, personal finances, marriage and family, and housing. Students will be taught basic sewing techniques and clothing care. Other household skills useful for living independently will also be included. Includes a lab fee charged to the student’s account.
 
INTRODUCTION TO TECHNOLOGY
A beginning level course providing experience and instruction on the basic techniques of construction and woodworking. Students will learn problem-solving, creativity, and inventiveness using cost-efficient approaches in this project based course.

YEARBOOK
Students are historians, journalists, and artists putting together a photojournalistic book that will be on shelves for many, many years to come. Students will write captions in appropriate journalistic style, use photojournalism techniques, edit, proofread, and evaluate their work while collaborating with other students in the class to meet specific deadlines.

COMPUTER APPLICATIONS I
A general computer literacy class designed for all students as an extension of their keyboarding skills. The major focus is on practical experience with word processing and creating reports and tables. Students will also learn how to use spreadsheets, presentations, and the Internet for research.