.htm_cmp_tp-hitk1010_hbtn.gif){kind=small}
- Kindergarten
- First Grade
- Second Grade
- Third Grade
- Fourth Grade
- Fifth Grade
- Sixth Grade
- Seventh Grade
- Eighth Grade
Religion
Students walk through, read, and discuss the Biblical stories in the Children’s Bible. They gain an appreciation and understanding for these events and how these stories can apply to their everyday lives. They learn about Baptism and how God makes them His children. They learn more about sin and why Jesus died for all. They are encouraged to give gifts to Jesus. Beginning to gain an appreciation for Martin Luther and his teachings as well as recognizing the liturgical seasons help in their understanding of the church body.
Math
Saxon Math is used and experienced in the Math Readiness curriculum. Students explore everyday uses of math as they begin to learn about money, temperature, time, calendars, and graphing. Manipulatives are used to increase awareness of sets, sizes, and shapes. They also sort and classify. Counting and understanding of numbers increase as students orally or in writing count and group numbers and sets. Making and recognizing patterns is an integral part of kindergarten math. Students also begin to understand measurement using non-standard units of measure. Recognition of whole versus sets of objects making a whole is introduced.
Language Arts
Saxon Phonics is used and experienced in the Language Arts curriculum. A phonemic awareness approach to language helps students in their developmental stages of reading readiness. As students participate in active listening and speaking, they involve themselves both emotionally and intellectually in the learning process. Expression of ideas is in the form of role-playing, retelling, or illustrating. They listen to a wide variety of children’s literature, including selections from classic and contemporary works.
Handwriting
D’Nealian Handwriting is used and experienced in the Handwriting curriculum. Students will recognize and use capital and lower case manuscript letters and numerals correctly. Proper posture, pencil grip, and paper positioning will be taught to ensure good writing habits. Spacing between letters will be introduced. Self-evaluation of written work begins at this age.
Social Studies
The Weekly Reader program is used and experienced in the Social Studies curriculum. As students observe what is around them every day, they learn more about God’s world. They understand more about time and why special holidays are important to them. Working together and independently helps them foster an appreciation for becoming a part of class and school. Respect for those in authority is expected and taught. Students enjoy learning about the world around them by studying topics like transportation, community helpers, as well as different customs from around the world. They begin to chronologically order information that will aid them in their future understanding.
Science
The Weekly Reader program is used and experienced in the Science curriculum. Students begin to look at taking care of things that God has provided for them. They learn how plants and seeds grow. They observe and graph weather and the effects of weather that bring about season changes. Their inquisitive minds are eager to learn more in explorative ways as they compare and contrast items. They learn classification of animals and learn about their habitats. Care of pets is also important. They learn more about exploring their five senses. Day and night are explored as they study the sun and moon.
Art
Efforts at artistic expression become more defined as students become more knowledgeable of art as an expression of themselves. They have opportunities to show their understanding of God’s work as the Creator. Shades of colors and mixing colors bring new dimension to their work. As appropriate to this age, students begin to critique their own work, appreciate their work and the work of others. Exploring texture with mediums adds another dimension to their work.
Music
Rhythm continues to be fun for this age student. They can echo rhythm, clap, or beat to different tempos. Some attention is given to melody and the range of notes as they go up or down. They enjoy accompanying with instruments and moving while singing. Jesus songs with body movement are also fun and age appropriate at this level.
Physical Education
This activity throughout the day allows for emotional as well as physical release. Cooperation is a key skill that students at this level begin to work on but in a fun way. Learning to play together fosters the idea of group work and responsibility for individual as well as group actions. As age appropriate needs and abilities indicate, students work on skills such as balancing, bouncing, passing, kicking, throwing, skipping, hopping, and catching.
Computer Technology
Students learn to refine their mouse skills by clicking and dragging, entering and exiting programs and movement within the programs that we use in the lab. They are introduced to keyboarding skills such as keying in their name, how to use the spacebar, escape key, and enter and arrow keys. They become familiar with the names of some of the components of the computer. Programs that are used in the lab reinforce what they are learning in the classroom. As they become familiar with the programs, they are also becoming familiar with the Windows environment.
First Grade Curriculum
Religion
Students understand that Jesus, their Savior, died to take away their sins. They learn how important the Bible is to them and that it contains the knowledge of what Jesus has done for them, how they should live, and how they can be in heaven. Enjoying Bible stories, these students ask to hear them and have favorites. Learning to ask for forgiveness for specific sins is a big step for them. As the students begin to learn more about the Lord and what He expects of us, they recognize differences in other people who are non-Christians. Realizing that everything they have comes from God is a major step for these students. The students begin to learn about Martin Luther and his teachings. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are also recognized as gifts given to us.
Math
Students learn basic facts as they begin to explore the concepts of simple addition and subtraction. Manipulatives that enhance the students’ understanding of word problems, patterns, and fractions are used. Objects are ordered by measurements. We also practice telling time to whole and half hour. Money is presented and we practice counting dimes, pennies, and nickels.
Language Arts
Incorporating reading, listening, writing, speaking, and thinking skills provides a broad foundational base upon which students can build each year. Word attack skills strengthened by phonetic decoding enable the students to be successful. They continue to develop their oral language and communication skills and move to becoming independent readers and writers. Distinguishing features of stories, poems, and informational texts is introduced. They regularly read (both orally and silently) in texts of appropriate difficulty with fluency and understanding. The use of the writing process enables students to work independently and cooperatively in achieving success.
Handwriting
First graders will continue to use proper formation in writing manuscript letters and numerals paying attention to correct placement of letters on the line. An awareness of the effects of posture on writing skills is developed as they continue to self-evaluate their work.
Social Studies
God places special responsibilities on families and the members of each family. As these students progress through this grade, the emphasis is on helping them grow as members of both their school and biological families. They look at changes in the family and what causes these changes, choices that people make and how those choices affect their family, and the placement of individuals in a family and how special and unique each individual really is. Following and participating in examples of good citizenship help them understand the importance of individual and collective participation. We learn directional word and use north, south, east, and west.
Science
Survival and protection of God’s creations are relevant topics as the students study about habitats, plant and animal life and what is required for many plants and animals to survive as well as what is needed for their daily existence. With hands-on investigations, students learn about magnets and the interaction of objects. They learn what is needed for a healthy body such as nutrition and safety issues. Identifying how the body works aids their understanding of disease control and health habits. We explore the purpose of the 5 senses.
Computer Science
A student’s skills with the mouse are reinforced. Opening and closing applications, movement within the programs, clicking and dragging, improve hand-eye coordination. Desktop publishing is introduced in the second semester. Programs used in the lab reinforce skills that are taught in the classroom: spelling, reading, math, history, geography, science, and language arts. As they work with these programs, they become more familiar with the Windows environment.
Art
Students experiment with colors as they mix them together and find out what results from their actions. This experimentation encourages the students to recognize God’s creation as a source of beauty and variety. Through different mediums, they express themselves individually yet in an artistic way. Blending of patterns such as geometric designs and differing line types and qualities allows the students to be creative with their projects. Understanding realistic art, like in a photograph, versus drawings or sketches give students a chance to be aware of concepts such as similarities and differences. Student’s use of different mediums helps to create art in a varied way.
Music
Students become more involved in response to musical pieces and can display their involvement in moving, clapping, echoing, and distinguishing beats and rhythms. They become more aware of the melody and pitch of musical pieces and can respond in a variety of ways. As they relate to music and what is around them, they have the opportunity to be creatively involved in learning.
Physical Education
Learning to follow the rules of a game can be a challenge at this age, but work on this idea occurs as they interact with others and learn to cooperate to accomplish the sport of a game. Activities such as jumping rope, bouncing a ball, and hopping on one foot challenge their physical development. At the same time, students learn to respect the differences of one another. From their activities, both individually and collectively, a positive self-concept begins to evolve.
Second Grade Curriculum
Religion
Understanding Jesus as God’s Son adds another dimension for these students. They know about sin and that it brings consequences. They also know about Satan and how he tries to stop them from loving God. They know that the Bible contains truths that will help them work to overcome Satan and wish to learn more about the Bible. Through the work of the Holy Spirit as their Friend and Helper, they realize how God helps them each day to face any problems. Included in their prayers are people beyond the classroom and families. They are willing and able to identify and pray for friends who do not believe in Jesus. They are also more willing to accept people who are different from them. Continuing to gain an appreciation for Martin Luther and his teachings as well as recognizing the liturgical seasons help in their understanding of the church body.
Math
Addition and subtraction problems with multiple operations are taught. The concepts of estimation and place value increase their understanding in these areas. Skip counting helps to prepare the students for higher-level skills the following year. Grouping and regrouping concepts continue with ideas such as graphing of data, fractions, and estimation. The concept of multiplication is introduced. Identifying shapes and comparing and contrasting them help with spatial reasoning.
Language Arts
Reading to increase skills as well as for personal enjoyment occurs at this level. They recognize a large number of words automatically and use a variety of word identification strategies to figure out words they do not immediately recognize. Students enjoy a variety of literary forms and respond to them in various ways. Writing for different purposes allows the students to be involved in all phases of the writing process
Handwriting
Manuscript writing is reviewed and used in written work throughout the year. Introduction of cursive letters and words begins at this level. Students are taught the correct slant, size, shape, and spacing to enable them to progress in their writing skills. Self-evaluation encourages a high level of neatness in all written work.
Social Studies
Looking away from school and into the communities and neighborhoods, students look at the uniqueness and history involved in these areas. They begin to understand more about the enlarging circle of people in their immediate area and areas beyond when they learn about famous people who have influenced history. The concept of using goods and services takes on more significance as they “trade” in their classroom and become more active in their individual communities. As neighborhoods and neighbors work together, they know the importance of rules and laws for the good of all. Map skills begin to formulate for them as they observe keys and guides on maps that they see and make.
Science
Understanding how plants, animals, and humans grow, develop, and change is key to this year of science. Students are involved in hand-on learning as they conduct simple classroom investigations. In looking around themselves, students learn about and become more aware of the earth and all its wonders. The children learn about magnets by participating in many activities.
Computer Science
Students work on their keyboarding skills, as well as their mouse skills. They focus on how to open and close the application that they work with in the lab. Word processing and desktop publishing, adding clip art to a document, naming, saving, and opening and closing a file, and sending their document to the printer. Skills that they are learning in the classroom are also being reinforced through the applications we use in the lab.
Art
Shapes, designs, and lines are made; identified, and used reinforce work across the curriculum. Students experiment with colors in varying values, shades, and shadows. As projects are designed and made, God’s handiwork in creation is made more concrete to the students. Work on simple crafts provides a different medium for the students. Learning to offer positive criticism of another’s artwork is encouraged.
Music
Creating sounds that form a rhythm are fun for these students. They can begin to create short melodies as they recognize notes. Singing in rounds with partners is fun and provides opportunities for learning more about harmony. They can recognize many musical instruments and the sounds that these instruments make. Students continue learning about composition and in doing so, learn and use musical terms.
Physical Education
Team sports become more important at this age. Students are more willing and able to work together and enjoy such games as relay races. Muscles become more developed which allow students to enjoy activities such as climbing or lifting. Jumping rope is done with more ease. Dribbling the basketball or kicking the soccer ball can be fun and offers the students the opportunity to think “big.” Leadership skills become more defined, and the idea of good sportsmanship begins to evolve.
Third Grade Curriculum
Memory
Textbook/ Publisher: Concordia Publishing House
Summary: As prepared by the Board for Parish Services Staff The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, third grade students learn and recite the following from memory: daily prayers, the books of the Bible, the Ten Commandments, and the Creed. Students also learn and recite related Bible Scriptures.
Religion
Textbook/Publisher: Faith Alive/ Concordia Publishing House
Martin Luther Grades 3 & 4/ Concordia Publishing House
Summary: In accordance with the Missouri Synod’s Board of Parish Education goals, third grade students learn key concepts of faith such as law, Gospel, confession, repentance, forgiveness, and grace. The lessons (1) confront us with the Law, showing us our sin and need for a Savior; (2) lead us to see God’s grace in sending Jesus to redeem us from sin, death, and the power of the devil; and (3) encourage us as we daily live in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The lessons are based on selected, sequential Bible stories that span Biblical history from Creation through Pentecost. These lessons include a study of the Ten Commandments and the explanations written by Dr. Martin Luther in the Small Catechism (1986 translation). In addition, the Martin Luther text by Concordia Publishing House brings students a greater understanding of their Reformation heritage.
Spelling
Textbook/ Publisher: Spelling Vocabulary and Writing/ Macmillan/McGraw-Hill
Publishing Company
Summary: Third grade students learn to spell 15 words each week. In the process, students receive a realistic view of the organization of the English spelling system as they are guided through a logical developmental progression of learning to spell. Students are also encouraged to build on the spelling strategies that they already have and are prepared consistently with the integrated role of spelling in the development of literacy.
Reading
Textbook/ Publisher: Accelerated Reader books/ Advantage Learning Systems Inc.
Summary: The Reading Renaissance program gives third grade students a pathway into the marvelous work of books, the time to become better readers, and experiences that will develop critical-thinking skills. As part of the program, students are tested at the beginning of each quarter to determine their zone of proximal development so that their reading practice is at the most productive level. Students choose books at their level that interest them and spend 45 to 60 minutes daily reading. Student then take computerized tests which evaluate their comprehension of the books they read. As students progress, their reading levels increase along with the level of books they read.
The teacher employs motivation strategies that get students excited about books. She instructs students with reading skill lessons and confers with students regularly. The teacher also monitors students’ progress and intervenes by quickly diagnosing problems and helping with difficulties.
Phonics
Textbook/ Publisher: Phonics Level C/ Modern Curriculum Press
Summary: Third grade students learn strategies to master letter-sound relationships. Students concentrate on the following: consonants, short and long vowels, syllables, consonant blends, digraphs, r-controlled vowels, contractions, plurals and suffixes, vowel pairs, vowel digraphs, diphthongs, prefixes, synonyms, antonyms, homonyms, dictionary skills and homographs.
Math
Textbook/ Publisher: Saxon Math 3 Incremental Development/ Saxon Publishers Inc.
Summary: Third grade students develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of all areas of mathematics. New learning is presented in increments, with time provided between increments for practice. Mathematical strands are integrated throughout the year rather than taught in isolated units. Third grade students concentrated on the following: number sense and numeration, concepts of whole number operations, whole number computation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division), fractions and decimals, money, geometry and spatial sense, measurement (linear measure, weight, capacity, temperature, perimeter, area, and time), and statistics and probability.
Language Arts
Textbook/ Publisher: World of Language/ Silver Burdett & Ginn
Write on Track/ Houghton Mifflin Company
Summary: Third grade students become aware of the parts of speech as well as the writing process. Students concentrate on sentences, nouns, verbs, pronouns, adjectives, and adverbs. They also learn about word usage, capitalization, and punctuation. Third grade students become familiar with the five step writing process as their writing develops from sentences to paragraphs and finally to other expository forms.
Handwriting
Textbook/ Publisher: D’Nealian Handwriting/ Scott, Foresman and Company
Summary: Third grade students begin the year printing in D’Nealian. Proper handwriting form and cursive D’Nealian handwriting are learned during the first quarter. Students are required to write in cursive D’Nealian handwriting during the second, third, and fourth quarters.
Science
Textbook/ Publisher: Science Discovery Works Concordia Edition/ Concordia
Publishing House
Summary: Science Discovery Works is a science program that engages students in active investigations of scientific concepts. The program also reflects the belief that the best science education for students is one that gradually introduces them to the knowledge, methods, skills, and attitudes of scientists, while simultaneously recognizing and respecting the educational, developmental, and spiritual needs of students.
Third grade students learn about life science by studying life cycles and the roles of living things. Students also learn about physical science as they study forms of energy. In addition, students learn about earth science as they study the sun, moon, earth, and the earth’s water.
Social Studies
Textbook/ Publisher: From Sea to Shining Sea/ Houghton Mifflin Company
Summary: The goal of the Houghton Mifflin Social Studies is the development of literate citizens—individuals with the knowledge, skills, and civic values they need to become active and reflective participants in the world of the twenty-fist century. The program weaves together knowledge, skills, and citizenship to form an integrated program.
Third grade students learn about the natural landscape of the United States, the lifestyles of the Native Americans, and the European settlement of the United States. Students also learn about the land, government, holidays, and symbols of the United States today.
Health
Textbook/ Publisher: Your Health/ Harcourt Brace & Company
Summary: Your Health promotes health literacy by providing students with the knowledge, life skills, and thinking skills necessary to make informed decisions about their health. Third grade students learn about the following: emotional, intellectual, and social health; family life, growth, and development; personal health and physical fitness; nutrition; disease prevention and control; drug use prevention; injury prevention; and community and environmental health.
Art
Summary: Various art projects provide third grade students different mediums as outlets to their creativity.
Computer Science
Summary: Besides knowing how to take care of a computer, these students are able to identify the parts of the computer. They begin to learn proper fingering to build keyboarding skills. Reinforcement of classroom objectives continues with the use of educational software. As students work on word processing skills, they learn to use the computer as a valuable resource as they understand how to edit their own stories before they print them out. Desktop publishing continues with making cards and posters that incorporate the use of various fonts and graphics.
Music
Summary: Playing instruments allows students to be actively involved in rhythm. Playing recorders begins at this level and students begin to use their knowledge of notes to aid them in their playing. Chords and rounds provide more opportunities for students to experiment with harmony. Creating simple songs and learning more about instruments open new horizons to them.
Physical Education
Summary: Exercises for aerobic and kinesthetic training are fun for these students. Further development of muscular strength occurs as they are provided more opportunities for activity. Throwing and catching a variety of balls are challenging and rewarding as more accuracy is possible with this age group. Their attitudes towards physical activity are important as they learn courage to try new things, develop self-control, and understand the importance of playing not just to win but to have fun.
Fourth Grade Curriculum
Religion
Focusing their knowledge of God, these students begin to understand the Trinity. By having this knowledge, they can begin to grasp the larger picture of salvation. The concept of law is presented to show sin and further explains the need for a Savior in their lives. Confessing sins to others and seeking forgiveness for those sins allows the students to develop a more trusting and open relationship with the Lord. As reading skills increase, so do the opportunities for students to read more from the Bible. As they realize the power to love comes from God, they have more of a oneness in Christ with brothers and sisters around the world. This leads them to show more concern for non-Christians. They continue to gain an appreciation for Martin Luther and his teachings as well as recognizing the liturgical seasons and the significance of visual symbols in the church.
Math
Emphasis is placed on verbal problems to reinforce what has been previously learned. The concept of division is reinforced using manipulatives. Work with fractions includes conversion of whole numbers to fractions, ordering fractions, and adding fractions with mixed numerals. Increasing the students’ understanding of geometrical figures and terms increases as they also learn areas of flat planes. Probability and statistics take on greater meaning as students complete a function table.
Language Arts
The idea of reading to learn and reading to enjoy becomes more prominent as students are exposed to higher-level literary techniques. In doing this, they read with growing interest on a wide variety of topics and adjust their reading approach to various forms of texts. Expansion of their vocabulary occurs systematically across the curriculum. Connecting, comparing, and contrasting ideas increases. Incorporated into their reading skills, students have the opportunity to experience different literary genre. Trips to the library include opportunities for reference and research work in addition to looking for books for reading enjoyment. Grammar skills become more concrete as thinking skills continue to develop to a greater degree.
Handwriting
As students continue working on their handwriting skills, speed and fluency are developed. Correct use of numerals in dates is expected. Evaluation of student work continues based on a self-evaluation chart.
Social Studies
Continuing to explore God’s hand in the universe, students look at their position regionally and as a citizen of the state of Illinois. Ethnic and cultural diversity and how that diversity has led to the overall culture of Illinois give the students a greater appreciation of their state. Understanding the influence of Native Americans, immigration, and religion provides the student with a greater knowledge of the historical significance of their home state. Students become aware of the natural resources and the U.S. History of the state providing income to run the state’s government while providing rules and laws for its inhabitants. Challenged to be active citizens of their states, students understand that decisions affecting everyone are influenced by the people involved in making those decisions and the necessity for the involvement of all people.
Science
Students learn about the food chain and how all plants and animals are vital parts of this chain. They understand the predator/prey relationship. In talking about the earth and how it changes, they discuss volcanoes, rocks, and earthquakes. Physical science information includes topics such as the concepts of force, friction, and levers, which are often learned with hands-on investigations. Students are encouraged to show competence in managing their bodies. The major body systems are identified including the cardiovascular system. The importance of exercise and good nutrition to aid these systems is discussed.
Computer Science
Students work on becoming more proficient with their keyboarding skills. Word processing skills and desktop publishing skills are studied.
Art
Drawing involves the students’ understanding of concave and convex, distortion, varying planes, and the use of differing shadows. The use of color to express mood or feeling is explored and understood more as students add their illustrations to written work. By adding texture to painting surfaces, a new dimension of design is added. The use of crafts enables students to work in other mediums and in more than on dimension. A foundation for art history begins at this level with students studying some of the master artists and their contributions to the world of art.
Music
Experimenting with percussion allows the students to try innovations in rhythm. As they try new ideas, they are also exploring meter and tempo. They recognize simple melodies, simple scales, and keys. Learning to harmonize with a counter melody is accomplished as they sing in groups and rounds. Appreciating music and musical instruments from other countries broadens their knowledge base.
Physical Education
Cooperation for team playing and team sports takes on even greater importance, as many students are also actively involved in sports out of the school. Respect for one another’s abilities and talents plays well into learning cooperation. The necessity for practice in connection with these team sports takes on new dimensions as they learn to depend more on others rather than just themselves. The ability to throw and catch is more pronounced which leads to greater success. Interest in a variety of sports begins to formulate and should be encouraged.
Fifth Grade Curriculum
Religion
Understanding that they are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, these students can more easily verbalize the everyday struggles between sinful and sanctified natures. As reading skills increase, they can more meaningfully read the Gospel and gain strength from it. Their personal knowledge of Jesus’ life expands and gives them more insight into this loving and caring God. They understand that God is an omniscient God who stays by their sides and helps them in many ways. Through their love for God, they learn to love others. This love enables the students to encourage classmates as well as others in their walk with the Lord. They continue to gain an appreciation for Martin Luther and his teachings as well as recognizing the liturgical seasons and significance of visual symbols in the church.
Math
The concepts of simplifying and determining which information is essential in solving a problem draw on previous learning. Students work with decimals, ratios, estimating, factoring, probability, dollars and cents, time, and rounding as they continue on with higher level thinking skills and how these skills relate to mathematics. The understanding of fractions and decimals prepares them for future learning. Geometric terms and constructions provide visual evidence of learning in this area and measurement concepts include dimensional objects. Students will continue to develop skills of division as they work with larger numbers.
Language Arts
Enjoying literature involves all aspects of reading at this level. Students continue to develop their skills, while at the same time, exposure to a wide variety of literary forms occurs. Grammar skills develop with the students understanding of all eight parts of speech, sentence structure, and diagramming. In conjunction with the grammar skills, writing involves applying those skills to many different forms.
Handwriting
Maintaining and reinforcing correct letter and number formation is emphasized in this grade. Students are expected to show an orderliness and high level of neatness in all written work that uses letters and/or numbers. Self-evaluation charts are used by students to compare the accuracy and neatness of their handwriting.
Social Studies
God’s hand in the exploration of the New World, creation of our nation and its government, through the Civil War, is the focus of this class. Historic events, individuals, and the impact of the contributions from the groups that settled this nation are all studied to give the students a broad understanding of this great nation and the strength that has resulted from the diversity. The role of the United States as an economic power is studied and contributions to the economic well-being are identified. The students acknowledge the Constitution and its power to preserve the freedoms of the citizens of America as they study this and other documents. Learning more about maps and developing more map skills enable the students to see the relationship between the United States and other nations of the world. A study of current events and their impact on our society is also covered.
Science
Students at this age are becoming more aware of their bodies and how they are alike and yet different from others. They learn about cells, organs, and systems of the body. Asexual and sexual reproduction is discussed on an age appropriate level. Beside themselves, they learn about plants and animals and cell life in these living things and the study of their ecosystem. Looking beyond themselves, students continue to learn more about the solar system, the geology of earth and how weather is predicted based on things such as maps, instruments, and cloud types. Matter and all of its forms, the relationship between energy and work, light and sound, and the understanding of chemicals making simple compounds form the basis of physical science for these students. Hands-on investigations help the students see the connection between learning and doing.
Computer Science
Computer literacy begins at this level. Students become familiar with computer related terminology and understand more about the parts of the computer, which they can identify. Keyboarding skills become an important part of the curriculum as hand placement, proper posture, and home row. They are required to type at least twelve words a minute to receive an “A”. Internet research skills are worked on.
Art
The students are introduced to the following: Line, shape, value, color wheel, collage, components of still life, symmetry, positive and negative space, pencil drawing, color pencil, art appreciation. There is a Spring Art Show during which their work is displayed.
Music
Having fun with rhythms, these students identify percussion sounds and echoes. They are able to recognize harmony and melody, and as their voices are developing more, they enjoy choral work that lets them put their classroom knowledge to work. Classical music forms are studied and an appreciation for various forms of musical techniques is encouraged. Using different modes, students are encouraged to use music as a method of expressing feelings. Christian music is an integral part of our music program and is implemented in the curriculum through the use taped music and CDs (such as “WOW 95” "WOW 2000"). Christian Rock is also used from time to time.
Physical Education
Improved coordination in this age student is also present with increased flexibility, endurance, and agility. Multiple team sports hold their attention and give the students ample opportunities to exercise the social and emotional changes that they are also beginning to experience. Courage and Christian sportsmanship are encouraged and emphasized in all activities. Leisure time sports are also becoming more popular with this age student.
Sixth Grade Curriculum
Religion
Creation, redemption, and sanctification are understood in view of the Trinity. Learning about the Fruits of the Spirit and Law versus Gospel provides the students with tools to use in sharing the Good News with others. The chronology of the Bible becomes more concrete as students study the Old Testament but with the focus of how the New Testament tells the “rest of the story.” Baptism and Holy Communion are studied in depth.
Math
Math 76 from Saxon reinforces the basic mathematical concepts and skills that students learned in Math 54 and Math 65. Concepts, procedures, and vocabulary that students will need in order to be successful in upper-level algebra and geometry courses are introduced and continually practiced. Students learn to simplify expressions containing parentheses as the first step to solving multi-step equations. In addition to adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing signed numbers; students are introduced to exponents, square roots, and geometric formulas. Students work extensively with ratios, percentages, fractions, mixed numbers, and decimals. Daily mental math and problem-solving exercises enhance students’ repertoire of skills and increase their mathematical power.
Language Arts
Reading, thinking, and improving study skills are interrelated at this level in order to prepare students for the years to come. Students explore author’s intent and uses of literary devices to understand reading selections. They read widely in classis and contemporary selections and informational texts. They complete research reports and many projects. Diagramming sentences on a more complex level is introduced at this level. The student learns to diagram up to the compound sentences. Grammar skills progress to the point that students can correctly use simple, complex and compound sentences. Use of various forms of writing enables the students to make use of their grammar skills.
Handwriting
Maintaining and reinforcing correct letter and number formation is emphasized in this grade. Students are expected to show an orderliness and high level of neatness in all written work that uses letter and/or numbers. As students progress they also explore other types of cursive penmanship.
Social Studies
God’s hand in making all the nations of the earth is the slant of this class. A study of ancient history shows the development of world trends and cultures and their relationships to the historic backgrounds of world societies. Students learn how the governments and the societies were affected by major shifts or displacements and what affect these had on future nations or generations. Understanding different forms of government around the world helps students see the roles of citizens of those governments and how the roles of citizens change according to the expectations of the government and the power controlled by the people or by the governments themselves. Throughout the course of this class there are many hands-on learning centers that fit the needs of the students’ understanding of the previous generation’s way of life.
Science
Students will receive an overview of life, earth and physical science. They will receive training in scientific tools that will prepare them for advanced learning in each of the science academic areas. Each student will learn to use the proper measuring tools and be able to function in laboratory work. All three areas will be related to their relationships with God’s creation. The text and material will have examples of how God’s handiwork is present in every part of our discovery world.
Computer Science
Students begin familiarizing themselves with Microsoft Word.
Art
Students explore many different mediums of art at this level. Some of the mediums include: drawing with charcoal and chalk, copper punch, plastic canvas quilting, paper mache, wood carving, lanyard art, leather, tissue paper as well as other forms. Students also incorporate the color wheel into many of their art forms.
Music
Recognizing, playing and singing melodies and parts of musical pieces are accomplished at this level. Students are exposed to various types of musical pieces from classical to more popular with the idea that they will have the opportunity to appreciate them. Exposure to different types of classroom instruments gives the students the occasion to try different sounds and sound combinations. Qualities and examples of ethnic music are compared to traditional music. Students are introduced to famous musical composers and the period their music represents.
Health
Students identify daily health and safety practices that ensure a healthy body and promote a positive self-concept. Knowing they are responsible for their actions is introduced. They explore ways to be a more meaningful member of their family, school, church, community, and world. Learning manners is also a part of this class. The most emphasis is put on W.W.J.D. (What Would Jesus Do) and our Christian values.
Physical Education
As team sports in the school arena become more important to the student, these same sports are favorites of the students to continue to improve upon whenever they are given the opportunity. The students have time to fine tune aspects of these sports such as knowing and understanding the rules, the use of specialty teams within the larger teams, and Christian sportsmanship. Along with this desire to play well for the school comes the need to encourage self-control in losing situations and a willingness to try again.
Seventh Grade Curriculum
Religion
Students study God’s Word and how it applies to their life as they prepare for confirmation. They understand how sin broke the perfect relationship that God provided, but that God still cares for us in every way through His grace. They study the Bible in light of Martin Luther’s explanations and how we are saved through grace alone.
Math
Math 87 provides students with a solid foundation of skills and concepts needed for success in quantitative courses. Proportional thinking, a skill prerequisite to success in upper level math, is emphasized through applications involving ratio, rate, percent, similar geometric figures, and indirect measure. The interrelationship of fractions, decimals, and percents is reinforced throughout the text. Pre-algebra topics such as integers, exponents, order of operations, variables, algebraic terms, inequalities, equations, functions, and graphing equations are thoroughly practiced. Geometric construction, similar congruent figures, transformations, and applications of the Pythagorean theorem strengthen the coverage of geometry concepts. Data collection and display, statistics, probability, measurement, scientific notation, properties of real numbers, and prime factorization complete a thorough preparation for high school mathematics. Daily mental math and problem solving exercises further augment the student skills.
Language Arts
Reading, speaking thinking, listening, and improving study skills are all interrelated at this level. Students explore many different authors and their intent and use of literary devices to better understand reading selections. They read many varieties or reading selections. Students complete research projects from many forms of informational texts, as well as uses of the Internet. Grammar skills at this level have progressed to the point where students are able to use many forms of writing skills. Diagramming continues through complex sentences. Writing in fiction and nonfiction form enables the students to use their grammar skills to the greatest degree.
Handwriting
Maintaining and reinforcing correct letter and number formation is emphasized in this grade. Students are expected to show an orderliness and high level of neatness in all written work that uses letters and/or numbers. Self-evaluation charts are used by students to compare the accuracy and neatness of their handwriting.
Early American History
The student has the opportunity to study the formation of the United States as a group of colonies through the development of a new republic until the country is divided by the War Between the States. The students will be able to explain why actions occurred in our country’s formation and how it effects them today in our lives. An emphasis will be placed on viewing how God’s hand was instrumental in this country’s foundation and how it continues today. During the term, students will study the U.S. Constitution and pass the test showing they have an understanding and knowledge of the documents involved with governing our country.
Science
Life science is studied at this level. Students are exposed to all forms of life and the components of living organisms. Learning what is essential for life gives the students a greater appreciation for life and the creatures that inhabit the earth. Concepts such as metabolism, stimulus-response, chromosomes, and growth of virus, fungi, and bacteria provide a well-rounded study. Hands-on learning makes the understanding more concrete for them.
Computer Science
Students continue to work with advanced formatting features of Microsoft Word.
Art
The students are introduced to the following: Pencil, watercolor, pen and ink, print making, still life, positive and negative design, one line design, pastels. The work of the students is displayed during a Spring Art Show.
Music
More complex and varied rhythms are used and studied. Creating and executing music in melody and harmony formats are accomplished. One emphasis is on music in worship especially the types of music used in both traditional and popular settings. Original compositions are encouraged and shared with other class members. Non-Western cultural music and the characteristics of ethnic music are studied. Further introductions of musical composers will occur.
Health
Students identify daily health and safety practices that ensure a healthy body and promote a positive self-concept. They identify facts in society that might influence poor decisions regarding illegal substances. Many practice sessions are staged in class to give students the opportunity to work through problems in different ways. Knowing they are responsible for their own actions is also reviewed. Being a helpful member of their family, church, school, community, and world is reviewed. Use of manners and W.W.J.D. (What Would Jesus Do) is emphasized in all aspects of the school day because of this class.
Physical Education
Enthusiastic participation and the enjoyment of competition are key to students this age. While they enjoy and participate readily, there is often awkwardness with this age group that must also be overcome. As they learn to appreciate themselves and their God given talents and abilities, they also learn to accept the talents and abilities of others. Team sports that are of great importance and the ability to work on certain skills within the team sport make the activity more a challenge to all students.
Eighth Grade Curriculum
Religion
Studying the New Testament now provides the students with an overview of the Bible. Seeing the great love of the Father for the Son and the Son for the Father, they understand the awesomeness of Christ’s act of salvation. They see and understand the power God can provide in their lives to help them make decisions and allow their faith in Him to help them overcome negative peer pressure. In mission activities with the school, students participate in helping to expand God’s kingdom. The use of time, talents, and treasure is discussed and applied to classroom activities. As they study the development of god’s church on earth, they learn more about religions and beliefs of Non-Christians.
Pre-Algebra
Algebra ½ covers all topics normally taught in pre-algebra as well as additional topics form geometry and discrete mathematics. Algebra ½ represents the culmination of study of pre-algebra mathematics. Students completing the program should be well versed in the following areas: fractions, decimals, mixed numbers, signed numbers, numbers in base 2, arithmetic operations involving all these forms of numbers, order of operations, percent, proportions, ratios, divisibility, rounding place value, unit conversions, scientific notation, data representation, and word problems involving these pre-algebraic concepts. Students are introduced to rudimentary algebra topics such as evaluation of algebraic expressions, the simplification of algebraic expressions, and the solution of linear equations in one unknown. Also included in the geometric concepts are topics such as perimeter, area, surface area, volume, classification of geometric figures and solids, geometric constructions, and symmetry.
Algebra I
Algebra I covers topics typically treated in a first-year algebra course. Specific topic include arithmetic and evaluation of expressions involving signed numbers, exponents and roots, properties of real numbers, absolute value, equations and inequalities involving absolute value, scientific notation, unit conversions, solution of equations in one unknown, solutions of simultaneous equations, the algebra of polynomials and rational expressions, word problems requiring algebra for the solution (such as uniform motion and coin problems), graphical equation of simultaneous equations, Pythagorean theorem, algebraic proofs, functional notation and functions, solutions of quadratic equations by factoring and completing the square, direct and inverse variation, exponential growth, computation of the perimeter and area of two-dimensional regions, computation of the surface area and volume of a wide variety of geometric solids, and statistics and probability.
Language Arts
Literary works are read, explored, and studied for content, understanding, inferring, and concluding. Concentration on both the author’s intent and techniques are priority subjects. Understanding more about authors frees the student to think like an author and respond accordingly in their own writing. Producing multi-paragraph compositions with varied sentence structure is expected As individuals and as members of groups, students critically evaluate and respond to language. Grammar skills sharpen as students prepare to move ahead in high school. Emphasis is on understanding and applying this knowledge across the curriculum.
Handwriting
Maintaining and reinforcing correct letter and number formation is emphasized in this grade. Students are expected to show an orderliness and high level of neatness in all written work that uses letters and/or numbers.
History
The study and exploration of United States History continues from the learning in grade seven, beginning with the Reconstruction Era and concluding with our making history today. Students will learn of the accomplishments and decisions as they were determined by those in history before us, and how they affect each of us today. A basic layer of concrete facts will be laid to help each student create their own opinions and potential strategies in relation to our country’s development. As emphasis will be in how God’s hand helped to shape this country in spite of our sinful nature.
During the social studies time period, students will study and be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the Illinois Constitution and government. Students will accomplish the study of all Illinois materials that will permit them to pass into high school as prescribed by the State of Illinois.
Science
Studies of our chemical and physical world are explored as we look at the wonders God has made. Students will learn of matter and all things around them that can create substance through elements and compounds. Each child will also learn how motion, force, sound, and electricity are created using those elements and compounds for our everyday life. Hands on learning and text knowledge will work together to create a concrete development that will be the foundation for abstract thought.
Computer Science
Eighth grade students are introduced to outlines and term papers. Students learn about the use of spreadsheets and databases through the use of Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Publisher.
Art
Students work with the following: Pencil, watercolor, pen and ink, printmaking, still life drawing, positive and negative design, pastels, and calligraphy. In the spring, students have the opportunity to display their work at an art show.
Music
Students are able to recognize, perform, and conduct all meters. Sight singing and writing melody from dictation is encouraged. Harmonizing in various forms and formats allows for flexibility and creativity. Sacred versus secular music that is traditional or contemporary is presented so students are exposed to a wide variety of music. The role of music in the church is discussed, and these students have the opportunity to participate in leading worship. Further study of musical composers will help students become familiar with styles and periods of music.
Health
Students identify daily health and safety practices that ensure a healthy body and promote a positive self-concept. They identify facts in society that might influence poor decisions regarding illegal substances. At this level students bring many real problems and feelings to class that, as a class, the students try to solve. They are taught self-control projects that make them a contributing member to their family, church, school, community, and world. Use of manners and W.W.J.D. is emphasized and tracked in all aspects of the school day for this class.
Physical Education
Students’ work as part of a team is a major concern to many students this age. Skills of all team sports available to the school are taught and reinforced through classroom experiences. Students learn that through practice, endurance can be built up and they are more willing to work to build themselves up for the good of the team.
Algebra I
Using ratio and proportion, problem solving occurs. Formulas are used to solve linear equations. Radical expressions are solved in all operational modes and simplified. Quadratic and high order equations are solved or graphed using ordered pairs of points. Operations on numbers involving scientific notation, factors of polynomial expressions, and simplification of rational expressions foster the development of high level thinking that will enable the student to meet with success through the progression of later math classes.