Chapel Hill Academy Middle School Guide Book 2014-2015

chapel hill academy

middle school 2014-2015

Chapel Hill Academy’s Mission To glorify God and assist families by providing a Christcentered education which inspires and enables students to pursue spiritual maturity and academic excellence.

[contents] Dear Parents

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CHA Middle School

6-7

Transition

8-9

Connect

10-11

STEM

12-13

Experience

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Plan

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Get Acquainted

16-17

Courses

18-23

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:14-15

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Passion for Christ.

Education for Life.

An introduction from our Head of School & Principal We are excited that God has orchestrated the design of Chapel Hill Academy Middle School.

This is an important time of life where adolescents are rapidly growing in body, mind, and spirit. Our commitment is to provide strong, Christ-centered academics that will engage and equip all students in preparation for their high school years. Middle school is a time where interests are nurtured, skills are developed, and ideas are generated. It is an AMAZING time of life that must be treated with the utmost care and guidance.

It is our responsibility and privilege to shepherd young people in their walk spiritually and academically. In order to reach the hearts and minds of students, CHA focuses on faith and its importance in their everyday lives. Whether students are in the science lab, presenting a speech, or performing a song in choir, we intentionally provide opportunities for students to experience how faith intersects with learning. This approach to education provides a powerful way to glorify and worship our Savior Jesus Christ.

As you review this middle school program guide, we hope that you will find a high quality, Christ-centered education that offers a number of opportunities for your child to flourish during his or her middle school years. It is our goal that each child will graduate from Chapel Hill Academy with a passion for Christ, a solid academic foundation, and many lasting friendships. “All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.�

Isaiah 54:13

Mrs. Kassie Grosz, Ed. S.

Mr. Ken Norman

Head of School

Principal

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Inspiring Christian leadership and growth The middle years are a time of rapid growth and development. At this stage, adolescents grow as much as they did from birth to age three-intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Chapel Hill Academy recognizes this unique opportunity to tap into the emerging interests and spiritual formation of our sixth through eighth grade students. Providing programs that inspire students to explore concepts at deeper levels challenge them in ways that will prepare them for their high school years and beyond. This is truly a special time, and CHA is privileged to assist families in the teaching and training of their young teens.

Faith

integrated biblical worldview in all courses

The primary purpose of a Christian education is to develop a deep faith and love for Jesus Christ that will serve as the foundation for a life devoted to following Him. Throughout the CHA curriculum, courses are presented from a biblical worldview which provides students with the knowledge and truth that come only from God’s Word. It is our intention and prayer that each student will come to a point where they accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Each member of our staff has professed this faith and is prepared to assist, support, and celebrate with students who also come to know the Lord.

service and missions experiences

Academics

MS Quick Facts enrichment course options accelerated course options

daily small group advisory weekly chapel organized competitive sports offered each season extended enrichment overnight field trips world language fine arts integrated into curriculum

The Lord calls us to excellence, and CHA provides an academic curriculum that honors and glorifies God with quality and distinction. Students who graduate from eighth grade are welcomed into local high schools with high regard.

Our middle school program offers a challenging curriculum that solidly prepares students for secondary education in all academic areas.

Under our highly skilled teachers, students advance their 21st century skills with relevant, high-level academic experiences.

Innovation Chapel Hill Academy is committed to providing the most current academic opportunities for students. A distinctive we offer is our STEM program (science, technology, engineering, and math) which is presented from a Christian perspective. Additionally, CHA provides technology that supports all content areas.

Students have access to various applications offered through iPad, Surface 2, and Lenovo laptop devices. Each classroom is equipped with Smartboard technology and the entire school facility features safeguarded Wi-Fi access.

Health and Fitness Our bodies are a temple for the Holy Spirit. Chapel Hill Academy seeks to develop the whole child as we train for healthy physical, emotional, and spiritual choices. Our middle school physical education program provides opportunities for students to develop interests in team and individual sports while emphasizing the importance of life-long personal fitness. In addition, each quarter, students learn about health topics including nutrition, wellness, mental health, healthy teen choices, and the implications of social media. Students are also encouraged to participate in a number of co-curricular athletic options offered at CHA. These are great opportunities for physical activity, healthy competition, and building strong friendships.

Fine Arts The Lord has created each student uniquely with a spectrum of interests and talents. Chapel Hill Academy provides outstanding fine arts experiences including music, art, drama, and public speaking. For decades, CHA fine arts have consistently enriched the education of our students by tapping into talents and inspiring new interests. Throughout the school year, students perform choral pieces at a number of school events. CHA also offers a full band program including private lessons and several band concert performances. Our Wednesday chapel is a time of worship and praise, and many students perform on the worship team as a musician or vocalist. Praise & Worship Team is a great opportunity to develop talents while glorifying God.

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Development in the middle school years The middle school years are all about transitions. Advancing from an elementary classroom to a sixth grade moving schedule may cause anxiety for students and as well as parents. We recognize the importance of assisting and supporting students at this age in order to help them gain independence and build organizational skills. The sixth grade curriculum is designed with this in mind, and our teachers are highly skilled and passionate about helping students transition into middle school.

On the other end of the spectrum, we also focus on preparing our eighth graders for high school.

This is an exciting time for students and their families, and we work very hard to ensure that students are spiritually and academically ready to transition well and find success in the years to come.

Get Involved One of the great blessings of being part of a close-knit school community is the relationships that form among students and families. CHA offers a number of enrichment opportunities that will cultivate friendships while providing experiences that develop special interests. Students participate in the co-curricular activities they enjoy, but we also encourage students to try something they have a desire to explore for the first time. Middle school is the perfect time to try new things in an environment that is fun and encouraging.

Enrichment opportunities include... praise & worship team

literary magazine

spelling bee

leadership

band

math olympics

athletics

math counts

robotics

chess club

CHA Athletics Chapel Hill Academy offers a co-curricular athletics program that focuses on skill development and sportsmanship training. Our teams compete in the South Suburban Youth Organization (SSYO) which is comprised of private and Christian schools in the south Twin Cities metropolitan area. Students are able to select from a number of seasonal sports including soccer, volleyball, basketball, track and field, baseball, and softball. CHA continually seeks opportunities to add additional athletics depending upon interest and leadership. When a particular sport is not offered, seventh and eighth graders may participate at Southwest Christian High School when space allows. One of the most distinctive features of our athletics program is the implementation of G.L.O.R.I.F.Y. (Godly Lessons On Reflecting Integrity For Youth). This curriculum is used by CHA coaches to help foster spiritual development through teamwork and sportsmanship.

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Building Christ-centered relationships among students, parents & teachers Building a network of positive support through teachers, parents, and peers is a key component to a successful middle school experience. A number of approaches at CHA are in place so that our students have strong role models who care for them personally, spiritually, and academically. Students in middle school spend 35 minutes per day in a small-group setting called Advisory. This time is designed to provide students with a teacher who will spend extra time getting to know them, assist with coursework, and pray with them individually and as an Advisory group. Also, our parent prayer group called POP (Parents of Prayer) meets weekly to pray for students, teachers, and the school. Mentor groups are another way for connections to develop. Students are able to participate in fun activities led by parents who have a desire to contribute to the development of our students on a deeper level.

Despite our best efforts, conflict is a part of life. Beginning in the early years at CHA, students are instructed through the Young Peacemakers program. This Christ-centered approach to conflictresolution provides the tools children and adolescents need in order to manage conflicts in a way that honors God and develops positive communication skills. At CHA, we want to make sure our students are covered and cared for in every aspect of their school life and personal development.

Middle School Advisory Each Advisory takes place immediately following the middle school lunch period. Students are assigned to a middle school teacher along with a small-group of their peers comprised of sixth through eighth grade students. A very important aspect of Advisory is academic support. Teachers check in regularly with their advisees to keep abreast of grades, help organize make-up work, and to assist them in understanding new concepts in their coursework. As schedules allow, Advisory groups may plan activities such as intramural games in the gym or simply break to get some outside exercise. Special interest groups such as Robotics Club, Praise & Worship Team, and full band rehearsal take place during Advisory in order to accommodate the demanding schedules middle school students often have outside the school day. Special activities that Advisory groups experience together are community service, missions projects, and school leadership and service responsibilities.

Community Service Community impact is one of Chapel Hill Academy’s core values. We believe in the importance of integrating faith, learning, and biblical practices in the lives of our students in order to reflect Christ’s likeness in the community. Two times per year, middle school Advisory groups spend time serving others in the greater community. Local charities and organizations welcome students to help make a difference in the lives of others. After community service days, students reflect upon their experiences together in Advisory groups and in a large-group middle school assembly.

Missions and Global Outreach Community impact extends beyond our local area.

Becoming part of the Great Commission is a vital part of training and developing young Christian teens. CHA middle school students engage in a variety of missions projects that impact children, families, villages, and communities across the globe. Through these experiences students learn how to be the hands and feet of Christ by identifying needs, helping others, and sharing the Gospel. These projects take a great deal of planning and prayer, and they work together with great excitement and energy to make an impact that is eternal.

Understanding the Bible as God’s revealed Truth, we teach His Word to help students know, and enjoy God and be transformed by His Spirit. We seek to equip students to serve the God of Israel by sharing His eternal and worldwide plan of redemption through Jesus Christ.

The word of the Lord endures forever, the thoughts of His heart to all generations. - Psalm 33:11

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Advancement in science, technology, engineering & math God is the Master of the universe, our Creator.

Through their STEM course, students learn how God’s Word reveals His creation. STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) is an approach to science designed to inspire creative solutions to real-world problems.

Students learn foundational science concepts that can be applied to hands-on experiences using math, technology, and innovative engineering skills. CHA STEM teachers focus on the development of 21st century skills including collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Laboratory experiences occur regularly and range from brief exploration to full, inquiry-based projects. Labs are presented in both systematic and open-ended approaches which offer meaningful problem-solving and discovery experiences.

STEM at CHA allows students to experience advancements in science and technology from a Christian, biblically-based perspective that will prepare them for any high school science program they pursue. The goal of the program is to guide students in their understanding of the world and continually inspire them to use their knowledge to solve real-world problems. Most importantly, students will acquire the knowledge to confidently stand firm upon the truth of God’s Word regarding our world.

Sixth Grade STEM 

Investigate the deeper creation of the Earth’s structure and surface (Genesis 1:1-2)

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Study astronomy and aviation that declares the glory of God and His handiwork (Psalm 19:1)

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Learn about the truth of God’s invisible world during the study of sound and light (Col 1:16)

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STEM examples include building structures that can withstand earthquakes, 3D volcano investigation, mapping using GPS coordinates, re-creating the moon’s surface, designing a lunar module to land on the moon’s surface, airplane and rocketry engineering

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Aviation field trip to Flying Cloud Airport where students co-pilot a small airplane

Seventh Grade STEM

The study of mathematics demonstrates God’s order in creation and teaches the students to understand that absolute truth does exist. The student will learn mathematical principles and build upon concepts enabling them to solve both mathematical problems as well as draw correlations to life situations.

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Understand God’s diversity of life each according to its own kind (Genesis 1:24)

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Learn about cellular structures and the DNA genetic component of human life as we are created by God in His image (Genesis 1:27)

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Study the intricate and wonderful design of the human body by God (Psalm 139:13-14)

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STEM examples include creating a garden with an engineered irrigation system to help feed populations, looking at the effects of a microwave on the polarity of a water molecule, tracing the genetic make-up of plants in the F1 and F2 generations, tracing the key alleles to determine parental genes, and Mystery Forensic Festival

CHA philosophy of teaching Mathematics

Eighth Grade STEM 

Review and expand upon the truth of God’s invisible world during the study of electricity and magnetism (Col 1:16)

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Understand the presence of God’s hand within the order of forces and energy in the physical world (Psalm 94:4-5)

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Apply chemistry within God’s structure of matter and molecules that no one can fathom (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

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STEM examples include creating a filter to reduce acid rain, designing submersives, submarines, and catapults, designing circuits synchronizing holiday lights to music, testing and identifying chemical reactions

Robotics Chapel Hill Academy offers contemporary innovation opportunities for students with a heightened interest in STEM. Using First Lego League (FLL) technology and equipment, students in the CHA Robotics Club build and program robots for a variety of functions that are designed to solve problems or perform specific tasks.

Through instruction and practice, students strive to reach a point where they may compete with other young innovators at the state, national, and international levels.

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Enrichment beyond the classroom An important part of learning is first-hand experience. Middle school students at Chapel Hill Academy enjoy unique opportunities to grow as a class while traveling together on extended field trip excursions. These trips allow students explore God’s world and provide heightened learning experiences and lasting memories with their classmates.

Sixth: Minnesota Experience Minnesota is the focus of sixth grade social studies at CHA. Students learn about our great northern state’s geography, history, economy, and government. As an enrichment to this curriculum, sixth graders spend three days together on a trip to Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge in Ely, Minnesota. During the Minnesota Experience, students bond together while exploring historical modes of transportation including dogsledding, snow shoeing, and backcountry skiing.

Students also learn winter survival skills, build snow shelters, and examine the importance of nature and wildlife through various planned activities. Keeping God’s love and masterful creation the focus through evening devotions, singing around the frozen lake campfire, and small group prayer time, Minnesota Experience provides a meaningful time for spiritual growth.

Seventh: Science and Leadership Camp - Camp Forest Springs The seventh grade science curriculum focuses on God's magnificent creation in the study of life science. Students attend a springtime, three-day retreat at Camp Forest Springs in Westboro, Wisconsin. At CFS, Christian biologists and outdoor education specialists provide hands-on, active learning experiences to enhance their understanding of science. They also guide students through a number of outdoor, physical challenges to develop their skills in Christian leadership. CFS is a time of growth for our seventh grade students as they learn more about God, His creation, and themselves.

Eighth: Capstone Experience - East Coast Trip As a capstone experience, eighth graders travel together on a one-week trip to the east coast. This incredible trip gives the students first-hand knowledge of the Christian foundation of our country while visiting historical sites they have studied.

The trip includes Washington D.C., New York City, Gettysburg, and Philadelphia. Students explore museums, landmarks, and monuments highlighting key events in history and reminding us of the great sacrifice and courage many have endured to develop and preserve this nation. During the days' adventures, memories and bonds are created that last a lifetime. It is truly an unforgettable way for students to complete their years of learning and growing together in Christ.

Middle school scheduling Chapel Hill Academy offers strong academics that are taught from a biblical perspective. As our students progress through middle school grades, several core academics have been developed as general and accelerated course options. Each middle school course has been carefully designed to challenge students at all levels and solidly prepare them for high school academic and enrichment opportunities.

6th grade courses

7th grade courses

Math Course Offerings:

Math Course Offerings:

8th grade courses Math Course Offering

Math

Pre-Algebra

Algebra Skills

Pre-Algebra

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 Geometry

Algebra 1* Additional Courses: Bible Language Arts Earth Science | STEM Minnesota Studies

Language Arts Course Offerings:

Language Arts Course Offerings:

Language Arts

Language Arts

Language Arts X Accelerated

Language Arts X Accelerated

Science Course Offerings:

Science Course Offerings

Spanish

Life Science | STEM

Physical Science | STEM

Study Skills

Life Science | STEM X Accelerated

Applied Chemistry & Physics | STEM X Accelerated

Physical Education Art Vocal Music

Additional Courses:

Additional Courses:

Bible

Bible

World History

American History

Spanish

Spanish

Physical Education

Physical Education

Art

Art

Vocal Music

Vocal Music

*Teacher recommendation for seventh grade course

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Meet our Middle School Faculty

Tom Becker Physical Education

Brenda Kieper STEM

Cherri Dobbs Bible

Darla Olson Math

Katelyn Freitas English | Study Skills

Amy Paine Spanish

Linda Houston Social Studies | Bible Math

Meet our Middle School Faculty Continued

Annebet Pettit English | Bible

Mary Stude STEM | Math

George Runyan Band

Lisa Sweeney Art

Jessica Santjer Athletic Director

Ariel Zink

Worship Arts | Choir

Craig Schafer Social Studies | Bible

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CHA middle school course descriptions

6th Grade Courses Bible

Language Arts

This course will challenge students to expand their understanding of a worldview. They compare our biblical worldview as they learn about other religions such as Islam, Naturalism, and New Age. Students are given various opportunities to use their apologetic skills during the course of the year.

The goal for sixth grade language arts is to strengthen students’ reading, writing, and literary analysis skills to prepare them for the uppermiddle school grades. In this course, students will read, clarify, summarize, and question a variety of literature including short stories, novels, poetry, and informational texts. Students will also respond to the literature they read through class discussion and the writing of creative, descriptive, and research-based essays. A result of this class, students will grow in their faith and develop a love for literature and strengthen their communication skills to benefit them for the rest of their lives.

Math Sixth grade math develops skills that prepare students for pre-algebra. Topics include place value, multi-step multiplication and division, fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement, probability, and introducing algebraic concepts.

Earth and Physical Sciences | STEM

This course will cover the tools and skills needed to succeed in Algebra 1. Topics include numeric and variable expressions, solving equations and inequalities with integers, fractions and decimals, fraction operations, ratios, proportions, percent, geometric transformations, area, surface area and volume.

This course focuses on concepts in physics, geology, and astronomy. Students will explore God’s creation as they learn and implement the scientific method. The students will explore the Earth through the study of rocks and mineral, plate tectonics, and earthquakes. The study of waves is explored through an investigation of light and sound. Lastly, we will explore our universe through the study of the moon and sun, the history of space exploration, our solar system, and stars and galaxies.

Algebra 1

Minnesota Studies

Students in this course begin the formal study of algebra. Topics include variable expressions, integer and real number operations, solving multi-step equations and inequalities, mathematical functions, writing and graphing linear equations, solving systems of equations, rules of exponents, exponential functions, factoring polynomials, solving and graphing quadratic equations, Pythagorean theorem and radical expressions.

Students expand their understanding of history by exploring the geography and historical developments of people, places, and patterns of life in Minnesota. Additionally, they will learn about our state’s government and economic systems. Students will also study the geography of the Western Hemisphere.

Pre-Algebra

6th Grade Courses continued Spanish

Art

Students in this Spanish course will study basic vocabulary, grammar, culture, and the importance of the Spanish language in expanding God’s Kingdom. The intent of this course is to provide a positive, engaging Spanish experience to prepare the students for the commitment required in learning the Spanish language. This class will make use of many different instructional strategies for the purpose of reaching all types of learners.

Students in sixth grade will draw from their understanding of the elements and principles of art while studying art eras and art history. They will continue to builds skills in drawing, painting, collage, printmaking and sculpture while they are introduced to art criticism in order to develop higher critical thinking. Biblical principles will continue to be the foundation of their understanding of truth and form the basis for their art making.

Study Skills

Vocal Music

Our God is a God of order; we need to have order in our lives as well. The goal for sixth grade study skills is for students to manage and strengthen the study skills they already have. Units will focus on organization, notetaking, approaches for remembering information, the use of reference sources, testtaking strategies, and the creation and use of graphic organizers and visual aids in studying.

Developing good habits such as study (2 Timothy 2:15), meditation (Psalm 1:1-3), and prayer (Mark 11:24) will also be emphasized throughout the course.

Sixth graders will be introduced to choral singing, which is in essence group singing. The class is designed to promote musical growth by developing vocal skills and learning to read music. Although performance based, there is strong component of sight-singing, ear training, and basic music theory. They will perform three concerts throughout the year.

Physical Education | Health This course is designed to teach students the importance of glorifying God with their body.

Opportunities for participation will be provided in a wide variety of individual, dual and team sports and activities. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on fundamental skills, rules, strategies, as well as individual physical fitness. Through various age appropriate health topics, this course will also empower students to make healthy, God honoring, life-long decisions that positively influence self, family and community.

God has given us the gift of music to glorify Him and give testimony of our faith to Him. By using this gift creatively, we are drawn to worship God, understand His truths and cause others to do the same.

CHA philosophy of teaching Music

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7th Grade Courses Bible

Language Arts X

Studying primarily the Old Testament, students will examine the history of God’s people from Genesis-Malachi, emphasizing OT themes, Job & Ecclesiastes and the Prophets.

Students will learn how to apply biblical principles to cultural issues and their own relationship with Christ. Students will complete two major Bible projects: scripture internalization and an Ecclesiastes/Job drama or debate.

Students will learn the same skills using the same texts as in the general language arts course, but at a faster pace with morechallenging assignments. Students will have extended self-directed assignments and projects, read more on their own, and have expanded writing assignments.

Pre-Algebra This course will cover the tools and skills needed to succeed in Algebra 1. Topics include numeric and variable expressions, solving equations and inequalities with integers, fractions and decimals, fraction operations, ratios, proportions, percent, geometric transformations, area, surface area and volume.

Algebra 1 Students in this course begin the formal study of algebra. Topics include variable expressions, integer and real number operations, solving multi-step equations and inequalities, mathematical functions, writing and graphing linear equations, solving systems of equations, rules of exponents, exponential functions, factoring polynomials, solving and graphing quadratic equations, Pythagorean theorem and radical expressions.

Language Arts Through units in personal narrative, short stories, myths, A Christmas Carol, The Pearl, and poetry, students will apply grammar skills; gain competence writing cohesive, wellsupported paragraphs; develop public speaking skills; use new vocabulary; and learn literary analysis.

(Accelerated)

Life Science | STEM Life Science begins with the foundation of Creation and focuses on cells and cellular functions. Topics include mitosis and meiosis, the human body, genetics, and living organisms with an emphasis on plant biology. Experiments are geared toward collaborative learning, highlighting engineering and math components.

Dissections include the pig heart and the frog. Students will also begin their first steps in scientific writing.

Life Science | STEM X (Accelerated)

Accelerated Life Science begins with the foundation of Creation and focuses on cells and cellular functions. Topics include an indepth exploration of mitosis and meiosis, the human body, genetics, and living organisms with an emphasis on plant biology.

Experiments are conducted through collaborative learning, highlighting engineering, technology, and math components. Dissections include the pig heart and the frog with an introduction to formal laboratory reporting. The students will also be introduced to experimental design, formulating graphs, and formal scientific writing.

Spanish This course is designed to encourage students to incorporate their understanding of the Spanish language and culture through a biblical worldview. Students will continue to build upon the Spanish skills they gained from the previous year. Topics will cover basic vocabulary, grammar, culture, and the importance of the Spanish language in expanding God’s Kingdom.

7th Grade Courses continued Art

Physical Education | Health

Students will be challenged to develop skills in critiquing art while developing personal statements about their own art.

They will study art history with the intent of learning about culture and the ideas that culture represents. Specifically through examining our own culture and learning to analyze the messages from a Biblical perspective. 2D and 3D projects will be worked on throughout the year.

Additionally, seventh graders take a field trip to the Minneapolis Institute of Art in the spring.

This course is designed to teach students the importance of glorifying God with their body.

Opportunities for participation will be provided in a wide variety of individual, dual and team sports and activities. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on fundamental skills, rules, strategies, as well as individual physical fitness. Through various age appropriate health topics, this course will also empower students to make healthy, God honoring, life-long decisions that positively influence self, family and community.

History - World Studies World Studies begins with a review of human history from Creation to the coming of Christ and progresses chronologically around the world studying the ebb and flow of empires, cultures, Christianity, and world religions.

Students will also examine the geography of the various countries and the influence of geography on the development of civilizations. It concludes with an examination of the trends of the emerging 21st century.

Vocal Music Seventh graders will build upon skills and vocal techniques learned in sixth grade choir. The ensemble will explore threepart choral singing and will expand upon their knowledge of sight singing, ear training and music theory. They will perform three concerts throughout the year.

Science is the systematic observation of the world God created (Ps. 19), and man’s use of those observations to gain understanding of the physical laws established by God. As our students explore God’s creation, they will learn about Him (Rom. 1), His truths and physical laws, and be able to apply their knowledge to the surrounding environment.

CHA philosophy of teaching Science

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8th Grade Courses Bible

Geometry

Studying primarily the New Testament, students will examine the history of God’s people through the Book of Acts. With special emphasis on the Gospels, several Pauline letters, Paul’s missionary journeys, and the book of James and Revelation, students will understand Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Testament and the savior of all who believe. Students will study current issues with a biblical worldview focus and complete two major Bible projects: scripture internalization and a devotional.

Study in this course will center around Euclidean Geometry. Students will use inductive and deductive reasoning to build a consistent system of thought and will write formal geometric proofs. Topics covered include parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, relationships within triangles, quadrilaterals and polygons, similarity, relationships in right triangles, geometric transformations, area, surface area and volume.

Algebra Skills

Through units in biblical worldview, the Holocaust, Shakespeare, and persuasive essays, students will learn to write clear, well-supported essays using textual references and excellent grammar; demonstrate public speaking and performance skills; and practice critical thinking and argument skills.

Algebra Skills presents algebra at a more concentrated level. Students will focus on linear equations, inequalities, probabilities, absolute values, radicals, exponents and the Pythagorean Theory. This curriculum will also include reviewing basic math.

Algebra 1 Students in this course begin the formal study of algebra. Topics include variable expressions, integer and real number operations, solving multi-step equations and inequalities, mathematical functions, writing and graphing linear equations, solving systems of equations, rules of exponents, exponential functions, factoring polynomials, solving and graphing quadratic equations, Pythagorean theorem and radical expressions.

God has given us the gift of communication enabling us to glorify Him. Through using this gift we understand His truths, articulate our faith and convey ideas creatively. The student will appreciate the beauty of language and develop the skills to effectively communicate through writing, listening and speaking.

CHA philosophy of teaching Language Arts

Language Arts

Language Arts X Using the same texts and developing the same basic skills as in the general Language Arts course, students will add more independent reading and more challenging assignments. Students will learn to write to prompts and analyze literature using deeper critical thinking skills and with less direct instruction and assistance.

Physical Science | STEM Physical Science focuses on the concepts of chemistry and physics interfaced with math, technology and engineering. The students will explore the scientific method as they engage in project learning and experimentation. During experimentation, the students will also learn laboratory reporting. Chemistry units will include the study of matter, atoms, elements, density, solubility, compounds, mixtures, chemical equations and chemical interactions.

Physics units include forces, pressure, changes in energy, magnetism and electricity. During the physics unit, students will build a variety of machines to solve specified problems.

8th Grade Courses continued Applied Chemistry & Physics STEM X

(Accelerated, Pre-requisite: Algebra 1) Applied Chemistry & Physics concentrates on the concepts of chemistry and physics interfaced with math, technology and engineering. The students will explore the scientific method as they engage in project learning and experimentation with an emphasis on open and guided inquiry learning. During experimentation, the students will also learn how to incorporate language skills as they complete comprehensive lab reports. Both inductive and deductive reasoning as well as advanced mathematics and research skills will be used throughout this course. Chemistry units include the study of matter, density, solubility, atoms, elements, compounds, mixtures, chemical equations and chemical interactions. Physics units include forces, pressure, changes in energy, magnetism and electricity. During the physics unit, the students will build a variety of machines to solve specified problems. Physics units include forces, pressure, changes in energy, magnetism and electricity. During the physics unit, the students will build a variety of machines to solve specified problems.

History – The American Republic Students will examine the unfolding history of the United States beginning with the discovery of the New World, up to the present day. In addition to the historical account, students will examine the distinctiveness of American government, the economic and geographic influences and the effect of Christianity and other religions on this nation. The capstone of the year is the class trip to the east coast where students will visit many important historical sites as well as learn more about our nation’s Christian heritage.

Vocal Music Eighth graders will build upon skills and vocal techniques learned in seventh grade choir. The ensemble will further expand their knowledge & understanding of sight singing, ear training and music theory. Students will apply these concepts to three and four-part choral repertoire. They will perform three concerts throughout the year.

Spanish Students in this course will be immersed in Spanish vocabulary, grammar, culture and the importance of the Spanish language in expanding God’s Kingdom. Students will learn to communicate with others on topics that are relevant to their everyday lives. This course will provide opportunities for the students to apply their Spanish skills in meaningful ways. Prayer, journaling, oral conversations, and role-playing will be integrated throughout this course.

Students will be academically challenged while still enjoying their world language experience.

Art Students will continue to develop art skills and learn about the role art plays in our world. They will study art across the curriculum integrating their projects along with literature and history.

Eighth grade students will learn to share their art and ideas by reflective writing and peer critiques.

Physical Education | Health This course is designed to teach students the importance of glorifying God with their body.

Opportunities for participation will be provided in a wide variety of individual, dual and team sports and activities. Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on fundamental skills, rules, strategies, as well as individual physical fitness.

Through various age appropriate health topics, this course will also empower students to make healthy, God honoring, life-long decisions that positively influence self, family and community.

Social Studies is the study of how God’s creation relates to Him and to one another throughout the course of time. Because God expects us to learn from the lessons of history, students will explore events, people, cultures and places in order to avoid the mistakes of the past and make godly choices in the future.

CHA philosophy of teaching Social Studies

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306 West 78th Street | Chanhassen, MN | 55317 952-949-9014 | chapel-hill.org