Available courses
- Teacher: Christina Stephenson
This class covers topics typically presented in a pre-calculus course
and interweaves geometry, trigonometry, discrete mathematics, and
mathematical analysis.
- Teacher: Mindy Weiss
Algebra I builds on the concepts introduced in Pre-Algebra and includes lessons to solve systems of equations in two variables, solving complex rational and radical expressions, functions, graphing linear equations, factoring algebraic expressions, and introduction to 3-dimensional geometric figures.
- Teacher: Joan Ridderbos
Algebra I builds on the concepts introduced in Pre-Algebra and includes
lessons to solve systems of equations in two variables, solving complex
rational and radical expressions, functions, graphing linear equations,
factoring algebraic expressions, and introduction to 3-dimensional
geometric figures.
- Teacher: Terri Veen
Teacher: Terri Veen
Class Cost: $430
Book: Saxon Algebra 2 (3rd Edition) Student Text and Solutions Manual
Supplies: Scientific Calculator and 3-Ring Binder
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Math Credit
Prerequisite: Algebra I. It is highly
recommended that the Saxon placement test be taken to determine whether
your students is ready for Algebra II. https://learningthings.com/content/SAX_Algebra-2.pdf
Your student should get 85 percent or about 42 questions correct to be ready for Algebra II.
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- Teacher: Terri Veen
This class will prepare the student for college writing. Thesis-based essays as well as other essays will be taught at a higher level. Teaching units will include thesis statements, essay organizations, transitions, introductions, and conclusions, and end with descriptive and persuasive essay practice. The student will also learn how to take notes from texts or from live lectures, craft college-level papers, and write or speak persuasively to a wide variety of audiences. This class will be taught using lectures, lessons plans, videos, and required work on the part of the student. A unit on SAT essays will also be covered. We will be utilizing the computer throughout this course as well.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
This one-year course will help students develop an appreciation for the
diversity of organisms on Earth. Students will learn how to classify
organisms and will compare and contrast the organ systems of several
types of animal bodies through study and dissection. We will also
compare these animal systems to the parallel human system and thus learn
about the human body.
- Teacher: Laura Marsman
In this class we will have a 2-year rotation of the themes: The Art of
Michigan and Our Four Seasons. Each project will incorporate the
elements of art: Line, texture, space, color, value, shape/form into our
projects. Students will master their cutting skills and learn the
essentials for beginning drawing and painting. Students will also get to
explore with many different art mediums for a well-rounded experience.
- Teacher: Christina Stephenson
In this class, we will have a 3-year rotation of the themes: Art Around
the World, The Art of Famous Artists, and Art through Literature and
Illustrations. Incorporated into the projects, students will learn and
explore the six elements of art: Line, texture, space, color, value,
shape/form, along with learning beginning drawing skills and painting.
Students will also get to explore with many different art mediums for a
well-rounded experience.
- Teacher: Christina Stephenson
In this class we will have a 3-year rotation of lesson themes: Art
Focused on Subjects (Math, Science, History, and Literature), Art of Our
50 States, and Art focused on the Elements and Principles of Art.
Students will create 3-dimensional art, learn collage techniques, and
learn an upper elementary level of drawing skills (simple perspective,
blending and shading for depth, helpful tips for people, animals, and
landscapes). Students will turn in 1–2 sketches a month for homework to
enhance creativity and self-expression.
- Teacher: Christina Stephenson
In this class we will have a 3-year rotation of the following themes:
Creativity and Self-Expression, God's Creations, and Art Movements and
Styles. Students will learn and focus on technique and application of a
wide variety of mediums as well as learn helpful tips and tricks to
advance their skills in drawing. Students will turn in 1–2 sketches a
month for homework to enhance creativity and self-expression.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos
This class is a low homework enjoyment class. It is designed to bring
out creativity and self-expression within the student’s art with a
relaxing and fun approach. It is helpful to already have some drawing
skills but is not necessary. Mixed Media is not only fine art but can
also be considered arts and crafts. Students create mixed media art on a
variety of papers, canvas, wood, and other creative surfaces. Students will use: Inks, pencils, crayons, markers, pastels, and polymer clays papers, glues, buttons, fabrics, found objects, photos, metal, fibers, things from nature, to name a few. |
- Teacher: Christina Stephenson
This class is a low to no homework enrichment class. Our goal is to grow closer to God through expression and creativity and enhancing His word with beautiful art using a wide variety of mediums. This class is not intended to teach a student how to draw, but many tips and tricks will be taught to elevate their art as well as lessons on how to use the different mediums. The special Interleaved Bible will be a beautiful keepsake that your child can continue to create in long after the class is done.
- Teacher: Christina Stephenson
This is a Christ-centered college-prep biology course that provides a
foundation that will help students to understand the biological concepts
they will come into contact with in their daily lives. I seek to make
biology real by integrating such topics as the development of the “teen”
brain, why enzymes are in detergent, how your body protects you from
cancer and Ebola into the curriculum. Emphasis is put on a molecular
approach and a thorough understanding of cell biology. I believe this
approach helps to reveal the intricate majesty of God’s Creation .The
sequencing of my curriculum is designed to step by step build a
foundational lens through which the student will be able to not only
understand but interrelate all the various aspects of biology. Units
include: Your Brain and How You Use It, Scientific Method,
Classification, Biochemistry, Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis,
Ecology, Cells and Cell Division, Genetics, and Disease. Students will
also learn how to write a scientific paper.
- Teacher: Laura Marsman
This one-year course will help students develop an appreciation for the
diversity of organisms on Earth. Students will learn how to classify
organisms and will compare and contrast the organ systems of several
types of animal bodies through study and dissection. We will also
compare these animal systems to the parallel human system and thus learn
about the human body.
- Teacher: Laura Marsman
“Yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these” Matt. 6:29. Wildflowers are more than just decorations; they are a wonderful framework for student artists to learn watercolor drawing and essential plant parts. Students will create their own botanical notebook that will contain field guide facts to help the curious nature seeker identify the most common (and widespread) wildflowers of Michigan. Drawing supplies can be found at Hobby Lobby, Michael's, T-Square, or Blick Studio at 1-800-828-4548 (for a free catalog) or www.dickblick.com. |
- Teacher: Lorrie Dykstra
Bushcraft is the study and practice of surviving and thriving in the
wild. The course teaches hands-on wilderness skills involving basic
cutting tools, knots, shelters, foraging, orienteering, and building and
cooking with fire. Students will participate in many projects and move
from basic to advanced skills.
- Teacher: Joshua Greer
- Teacher: Joshua Greer
- Teacher: Mindy Weiss
Welcome!
Our chemistry course is designed to give you a solid foundation in chemistry, in order to prepare you for a college-level science classes or any field of study that will require problem solving and reasoning. Throughout this year we will explore how chemical processes impact our everyday life and the importance of these reactions in the world around us. Chemistry is everywhere! You literally eat, sleep and breathe chemistry everyday already. The course covers significant figures, classification of matter, the mole concept, stoichiometry, the periodic table, thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, the gas laws and equilibrium.
This class is 2 hours long and will last the full year. By combining both lecture, demos and weekly labs, we will create an interactive experience for everyone. The lab portion of the class will give you hands-on experience in handling basic lab equipment and chemicals along with strengthening your analytical skills. The scientific method and the experimental process will be used to help students explore God's amazing world at a level that you may not have considered before. At the very basic unit of creation, the atom, you can observe God's divine plan and wisdom. He truly is an awesome God! My hope for each student is that you may walk away with further awareness of God's perfect design for creation and be able to share how scientific study gives evidence to God's plan time after time.
- Teacher: Laura Marsman
Introduce your children to the fascinating world of chemistry and
physics! The activities and projects in this course are sure to delight
and inspire young minds. Students will begin by exploring the basic
building blocks of creation— atoms and molecules, and then journey
through simple chemicals, the laws of motion, and energy in its many
forms, before discovering concepts of electricity and magnetism. Along
the way your students will make a bouncy ball, formulate a smoke bomb,
build a solar oven, construct a working periscope, fashion a miniature
motor, and create a lava lamp! All the while, God will be glorified as
the Master Designer of all that they are discovering about the world and
how it works. This exciting course will give your students love for
learning and confidence in science that will carry them through the
school years and beyond. It is an engaging way to teach students just
how God made everything in the universe.
- Teacher: Debra Iwema
Description: This course begins with a study of church history, denominations, and doctrine, bringing students to the present-day reformed doctrine, as understood in the Heidelberg Catechism, Cannons of Dort, and Belgic Confessions. Special attention is given to the Biblical roots of these doctrines. Learners then explore the concept of “worldview," starting with an understanding of the Christian worldview, followed by exploration and critique of other worldviews. Students will examine how a Christian worldview impacts moral thinking and choices by studying ethics and discovering how to live out their faith in a Christ-centered, God-honoring way. Finally, the students will learn to defend their Christian worldview by studying apologetics, where they will learn how to respond to common questions about and charges against the Christian faith.
Books: Holy Bible, ESV Translation; Copy of the Heidelberg Catechism, Cannons of Dort, and Belgic Confession. (These can be a computer printout, its own source, or supplemental material in a different text.)
The following books can be found used at a much-reduced cost:
The Universe Next Door: A Basic Worldview Catalog ISBN-13: 978-0830838509
Defending your Faith: An Introduction to Apologetics by R.C. Sproul ISBN-13: 978-1433503153
The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis ISBN-13: 9780060652968
Tactics: A Game Plan for Discussing Christian Convictions by Greg Koukl ISBN-13: 9780310101468
Prerequisite: None
Supplies: None
- Teacher: Joshua Greer
Worldview Perspective Through Cinematic Studies
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Thursday 9:00–9:55—1st Semester Only
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Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Class Cost: $145
Book: None
Supplies: None
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English or Elective Credit
No Prerequisite Required
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This “special topics” one-semester class explores Cinematic Studies for Literature; an English class that uses good movies rather than books as the basis for literature study. Good movies tell good stories, and good storytelling requires the use of traditionally respected literary devices and techniques. While reading books is still a necessary part of high school education, SYNTHESIS, ANALYSIS and APPLICATION skills for literature are just as, if not more, important. In this class, we teach these higher-order thinking skills in the process of studying great stories in great movies. Each movie will be analyzed in terms of the creator's worldview, communication style, and intent. Using a study guide, the students will be required to watch the movie (at home) and then respond to both the study guide questions and in weekly class discussions and in online forums with other students. After working through the study guide, students will watch the movie a second time, after which some written responses will be required. Written assignments assume a certain degree of basic understanding on the part of the student regarding paragraph structure and essay form.Movies to be studied might include (but are not limited to): Rudy/High Noon/ Places in the Heart/ Casablanca/ What's Up Doc?/ The Importance of Being Earnest/ Wizard of Oz/ 12 Angry Men/ Field of Dreams/ The Truman Show/ Miracle Worker
There is a $25 material fee included in the cost of this course.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
This class is designed to prepare 9–12 students to make wise financial
decisions through the study of Consumer Math. They will be instructed
about credit card charges, taxes, interest on loans and savings,
personal banking, and costs of transportation, food, clothing,
utilities, and insurance. It also includes instruction about filling out
tax forms. The most important goal is the development of a biblical
foundation that puts math in the proper perspective for a Christian.
Second in importance is the development of the reasoning and
problem-solving skills essential throughout life. Third is the
development of general knowledge and skills needed for performing the
necessary functions in life that require mathematical processes.
- Teacher: Terri Veen
- Teacher: Carol Shulman
What is it about certain writers that makes them so much fun to read? Often, the way a writer uses language attracts us more than the topic he or she writes about. It's almost as if we prefer the "flavor" of certain books more than others. God has given each of us unique insights and developing our writing skills enables us to use our language artistically and pass those insights on to others in ways that will inform, inspire, and delight them. Every six to eight weeks, we'll explore a new type of writing, take a look at successful authors in that genre, and learn the ins and outs of creating our own version of it. Class discussions will include such topics as making characters three-dimensional and scenes and scenery believable, telling the truth with fiction, editing, and polishing our writing till it shines, and more.
- Teacher: Carol Shulman
This one-year course will help students develop an appreciation for the
diversity of organisms on Earth. Students will learn how to classify
organisms and will compare and contrast the organ systems of several
types of animal bodies through study and dissection. We will also
compare these animal systems to the parallel human system and thus learn
about the human body.
(Many students take this class for more than one year). Discover with
charcoal pencil how beautifully God structured His creation. Students
will learn basic drawing techniques such as contour and gesture drawing
and foreshortening. We will learn how light and shadow affect the tonal
value of the drawing. Bring your materials and be ready to draw! |
- Teacher: Lorrie Dykstra
Earth and Space Science is fun, hands-on class in which we explore God's Creation through the scientific method. God is the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe, and it is through hands-on exploration and study of His world that we will draw closer to him.
- Teacher: Debra Iwema
This class helps students understand economic terms and issues that have an impact on the United States and its citizens and introduced both microeconomics and macroeconomics, providing one half–year of credit for high school. Exploring Economics surveys Biblical teachings on money and finance, provides an overview of the economic history of the United States, gives a clear explanation of terms and concepts used in economics, discusses economic issues confronting us today, and puts our participation in the national and world economies on a personal level. Students read a collection of essays called The Stewardship of God’s Riches. In a time when economic activity is challenging classic definitions, Exploring Economics reasserts the importance of the free market system and enables students to take part in the economy with knowledge and faith.
- Teacher: Mindy Weiss
High School English Survey
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Thursday 1:45–2:40
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Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Class Cost: $240
Book: TBD
Supplies: TBD
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English
No Prerequisite Required
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Through the integrated study of English and Literature, students will develop a growing appreciation, even a love of reading, writing, and discovering! This is a survey course where the genres of literature are studied, dividing the 30-week course into distinct studies of Poetry, Literary Terms, Drama, Novels, Grammar, Short Story, & Essay Writing. Using a variety of resources, but following a tried and tested program, the students will engage with and respond to (in class and writing assignments) such classics as Shakespeare's Plays, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Importance of Being Earnest, and the works of Whitman, Poe, Silverstein, and others.
This class is intended to be a 9th–10th grade lead into Literary Analysis and the upper-level Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) classes offered for the 11th and 12th grades.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
High School English Survey
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Thursday 1:45–2:40
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Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Class Cost: $240
Book: TBD
Supplies: TBD
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English
No Prerequisite Required
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Through the integrated study of English and Literature, students will develop a growing appreciation, even a love of reading, writing, and discovering! This is a survey course where the genres of literature are studied, dividing the 30-week course into distinct studies of Poetry, Literary Terms, Drama, Novels, Grammar, Short Story, & Essay Writing. Using a variety of resources, but following a tried and tested program, the students will engage with and respond to (in class and writing assignments) such classics as Shakespeare's Plays, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Importance of Being Earnest, and the works of Whitman, Poe, Silverstein, and others.
This class is intended to be a 9th–10th grade lead into Literary Analysis and the upper-level Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) classes offered for the 11th and 12th grades.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
This integrated English and Literature course seeks to help students
further their reading, writing, communication, and reasoning
proficiency. The reading will cover a wide range of topics and genres,
hearing from authors around the world. Students will dive into higher
levels of English study, dividing the 30-week course into distinct units
which cover Poetry, Fiction, Non-Fiction, Short Stories, and Essay
Writing. This class is intended to follow High School English Survey I,
furthering the skills introduced in that course as well as introducing
new concepts. It is a good companion for the other upper-level Institute
for Excellence in Writing (IEW) classes offered for the 11th and 12th
grades.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Exploring Non-Western History
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Thursday 11:00–11:55
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Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Class Cost: $240
Book: None
Supplies: None
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Prerequisite: None
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The history of Non-Western countries is mostly an overlooked part of World History. So, this survey course is designed to help students understand the forces that have shaped Asia, the Middle East, and Africa into what they are today. This class will do a survey study of their history, culture, and geography. Special attention will be given to understanding the world views of these regions and how the message of Christ intersects each worldview.
***This class is on a three–year rotation.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Exploring Non-Western History
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Thursday 11:00–11:55
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Book: None
Supplies: None
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Prerequisite: None
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The history of Non-Western countries is mostly an overlooked part of World History. So, this survey course is designed to help students understand the forces that have shaped Asia, the Middle East, and Africa into what they are today. This class will do a survey study of their history, culture, and geography. Special attention will be given to understanding the world views of these regions and how the message of Christ intersects each worldview.
***This class is on a three–year rotation.
This class provides a wonderful overview of the entire range of
scientific inquiry and a superb introduction to the world of science in
general and some of the specific sciences that students will explore for
years to come. Topics include a brief history of science; the
scientific method; how to analyze and interpret experiments; the
distinction between science, applied science, and technology; astronomy;
geology and paleontology; (the five-kingdom system); marine life; and
ecology. The authors of the text do nothing to hide their Christian
viewpoint and, indeed, seek to use the scientific evidence to advance a
student's faith in the Bible and a Christian worldview. The course
includes lots of hands-on experiments.
- Teacher: Debra Iwema
Get ready to pack your bags and sail across the globe as we explore the earth, its resources, and the geographic and cultural features of the people in the various regions and countries of the world. We will learn how physical geography affects the political and economic features of countries and the way of life of their people. As stewards of the resources God has provided, students will develop a new appreciation for the wonders of God's creation and the responsibilities of the mandate that God has given them to exercise dominion over it.
- Teacher: Joshua Greer
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Grades 9 - 12 Friday |
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- Teacher: Terri Veen
This course is designed to help students master the basic elements of English grammar and usage through identifying parts of speech and their place in a sentence, practice exercises, writing and vocabulary development. Students will write various paragraphs throughout the year and one short research paper toward the end of the year.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
This class is a hands-on course teaching young men and women to use a
wide variety of hand tools and power tools, practice safety, gain
familiarity with automotive and small engine maintenance, understand and
troubleshoot home electric, plumbing, and repair projects, plan and
complete construction projects, maintain appliances and tools, learn to
operate and market a business, and apply their new-found skills in
service-learning projects.
This class is a hands-on course teaching young men and women to use a
wide variety of hand tools and power tools, practice safety, gain
familiarity with automotive and small engine maintenance, understand and
troubleshoot home electric, plumbing, and repair projects, plan and
complete construction projects, maintain appliances and tools, learn to
operate and market a business, and apply their new-found skills in
service-learning projects.
- Teacher: Joshua Greer
Is your child interested in pursuing something in the medical or para-medical profession in the future and desires to get a taste of some of the skills needed? Do you have a middle or high school child who wants to work in your church nursery, babysit, or be a nanny but must be CPR and First Aid Certified before he or she may do so? If so, this might be the class you are looking for.
The first part of the year will be spent on investigating other portions of human health including: communicable diseases, drug and alcohol abuse, nutrition, eating disorders, exercise, fetal development, and general adolescent physical changes.
The second part of the year, students passing both skills and written tests will become American Red Cross certified for Lay Responder CPR/AED for Adults/Children/Infants and First Aid. This is basic certification, with a standard two-year expiration, allowing the students to be competent in lower level emergency care.
Parents should know their child’s level of social maturity as to whether they are ready for this class.
- Teacher: Olivia Mc Crory
The student will learn to analyze a variety of statements, arguments,
and syllogisms for validity/truth, using many examples and rules of
logic. The rewards should be a sharpened mind, the ability to avoid
logical fallacies in one’s own thinking, writing, and speaking, and the
ability to discern inconsistencies in the writings and speeches of the
media and elsewhere.
- Teacher: Ruth Nobel
This course is an overview of digital media technology used in publication design, digital drawings, and digital imaging. History of design as well as various approaches to design are examined through the lens of Christianity. There will be an emphasis on exploring and becoming familiar with graphic design software, including Adobe suite. Access to a personal laptop is strongly recommended, but not required.
- Teacher: Hannah DeJonge
This is a seminar project presented to parents in South Korea who are interested in home schooling their children. Thursday, 2/24/22.
It covers the basic questions of Who, Why, What, How, When & Where
It forms an outline from a Christian perspective and informs from both experience (20+ years) and professional background (MEd).
This class uses classic short stories to present techniques, vocabulary,
and practice to develop literary perception. We will further apply
these learned elements by reading, discussing, and writing about some
novels, non-fiction, and poetry. Enrolled students will receive a list
of additional books to be purchased or obtained from the library. This
class is designed to be advantageous for the college-bound student.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
This class takes students on a journey of learning all the way from the
first inhabitants of our state to Michigan today in the 21st century. It
is a class that will give your child so much insight into where they
live as they grow up. Many adults do not know much of what your child
will learn and discover throughout the year. "Why is Detroit named
Detroit? What were the original Native American tribes of our state? Who
explored our state and why? What counties, cities, and rivers have
Native American names? How was the Mackinac Bridge built? How do the Soo
Locks work?" These and so many more fun things are part of our
learning! Michigan history truly comes alive for the children in this
class. This class has minimal homework, approximately 30 minutes per
week.
- Teacher: Stephanie Green
Welcome to this staff inservice in using MOODLE!
FAQ
Q: What's the difference between MOODLE and PRAXI?
A: Short answer: MOODLE is a LMS (Learning Management System) and PRAXI is a SMS (Student Management System)
Q: Will we be able to use both? Do we want to be able to use both?
A: Yes and No. (I don't think it necessary to do the PRAXI but I might be wrong)
- Teacher: Randy Hazenberg
Painting is a delight no matter what media you choose—watercolor or
oil. As we paint, we learn about composition, value, color, temperature,
and drawing. Our studio class will have you painting successful pictures right away. Come join the fun!
All painting supplies will be provided except those items listed above. Supplies can be found at Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, T-Square, or Blick Studio at 1-800-828-4548 (for a free catalog) or www.dickblick.com.
There is a $20 material fee included in the cost of this class.
- Teacher: Lorrie Dykstra
This course is designed to introduce teens to the world of personal
finance through textbook instruction, online articles and videos,
interactive exercises, and more. Students are encouraged to immediately
apply some of the concepts they learn and are introduced to other
financial topics which will become a part of their lives in just a few
short years. Included in each chapter is a focus on God-honoring
attitudes and practices. Additionally, parents are given the opportunity
to share their knowledge, experience, and tips on financial matters via
numerous assignments throughout the book. Students will learn to use
Google Sheets as a tool for calculations and to create, update, and
modify spreadsheets and share the data online in real-time.
- Teacher: Terri Veen
Make great use of your digital camera! From mundane to extraordinary, learn skills to be a great photographer. We’ll study values of natural light and get to know historical pioneers of photography. In this age of smart phones and filters, you can produce quality and meaningful images in the first “take”.
- Teacher: LexAnn De Weerd
In this course, students will continue to grow in coordination, balance
movement, and body and spatial awareness. Students will learn skills
associated with sports, and they will begin to understand basic sports
terms like offense and defense. Students will practice teamwork and
cooperation, with emphasis on honoring God through all we do. Students
should wear appropriate athletic apparel such as shorts, T-shirts,
sweats, and tennis shoes. Students will have 5 minutes at the beginning
and end of class to change their clothes in the bathroom.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos
This course will teach body awareness and coordination through a sports
unit curriculum. Students will play modified versions of sports and
participate in some health and fitness tracking. Students of every
ability level are encouraged to join in as we develop our motor skills,
teamwork, and sportsmanship. Students should wear appropriate athletic
apparel such as shorts, sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes. Students
will have 5 minutes at the beginning and end of class to change their
clothes in the bathroom.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos
This course will emphasize building a Christian attitude towards
sportsmanship, teamwork, and fitness. It will extend learning and skill
development in motor skills, engage in the Presidential Fitness Program,
work on fundamentals of team sports, and engage in some competitive
activities during class. Students of every skill level are encouraged to
join in the fun! Students should wear appropriate athletic apparel such
as shorts, sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes. Students will have 5
minutes at the beginning and end of class to change their clothes in the
bathroom.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos
This course will emphasize building a Christian attitude towards
sportsmanship, teamwork, and fitness. It will extend learning and skill
development in motor skills, engage in the Presidential Fitness Program,
work on fundamentals of team sports, and engage in some competitive
activities during class. Students of every skill level are encouraged to
join in the fun! Students should wear appropriate athletic apparel such
as shorts, sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes. Students will have 5
minutes at the beginning and end of class to change their clothes in the
bathroom.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos
This course will emphasize building a Christian attitude towards
sportsmanship, teamwork, and fitness. It will focus on lifetime fitness
awareness by engaging in the Presidential Fitness Program. In this
class, we expand on skills and basic rules of both team and individual
sports. This class is designed for all students, regardless of athletic
ability. Students should wear appropriate athletic apparel such as
shorts, sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes. Students will have 5 minutes
at the beginning and end of class to change their clothes in the
bathroom.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos
This course will focus on body awareness, coordination, and balance,
teaching and building upon students’ motor skills. Students will work in
groups and on teams as we play games using the skills needed for
sports. Emphasis will be on teamwork, cooperation, and sportsmanship. We
seek to honor God through our actions and relationships with others.
Students should wear appropriate athletic apparel such as shorts,
sweats, T-shirts, and tennis shoes. Students will have 5 minutes at the
beginning and end of class to change their clothes in the bathroom.
- Teacher: Stephanie Vos

Physical Science lays a firm foundation for future studies in chemistry and physics. Each class will consist of hands-on exploration, including labs, experiments, projects, and discussions.
- Teacher: Kari Renkema
This physics course is designed for the student who has completed
algebra and has had an introduction to the definitions of sine, cosine,
and tangent. It provides a detailed introduction to the methods and
concepts of general physics through a biblical worldview. Heavily
emphasizing vector analysis, this class provides the student with a
strong background in one-dimensional and two-dimensional motion,
Newton's laws and their application, gravity, work and energy, momentum,
periodic motion, waves, optics, electrostatics, electrodynamics,
electrical circuits, and magnetism. Your student will come out of this
class with an even stronger knowledge of math and physics as it relates
to God’s creation. They will be well prepared for continuing in College
Physics after completing this fun and gratifying class that includes
both lecture and lab.
- Teacher: Mindy Weiss
Course Description
This is an introductory course with the goal to introduce you to the techniques of debate and research. Debate is sometimes confused with "argumentative speech.” You will learn and use the standard format/techniques of debate. While we will NOT participate in the home school debate competitions, debate opportunities will take place in the classroom. Debate facilitates analytic reasoning, comparative writing, and verbal skills; all of which are essential to the college-bound student. This is not a remedial course and students that commit to this class need to be competent in reading, writing, and research.
Textbook
GRACE does not order this book and the Home School Bookstore does not carry them. Please order the book as early as possible to ensure having them for the first class. The book may be purchased through Home School Legal Defense Association by going to the following link: http://store.hslda.org/debate-c4.aspx
First Semester: Earth Movements, Rocks, and Minerals. This year, the students will begin to gain a basic understanding of God’s world through a detailed analysis of earth sciences. They will explore the massive movements that are constantly shaping the earth and learn how rocks provide clues to the earth’s structure and geological activities. They will explore rock and mineral properties and become geologists by performing field tests on mineral and rock samples. Students will also create rocks and grow salt crystals to model minerals.
Second Semester: Solar System and Solar Energy. Students will explore the Solar System through hands-on activities, become familiar with the names and positions of the planets, and create model planets. They will also discover the concept of energy transfer from a source (the Sun) to a receiver (solar collector). In a series of heat exchange experiments, the students will test the variables that affect energy retention.
- Teacher: Alida Luck
- Teacher: Kim Vander Hill
Teacher: Kim Vander Hill
Class, Material, and Copy Cost: $260
Supplies: Spiral notebook with pockets or 1” 3-ring binder with pocket folders, pencil; colored pencils, crayons, or markers.
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No Prerequisite Required
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First Semester: Earth Processes and Weather Forecasting. This year, the students will begin to gain a basic understanding of God’s world through a detailed analysis of earth sciences. Earth Processes begin with activities to explain continental drift and plate tectonics. They will construct replicas that demonstrates our planet’s structure and the three main types of rocks. Then they explore, map, and measure the forces that result in earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain-building and model the explosive events that make plate margins. Next, they will discover the importance of accurate weather forecasting and record keeping, build weather stations (to monitor temperature, rainfall, wind, barometric pressure, etc.), plot fronts and other large-scale factors on weather maps, and differentiate cloud formations.
Second Semester: Shipwrecks and Astronomy. During the second semester, the students will wrap up their weather studies by researching weather folklore and delving into severe weather hurricanes and tornadoes for which forecasting is especially valuable students. They are then introduced to the world of shipwrecks and marine archaeology. They will learn the methods and tools used to navigate and some of the most common causes of shipwrecks and discover how archaeologists work in the marine environment to discover, map, and preserve historic shipwrecks of the past. Next, the students discover how Earth’s motion relates to day and night, the annual seasons, and the predictably changing night sky. They reproduce constellation patterns and investigate the life cycles of stars, the shapes of galaxies, and the size of the universe.
- Teacher: Alida Luck
- Teacher: Kim Vander Hill
First Semester: Amazing Air, Weather-Watching, Sunshine and Shadows. This year, the students will begin to gain a basic understanding of God’s world through a detailed analysis of earth sciences. The first semester introduces students to air, and its fascinating properties by providing hands-on experiments. Weather-watching is the next science topic that they will explore using handmade weather tools. They will also explore rainbows, thunderstorms, and snowflakes. The semester ends with a look at shadows and ends with a full-fledged original performance in a shadow theater.
Second Semester: Finding the Moon, Sun and Earth and Exploring Soil. Students will compare the daytime and nighttime skies. Through direct observations and modeling exercises, they will discover that the Earth’s nearest neighbor in space is far more interesting than any storybook Moon. The students will also take to the schoolyard with trowels in hand and explore soil components, weathering and erosion, minerals and nutrients, and more. Once they understand what soil is, they find out how it is made and observe how earthworms mix and enrich the soil.
- Teacher: Alida Luck
- Teacher: Kim Vander Hill
Students will learn how to use vocabulary, verbs, and grammar concepts together. The material is taught through fun themes that incorporate everyday language. This allows students to use all those elements together in creative ways to grow and build language fluency. We will use a different theme this coming year. The new theme will be MI VIDA (my life). It is perfect for both the experienced and inexperienced students. The experienced students will continue to progress while the new students are seamlessly integrated. Please order the book early to ensure having it for the first class.
- Teacher: Rebecca Brandt
This course emphasizes grammar and conversational skills, provides training in speaking, understanding, reading, and writing basic Spanish. Lessons feature weekly Bible verses, a focus on Christ’s life, and a strong missionary emphasis. Oral and written exchanges of learned material will help the student to socialize and to provide and obtain information.
- Teacher: Rebecca Brandt
This course emphasizes grammar and conversation skills. The textbook’s easy-to-follow explanations, examples, and application exercises are designed to help students learn to speak Spanish in class. Chapters cover present tense verb forms and structures, past (preterit) tense, contrasting concepts, and structures, the present-perfect tense, and vocabulary on cooking, money, household items, and more. Cultural readings are also included.
This class is available for Articulation Credit with Davenport University (click for details).
- Teacher: Rebecca Brandt
Most people dread speaking in front of an
audience. This class will give your student the necessary skills and
confidence needed to be able to deliver a speech to a group. Basic
speech mechanics, gathering of information, a brief review of speech
writing, and a variety of speech formats will be covered in the course. A
power point presentation is also included as one type of speech we will
be giving. They will need a flash drive for this presentation. Students
will be given ample opportunities to present prepared and impromptu
speeches in front of the class. The skills learned will benefit anyone
who seeks to glorify God through speech.
- Teacher: Faith Smit
This class develops mathematical and spatial reasoning, stimulates
curiosity and a love of learning math, takes away the “scariness” of
math, and makes the subject accessible to all students. It furthers
basic concepts and promotes higher-level concepts in math using
activities and explores the relationship between concepts in math and
their applications and uses in the real world. It integrates the logical
and analytical skills and ideas in math with artistic and spatial
skills and sparks interest in the kinds of issues mathematicians and
engineers deal with. This class has hands-on activities and includes
artwork, a history of the subject, and small research projects.
- Teacher: Kari Renkema
His Story is meant to be a dialogue, a discovery of the relationships between God and man, man and man, and the creation and mankind. It is meant to be that which more fully recognizes the actuality of both the physical and the spiritual nature of reality...it is meant to increase our sense of wonder and awe toward a God who loves, provides and sustains His creation AND executes His plan through the lives and events of people and nations.
Using original source documents to investigate the events that have shaped the course of history in the United States, students are challenged:
1- to become better praisemakers through an examination of historically significant events through a Christ-centered world and life view
2- to develop essential 21st Century skills of critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity
3- to retain the knowledge of significant historical events, people and ideas that define the American experience
4- to understand the big ideas--being exposed to essential questions that make learners think, analyze, compare and contrast concepts (higher-order thinking). Students must understand key historical events, the political forces in a democratic society and the role government and church plays in the lives of people. Problem-solving, debate and decision-making are important in becoming an active participant of God's kingdom.
- Rev. Marcus Little: Kari Renkema
This class will take a comprehensive look at not only
the formation of the United States government, but also the way that it has
changed and developed over history. We will start with a thorough study of the
Constitution focusing on the intended structure and purpose of that government.
Then, as we look at different parts of history, we will compare the changes in
our government back to its original intentions. This class will blend a
thorough understanding of where our government came from with the ability to
analyze the role the government plays in today’s world. This course will be a
blended learning experience with much of the course hosted on Grace
Homeschool’s Moodle site. All resources and assignments will be managed through
Moodle.
- Teacher: Joshua Greer
- Teacher: Kari Renkema
His Story is meant to be a dialogue, a discovery of the relationships between God and man, man and man, and the creation and mankind. We will use original source material to investigate specific details of Ancient History through the Renaissance. Students will study Ancient Greek and Roman times; the Battle of Marathon, the conquests of Alexander the Great, Socrates, Cleopatra and Anthony, Gladiators, the Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire, the Sack of Constantinople, Medieval and Renaissance: the Barbarians Rule, the Vikings, the Dark Ages, Invasion of England, everyday life in the 1100’s Europe, the Black Death, Thomas Becket, Richard the Lionheart, the Crusades, Michelangelo, Leonardo DaVinci, the Inquisition, Columbus, Queen Mary. (300 BC–1600 A.D.) This course will be a blended learning experience with much of the course hosted on GRACE’s Moodle site, and, to a great extent, influenced by the EyeWitnesstoHistory.com website. All resources and assignments will be managed through Moodle.

- Teacher: Stephanie Green
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
Students will gain writing skills by imitating classic literature. Characters and adventures will capture your student's imagination and provide rich writing material. The students will learn about writing with structure and style and using dress-ups and sentence openers to help develop their own personal style. We will use FIX IT to review grammar rules, and vocabulary will be extended.
***This class is on a three-year rotation with Writing: All Things Fun and Fascinating and Writing: Based on Ancient History.
- Teacher: Stephanie Green
Using World History as the theme, students will learn how to create outlines and write from outlines. They will apply style techniques to their writing to encourage them to express their ideas creatively. Writing assignments will include paragraphs, short reports, research reports, stories, writing from pictures, and writing from a prompt. Literature will enhance our study of writing and challenge the students to read Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, Carry on Mr. Bowditch, and Number the Stars. They will be required to read each book and examine the content in light of scripture.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat
(grades 6-8)
Using Modern World History as the theme, students will learn how to create and write from outlines while adding style techniques to express their ideas creatively. Writing assignments will include paragraphs, short reports, research reports, stories, writing from pictures, and writing from a prompt. Literature will enhance our study of writing and challenge the students to read Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, Carry on Mr. Bowditch, and Number the Stars. They will be required to read each book and examine the content in light of Scripture.
- Teacher: Alana Garnaat

Course description: Students will produce a
book that captures the moments of the year’s events. The book will be
designed and created by students with the support of the yearbook
teacher. Students will demonstrate the use of online design tools and elements of design to create a cohesive book that is GRACE HSA and year-specific. Students will work as a team and
individually to take photographs, write copy, design pages and meet
deadlines.
- Teacher: Sheri Westfall
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