OUR GOAL FOR HIGH SCHOOL
Rigorous courses that encourage critical-thinking, analysis, and real world application so that students will be well-prepared for life.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
World History (9): (1 credit) Required World History builds upon previous courses by instructing students in events from the early days of God’s creation to the nation building of the 19th century. This course focuses on the study of numerous nation-states from Great Britain, France, and Germany to the civilizations of the Middle East, India, and China. Students use their knowledge to decipher, appreciate, and appraise the cultural differences of various civilizations.
US History (10): (1 credit) Required US History builds upon previous United States history courses in discussing people, events, and ideas that originate at the foundation of the United States. This class begins in colonial times and works through the Revolutionary War, the creation of the republic, and the course of the country through the Civil War. With God at its center, this course develops students’ abilities of applying, synthesizing, and evaluating information on people, places, and turning points in the history of the United States.
20-21st Century History (11): (1 credit) Required The study of this course focuses on the relevance of the last century moving into our current timeline. The focus is on United States history, but the class also covers many international events such as World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. The goal of this course is for students to develop a new and better appreciation for recent history of the United States in the world. It helps advance their abilities in describing, evaluating, and justifying recent events.
American Government (12): (.5 credit) Required Through this course, students will examine a Christian’s relationship to government, early governmental foundations and founders, the Constitution, political parties, the branches of government, and foreign policy.
Economics (12): (.5 credit) Required This class explores basic economic principles, current economic issues, and the concept of choice and consequence on both personal and global scales. Basic concepts such as utility, opportunity benefit and cost, subjective value, free-market capitalism and other economic models, as well as a biblical perspective of personal finance will be studied.
English 9: (1 credit) Required Students will build skills in grammar, writing, and literature. Emphasis will be placed on communicating effectively though writing, and successfully comprehending and analyzing literature. Students will read and write in multiple genres, commit poetry to memory, and continue to develop their vocabulary and grammatical skills.
English 10: (1 credit) Required This course includes a study of grammar focusing on parts of speech, sentences, and usage. It includes sentence analysis and development of writing skills through essay and research assignments. Development of vocabulary and memorization of poetry are included. Analysis of literature including short stories, poetry, prose, and a Shakespeare play is also developed in this course. Literary analysis will focus on character, theme, setting, and conflict. Interpretation and communication skills will be strengthened through application of critical evaluation and group interpretation.
Literature and Composition (11 and 12): Required (1 credit required for each year: Brit. Lit. and Comp. or Advanced Lit. and Comp.) This class is a chronological survey of the origins and development of English Literature as well as a course designed to help prepare students for college-level writing and research. The curriculum consists of analytical reading, critical writing skills, multiple essay genres, vocabulary enrichment, in-class writings, projects, and research papers. Throughout the course, students will be expected to read, analyze, and respond to a variety of texts.
Advanced Literature and Composition (11 and 12): Required (1 credit required for each year: Brit. Lit. and Comp. or Advanced Lit. and Comp.) This class is a chronological survey of the origins and development of English Literature as well as a course designed to help prepare students for college-level writing and research. The curriculum consists of analytical reading, critical writing skills, multiple essay genres, vocabulary enrichment, in-class writings, projects, and research papers. Greater emphasis is placed on Shakespearean texts as well as more independent analysis than the British Literature and Composition class. The class is conducted at a more rapid pace, and writing assignments are generally more demanding.
Speech: (.5 credit) Required Through this course, students will receive instruction and practice in communicating through a variety of modes and for diverse purposes. Emphasis is placed on organization and developing excellent communication skills.
Algebra I: (1 Credit) Required: Alg. 1 or Adv. Alg. 1, Prerequisite: 8th grade math During this course, students will write and solve multi-step equations, graph linear equations, write equations of parallel and perpendicular lines, write and solve various inequalities, solve systems of equations by graphing and substitution, solve equations with polynomial expressions, and graph quadratic functions. Heavy emphasis is placed on slope and graphing.
Advanced Algebra 1: (1 Credit) Required: Alg. 1 or Adv. Alg. 1, Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation The study of Algebra 1 is foundational to all higher math. This course proceeds at a more rapid pace than Algebra 1, thus covering some special topics at the end, such as graphing radical and exponential functions. Students will learn to evaluate numerical and algebraic expressions including radicals. Graphs of lines and developing equations of lines algebraically will be studied in detail. Polynomials and factoring will be studied extensively, and parabolas will be introduced with other nonlinear graphs. The course concludes with statistics and probability, time permitting.
Geometry: (1 Credit) Required: Geo. or Adv. Geo., Prerequisite: Algebra 1 During this course students will learn relationships between angles. Proofs are introduced, including inductive reasoning and conjecture. Graphing lines and distance between points will be reviewed. Triangle and quadrilateral classification and application of theorems are studied in detail including the use of algebraic expressions. (The use of algebra will continue throughout.) Students will understand ratios and proportions, as well as some trigonometry late in the course. Coordinate geometry will be used in the sections.
Advanced Geometry: (1 Credit) Required: Geo. or Adv. Geo., Prerequisite: Adv. Algebra 1-C or better or teacher recommendation. Euclidian Geometry is taught with heavy emphasis on coordinate Geometry. The course is taught at a faster pace than Geometry, enabling students to become better prepared for advanced courses like Trigonometry or Pre-calculus. Formal proof is introduced early and continues throughout. Relationships in triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons and circles are studies as well as right triangle trigonometry. The course concludes with a thorough study of area, surface area, and volume.
*Students choose which math classes to take their junior and senior year from the following classes.
Algebra II (11-12): (1 Credit) Elective. Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry Algebra 2 continues the study of Algebra I. Linear equations and inequalities including use of matrices will be studied. All types of functions and their graphs will be considered including transformations. Radicals, logarithms, and complex numbers are included. Students learn to use graphing calculators.
Statistics (11-12): (1 Credit) Elective. Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry The study of Statistics begins with probability and various types of data descriptions. Binomial distributions will be covered, and the normal distribution will be studied extensively. Confidence intervals will be considered, followed by hypothesis testing. The course concludes with correlation regression, and, time permitting, ANOVA testing and chi square tests.
Trig/Pre-calculus (11-12): (1 Semester Credit per Course) Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 – C or better This 2-semester course starts with an in-depth study of Trigonometry. Trigonometry functions and their inverses are covered with an emphasis on graphing. Verifying trig identities and solving trig equations is also covered. The study of pre-calculus begins with an in-depth study of functions including linear, polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic. The conics are also reviewed, and systems of equations are studied, including use of matrices. Emphasis is placed on solving all types of equations including use of a graphing calculator.
Math Concepts III and IV (11-12): (1 Credit) Elective. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry This two-semester course will reinforce student’s knowledge in whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios, and percentages, converting measure, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. These concepts will then be applied to real world functions so that students can see the correlation between the functions in a classroom and how they are used in various trades.
Consumer Math (11-12): (1 Credit) Elective. Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Geometry In Consumer Math, students study and review arithmetic skills they can apply in their personal lives and in their future careers. The course begins with a focus on occupational topics; it includes details on jobs, wages, deductions, taxes, insurance, recreation and spending, and transportation. Students also learn about personal finances, checking and savings accounts, loans and buying on credit, automobile expenses, and housing expenses. It also includes instruction about filling out tax forms. Every lesson will help develop critical thinking skills and will emphasize biblical stewardship.
Physical Science 9: (1 credit) Required, Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra This is a basic, but in-depth, science class that covers principles in chemistry and physics. Foundational concepts will be taught that can be used in later science classes. Chemistry concepts covered include building of the Periodic Table, structure of the atom, and bonding. Physics concepts include a history of science and application of it to the Creation Mandate, classifications and changes in matter, dimensional analysis, kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, simple machines, and electricity. This is a lab-based class with hands-on activities presented for each unit of study.
Biology 10: (1 credit) Required This course is a study of the cell, genetics, and the plant and animal kingdom. It includes an overview of the systems of the human body. There are numerous science labs during the year including dissection of an eyeball and a microscope lab.
Chemistry 11: (1 credit) Required: Chemistry or Intro to Physics and Chemistry, Prerequisite: Algebra I The Chemistry course begins with the scientific method and a discussion of the history of chemistry. The classification and states of matter and the elements are discussed in detail. Atomic structure, chemical bonding, and nomenclature are covered extensively. Chemical reactions, acids/bases and redox reactions, and stoichiometry are studied and applied in hands-on labs.
Introduction of Physical and Chemistry 11: (1 credit) Required: Chemistry or Intro to Physics and Chemistry This class is an elective science class that investigates weather, atmosphere, water, physics of motion, Newton’s laws, the hydrosphere, and the forces on the earth. This is a hands on class with many experiments.
Physics (11-12): (1 credit) Elective, Prerequisite: Algebra 2 Velocity, speed, and acceleration will be worked with extensively, along with Newton’s Laws, force, motion momentum and the concepts of work, energy and gravitation. Wave theory will be introduced that includes key concepts of sound. Light & optics are discussed. Magnetism and electricity are also studied. This is a lab-based class with hands-on activities presented for each unit of study.
Anatomy (11-12): (.5 credit) Elective, Prerequisite: Biology – B or better Students will investigate the systems of the human body in depth. Special dissection of the animal specimens are included as well as a study of the Drosophila fly and genetics.
Spanish I: (1 credit) Required The goal of Spanish I is to introduce the student to the Spanish language and culture through development of basic grammar and vocabulary skills, utilizing projects, dialogue, and exercises.
Students will express themselves through written and spoken language to demonstrate a knowledge of sentence structure, vocabulary correctly used in cultural context, and memorization of scripture. Speaking the Spanish language in class is encouraged, and writing in the language is required to increase ability in use and comprehension of both the written and spoken word.
Spanish II: (1 credit) Required, Prerequisite: Spanish I This class builds on the foundation laid in Spanish I in order to further develop language use and cultural understanding. Basic verb tense and use, along with vocabulary and sentence structure will be expanded by addition of more advanced grammar and vocabulary skills. Utilizing skits, projects, and videos, students will develop a deeper understanding of Spanish language and culture. Speaking the Spanish language in class is encouraged and writing is Spanish is required to increase ability in use and comprehension of both the written and spoken word.
Computer Applications 1 (9): This course is designed for students to work with Microsoft Office Suite using their MS Office 365 accounts. Students will use online resources and tutorials to navigate through OneNote, MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint. Other topics being covered during this course are internet safety and plagiarism. Students will be introduced to MLA and APA formatting for research papers.
Computer Applications 2 (10): This course is designed for students to use Microsoft Office Suites using their MS Office 365 accounts and build on the skills learned in Computer Applications 1. Students will use online resources and tutorials to navigate through OneNote, MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint to produce more challenging advanced documents. Assignments will include the integration of data between the various office applications. Other topics being covered during this course are internet safety and plagiarism. Students will also cover proper formatting of research papers using MLA and APA.
Health (12): (1 credit) Required The Senior Health class will provide guidance and emphasis on caring for God’s temple, our body. The students will be given hands-on activities, projects, field trips, and guest speakers to encourage a healthier lifestyle. Throughout the school year, topics will include: body basics system, mental and emotional health, nutrition, exercise, safety, and CPR training, as well as the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco.
College Prep (11): (.5 credit) Required The College Preparatory Class is to guide and encourage the students to consider the different pathways available after high school. The students will be given the practice ACT & SAT tests with guidance on college and technical school entrance exams. Financial Literacy for banking, savings, payment types, credit cards, credit scores, financing higher leaning, and taxes with assessments after each topic will be covered. Seminars on communication skills, resume formatting, and the interview process will also be covered. A variety of guest speakers will be giving seminars on the following topics: colleges, careers, internet safety, and armed forces and the military. The students will travel to the local colleges for campus tours.
Physical Education (9-10): (1 credit) Required In this course the student will learn mental, social and physical well-being. The student will also be introduced to principles of exercise, fitness, and movement skills. This will be accomplished through team and individual games and fitness training to promote mental, social, and physical well-being.
(Note: Not all courses are offered every year.)
Advanced Art: (.5 credit) Pre-requisite: General Art. Students will discover the connections between drawing, other art disciplines, studying past and current events, God, and His creation for inspiration to create art. Students will gain knowledge in the visual arts, theory, and practice through experiences in different visual arts media areas.
Anatomy: (.5 credit) Anatomy class pursues a more in-depth study of several of the body systems. Included in the year’s study are dissections of the heart and eyeball, experiments with fruit flies and a major field trip. Costs would be the admission for the selected field trip.
Assistants: (.5 credit) Students can serve as teacher, office or maintenance assistants.
Bible Quizzing: (.5 credit) This class studies a specific New Testament portion of scripture on a 9-year rotating cycle. For each school year concentration is placed on a specific text to learn and know thoroughly through drills and memorization. Bible Quizzing is a “jump-quizzing” double-elimination competition measuring Bible knowledge and speed of recall. WCCS participates in competitions in various states to improve in these areas. For school year 2018-2019 we will be studying the 5 T’s (1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, and Titus) with only 378 verses to know (the shortest amount in the 9 – year cycle).
Choir: (.5 credit) This course is a performance-based class. Students spend much of their time preparing for performances. Students will perform throughout the school year. (Christmas program, Graduation, Fine Arts, and more). Students will sing many various styles of music while working to improve their vocal techniques (diction, range of voice, breathing, etc.)
Current Events: (.5 credit) Engaging with the world requires knowledge of modern-day times and occurrences. Current events explores local, national, and international happenings. Understanding how to world functions is a large part of being an informed citizen and an educated Christian.
Graphic Design I: (.5 credit) In Graphic Design 1 students will learn to apply the elements and principles of art and design through their own works. Students will also explore the graphic design process while working on projects. Computers are used as a tool for creating work. Some projects will be created on the computer; others will be created by hand.
Band (9-12): (.5 credit) Prerequisite: Thorough knowledge of instrument. The high school band develops players both as individual musicians and as ensemble performers. At this level, players will perform a variety of works, from classical to contemporary arrangements, and are expected to have a good understanding of their instrument.
Home Arts: (.5 credit) Students will learn basic life skills such as: cooking, sewing, money management, etc. Evaluation will be through projects, written assignments, and class discussion.
Intro to Computer Programming: (.5 credit) Students learn the fundamental concepts of Python programming that can be applied to the study of any programming language. Learn decision making, program decomposition and debugging, text, strings, data control, formatting, lists, grids, object-oriented programming.
Media Productions: (.5 credit) Students will gain knowledge of and experience in using a variety of presentation software and video suite software to produce graphics for programs, chapels, advertising, and social media for WCCS. These experiences will give students opportunity to build skills for future resumes, as well as allow them opportunity to develop talents while enhancing the school culture and experience.
Physics: (.5 credit) This course is a challenging, senior level class designed to prepare students for a college level physics class. We will cover such topics as Kinematics, Dynamics, Newton’s Laws, Momentum, Periodic Motion, Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Electricity, Magnetism, and Light. These areas will be taught with hands-on, inquiry-based labs and discussion.
Robotics: (.5 credit) Students utilize Lego Technics Robotics kits and Python software to design and program. Students will be introduced to basic programming as well as problem solving strategies. Students work in teams to design, build, program, test and document their progress. Topics include motor control, gear ratios, torque, friction, sensors, timing, program loops, logic gates, decision-making, timing sequences and propulsion systems.
Sound Crew: (.5 credit) Sound crew will guide students how to set up and manage events in many different capacities. Students will learn the different types of equipment, how they are used, and how they are to be properly maintained and stored. The crew will also learn to work as a team and solve problems together quickly and correctly. Students will be required to be present at chapel services and other events to ensure a quality sound experience for the event.
Technology Assistant: (.5 credit) Students will work on school technology equipment to troubleshoot problems and resolve issues reported. These experiences will give students experience in networking, equipment repair, software, and internet issues.
Worship Leadership: (.5 credit) Through participation in Worship Team students will be challenged to develop spiritually, vocally, and/or instrumentally and to use their gifts to lead and encourage worship in the school and community. In addition to leading weekly chapel worship, students may be asked to lead music for a variety of school and community events.