Chapel Hill Academy Middle School Guide Book 2014-2015

chapel hill academy

middle school 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 5

Chapel Hill Academy ’s Mission

To glorify God and assist

families by providing a Christ-

centered education which

inspires and enables students to

pursue spiritual maturity and

academic excellence.

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

[contents]

Dear Parents

CHA Middle School

Transition

Connect

STEM

Experience

Plan

Get Acquainted

Courses

5

6-7

8-9

10-11

12-13

14

15

16-17

18-23

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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.

Head of School

Mr. Ken Norman

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

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.

Academics

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.

MS Quick

Facts

enrichment course

options

accelerated course

options

integrated biblical

worldview in all courses

service and missions

experiences

daily small group

advisory

weekly chapel

organized competitive

sports offered each

season

extended enrichment

overnight field trips

world language

fine arts integrated into

curriculum

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.

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.

Enrichment opportunities include...

praise &

worship team

leadership

robotics

literary magazine

band

athletics

chess club

spelling bee

math olympics

math counts

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Building Christ-centered relationships among students, parents & teachers

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.

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 conflict-

resolution 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.

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)

Study astronomy and aviation that declares

the glory of God and His handiwork (Psalm

19:1)

Learn about the truth of God’s invisible world

during the study of sound and light (Col 1:16)

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

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

Seventh Grade STEM Understand God’s diversity of life

each according to its own kind

(Genesis 1:24)

Learn about cellular structures and

the DNA genetic component of

human life as we are created by

God in His image (Genesis 1:27)

Study the intricate and wonderful

design of the human body by God

(Psalm 139:13-14)

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

Eighth Grade STEM Review and expand upon the truth of God’s invisible world during the study of electricity and

magnetism (Col 1:16)

Understand the presence of God’s hand within the order of forces and energy in the physical

world (Psalm 94:4-5)

Apply chemistry within God’s structure of matter and molecules that no one can fathom

(Ecclesiastes 3:11)

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.

13

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.

CHA philosophy of teaching Mathematics

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

Pre-Algebra

Algebra 1*

Additional Courses:

Bible

Language Arts

Earth Science | STEM

Minnesota Studies

Spanish

Study Skills

Physical Education

Art

Vocal Music

Math Course Offering

Algebra Skills

Algebra 1

Geometry

Language Arts Course Offerings:

Language Arts

Language Arts X Accelerated

Science Course Offerings

Physical Science | STEM

Applied Chemistry & Physics | STEM X Accelerated

Additional Courses:

Bible

American History

Spanish

Physical Education

Art

Vocal Music

Math Course Offerings:

Pre-Algebra

Algebra 1

Language Arts Course Offerings:

Language Arts

Language Arts X Accelerated

Science Course Offerings:

Life Science | STEM

Life Science | STEM X Accelerated

Additional Courses:

Bible

World History

Spanish

Physical Education

Art

Vocal Music

8th grade courses

*Teacher recommendation for

seventh grade course

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Meet our Middle School Faculty

Brenda Kieper STEM

Linda Houston Social Studies | Bible Math

Darla Olson Math

Cherri Dobbs Bible

Tom Becker Physical Education

Katelyn Freitas English | Study Skills

Amy Paine Spanish

Annebet Pettit English | Bible

Lisa Sweeney Art

George Runyan Band

Mary Stude

STEM | Math

Jessica Santjer Athletic Director

Ariel Zink Worship Arts | Choir

Meet our Middle School Faculty Continued

17

Craig Schafer

Social Studies | Bible

CHA middle school course descriptions

6th Grade Courses

Bible

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.

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.

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

The goal for sixth grade language arts is to strengthen students’ reading, writing, and literary analysis skills to prepare them for the upper-middle 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.

Earth and Physical Sciences | STEM

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.

Minnesota Studies

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.

Spanish

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.

Study Skills

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, note-taking, approaches for remembering information, the use of reference sources, test-taking 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.

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.

Art

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.

Vocal Music

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.

6th Grade Courses continued

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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

7th Grade Courses

Bible

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.

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


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, well-supported paragraphs; develop public speaking skills; use new vocabulary; and learn literary analysis.

Language Arts X (Accelerated)

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

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 in-depth 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.

Art

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.

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 three-part choral singing and will expand upon their knowledge of sight singing, ear training and music theory. They will perform three concerts throughout the year.




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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

Geometry

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.

Language Arts

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.

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.

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.

8th Grade Courses

Bible

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.

Algebra 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


CHA philosophy of teaching Language Arts

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.



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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

306 West 78th Street | Chanhassen, MN | 55317

952-949-9014 | chapel-hill.org

Documents

Chapel Hill Academy Middle School Guide Book 2014-2015