Jim Elliot Christian High School
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Bible / Discipleship | English | Foreign Languages | Mathmatics | Physical Education | Science | Social Science | Technology | Visual and Performing Arts | Other Electives
 

Bible / Discipleship

Grade: 9-12

Credit: 10

Freshman/Sophomore – Old Testament Survey        

The Old Testament Bible Survey class is specifically designed to:

 

      Help students understand their personal commitment level to the Lord Jesus Christ by

(commitment)

      Increasing their knowledge and understanding of the God’s Creation and redemptive work in the life of the nation of Israel from Abraham through rebuilding of the temple as well as     

(understanding)

      Personally practicing Biblical disciplines that are taught, demonstrated and developed within the classroom and

(personal action)

      Publicly making statements through a lifestyle of personal evangelism (both lifestyle and spoken) and service.            

(public action)

Freshman/Sophomore New Testament Survey 

The New Testament Bible Survey class is specifically designed to:

 

      Help students understand their personal commitment level to the Lord Jesus Christ by 

(commitment)

      Increasing their knowledge and understanding of the Redeemer Jesus Christ and the early church as well as         

(understanding)

      Personally practicing Biblical disciplines that are taught, demonstrated and developed within the classroom and

(personal action)

      Publicly making statements through a lifestyle of personal evangelism (both lifestyle and spoken) and service.            

(public action)

Junior/Senior – Living the Christian Faith

This course is divided into 4 semesters over a two-year period.  During the semester on Decision-making, students will be challenged to trust God with their lives and their dreams. They will realize that God has made them unique and they have their own set of tools to use in this world.  The semester on Morality exposes the students to various worldviews.  They will learn to discern and defend their own beliefs.  The semester on Relationships gives students the confidence to be themselves while loving as God loves.  They will understand that God is a vital part of all human relationships.  In the semester on Reliability, students will study the research of others to see the Bible as the inerrant, infallible Word of God.  Students will be equipped to defend what they believe and back it up with the Bible. They will understand it is the authority for their lives. The goal for this two-year study is to equip the student to walk their faith on the 21st century sidewalk.

Leadership Bible

Grade: 10-12

Credit 10

Prerequisite:  Student Council Member

The Leadership class is specifically designed to:

 

      Help students understand their personal commitment level to the Lord Jesus Christ by 

(commitment)

      Increasing their knowledge and understanding of Biblical principles and practical leadership

(understanding)

      Which is demonstrated, practiced, and developed within the classroom

(personal action)

      And carried out publicly through leadership responsibilities and service.            

(public action)

English

English 9

Grade: 9

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a foundational course, designed to teach and practice the basics of grammar, spelling, and writing.  Study skills are incorporated throughout the year.  A variety of world literature is presented, including an introduction to Shakespeare.  This course includes required summer reading of the teacher’s choice.

English 10

Grade: 10

Credits: 10

Prerequisite:  None

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course focuses on world literature and is designed to increase students' skills in the various forms of writing.  Grammar, vocabulary, and spelling studies are included.  This course includes required summer reading of the teacher’s choice.

English 10 – Honors

Grade:  10

Credits:  10

Prerequisite: “B” or better in English 9 and teacher recommendation.

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Students will study classical international writers from antiquity to the present, examining various literary genres and devices, themes, and the ages in which the works were written.  Lessons will routinely include vocabulary, spelling, and grammar studies.  Students will refine their skills in both formal and informal writing, employing the appropriate use of the conventions of English at an advanced level.  This course requires summer reading. This course includes required summer reading of the teacher’s choice.

English 11

Grade: 11

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Students will study American writers from colonial times through the twentieth century.  The various literary movements, literary devices of the different genres, composition, vocabulary, grammar, and spelling will be studied. The refinement of the student’s thinking, writing, and speaking skills will be at the heart of this course.  This course includes one required summer reading novel of the teacher’s choice.

English 11 – Honors

Grade: 11

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: “B” or better in English 10 or Honors English 10 and teacher recommendation.

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course focuses on the advanced study of traditional and contemporary American literature and non-fiction/informational reading materials.  There is an additional emphasis on the development of advanced writing, analysis and literary criticism skills through the study of the various literary movements, literary devices of the different genres, composition, vocabulary, grammar, and spelling.  This course includes two required summer reading novels of the teacher’s choice.

English 12

Grade: 12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Students will study British writers from the Anglo-Saxon Period through the twentieth century.  The various literary movements, literary devices of the different genres, composition, vocabulary, grammar, and spelling will be studied. The refinement of the student’s thinking, writing, and speaking skills will be at the heart of this course.  This course includes one required summer reading novel of the teacher’s choice.

English 12 – Honors

Grade: 12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: “B” or better in English 11 or Honors English 11 and teacher recommendation.

This course meets the “b” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course focuses on the advanced study of traditional and contemporary British literature and non-fiction/informational reading materials.  It includes extensive critical and creative writing, analysis of text, and literary criticism, as well as vocabulary enhancement and the development of speaking and listening skills.  This course includes two required summer reading novels of the teacher’s choice.

Foreign Language

American Sign Language I (ASL I)

Grade: 9-12

Credit: 10                               Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “e” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a beginning course in American Sign Language (ASL).  ASL is a visual-gestural language used by deaf persons in America.  Students will study this form of manual communication along with finger spelling and the specific structure of signing as a language. Information on the deaf culture and ASL grammar will also be studied.

American Sign Language II (ASL II)

Grade 10-12

Credit:  10                              Prerequisite:  “C” or better in ASL I

This course meets the “e” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course will further develop basic reception and production skills in American Sign Language.  Emphasis will be on deaf culture, syntax, and vocabulary of more abstract concepts.  Students will be required to sign stories, skits, and songs, and attend an outside function in the deaf community. 

American Sign Language III (ASL III)

Grade 11-12

Credit:  10                              Prerequisite:  “C” or better in ASL II

This course meets the “e” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course is designed to consolidate language skills from introductory level courses, while building more extensive communicative skills.  Students will use all aspects of the language and continue to study the deaf culture.  Students will attend an outside function in the deaf community.

Spanish I

Grade: 9-12

Credit: 10

This course meets the “e” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is an introduction to the Spanish language, which includes grammatical structures and development of all four skills of communication: listening, speaking, reading and writing.  In addition to functional language skills, students are provided an introduction to the Spanish culture as well as Christianity in Spanish-speaking countries.

Spanish II

Grade: 10-12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite:  “C” or better in Spanish I and teacher recommendation

This course meets the “e” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course enables students to develop intermediate proficiency in the language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.  Students also develop an increasing awareness of the idiomatic aspects of language and continue to study the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. They will be exposed to material that will contribute to their spiritual growth and possible evangelistic purposes.

Spanish III

Grade: 11-12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite:  “B” or better in Spanish II and teacher recommendation

This course meets the “e” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course is designed to consolidate language skills from introductory level courses, while building more extensive communicative skills.  Students will use the idiomatic aspects of the language and continue to study the culture and literature of Spanish-speaking countries. Students will use the language for written analysis of chosen biblical passages as well as being introduced to reading and comprehension of Spanish literature.

Mathematics

Pre-Algebra

Grade: 9

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: None

This is a one-year course that will give the students a strong foundation in computational skills and introduce key algebraic concepts so that the student can be successful in a first-year Algebra course.  Topics include measurement, number sense, directed numbers, graphing, exponents, prime factoring, proportions, probability, statistics and problem solving strategies.  Pre-Algebra does not meet the JECHS math requirement for graduation and is taken only for the purpose of advancing to Algebra I. 

Algebra I

Grades: 9-10

Credits: 10

Prerequisite:  Appropriate score on Math Placement Test or successful completion of Pre-Algebra.

This course meets the “c” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This year-long course includes solving equations and problems, polynomials, factoring, functions, inequalities, and systems of linear equations, graphing equations, ratio, and proportion. Students wishing to take Chemistry and/or Physics must complete this course with a grade of “B” or better, both semesters.

Geometry

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: Appropriate score on Math Placement Test or “C” or better in Algebra I

This course meets the “c” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.       

This is a complete course in Euclidean plane geometry that emphasizes not only the learning of facts, but also teaches logical thinking and logical approaches to problem solving.  Subjects covered include basic postulates and theorems, writing proofs, facts and constructions, relating lines, triangles, polygons, and circles.  In addition, students will recognize that God is faithful and reliable in upholding the world through orderly mathematical patterns, laws, and structures.  The course is supplemented with at least one major project per quarter.

Algebra II

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite:  Appropriate score on Math Placement Test or “C” or better in Algebra I

This course meets the “c” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course is intended to teach students to develop proficiency with algebraic principles and operations.  Upon completion of this class, students will be able to use logical, sequential thought processes.  This course deals with functions, systems of equations, quadratics and inequalities, sequence and series, logarithms, and trigonometric functions.

Pre-Calculus

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: “C” or better in Algebra II or teacher recommendation.

This course meets the “c” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course includes trigonometry (circular functions), logarithmic and exponential functions, graphing techniques, functions and limits, matrices, sequence and series, and conic sections.

Calculus – Advanced Placement

Grades: 11-12

Credits:  10

Prerequisite:  Grade “B” or better in Pre-Calculus or teacher recommendation.

This course meets the “c” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a college level course based on the requirements of The College Board Advanced Placement Program. This is a course in differential and integral calculus of functions of a single variable and topics in infinite series and differential equations. It will focus on concepts as well as procedures.  Students will be encouraged to take the AP Exam, administered by The College Board, in May.

Physical Education

Core PE (Boys’ and Girls’)

Grade: 9-10

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: None

This program strives to help each student to develop interest in and maintain physical fitness, develop proficiency in a variety of movement skills and sports, have lifelong enjoyment of physical activities both as a participant and as a spectator.  Students will also be given the opportunity to develop a responsibility for their behavioral actions, learn positive group interaction, and nurture those objectives throughout their adult life. The school PE uniform is required dress.

Health

Grade: 9

Credit: 5 (One semester)

This course is designed to be a one-semester overview of health-related topics.  Students will be instructed in such subjects as physical activity, nutrition, mental and emotional health, personal care, and body systems.  The course will integrate the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of life.

Interscholastic Athletic Program

Grades: 9-12

Credit: 5 (No more than 10 credits will count as PE credit for graduation)

Prerequisite:  Acceptance on a school sponsored interscholastic team

A student may acquire 5 credits for full participation in any interscholastic team sport.  The student must not have been placed on athletic ineligibility during at any time during that sport season. 

 

Science

Earth/Physical Science

Grade: 9

Credit: 10

Prerequisite:  None

This course meets the “g” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course is designed to introduce the student to topics in Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics. There will be an emphasis on the continuity of all sciences and the close relationship between many scientific laws and theories. Emphasis will also be placed on the importance of scientific study to the Christian as both a means of being a good steward (Genesis 1:28) and of studying the ordered nature of God (Psalm 19:1).  The course includes hands on experiments and projects.  A science project using the scientific method is mandatory.

Biology

Grade: 10

Credit: 10

Prerequisite:  None

This course meets the “d” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a survey course that covers the history of the study of life and the matter that makes up living organisms.  The first semester puts emphasis on cellular biology; how matter is organized into cells, how cells function, nucleic acids, and the genetic laws that govern how characteristics are passed from generation to generation.  The second semester is a study of the five kingdoms of living organisms: Monera (bacteria), Protista (protozoan), Fungi (mushrooms and mold) Planate (plants) Animalia (animals). Microscope and dissection laboratory experiences supplement the studies.  This course is designed to be college preparatory and to continually show the hand and wisdom of God as seen in His creation.

Chemistry

Grade: 11

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: “B” or better in Algebra or teacher approval

This course meets the “d” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is an introductory course to the subject of matter, interactions, reactions, and the laws governing these reactions.  It covers quantum atomic theory (parts of matter), chemical bonding, stoichiometry, physical states of matter, gas laws, and descriptive studies of specific elements and compounds.  Laboratory exercises are coordinated with the subjects studied.  Emphasis is also put on current scientific findings and practical applications of chemistry.  This course is designed to be college preparatory and to continually show the hand and wisdom of God as seen in His creation.

Physics

Grade: 12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: “B” or better in Algebra 1 or “C” or better in Algebra 2 or teacher approval

This course meets the “d” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a basic course covering the properties, changes and interactions of matter and energy.  It includes studies of motion, gravity, mechanics, matter and various forms of energy (heat, light, sound, electricity and magnetism).  Labs and investigations are an integral part of this course.  Special studies will cover classic and recent discoveries, fractals, space exploration, and careers.  This course is designed to be college preparatory and to continually show the hand and wisdom of God as seen in His creation.

Social Science

World Geography

Grades: 9

Credits: 5 (One semester)

Prerequisite: None

This course is a comprehensive study of the earth from a creationist perspective with concentrations on locations (continents, countries, states, cities, capitals, oceans and rivers).  Attention is also given to map use, topography, weather, climate, natural resources, and cultures.  Students will also study the cultural aspects of the world including the topography, political divisions, customs, religions, languages and historic background of each continent, region and country.

World History

Grade 10

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “a” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a survey course that covers world history, geography and culture from man’s creation to the contemporary world.  The course is designed to give students an appreciation of many cultures and varied civilizations that have contributed to the development of the world today according to God’s plan.

U.S. History

Grade: 11

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “a” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a survey course that offers a multi-disciplinary approach to the study of the history of the United States.  Students will study ideological origins, economic, political and social change, civil rights, and domestic and foreign policy.  The course is taught from a Christian perspective, which offers a demonstration of God’s purpose and plan in human events.

U.S. History – Advanced Placement

Grade:  11

Credit:  10

Prerequisite:  A” in World History and teacher recommendation

This course meets the “a” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This is a college level course based on the requirements of The College Board Advanced Placement Program. It is an intensive study of US History from the beginning to the present. Students will develop analytic skills and factual knowledge in order to effectively assess historical materials, to weight evidence and interpretations, to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgment, and to present reasoned arguments and evidence in essay format. This IS a college level course that requires students to perform at introductory and intermediate college levels. Students will be encouraged to take the AP Exam, administered by The College Board, in May.

American Government

Grade: 12

Credit: 5 (one semester)

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “a” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

American Government is a one semester course. This course includes a study of the Constitution of the United States with an emphasis on American institutions and ideals. Attention is also given to the principles, operation, structure, purpose, and functions of the federal, state, and local government.

Economics

Grade: 12

Credit: 5 (one semester)

Prerequisite:  None

This course meets the “g” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Economics is a one semester course. This course covers basic economic concepts and vocabulary including the development and operation of the U.S. market economy; study of comparative economic systems and world problems; a study of the U.S. Governmentʼs monetary, fiscal, and regulatory policies as they affect the economy. Emphasis is given to the importance of production, the profit motive, the role of supply and demand and the free enterprise system. This course will be taken the opposite semester to American Government.

Technology

Computer I

Grades: 10-12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: None

This is an introductory level course designed to teach the basics of computer fundamentals. Students will use word processing, spread sheet and graphics presentation applications. Emphasis will be placed on how computers can enhance other aspects of their education.

Computer II

Grades 11-12

Credit:  10

Prerequisite:  Computer I (may be taken concurrently with Computer I)

This course is designed into two semester components.  One semester will be website design, including creating web pages, table and forms to working with spreadsheet components, using layout tables, and integrating a database with a website.  One semester will concentrate on video editing, including editing a movie, adding transitions and effects, working with sound, adding titles and credits, and outputting a movie.

Robotics

Grade: 10-12

Credit: 10

Pre-requisite: Algebra I

This hands-on course focuses on mechanical construction; characteristics of sensors, motors, and batteries; and control strategies for autonomous robots.  Students are part of a team that designs, builds, and programs complete robots that participate in competition.  This course is a precursor for future study in science, engineering, and biomedicine.

Visual and Performing Arts

Art I

Grade: 9-12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “f” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course is for beginners and those who want to experience different mediums.  It will introduce the student to the various ways of producing artistic pieces in the areas of drawing, design, color, painting, and three-dimensional pieces.  Motivation will be provided by the use of universal themes, historical and cultural examples, and creative expression.  Evaluation will be based on technique, use of perceptual tools, craftsmanship, and personal involvement. The objective is for students to experience art both for education and relaxation. Lab fee: $30.00

Art II

Grade:  10-12

Credit:  10

Prerequisite:  “B” or better in Art I or teacher approval

This course meets the “f” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This advanced art class will be refining the skills learned in Art I.  More time will be taken on creating polished works and developing ideas to begin putting together a portfolio.  In this course sculpture, painting, drawing and art history will be the main mediums used.  With these mediums the works will be larger in scale.  Projects will need to be entered into at least one art show. Lab fee: $30.

Art III

Grade:  11-12

Credit:  10

Prerequisite: “A” in Art II and teacher approval

This class is designed to complement the talents of the student to develop their portfolio.  Students will be exposed to a variety of artists and techniques to integrate the study of art styles with studio production.  The portfolio will be representational of the student’s ability, diversity, and originality.  Lab fee: $30.

Ceramics

Grade: 10-12

Credit:  10

This course teaches students basic skills in the creation of 3D forms and pottery from clays.  With an emphasis on studio production, this course is designed to develop higher-level thinking, art-related technology skill, art criticism, art history, and aesthetics.  Lab fee: $30.

Choir – Vocal and Bell

Grade: 9-12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “f” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

This course will open the ears of each student of each student to their inner musical qualities.  Students will learn basic techniques of breath control, tone production, reading music, vowel tone, and consonant articulation.  They will experience the interpretation of the choral score in a mixed chorus environment.  Students will develop and expand their musical expression, aesthetic judgments, connections in society, as well as gain a greater understanding of music from various classical periods, composers, and cultures. All students will participate in both vocal and bell choir.  Performance participation is a requirement of the class.

Drama

Grade: 10-12

Credit:  10

Prerequisite: None

This course meets the “f” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Drama I is a study of the world of theater.  Although the main focus of this course will be on acting skills, an overview of the following areas of theater will be studied 1) Playwriting, 2) Directing, 3) Stagecraft, 4) Costuming, 5) Voice, 6) Makeup and 7) Theater History.  These studies give students a clear idea of what the world of theater and drama involves and an awareness of their personal talents and interests. They will be able to decide if this is an area they wish to pursue in their future.

Speech and Debate

Grades:  10-12

Credit:  10

Prerequisite:  None

This course meets the “g” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Speech and Debate is the comprehensive study of public speaking.  Emphasis will be put on the following areas: 1) How communication affects our lives, 2) The process of communication including listening skills, 3) Interpersonal communication and building confidence, 4) Structuring speeches while choosing effective language, 5) Speech delivery, 6) Speaking to inform, persuade and entertain in planned, extemporaneous and impromptu speeches and 7) Debate.

Other Electives

Drafting

Grade:  10-12

Credit: 10

Prerequisite: None

This course is designed to enable students to develop drafting fundamentals and concepts.  They will become familiar with technical terms, techniques, and careers that are current in the world of industry.  Students will develop the capacity to plan and solve problems in an organized fashion, to interpret the ideas of others, and to express themselves in a manner that can be easily understood.  Lab fee $20

Journalism

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite: Teacher approval

This course meets the “g” requirement for admission to the UC/CSU system.

Students will study journalistic skills such as news coverage, interviewing techniques, proofreading, headline writing, ad sales, and page layout. Students will use desktop publishing technology and gain hands-on learning experience by creating a school wide newspaper-style publication and adhering to a publication schedule.

Yearbook

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 10

Prerequisite:  Teacher approval

This elective course is designed to give hands-on learning experience to students as they create the high school yearbook. Students will learn journalistic skills such as reporting, writing, editing, layout design, photography, and selling advertising.

American History through Film

Grade: 11-12

Credit: 10

Elective

American History Through Film treats film as original documents. This class seeks to show that film records history (depictions of both past history and recent history) that can be analyzed within the context of its own time. This class will teach active rather than passive viewing of films with students analyzing the films both with class and online discussions as well as using written documents produced by those associated with the films and in reaction to the making and releasing of the films.
Teacher Assistants

Grade: 11-12

Credit: 10

Grading: Pass/Fail

Prerequisite:  Student application and teacher request

This course enables students to develop skills and responsibility by working for a teacher or in the school office.  Students will have the opportunity to follow directions independently, be responsible for assigned tasks and to work with the student body, the staff and the public.

2695 W. Vine St. | Lodi, CA 95242
PH: 209.368.2800 | FX: 209.333.5208
info@jechs.com
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