Class Listing

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
*Prerequisite: C or better in Intensive Algebra or Algebra I
An introductory course where students learn to work with the basic accounting forms while developing the theory behind accounting.  This is a practical job entry or college preparatory course.

*Prerequisite: Metalsmithing
This class is available only to students who have successfully completed the basic metalsmithing class and would like to further develop their skills in soldering, stone setting, design, etc. Advanced techniques such as enameling will be available to the students. A materials fee to cover cost of supplies will be charged.

Grade 9 Required-Based on Placement Test
Algebra I is the introductory course for the college prep mathematics sequence and is required for college.  Students use the basic properties of the real number system to manipulate expressions and equations involving both numbers and variables.  Topics include: products and factors, powers and roots, rational and irrational numbers, solving of linear and quadratic equations with one variable, solving of linear equations with two variables, working with fractions, graphing in one and two dimensions, working with inequalities, and setting up and solving word (story) problems.

*Prerequisite: C- or better in Geometry
Students continue to solve equations and inequalities with the problems becoming more complex.  Topics include: solving and graphing of linear and quadratic equations, solving equations and graphing of conic sections, logarithms, trigonometry, rational and irrational numbers, complex numbers, congruences, and the set-up and solving of work (story) problems.

Grade 12 Required
American government is the study of principles, functions, and organization of American government as expressed in our national, state, and local political systems. Emphasis is also placed on contemporary political philosophy and current problems. Economics is a social science course that deals with the way individuals and societies organize themselves to deal with the problem of unlimited human wants and scarcity of resources. Topics will include: capitalism, free enterprise, role of business and labor, supply and demand, the stock market, and consumer economics. Using computer software, the students will organize and compete in the business world to produce and market their own products.

Grade 11 Required
The course is a general survey of United States’ history from the discovery of America, through the colonial and national periods, to the present. Constitutional, political, social, economic, cultural and foreign policy developments are examined. Emphasis is also placed on "history in the making" through studies of current events.

Grade 11 Required
During the first semester, juniors will study writers of the Puritan Age, the Romantic Period, Transcendental Period and Civil War Period. Writing assignments will emphasize essay form and content, and a book report.  Grammar topics include parts of speech, verbals, and subject/verb agreement.

During the second semester, juniors will study the Realists, Modernists and Twentieth Century writers.  The novels The Scarlet Letter and To Kill a Mockingbird will be read and examined. Writing assignments will include multi-paragraph themes, letters to colleges and a book report each quarter.  Grammar includes clauses and punctuation review.

Grade 11, 12 Elective
Anatomy and Physiology is a semester elective that explores the structure and function of the systems of the human body. This class will help you to understand how our body works and some of the causes and effects of problems affecting us. Through our study, we will be able to see the intricate complexities of God’s miraculous creation.

*Prerequisite: B+ or better GPA, A in Sophomore English and World History, high self-motivation
This course is an option to American History. It involves an intensive study of major themes in American history to prepare the student for the advanced placement examination. The AP exam is optional and is given in May for an additional fee.

*Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus
This full year course is designed to provide the student with the necessary skills to take the AP calculus test.  Topics to be covered include functions and graphs, limits and continuity, differential calculus, integral calculus, sequences and series.

The AP exam is optional and is given in May for an additional fee.

Grade 12-Based on Placement
*Prerequisite: A- or better in American literature and instructor’s recommendation
During the first semester, seniors will study the same topics as English literature. In addition, AP students will study The Canterbury Tales, Grendel, The Second Shepherds’ Play, Everyman and The Name of the Rose during the Middle Ages unit and Hamlet during the Elizabethan Age. AP students will write an essay per week, a book report for first quarter and a research paper on a Shakespeare topic for second quarter. Grammar will be discussed using students’ writing problems.

During the second semester, seniors will cover the same topics as English literature. In addition, AP students will study Othello, Merchant of Venice, Doctor Faustus, and Oliver Twist. Additional themes will be expected of AP students, as well as a book report and the research paper. Grammar will be discussed using students’ writing problems.

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
This semester course is designed to teach advanced band students in playing their specific instruments in an ensemble setting. Through rehearsal and performance, the student has the opportunity to broaden his/her appreciation and understanding of all types of music. Exercise in technique, dynamics, and articulation are used every day in preparation for all performances. Students use computers to assist with music theory and ear training skills. The band performs one concert per semester and may also perform in chapel services, Sunday worship services, and on special occasions.

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
This is a course of study which would allow the student to engage in activities and develop skills for home maintenance.  The student will learn to use various handtools, begin to understand their proper use and the techniques make common repairs around the home.  This course of study will enable to the student to communicate in the technical terminology in the areas of Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical, and Auto Maintenance.  At the conclusion of the study the student will have developed a confidence to make most common home repairs.

Grade 9 Required
Biology students study the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, genetics, the five kingdoms of organisms, human anatomy & physiology, and ecology. By developing scientific research skills, exploring relationships between concepts, applying biological principles to everyday life, and strengthening critical thinking skills students should gain a deeper appreciation of the wonders and complexities of God’s miraculous gift of life. Bioethics and careers in biological science will also be investigated. Welcome to Biology.

*Prerequisite: C- or better in either Algebra I and a C- or better in Lab Science.
The course begins with detailed studies of the structure of the atom and of the periodic relationship between atoms.  The topics of chemical bonding, chemical reactions and equations, the properties of gases and solutions, and the chemistry of carbon or organic compounds follow this.  Laboratory work relating to topics discussed is part of the course.

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
This semester course is designed to teach students music skills in singing in harmony and provides an outlet for Christian witness through song. Attention is given to sight singing and proper vocal production, which will enable the student to realize the potential for his/her voice. Students use computers to assist with music theory and ear-training skills. The choir performs one concert per semester and may also perform in chapel services, Sunday worship services, and on special occasions.

This course will direct the student’s attention toward a Scriptural basis for Christian service and leadership. Models will be developed through an ongoing study of God’s Word. The student will begin to appreciate the relationship between Christian leadership and a servant’s heart. Students will be exposed to and actively participate in various service opportunities within the congregation as well as the community.

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
*Prerequisite: C or better in Integrated Computers or Instructor’s consent
Cinemagraphics explores the implementation and advancement of computer graphics in film, television, simulation and video games. The class explores various technologies used in these films and then sees the technologies in action.

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
Communication will explore different styles of and skills for successful communications. Topics will include code switching, interviewing, non-verbals, speaking, listening, and writing.

This study gives a glimpse of the other religions and cults. It is designed to familiarize the student with an understanding of the basic teachings of these religions, how they differ from Christianity, and how best to witness to those who belong to these religions. The format to be followed in this study is as follows: Source of teachings, Doctrine of God, Doctrine of Christ, Doctrine of Salvation, and Doctrine of Resurrection.

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
*This course does not replace the English requirements for graduation.
Students will examine the structure of various plays, learn acting techniques, study the history of drama and become familiar with backstage work. Students must get up in front of the class on a regular basis to try acting techniques. This course will culminate in student groups memorizing and presenting scenes. The units include enjoying the drama, elements of drama, understanding the drama, interpreting the drama, producing the drama, and technical drama. Areas covered include acting, make-up, lighting, special effects, scenery construction, props, costumes, and publicity.

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
*Prerequisite: Intro to Art
Emphasis will be placed on the development of eye-to-hand drawing skills as well as experimentation of drawing materials. Texture, proportion, composition, and the study of light and dark will be investigated through various conceptual and perceptual approaches. Drawing skills will be refined while developing a body of work.

Grade 9 Required
English and Speech is a full-year course emphasizing study skills, spelling, grammar, writing, literature, and speech. During the third quarter, students will also write a research paper in conjunction with Biology and General Science.

Grade 12 Required
English Literature is a chronological overview of the development of literature from the Middle Ages through the twentieth century.  In the first semester, proofreading, Anglo-Saxon literature, parts of speech, Medieval period, parts of a sentence, and Renaissance literature will be covered. Students will write analytical essays, a movie-book comparison, and a book report on The Shack.

The second semester of the course finishes Renaissance literature, verbals, Age of Reason, clauses, Restoration literature, verb tenses, Romanticism, and Victorian literature.  In addition to analytical essays, students will write a book report on The Merchant of Venice, and a research paper.

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
Students will learn the basic principles that are associated with being an entrepreneur. This course will take you step-by-step through the entire process of owning your own business. Creating a business plan is covered extensively with a business plan project at the end of every chapter. Highlights of real entrepreneurs’ pitfalls present the challenges involved with running a small business. Students will be able to take what they learn from the examples discussed in class to create their very own business from the ground up.

The student is presented with a basic overview of each of Paul’s epistles. It focuses on the basic teachings which are presented in the Pauline epistles, their place within history of the Christian church and their application to the lives of Christians today. The student will grow an appreciation of the various circumstances that surrounded each of the congregations to which Paul wrote, how Paul addressed their problems, and timeless advice that he would offer them.

Grade 11, 12 Elective
Genetics focuses on the cellular and molecular processes of human inheritance. This class will examine the pur- pose, method, and repercussions of errors within our genes. The semester is divided into the following units: Re- productive Genetics, Chromosomes and Molecular Genetics, Mendelian (Prediction) Genetics, and Genetic Applica- tions. The class will also cover concepts such as bioethics, stem cell research, cloning, The Human Genome Project, human uniqueness, genetic engineering, gene therapy, and some forensic applications.

*Prerequisite: C- or better in Intensive Algebra
Students study the properties and characteristics of points, lines, planes and two-dimensional figures such as triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles. Some three-dimensional geometry is also part of the course. Topics include: parallel and perpendicular lines and planes, congruent and similar figures, right triangles, circles and spheres, areas and volumes, coordinate geometry and graphing, straight-edge and compass constructions, introductory trigonometry and both direct and indirect proof. Geometry is a necessity for college bound students.

Grade 9 Required
Health is a course that is designed to bring awareness to students concerning issues that affect their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Through this course, students will learn proper behaviors that will prolong life and vitality. They will also learn how to help others understand the importance of health in their own lives. Scriptural support for healthy living will also be a major emphasis. Topics covered will include Fitness and Nutrition, Mental Health and Suicide, Substance Abuse, and Reproductive Health.

Humanities is a class designed to teach you about the western cultural history.  We will begin with the ancient Greeks and finish with the twenty-first century.  We will cover many things from the ancient orders of architecture to The Beatles.  We will look at how the history and culture of the time impacted artistic expression and how we moved from one artistic period into another.

Grade 9 Required-Based on Placement Test
Students will learn the correct typing/keyboarding method and build speed and accuracy.  This course includes an introduction to the correct use and understanding of the Internet and computers.

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
*Prerequisite: C or better in Information Processing or Instructor’s Consent
**Required for those who test out of Information Processing
Students will learn to use the features and function of Microsoft Word, Excel, Access and Power Point.  They will create projects that will be able to test their use of these applications, which can be used in other classes as well as the job environment.

Based on Placement Test
Intensive Algebra combines what was previous Algebra A and Algebra B into one year.  Class meets in a block schedule every day.  Topics will include basic arithmetic review, real numbers, equations, polynomials, factoring, fractions, applying fractions, functions, two variable equations, linear equations, inequalities, rational and irrational numbers, and quadratic functions.

In this course of study the student will learn to apply Scriptural principles to the various relationships within life. This course of study would reinforce the teachings of law and gospel especially as they relate to developing communication skills and resolving conflict. The student would be exposed to various Christian leaders working within the field of counseling and relationship development.

This course is designed to be an introduction to the basic elements and principles of art through application using a wide range of media. Drawing, painting, ceramics, printing, sculpture, and metalsmithing will all be covered.

This course is designed to prepare students for the science series. Integration of biology, chemistry, and physics concepts will be supplemented by a strong focus on scientific inquiry, questioning, strategies, lab skills, and critical thinking. Successful completion of this course prepares the student for Biology.

Lifetime Sports is a Co-Ed Jr/Sr elective for those students who wish to participate in physical activities that can generally be pursued throughout one’s lifetime. Students will learn rules and fundamental techniques for a variety of games. Emphasis in this class will be more on developmental of a spirit of cooperation and good sportsmanship than fostering a sense of competition.

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
The course will be an in-depth look at several of the writings of the great English dramatist. Students will learn to analyze plot, character motivations, recurring themes, settings, and moods produced. In addition, students will learn more of the culture of the period, vocabulary, and the influences of Shakespeare. Plays covered will include Much Ado About Nothing, As You Like It, Richard III, Henry V, Twelfth Night, Othello, King Lear, and The Tempest. Students must complete two quarter projects plus a project for each unit. This course is designed for the highly motivated student.

Offered even school years
Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
This course is designed to help students visualize in three dimensions, to develop and strengthen their technical imaginations, to think precisely, to read and write the language of industry and to gain experience in making working drawings according to modern commercial practice.

*Prerequisite: Intro to Art
Students will learn the basics of metalsmithing as applied to jewelry and small-scale sculpture. Emphasis will be on design, form, function, and technique while various methods of construction and embellishment are explored.

This study completes the cycle of an overview of God’s Word. It focuses in the catholic or general epistles, which would include James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, Jude as well as the letter to the Hebrews. An intensive study of Revelation is pursued with a greater emphasis placed on apocalyptical literature and the difference between an Amillennialistic understanding as opposed to Pre-millennialism.

*Prerequisite: Intro to Art
This course begins with a review of basic drawing skills as well as an introduction to new materials. Students investigate form, color, and composition while developing one’s own style. Famous painters and their styles will be covered through art history. Watercolor, acrylics, pen & ink, oils, and tempera will be used. Color theory, composition, structure, proportion, and perspective will be explored through observational painting from life and looking at other painter’s works.

Grade 9 Required
This class aims to teach the value of a well-coordinated, efficient body; to promote good health; and to develop strength, endurance, and motor skills.  Physical education also provides opportunities to develop Chrisitan character traits and to establish physical activities, which will persist throughout life.

Grade 11, 12 Required
This class aims to teach the value of a well-coordinated, efficient body; to promote good health; and to develop strength, endurance, and motor skills.  Physical education also provides opportunities to develop Christian character traits, and to establish physical activities which will persist throught life.

*Prerequisite: C- or better in both Lab Science second semester and Algebra II second semester. Algebra II may be taken concurrently.
In this course we will explore mechanics, sound, light, electricity, and magnetism.  We will look at them and find them in God’s world around us and try to logically describe them mathematically.

*Prerequisite: C- or better in both Geometry and Algebra II
Pre-calculus provides solid preparation for college-level courses in calculus, linear algebra, and finite mathematics.  Heavy emphasis is placed on problem solving.  The topics covered include functions, trigonometry, analytical geometry, logarithms, probability, vectors, matricies, and limits.

Grade 11, 12 Elective
This is a survey course, including human behavior and the individual’s role in society from the Christian viewpoint. Students will learn theories, applications, and what makes a person behave the way they do.

*Prerequisite: Intro to Art
Students will work with three-dimensional design and sculptures while investigating and gaining exposure to a wide array of materials, techniques, and approaches from traditional to the experimental. Projects will introduce materials such as clay, wood, plaster, wire, stain glass, etc.

Grade 12 Elective
Skills for Living is a senior level class that encompasses many of the components of “being on your own”. Basic survival   skills covered will include cooking, sewing, laundry, ironing, painting, managing finances, apartment rental, grocery store shopping, etiquette, and CPR certification.  Frequent field trips and guest speakers will be utilized to expose students to the world outside RLHS and home.

Grade 9, 10, 11 Elective
The Spanish language program is based on the belief that the purpose of learning Spanish is to communicate with the people who speak it, and to understand their cultures.  Students begin speaking Spanish right at the start of the course.  Topics and cultural notes include friendship, school, leisure activities, foods, clothing, and much more.  Prospective students should be aware that they will speak in front of class, act in skits, works in teams, make crafts and projects, and sing.  Students will experience Spanish communication by listening, speaking, writing, and performing.  This course requires memorization of vocabulary words and grammar practice.

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
*Prerequisite:  C or better in Spanish I
This course reviews themes from Spanish I.  Each review allows students to expand to new levels of achievement, so that their communication becomes more refined, more elaborate, and more complex.  Students are asked to put knowledge into action, to communicate with real purpose.  Students will sing, speak, and perform in front of class.  They will continue to improve their vocabulary by memorization, reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  Students will learn authentic language with materials that are culturally accurate.

Elective
*Prerequisite: Instructor’s Recommendation
This class is for the student who wants to refine his/her communication skills in Spanish. It is a challenging course for the student who has had success in Spanish I and II. The student will speak only Spanish in class. Report, essays, and presentations will help the student solidify his/her understanding of the language.

Elective
*Prerequisite: Instructor’s Recommendation
This class is for the student who wants to refine his/her communication skills in Spanish. It is a challenging course for the student who has had success in Spanish I, II and III. The student will speak only Spanish in class. Report, essays, and presentations will help the student solidify his/her understanding of the language.

Study hall gives students the opportunity to get a head start on their homework as well as having available resources to aid them in that work.

Emphasis is placed on active participation.  Units include softball, flag football, soccer, speedball, basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, and volleytennis.

*Based on Placement
Grade 9 Required
A study of the Gospel of Luke: This is an intensive study of one of the gospels, looking at the early ministry of Jesus Christ. This study will compare the gospel of Luke with the other gospels where such a comparison is significant. It will also sense the differences in genres (parables, proverbs, discourse, various metaphors, etc.) used throughout the gospels and how they are used.
A study of the Acts of the Apostle: This is a study of the growth of the early Christian church as it is communicated in the New Testament’s history book. The student will grow in their appreciation of dynamic change of early Christian believers and the make up of the church, hearts of civilization for millenniums to come.

Grade 10 Required
One Body in Christ - During the first semester, students will study the Old Testament and how we became God?s chosen people. The second semester will deal with a study of major and minor prophets, various aspects of being a high school student, and an intensive study of John’s Gospel.

Grade 10 Required
During the first semester, sophomores will study the aspects of a short story and all aspects of poetry. The writing process will be emphasized as well as the structure of an essay. Students will write poetry, several essays and a book report. Grammar will focus on punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure. During the second semester, Julius Caesar, the Legend of King Arthur, Our Town and various modern drama and one-act plays will be studied. Students will also create writing portfolios which will include a variety of writing styles such as drama, fiction, persuasion, and formal business writing. Writing will include letters, a book report, and an original short story. They will also write a research paper. Grammar will focus on usage with an emphasis on spelling, punctuation, and clauses. During the year, students will also read two novels.

Grade 10, 11, 12 Elective
*Prerequisite: C or better in Information Processing or Instructor’s Consent
Students will learn how to design and create a web site, create and design web pages, and create web Forms and Frames. (X)HTML and CSS will be used to create and publish the student web pages/sites.  After completion of this course, students will have a clear understanding of web page/site creation.

Weight training is designed to promote good health and physical activity. This class will help you increase your strength and stamina. Along with this we will work on balance and conditioning. Hopefully this will be something you can use the rest of your life

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 Elective
Woods is designed to teach the basic fundamentals of woodworking through the use of hand tools and small tabletop equipment. The areas considered are types of wood history, small project design, project assembly, correct tool use, and safety.

Students in Woods II will expand their learning through a series of assigned projects which will include advanced skills in project design, scroll sawing, and mini lathe work.  Certain stationary power tools in the shop will ONLY be used by the instructor as support equipment.

Grade 10 Required
This course is a general survey of the history of mankind, beginning with the earliest historical records and continuing to the present. Special emphasis is placed on those forces and ideas which contribute to our western way of life and which help explain the world situation today. Through reports and reading, the student is introduced to some of the historical literature outside the textbook.

In this course students will learn the important elements in a worship service and parts of the liturgy.  They will study the church year calendar with its colors and symbols.  The students will also plan, organize and coordinate Chapel for Lutheran High.  In addition to that, the class will lead Grade School Chapels and Assemblies throughout the semester.

Grade 11, 12 Elective
This semester class studies vertebrate animals, with the primary focus on mammals. Birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish are also studied. A brief overview of the entire animal kingdom is provided. Anatomy, physiology, behavior, habitats, and environmental interaction of the animals are examined. Emphasis is on living animals, although several dissection labs are offered. Several field trips to the zoo are included.