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
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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.
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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
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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
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
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.
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.
7th Grade Courses continued
21
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
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.
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.
8th Grade Courses continued
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.
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.
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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
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