Horizon Christian School

One of the goals of Horizon Christian School is to promote Christian character. In keeping with the goal, students are responsible to follow Biblical standards of conduct as part of their growth to maturity. The Bible gives us many principles for living, but the following have been identified as specific guidelines for student behavior.

Download Printable PDF for Code of Honor

Students 7th-12th grade participate in Small Group Mentorship as part of the Friday schedule. Students are grouped and paired with mentors that invest into establishing relationships and spiritual investment. Jr. High Small groups take place on-campus while High School groups often leave campus with their mentor to have breakfast or coffee.

Geography Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1
Geography is the introductory course in the Social Studies curriculum. Both physical and human geography are emphasized. The history and challenges of cartography are addressed. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to describe and locate 166 nations, the states, provinces and territories of the United States, Canada, and Australia and major geographic features of the world. Students will also develop basic map navigational skills.

World History Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1
World History is the foundational course to the social studies curriculum. Focus is placed on the great civilizations from ancient, medieval and modern times, both western and eastern. Study skills and analytical abilities are emphasized. Students will learn to take notes, write short research papers, and summarize oral events.

AP United States History Grade Level: 11, 12 Credit: 1
Students will study the history of the United States from a Christian worldview. Major units of study are the Age of Exploration, Colonial America, War for Independence, the 19th century, the 20th century, and the 21st century. Each unit discusses what happened, why it happened (as best as can be discerned), other possibilities that history could have taken, and how it relates to major events of our day. Current events are also presented and discussed.

AP American Government Grade Level: 11, 12 Credit: ½
Government is an eighteen week journey of reliving our country’s early struggle in forming a government; one that not only serves the people, but is of the people. From the Magna Carta and the Articles of Confederation, and through the debates of the Federalists and Anti-Federalists, and a check and balancing act of powers, emerges this Constitution; a document hallowed by Godly men which has endured this test of time, while yet governing the affairs of man. An in-depth, yet practical examination of the branches of power as they operate today, by utilizing current-event accounts and activities witnessed before us.

Economics Grade Level: 11, 12 Credit: ½
This study is an eighteen week presentation of our capitalistic economy that is regulated by its supply and demand. This overview will demonstrate its regulation both individually as well as nationally. What drives an economy in its success and failures from a world-wide scale? The impacts of recession or inflation, the influence of trade and taxation, are only brief topics and concerns examined in this course.

It is a requirement for admission and attendance to respect and be willing to explore the basic beliefs inherent in a Biblical worldview. Our secondary program requires one credit of Bible each year of attendence. A student will receive, over four years of high school at Horizon four credits of Bible instruction. Each student will take one course in Christian Faith Fundamentals upon their first year in High School at Horizon. The remaining 3 credits will be fullfilled via Bible electives, some of which will carry college credit options. Our faculty and staff strive to live their Christian faith not just speak it. Where applicable, all subjects taught at Horizon filter through this Biblical worldview.

Intro to Worldview (11th/12th Grade)
This course introduces students to the study of worldview from a Christian perspective including contemporary religious and secular worldviews, an introduction to major world religions, an overview of apologetics (the reasoned defense of the Christian faith) and consideration of how to faithfully and respectfully share our faith with others. Material will be presented through a combination of lecture, print, class discussion, and video. Students will be expected to perform independent research, deliver class presentations and write at a pre-college level.

Christian Faith Fundamentals (9th/10th)
This course introduces students to the Christian Faith. We will begin with a consideration of big questions (What is real? What is right and wrong? Why am I here?) and move into an overview of the basics of worldview. We will move forward with a presentation of the Christian message of salvation in Christ and continue on to a consideration of how Christians view the Bible. After a considerable overview of Bible themes, contents and structure we will end the year by introducing Christian Theology, the defense of the Christian Faith, how to grow as a Christian and finally practical tools and methods for Bible study. This course is intended to provide foundational understanding for navigating the Christian Faith in general and life at Horizon in particular, and prerequisite understanding for all HS Bible elective classes.

Finding Your Voice: Sec. A Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1
Through a variety of activities, accommodating all learning styles, students will explore classical literature, vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics. Focus is placed on the student’s emerging styles in writing and verbal expression. Major units of study are vocabulary, grammar, writing, and reading/literature.

Finding Your Voice: Sec. B Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1
Through a variety of activities, accommodating all learning styles, students will continue to explore classical literature, vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics. Focus remains on the student’s emerging styles in writing and verbal expression. Major units of study are vocabulary, grammar, writing, and reading/literature.

AP Language & Composition 11-12 Grade Level: 11, 12 Credit: 1
This is a practical course to develop language skills necessary for successful college and vocational entrance. Students will prepare resumes and essays expressing their distinct personalities. Students will be exposed to a variety of literature to develop their own writing style.

AP English Literature & Composition Grade Level: 11/12 Prerequisite: Min “C” in Eng 10 Credit: 1
The purpose of this rigorous course is to develop close reading skills in students through the analysis of and response to a variety of classic pieces of literature. All students taking this course will be expected to sit for the College Board AP English Literature and Composition exam to receive AP credit on their transcripts. Receiving a score of (3) or better on this exam will give students the ability to seek college credit for this class.

Physical Education Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: ½ *
Course introduces students to team sports, competition, and Christian sportsmanship. Students receive instruction in the rules, history, and strategies of various sports, such as: golf, football, table tennis, and cross-country. Emphasis is on developing skills and fundamentals, as well as integrating a personal plan for regular physical exercise. Students are encouraged to develop a positive attitude toward their individual fitness and God-given potential, and are provided with an opportunity to learn life-long skills, enabling them to participate in sports and build a foundation for a healthy self-image. “In whatever you do, do it heartily unto the Lord rather than unto men.” Colossians 3:23

* Varsity Sports participation – a student who plays on a Horizon varsity sports team receives 1 credit for playing in three sports, and receives a ½ credit for playing in two sports. No credit is given for only playing one sport during a school year.

Pre-Algebra Grade Level: 7-12 Prerequisite: Minimum “C” in Math 7 or teacher recommendation Credit: 1
Pre-Algebra is a continued progression of basic math principles and logic, developing an appreciation in problem solving methods and applications using real numbers. Emphasis on applied mathematical principles and functions include: word problem set-up and solving, unit multipliers (conversions), fractional applications of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, linear and coordinate graphing, understanding expressions of equality and inequality, geometry shapes and dimensions (area, volume, surface area), one-variable expressions, and applying prior concepts in crossing over to elevated algebraic expressions and real world problem solving.

Algebra I Grade Level: 8-12 Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra Credit: 1
Course stresses a logical axiomatic development and a high application of real world problems. Major units of study include expressions and equalities, operations and negative numbers, properties (postulates) of algebra, applied problems, polynomials and radicals, quadratic equations and applications, two variable expressions, exponential expressions, applying prior concepts, radical algebraic expressions, inequalities, functions, and advanced topics leading to advanced algebra. Course is college preparatory.

Algebra II Grade Level: 9-12 Prerequisite: Algebra I Credit: 1
Course begins with a general review of sets of numbers, polynomials, equations and inequality. The core of the course includes the use of linear inequalities and quadratic exponential logarithmic rational and irrational functions. The use of functions as mathematical models of the real world is emphasized.

Geometry Grade Level: 9-12 Prerequisite: Algebra I Credit: 1
Course includes college preparation, algebraic applications, and the deductive logical approach. Students will be introduced to an inductive approach. Major units of study include deductive reasoning, points, lines & planes, rays and angles, congruent triangles, inequalities, parallel lines, quadrilaterals, transformations, area, similarity, the right triangles, circles, the concurrence theorems, regular polygons and the circle, geometric solids, non-Euclidean geometry and coordinate geometry.

Pre-Calculus Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Algebra II Credit: 1
Pre-calculus is a third or fourth year high school course designed to prepare students for calculus. Specific topics include exponents, logarithms, trigonometry, graphs of sinusoids, matrices, higher-order, polynomials, rectangular and polar coordinator functions, complex numbers, and probability.

Calculus Grade Level: 11, 12 Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus Credit: 1
This class is an introduction to Differential and Integral Calculus designed to prepare students for college calculus. Specific topics include functions, parametric equations, limits, principles of differentiation and integration, applications of differential and integral calculus, and differential equations.

Physical Science Grade Level: 9 Credit: 1
Course is designed to expose students to the fascination of their physical universe with an emphasis on problem solving and application. Topics range from creation and evolution to an appreciation of energy, with all its transitional forms. Matter in its elemental form to the variety of chemical relationships they share in relationship with each other, will introduce students to chemistry. Experimentation and creative project research will assist the exploration and understanding of each scientific thought and process.

Biology I Grade Level: 10 Credit: 1
An opportunity for students to evaluate science from a Christian perspective. In contrast to modern Taxonomy, the Biblical Classification of Life presents a focus on God’s creation and not evolution theory alone. From unicellular to multicellular, creative design is visible in all created life; both in its processes as well as in an organisms anatomy. Laboratory investigation using the scientific method will assist the student’s understanding of cell metabolism and variations between organisms, providing students with a hands-on exposure and instruction necessary for success.

AP / Basic Chemistry Grade Level: 11/12 Prerequisite: Basic Algebra skills Credit: 1
Course teaches foundational principles of chemistry in preparation for deeper studies with an emphasis on problem- solving in relationship to the basic concepts of chemistry. Laboratories and hands-on activities are done on a regular basis to solidify chemistry basics, providing valuable research skills transferable to all sciences.

AP / Basic Physics Grade Level:11/12 Prerequisite: Basic Algebra skills Credit: 1
This course is designed to bring about a deeper appreciation of the world in which we live and the rules that govern it. The focus of this course is comprehension of the basic concepts. Minimal emphasis is placed on the mathematics that can be applied to these physical principles. Concepts are reinforced by labs and other hands-on activities using various aspects of the scientific method.

Spanish I Grade Level: 9-11

Duration: 1 year Credit: 1

This is an introductory course to the Spanish language and culture for non-native speakers. With comprehensible input through TPR*/TPRS** methods and visual learning strategies, students will begin to acquire Spanish primarily by listening to and reading the language. Verbal and written output are secondary focuses at this level. Students will also be encouraged to make connections between foreign language acquisition and relationship with God and others.

Note: Native speakers are assessed and can consider a more advanced focus on reading and writing.

* TPR = Total Physical Response

** TPRS = Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling

Spanish II Grade Level: 10-12 Prerequisite: Minimum C- in Spanish I

Duration: 1 year Credit: 1

This course continues building on the acquisition of Spanish language and culture for non-native speakers. With comprehensible input through TPR*/TPRS** methods and visual learning strategies, students will continue to acquire Spanish primarily by listening to and reading the language. Verbal and written output are focused on at a mid- to high-novice level. Reading consists of short, comprehensible stories and up to four (4) novels throughout the year. Students will continue to be encouraged to make connections between foreign language acquisition and relationship with God and others.

Note: Native speakers are assessed and can consider a more advanced focus on reading and writing.

* TPR = Total Physical Response

** TPRS = Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling

Computer Applications Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: 1
This course focuses on making students proficient on the computer, typing as well as running basic applications necessary to success in today’s world.  Students become familiar with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as coding web pages in html.  In addition, students are taught basic hardware principles and trouble shooting on the computer.  Upon completion of the course students will be touch typing and able to handle the basics of any computer hardware and software.  Prerequisite for the upcoming AP Computer Science course.

On-line Courses: Grades 10-12 Credit: 1/2 (duration – 1 semester)
This classis for self-motivated students 10th through 12th grade who would like to leran through Tufts, Harvard, or MIT. Students may choose from Blender 3-D Design, Force and Strategy, Architecture, and Films for Social Change, Podcasting, and others.  The courses do not grant college credit.

Money Management Grade Level: 11, 12 Credit: ½
This course gives students a fundamental analytical approach in preparation for successful financial management in the disciplines of this world. The course introduces the foundational principles necessary for both individual and corporate success as financial stewards. Topics include simple banking practices, budgets, loan applications, small business tax preparation and record keeping practices, investments, inventory, and income.

Greek & Norse Mythology: Grades 9-12 Credit: 1/2 
This class covers key stories from Greco-Roman and Norse mythology and introduces students to some of the foundtional texts, stories and concepts for Western culture.  We use metaphors and language borrowed from mythological sources every day.  Many of the values of the Greco-Roman and Norse mythological worlds differ from Christian values, and these differences give students opportunity for reading and writing.   

Jesus Goes to the Movies: Grades 9-12 Credit: 1/2 
Students exercise their interpretive muscles together as they view a series of movies about Jesus.  How is Jesus presented in these movies?  How do the movies portray Jesus’s message and mission, the disciples?  Students learn about and use some tools from cinema studies as they become more careful viewers.

Senior Workshop: Grades 12 only  Credit: 1
Students will be placed in local businesses throughout the community by an application process to receive on-the-job experience in a variety of areas. This gives a student the opportunity to apply the learning they have achieved in the classroom as well as the chance to explore possible careers for their future.  Some internships offered in the past include: web design, surveying, architecuture/construction, food services, education, museums, medicine, marketing, informational technology services, management, journalism, and many more.

Concert Band  Grade Level: 9-12 Prerequisite: 2 years band or audition/acceptance from music director Credit: ½
Artistically challenging and technically difficult musical selections provide students with the opportunity to further advance in their musical abilities. Concerts, mass bands and musical reviews offer students the opportunity to experience the joys and challenges of becoming more accomplished musicians. This elite group performs jazz and blues repertoire as well as concert and pep band selections.

Art Meets the World  Grade Level: 9-12 Credit: ½
This course is designed for those that have ever looked at a piece of art and wondered, “What’s the big deal?” In this art class students will learn how different art styles connect with what they read in their history books. Students will chew over art, sculpture and architecture from Cave Art to Cartoons.  Students will create art corresponding with each time period to better understand why these artists are such a “big deal”.  By the end of the year, student teams will dream up and create a masterpiece of their own.

7th and 8th grade classes operate on an A & B year rotation.

‘A’ Year Courses:

Bible
In order to be Christian leaders in the future, students are taught to be Christians in thought, word and deed. Students are taught the Bible as God’s inspired word, true history, and beautiful literature. The Bible always has a call to action so the course focuses on current personal and cultural relevance through reading, studying, and memorizing. Students are given a personal understanding of basic principles in living out the Christian life.

Life Science
Beginning with an introduction to the foundations of science, including the scientific method, students embark on a study of living things, cell structure, cell reproduction and genetics, and plant anatomy. The second semester is spent studying the animal kingdom with a focus on the vertebrates. Laboratory work includes studies with the microscope, the cell and cell processes, and worm and frog dissections. Intelligent design and random evolution are discussed along with the structure and function of the human body.

Math
Course helps students gain a mastery of the disciplines of basic math and introduces them to several disciplines of advanced math. The major units of study are: whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios and proportions, percents, measurements, finances, graphs and statistics, math in daily life, introduction to algebra, mathematical geography, plane geometry, solid geometry, the Pythagorean Rule, and trigonometry.

Language Arts
Course focuses on cementing mechanics in the areas of reading and writing using a variety of activities that accommodate all learning styles. Students explore vocabulary, grammar, and mechanics through the reading and study of several works of classical literature.

World Studies
An overview of world history, cultural studies, and geography is given, investigating both western and eastern traditions from the late middle ages to the present. Students gain an appreciation for the major civilizations and cultures that have risen and fallen in the second millennia.

‘B’ Year Courses:

Bible
In order to learn how to win spiritual battles, the students will engage in the studies of: God’s army, the enemy, the enemy’s territory, basic training, defensive and offensive weapons, how-to-apply these strategies, enemy propaganda, setting the captives free, delivering the demonized, and preparing for the final conflict. Memory work, note taking, class discussions, tests, and current events will be used to measure level of comprehension

Earth Science
Students will explore and experience a variety of areas within the discipline of Earth science. From a celestial body and its impact in the universe to the specific design of its environment of the atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere, emphasis will focus on reading, making observations, discussion, and application. Theories of intelligent design and evolution are discussed throughout the course. Field trips may accompany our understanding in making observations and measurements as young scientists.

Math
Lessons begin with practice of basic number facts and mental math. The accompanying problem-solving activities give students practice using strategies that will help solve more complicated problems. Practice problems that focus on the topic of the lesson are included at the close of each lesson. Based on teacher recommendation, 8th grade students may choose to take Pre-Algebra or Algebra I as Math coursework in place of 8th grade math class. See course description for Pre-Algebra and Algebra I in the grades 9-12 section.

United States History
Students will study the history of the United States from a Christian perspective and relate the events of history to the major events of today through discussion and presentation of current events. Major units of study are: Age of Exploration, Colonial America, The War for Independence, the 19th Century, the 20th Century, and the 21st Century.

Language Arts
Students will explore vocabulary, grammar, and writing largely through classical literature. Students will be given many opportunities to express their own thoughts and ideas in writing, putting into practice grammar skills and vocabulary usage.

Speech & Logic
This course seeks to improve student skills in thinking and speaking clearly, creatively, and confidently. Students will receive instruction and practice in creative and critical thinking including chess, codes and ciphers, scientific reasoning, brainstorming, problem solving, recognizing faulty reasoning, etc. Students will develop and deliver a number of speeches over the course of the year in informative, persuasive, humorous and debate settings utilizing outline, full-text, memorized, and off-the-cuff presentations.

Computer: 
Students will spend time in the computer lab learning computer basics including some rudimentary web design and programming.  It will provide a solid platform for those considering a computer career.

Art:
Art course will involve art components of basic painting, drawing, and sculpting among other foundational art skills.

Woodworking: 
This course will equip students with basic woodworking skills.  Students will use handtools to complete a wood box for storage or decoration.

Concert Band (offered to all 7th-8th grade students / includes 9-12th grade students)
Prerequisite: two years band experience or acceptance by the music director
Artistically challenging and technically difficult musical selections provide students with the opportunity to further advance in their musical abilities. Concerts, mass bands and musical reviews offer students the opportunity to experience the joys and challenges of becoming more accomplished musicians.

Physical Education 
Course introduces students to team sports, competition, and Christian sportsmanship. Students receive instruction in the rules, history, and strategies of various sports, such as: golf, football, table tennis, and cross-country. Emphasis is on developing skills and fundamentals, as well as integrating a personal plan for regular physical exercise. Students are encouraged to develop a positive attitude toward their individual fitness and God-given potential, and are provided with an opportunity to learn life-long skills, enabling them to participate in sports and build a foundation for a healthy self-image. “In whatever you do, do it heartily unto the Lord rather than unto men.” Colossians 3:23