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Course Standards

Provided in the following document are the basic "standards" or "student achievement goals" for each course taught at Pella Christian High School. The courses are grouped according to their department, and the departments are listed alphabetically.

Art
Bible
Business
Family Consumer Sciences
Foreign Language
Industrial Arts

Language Arts
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Science
Social Studies

ART DEPARTMENT

ART 1

Students will learn about and apply the elements and principles of design in their art.
Students will analyze and critique their artwork as well as their peers.
Students will study various artists who have made a significant contribution to the world of art.
Students will obtain a basic art vocabulary concerning the tools and techniques they will practice in the classroom.
Students will compare and contrast a variety of artwork by evaluating the quality through a given rationale.
Students will personally reflect upon what Christianity and their art means to them and express it in their artwork.
Students will be held to a standard of true Christian love in their interaction and daily in class conduct amongst their peers and instructor.
Students will learn how various cultures have developed their art as well as the role that plays on the visual impact of their art.
Students will create a variety of projects utilizing the following mediums and techniques:

Drawing: graphite, charcoal, chalk and pen
Ceramics: glazing, coil, pinch, paddle, and/or slab
Painting: acrylic, watercolor and mixed media
Sculpture: wire, found objects, plaster, wood, tile and clay
Printmaking: collograph, lino-cut and relief

ART 2

Students will further learn about and apply the elements and principles of design in their art as introduced in Art 1.
Students will analyze and critique their artwork as well as their peers.
Students will study various artists who have made significant contributions to the world of art.
Students will obtain a basic art vocabulary concerning the tools and techniques they will practice in the classroom.
Students will compare and contrast a variety of artwork by evaluating their quality through a given rationale.
Students will personally reflect upon what Christianity and their art means to them and express it in their artwork.
Students will be held to a standard of true Christian love in their interaction and daily in class conduct amongst their peers and instructor.
Students will learn how various cultures have developed their art as well as the role that plays on the visual impact of their art.
Students will create a variety of projects utilizing the following mediums and techniques:

Drawing: graphite, charcoal, chalk and pen
Blending, pencil qualities, line quality, mixed media, hatching and reverse drawing (taking out with eraser)
Painting: acrylic, watercolor and mixed media
Blending, visual & actual texture, large scale, non-objective, layering

ART 3

Students will further learn about and apply the elements and principles of design in their art as introduced in Art 1.
Students will analyze and critique their artwork as well as their peers.
Students will study various artists who have made a significant contributions sculpture and ceramics.
Students will continue to build a basic art vocabulary concerning the tools and techniques of sculpture and ceramics that they will practice in the classroom.
Students will compare and contrast a variety of sculpture and ceramics by evaluating the quality through a given rationale.
Students will personally reflect upon what Christianity and their art means to them and express it in their artwork.
Students will be held to a standard of true Christian love in their interaction and daily in class conduct amongst their peers and instructor.
Students will learn how various cultures have developed their art as well as the role that plays on the visual impact of their art.
Students will create a variety of projects utilizing the following mediums and techniques:

Ceramics: glazing, coil, pinch, paddle, slab and/or wheel thrown
Sculpture: wire, found objects, plaster, wood, tile and clay

ART 4

Students will further learn about and apply the elements and principles of design in their art as introduced in Art 1
Students will analyze and critique their artwork as well as their peers.
Students will study various artists who have made a significant contribution to the world of art.
Students will obtain a basic art vocabulary concerning the tools and techniques they will practice in the classroom.
Students will compare and contrast a variety of artwork by evaluating the quality through a given rationale.
Students will evaluate various art careers and discuss their impact through multi-media presentation.
Students will personally reflect upon what Christianity and their art means to them and express it in their artwork.
Students will be held to a standard of true Christian love in their interaction and daily in class conduct amongst their peers and instructor.
Students will learn how various careers develop their art as well as the role that plays on the visual impact of their world.
Students will create a variety of projects utilizing the following mediums and techniques:

Printmaking: collograph, lino-cut, etching, mono-print and relief
Photography: basic vocabulary, process of picture taking, and design projects of field experience
Multicultural: African masks, Japanese sumi-e painting, Mexican tiles, and Asian batik

ART 5

Students will further learn about and apply the elements and principles of design in their art as introduced in Art 1.
Students will analyze and critique their artwork as well as their peers.
Students will study various artists and art movements that have made a significant contribution to the world of art history beginning around the time of the Renaissance and progressively continuing through present day post-modernism.
Students will obtain a basic art vocabulary concerning the tools and techniques they will practice in the classroom.
Students will compare and contrast a variety of artwork by evaluating the quality through a given rationale.
Students will personally reflect upon what Christianity and their art means to them and express it in their artwork.
Students will be held to a standard of true Christian love in their interaction and daily in class conduct amongst their peers and instructor.
Students will learn how various cultures and art movements have developed their art as well as the role that plays on the visual impact of their art today.
Students will compare and contrast visual and environmental differences between the American and European art world.
Students will create a variety of projects utilizing a variety of 2D and 3D mediums while gaining understanding about the following art movements:

Renaissance/Romantic Art
Impressionism
Blue Rider
De Stijl
Minimalism
Expressionism
Surrealism
DaDa
PoMo

BIBLE/RELIGION DEPARTMENT

BIBLE I - OLD TESTAMENT

As the students take this course they will be able to:

Know the contents of each Old Testament book.
Know about Creation and where everything came into being.
Know about how sin came into the world and how it determined our condition, which results in our need for the promised Savior.
Know and understand how God works through people and events to prepare for the coming of Christ.
Know that God's promises and prophecies found in the Old Testament are fulfilled in the New Testament, which reinforces the truth that the promises in the New Testament are also being fulfilled.
Recognize that the men and women in the Old Testament were human beings subject to the same feelings and experiences we have today.
Recognize how God changes men and women and meets the needs of each individual.
Know how to take advice (wisdom) from God and how to give Him praise.
Learn and appreciate verses that will aid in their spiritual growth.
Know how to sit quietly and wait patiently upon God to speak to them in all situations.
ULTIMATE achievement: Learn how to bring this knowledge of the Old Testament from their head to their heart.

BIBLE II - NEW TESTAMENT

Students will come to understand the relationship between the New Testament and the Old Testament.
Students will come to understand the historical context of the New Testament writings.
Students will come to understand the background, nature, and purpose of the four gospels.
Students will wrestle with theological meaning of the ministry, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as presented in the gospels.
Students will examine the background, context, and message of the following groups of writings: Acts, the letters of Paul, the General letters, and the book of Revelation.
The goal of the course is for students to intellectually understand the writings of the New Testament in order to better understand the gospel message of the New Testament. Our hope is this understanding will help students grow in faith.

CHRISTIAN ETHICS

Students will be exposed to the different philosophical arguments pertaining to the existence of a standard of right and wrong. In dealing with the question "What is good?" students will read from different philosophers.
Students will come to understand the nature of postmodernism and existentialism.
Students will learn the Biblical perspective pertaining to the standard of right and wrong, and the Biblical answer the question "What is good?" While different Christian perspective will be discussed, the Reformed emphasis will be given special emphasis.
Students will read and discuss the book Mere Christianity and C.S. Lewis' ideas pertaining to a real right and wrong.
Students will work to establish a Biblical approach to the following issues: Poverty, Violence, Sexuality, Gender Issues, Capital Punishment, The relationship between Christianity and popular culture, and other personal moral issues.

BIBLE IV - CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE

Students will gain knowledge of theological ideas and terms.
Students will become familiar with the community of saints - those theologians who have gone before us and wrestled with different ideas.
Students will gain an understanding of past and present issues facing the Christian church.
Students will intellectually engage the following areas:
1. Special and Natural Revelation
2. The Nature and Works of God
3. Humanity: Who are we?
4. The problem of sin
5. The Person of Jesus Christ
6. Atonement: The Work of Christ
7. The Church
8. Eschatology
The goal of this academic study of theology is for students to better understand the scriptures, and to better understand what God has done in Jesus Christ. The model of this course is Anselm's "faith seeking understanding" - our ultimate goal is for students to grow in faith.

REFORMATION AND WORSHIP

Students will wrestle with issues pertaining to worship in the Church.
Students will examine the historical development of Christian worship, and the main figures in the history of the church that have wrestled with these issues.
Students will come to have background knowledge in the forms of worship found in different streams of Christianity.
Students will come to understand the thought of the Reformation pertaining to worship. Special emphasis will be given to Reformed thought.
Students will wrestle with the scriptures trying to determine a Biblical form of worship.
Students will work to apply the ideas discussed in class to the continued development of the chapel program here at Pella Christian.
The goal of this course is to help students better understand Biblical worship so they might be able to better wrestle with the issues facing our churches today. Our hope is that academic study will lead to growth in their faith, and help them in their daily walk with Jesus Christ.

COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS

Having taken this course, the student should...

Know the basic facts about and tenets of the major religions of the world and the leading cults in North America. This knowledge should include information concerning each one's origin, historical development, beliefs, organizational structure, current status, and pertinent terminologies.
Understand how the beliefs of these religions and cults affect these peoples' lifestyles. This includes social and cultural aspects as well as specific religious practices.
Be able to make comparisons and contrasts among these various religions and cults, and between each of them and Christianity.
Know the difference between a religion and a cult or sect.
Gain a better understanding of the Christian faith as it relates to the other major belief systems in the world.
Identify the basic elements of a cult as they are made evident through the "religion news" or current events (i.e. Jim Jones, David Karesh).
Be able to read the literature of other religions/cults and, from a Christian's perspective, discern that which is true, false, or opinion.

CHURCH HISTORY

Having taken this course, the student should...

Gain a general understanding of how God has led and blessed His people, the Church, from the days of the early church in Roman times to the church of today.
Understand that the Church of God through history is broader in scope than just one particular group or denomination.
Be able to see how the Word of God, the truth of Scripture, is preserved through all of time, even as man at times attempts to destroy, change, or hinder it.
Know about and appreciate the many saints of the past who were used by God to help build or preserve His Church and to keep the light of the Gospel burning brightly.
Gain a better understanding of and appreciation for the Christian faith as they see how men and women in the past struggled and often died to defend it against that which was false.
Understand how the various Christian churches of today, primarily of the Protestant branch of Christendom, came into existence, and identify some of their basic differences.
Have a basic understanding of what the word Reformed means, particularly in the context of the Protestant Reformation and the history of the Reformed faith in the centuries that followed.

BUSINESS DEPARTMENT

CONSUMER ECONOMICS

Know the role of a Christian in relation to personal consumer responsibilities.
Knows the obligations of a Christian in respects to handling money.
Knows how to properly maintain a bank account
Knows the importance of budget and finances.
Knows the importance of saving money for future use.
Knows how and why it is important to of build a good credit rating.
Knows proper procedure for applying for jobs (resumes, cover letters, interview)
Knows and understands consumer rights and responsibilities.

COMPUTER APPLICATIONS 1 & 2

Knows the responsibilities as a Christian to develop the skills God has given to us.
Understands the ethics of the computer world and how that affects us as Christians.
Understands WORD terminology and the Word Window.
Understands EXCEL terminology, Excel Window, and the basic characteristics of a worksheet and workbook.
Understands ACCESS terminology and concepts of a database.
Understands POWERPOINT terminology, PowerPoint window, and basics of creating a multi-list presentation.

GENERAL BUSINESS

Understand the importance of Christian business people in our world today.
Acquire a working understanding and vocabulary of common business terms.
Become aware of the many activities, problems, and decisions involved in successfully operating a business.
Gain an appreciation of the importance of business in our economy.

ACCOUNTING

Understands the responsibilities of a Christian in the accounting field.
Knows accounting terminology related the 3 main types of business, Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Corporation.
Understands accounting practices used in an accounting system for service, merchandising, and manufacturing businesses.
Demonstrates knowledge of accounting procedures used in an automated accounting system.

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING

View the computer as another tool used to fulfilling the cultural mandate.
Appreciate the history of man's quest for calculating devices and the development of the modern computer.
Use a flowchart to organize and communicate the logic used in the solution of a problem.
Design and code structured programs using the TrueBASIC language to solve a problem, including problems using search routines, sort routines, and simulations.
Observe common courtesies and acceptable use policies while network computing.

FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

HOUSING/INTERIOR DESIGN

To develop a knowledge and appreciation of housing needs in the past, today and in the future.
The student will identify individual needs in selecting house design.
To develop a knowledge, appreciation and apply the elements and principles of design.
The student will demonstrate knowledge of primary and secondary colors including value and intensity.
The student will identify the art principles (balance, rhythms, scale, proportion, emphasis, unity, and variety.)
The student will apply the art principles and elements (pattern, texture, line, form, space, and color) to room arrangements.
To develop knowledge and apply the principles of managing resources (time, energy, and money) related to interior decorating.
The student will discuss careers related to the field of interior design.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Recognize the importance of knowing how to care for God's children.
Focus on the mental, physical, emotional, and social developmental stages of developing children.
Understand the responsibilities of parenthood.
Identify stages in the family life cycle.
Discover cultural influences on families.
Recognize careers in the field of child development.
Gain insight on child abuse and other family crisis situations.
Understand the stages of pre-natal and neonatal development.

NUTRITIONAL HEALTH

To develop knowledge and understanding of the basic nutrients and their effect on the human body.
The student will relate nutritional labeling to food buying.
To develop knowledge and understanding of the food pyramid and how it relates to meal planning.
To learn and apply the principles of sanitation related to food preparation.
To learn and apply the principles of safety related to food preparation.
To apply the basic learning skills to food preparation.
To develop a knowledge and apply the principles of management of resources (time, energy, and money) to food preparation.
Using established criteria, the student will select and analyze recipes for laboratory experience.
To develop an understanding of the necessity of working harmoniously in food preparation groups.
Comprehend the variety of careers in the field of food and nutrition.

CREATIVE LIVING

To gain further knowledge of and practice personal grooming.
The student will identify responsibilities, skills, and qualities needed to relate to others.
Comprehend the necessity of understanding, accepting, and respecting the uniqueness of self and others
List the benefit of maintaining a wellness program.
Describe the physical, mental, emotional, spiritual aspects of health.
To develop knowledge and understanding of the basic nutrients and their effect on the human body.
To learn and apply the principles of sanitation related to food preparation.
To learn and apply the principles of safety related to food preparation
To apply the basic learning skills to food preparation.
Develop the ability to work with others.
To develop knowledge of use and care of kitchen equipment.
Serve food properly and with good etiquette.
To learn and apply principles of managing resources (time, energy, money.)
To apply the basic learning skills to clothing construction.
To develop knowledge of use and care of sewing equipment.

CONSUMER HEALTH

Explain the differences in meaning of the terms health and wellness.
Explain the basic components of physical fitness.
Describe the healthy functioning and proper care of the skin, hair, nails, eyes, ears, teeth, and gums.
Discuss how mental disorders are recognized and classified.
Identify stressors and discuss the physical and emotional effects they cause.
Identify nutrient types and the food pyramid and show their part in maintaining good nutrition.
Identify the major health risks associated with being overweight or underweight.
Identify the health risks related to smoking.
Identify some of the long term effects on alcohol abuse on health, including the health of the unborn infant.
Identify the benefits of being a wise consumer.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

SPANISH I

Develops skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing the target language
Recognizes God as ruler over all areas of the world and peoples of the earth
Recognizes that language is one of God's special gifts reserved for humans
Engages in conversations using the target language first in the present tense, later in the "ir a" construction to express future experiences, and finally in the "pretérito" tense for expressing past experience
Comprehends the written and spoken (and sung) word
Expresses himself/herself in the written and spoken word
Uses informal affirmative commands
Recognizes that the structure of the target language and the student's language(s) often differ somewhat
Becomes more understanding of daily life, everyday activities, literary and artistic works and expressions, especially with the target culture in a) Mexico, b) Texas, California, and other parts of the United States, c) Puerto Rico, d) Spain, e) Peru, f) Argentina, and g) Chile using the textbook Juntos Uno, Prentice Hall

SPANISH II

Further develops the skills and patterns of communication listed in Level One
Recognizes differences and similarities between the target culture and his own
Reviews and expands the number of verbs in the tenses learned in Level One: present, "ir a" for future and the "pretérito"
Communicates in the "imperfecto" tense and understands the difference between the "pretérito" and "imperfect" tenses, which are both used for past tense
Uses affirmative and negative commands both in formal and informal structures
Uses the future tense in addition to the "ir a" form for future situations
Continues to better understand daily life, everyday activities, literary and artistic works and expressions, especially with the target cultures of a) Costa Rica, b) Mexico, c) the Dominican Republic, d) New York, e) Argentina, and f) Spain, especially as presented in Juntos Dos, Prentice Hall
Recognizes the advantages of being bilingual in Spanish and English in the United States

SPANISH III

Continues to use the target language to express thoughts, opinions, and feelings, building on the skills in levels one and two and using more complicated structures
Reads and comprehends more literature, especially poems and short stories, than in the rather limited experiences of levels one and two
Reads and comprehends information in periodicals
Successfully views and reads works in the target language
Demonstrates knowledge of more complex grammatical structures, those reviewed from previous levels and those first introduced
Learns to use the subjunctive mood in the target language
Continues to appreciate and understand the Hispanic culture through vocabulary dealing with a) childhood, b) friendship, c) travel, d) health and exercise, e) food, f) jobs and sports, g) the environment, h) the media, i) shows, and j) the future, as presented in Juntos Tres, Prentice Hall

SPANISH IV

Continues to use the target language to express thoughts, opinions, and feelings, building on the skills in the first three levels of Spanish
Reads and comprehends more literature than in levels one, two, and three
Reads and comprehends information in periodicals
Expresses himself/herself much more naturally (less translation) than in earlier levels
Demonstrates knowledge of most verb tenses in the Spanish language
Does more writing than in the earlier levels
Becomes fairly comfortable using the subjuntive mood
Continues to learn about the culture of a) one's role in society, b) the city and the country, c) art, d) communication, e) the indigenous peoples, f) volunteer work, g) mysteries of the world, h) jobs, i) violence in the world ,and j) different cultures as presented in Paso a Paso, Scott Foresman

INDUSTRIAL ARTS DEPARTMENT

INDUSTRIAL ARTS I

To understand the importance of accurate measurements.
To understand the application of wood finishes.
To know the common kinds of wood , their characteristics and uses.
To understand good design and workmanship.
To understand how to plan their work in an orderly efficient manner.
To understand safe practiced in the school shop.
To understand the proper use of basic hand tools.
To understand the proper use of portable electric tools.
To understand the methods, techniques and practices of mechanical drawing using Auto Cad Lt. computer drafting software.

INDUSTRIAL ARTS II

To understand the proper use of woodworking tools.
To understand the safe and proper use of the arc welder.
To understand the safe and proper use of the wire welder.
To understand good design and workmanship.
To understand the cooperation in completing projects as a team.
To understand safe practices for the school shop.
To understand the proper assembly of a wood project.
To understand the proper use of woodworking machinery.
To understand the basics of geometry and how it applies to projects.
To understand the process of design, build and finishing a project.
To understand the basic alternating current electricity circuitry and how it is used in residential circuits.

INDUSTRIAL ARTS III

To understand the operation of all woodworking equipment
To understand the value of analyzing and planning to achieve results.
To understand the care and repair of household furniture items.
To understand the use of computer assisted drafting in regards to architectural drafting.
To understand how a home is constructed following Uniform Building Code practices.
To understand the materials used in residential construction
To understand how to read residential blue prints
To understand how to make basic residential electrical blue prints
To understand how 3-D software is used in the making residential drawings.
To understand safe practices in the school and home shop.
To understand the value in completing a project.

LANGUAGE ARTS DEPARTMENT

ENGLISH I

After completing two semesters of freshman English, the student will be able to...

Understand that human language is a unique gift from God intended for edification and service.
Understand the value of clarity in speaking and writing.
Understand the various uses of technology in regard to research and writing.
Demonstrate an increased vocabulary and an awareness of the flexibility in the English language.
Demonstrate an appreciation for language as it functions in each individual's life.
Make connections between what is read and one's personal perspective.
Analyze and explain various literary devices.
Appreciate the vast diversity of literature in text and video as it is presented in thematic fashion.
Read and interpret selected plays, stories, novels, and essays, discuss these with other readers, and respond to them in writing.
Use language clearly, appropriately, and creatively to further personal explorations and curiosity.
Demonstrate a skill for seeing issue from another person's perspective.
Demonstrate a thorough knowledge and practical application of the writing process.
Demonstrate the skill of working independently on six personally selected projects.
Understand how the English language works to bring ideas to its intended audience.

ENGLISH II

Demonstrates competence in the general skills and strategies of the reading process.
Demonstrates competence in the general skills and strategies for reading a variety of literary texts.
Demonstrates competence in the stylistic and rhetorical aspects of writing.
Uses grammatical and mechanical conventions in written compositions.
Gathers and uses information for research purposes with a particular goal of thinking about vocational plans.
Acquires knowledge of the significant ideas and cultural values presented in what is generally regarded as the best in American literature.
Realizes how God has allowed talented writers to entertain, inspire, and instruct others.
Sees language as God's gift to mankind to be used for clear, original thinking, effective communication, and relevant action in Christ-centered living.

ENGLISH III - COLLEGE PREP.

After completing two semesters of college preparatory English, the student will be able to...

Understand that human language is a unique gift from God intended for edification and service.
Understand the need for clarity in the spoken and written word.
Demonstrate, use, and show improvement in the four major areas of writing: exposition, narration, description, and persuasion.
Demonstrate a thorough knowledge and practical application of researching an issue, writing a paper, and documenting the research.
Read and interpret selected plays, stories, poems, novels, and essays, discuss them with other readers, and respond to them in writing in a prescribed format.
Vary language according to purpose, situation, and audience.
Understand the various uses of technology in regard to research and writing.
Demonstrate a thorough knowledge and practical application of English usage and mechanics.
Demonstrate an increased vocabulary and an awareness of the flexibility in the English language.
Demonstrate an appreciation for language as it functions in each individual's life.
Analyze a literary work-in written text and on video-and develop a written critical analysis of that work.
Demonstrate an awareness of proper test-taking procedures particularly as they relate to essay responses on tests.

ENGLISH III - GENERAL

Demonstrates competence in the general skills and strategies of the reading process.
Demonstrates competence in the general skills and strategies for reading a variety of informational texts.
Demonstrates competence in the general skills and strategies of the writing process.
Uses grammatical and mechanical conventions in written compositions.
Demonstrates knowledge of different types of literature, the ideas of known writers as presented in literature, and the marks of good literature.
Increases proficiency in using language in practical business procedures and everyday communications.
Communicates thought more effectively through accurate spelling, proper usage, and increased vocabulary.
Strives to use clear, original thinking, effective communication, and relevant action in Christ-centered living.

SPEECH

Students will implement speaking and listening strategies for a variety of purposes.

Evaluate own and others' effectiveness in formal presentations (e.g., accuracy, relevance, and organization of information; clarity of delivery; relationships among purpose, audience, and content; types of arguments used).
Adjust message wording and delivery to particular audiences and particular purposes (e.g., to defend a position, to entertain, to persuade).
Make formal presentations to the class (e.g., includes definitions for clarity; supports main ideas using anecdotes, examples, statistics analogies, and other evidence; uses visual aids or technology).
Use a variety of explicit techniques for presentations (e.g., modulation of voice, inflection, tempo, enunciation, physical gestures, eye contact) and demonstrate poise and self-control while presenting.
Respond to questions and feedback about own presentations (e.g., defend ideas, expand on a topic, use logical arguments).
Make informed judgments about non-print media (e.g., detect elements of persuasion and appeal in advertisements; recognize the impact of pace, volume, tone, and images on media consumers).
Understand influences on language use (e.g., political beliefs, positions of social power; culture).
Understand techniques used to develop a visual presentation.
Use a variety of criteria to evaluate sources and speeches from a Christian perspective (e.g., motives, credibility, and perspectives of authors and speakers; validity and reliability of source information; relevance of a source).

JOURNALISM

Read the newspaper on a regular basis.
Expand their vocabulary in both general language use and in the area of journalistic terms.
Conduct effective interviews and become comfortable contacting people they don't know.
Write using typical news structure and quotes effectively.
Write in a variety of news styles (i.e. hard news, features, editorials, sports, etc.)
Write in a more concise, vivid style.
Learn newspaper design and layout.
Contribute ideas for content of the Eagle's Cry.

ADVANCED JOURNALISM

Recognize the audience of the Eagle's Cry and target a broad audience.
Lead a team to produce a product.
Contribute ideas and well-written articles.
Learn to do layout using InDesign computer software.

ENGLISH IV

Read, interpret and respond to a variety of literary genres.
Expand their vocabulary in both general language use and in the area of technical literary, linguistic and writing terms.
Identify themes in classic literature.
Evaluate themes from a Christian viewpoint.
Present their ideas clearly through speech, writing and various software media.
Identify the six traits of writing and use that knowledge to write in a clear, interesting style.
Read a variety of literary types (i.e. drama, short story, novel, poetry, myth, etc.) with understanding.
View and evaluate classic film, exploring film making techniques.

DESKTOP PUBLISHING

Explore various aspects of good design.
Expand their vocabulary in both general language use and in the area of publishing terms.
Use digital cameras and scanners.
Take good photos and format them for various applications.
Write good captions.
Work as a team member to create an acceptable product.
Be self-motivated to accomplish a task.
Use Indesign and Photoshop.
Follow specified styles and guidelines and check their own work thoroughly.
Gather information from various sources.

ADVANCED DESKTOP PUBLISHING

Choose a theme for the year.
Lead a team to produce a product.
Students will contribute content.
Set general design guidelines and styles for the students to follow.
Proofread.
Assist classmates with software and design questions.

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

MATH I

Appreciate that mathematics is part of God's orderly creation and a way of describing orderly and dependable patterns and relationships in creation.
Understand properties of numbers and practice applications.
Perform basic operations on algebraic expressions,
Solve problems with fractions in equation format.
Use proportional reasoning.
Use exponents, square roots, and scientific notation.
Solve and graph linear equations.
Understand the concept of function.
Review basic concepts of geometry.
Use a variety of strategies to solve problems and connect mathematics with daily life.

ALGEBRA I

Appreciate mathematics as part of creation and as a language that describes patterns and relationships in creation.
Operate in the real number system and apply real number properties.
Perform basic operations on algebraic expressions.
Solve and graph linear equations and inequalities.
Solve and graph quadratic equations.
Solve systems of equations.
Use exponents, square roots, and scientific notation.
Use fractional expressions and equations.
Understand the concept of a function.
Use a variety of strategies to solve problems including algebraic models, geometric (graph) models, and numeric (table) models.
Use appropriate technology to efficiently solve problems.

MATH II

Recognize, through mathematical principles that we live in an organized world created by God for man to enjoy and appreciate.
Understand the real number system and practically apply the properties involved.
Perform operations on algebraic expressions.
Solve linear equations by graphing as well as through mathematical strategies
Learn to approach problem solving with a definite plan.
Solve systems of linear equations by graphing as well as through mathematical strategies.
Learn the meaning of and how to work with exponents, square roots and scientific notation.
Learn to work with fractions in algebraic expression and equations.
Understand the concept of a function.
Recognize that daily preparation is necessary in school life as well as for life beyond the school years.

GEOMETRY

Understands that mathematics, as a creation of God, operates as a system to explain relationships, explore and predict outcomes and functions within a set of rules that govern outcomes.
Understand that although mathematics began long ago to help solve practical problems, it also focuses on abstractions from that world.
Understands that in mathematics, simplicity is the key to problem solving.
Understands that mathematics often stimulates innovations in science and technology.
Understands that mathematics provides a precise system to describe objects, events, and relationships and to construct logical arguments.
Selects and uses an appropriate direct or indirect method of measurement in a given situation (e.g., uses properties of similar triangles to measure indirectly the height of an inaccessible object).
Solves real-world problems involving three-dimensional measures (e.g., volume, surface area)
Understands that object and relations in geometry correspond directly to objects and relations in algebra (e.g., a line in geometry corresponds to a set of ordered pairs satisfying an equation of the form y = mx + b)
Use the Pythagorean Theorem and its converse and properties of special right triangles (e.g., 30 - 60 - rt, 45 - 45 - rt) to solve mathematical and real-world problems.
Understand trigonometric ratio methods to solve mathematical and real-world problems (e.g., determination of the angle of depression between two points with different elevations).
Use inductive and deductive reasoning to make observations about and to verify properties of and relationships among figures (e.g., the relationship among interior angles of parallel lines cut by a transversal).
Use properties of and relationships among figures to solve mathematical and real-world problems (e.g., uses the property that the sum of the angles in a quadrilateral is equal to 360 degrees to square a building; uses understanding of arcs, chord, tangents, and properties of circles to determine the radius given a circular edges on a circle without center.
Understands the concept of mathematical "proof" and sees how this can develop a systematic set of rules in a mathematical system. (e.g., how does congruent angles in a triangle lead to congruent sides).
Understands that mathematical proof can be verified by empirical evidence from computer applications. (e.g., use Geometer Sketchpad to explore and make concrete, concepts introduced by way of deductive proof).
Solves linear equations using concrete, informal and formal methods (e.g., using properties, graphing ordered pairs, using slope-intercept form, using point-slope form).
Solves simple inequalities and non-linear equations with rational number solutions, using concrete and informal methods.
Understands basic operations (e.g., combining like terms, expanding, substituting for unknowns) in algebraic operations.
Uses the rectangular coordinate system to model and to solve problems.
Solves simple systems of equations and inequalities graphically.
Uses a variety of methods (e.g., with graphs, algebraic methods) to solve systems of equations and inequalities.

ALGEBRA II

Appreciate mathematics as part of creation and as a language that describes patterns and relationships in creation.
Operate in the complex number system and apply real number properties.
Perform basic operations on algebraic expressions.
Solve and graph linear equations and inequalities.
Solve and graph quadratic and polynomial equations.
Solve systems of equations.
Use matrices and matrix operations.
Use exponents, radicals, scientific notation, and logarithms.
Use fractional expressions and equations.
Understand and apply many types of functions including linear, quadratic, polynomial,radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions.
Use a variety of strategies to solve problems including algebraic models, geometric (graph) models, and numeric (table) models.
Use appropriate technology to efficiently solve problems.
Solve problems in right triangle trigonometry.

MATH IV

Understands that mathematics, as a creation of God, operates as a system to explain relationships, explore and predict outcomes and functions within a set of rules that govern outcomes.
Understand that although mathematics began long ago to help solve practical problems, it also focuses on abstractions from that world.
Understands that in mathematics, simplicity is the key to problem solving.
Understands that mathematics often stimulates innovations in science and technology.
Understands that mathematics provides a precise system to describe objects, events, and relationships and to construct logical arguments.
Understands that mathematical systems that appear to be very different may have the same structural underpinnings (e.g., binary multiplication, a series electrical circuit, and the logical operations "and" have the equivalent roles of "0," "off," and "false," as well as "1," "on," and "true." respectively).
Uses a variety of methods (e.g., approximate solutions, such as sign changes, successive approximations and graphical) to solve complex equations (e.g., polynomial equations with real roots).
Understands the basic concept of the inverse of a function.
Uses discrete structures (e.g., finite graphs, matrices, sequences) to represent and to solve problems.
Understands the basic applications of and operations on matrices.
Uses recurrence relations (i.e., formulas expressing each term as a function of one or more of the previous terms, such as the Fibonacci sequence or the computation of compound interest) to model and to solve real-world problems (e.g., home mortgages, annuities, investments).
Understands counting procedures and reasoning (e.g., use of the Addition Counting Principle to find the number of ways of arranging objects in a set, the use of permutations and combinations to solve counting problems).
Understands appropriate terminology and notation used to define functions and their properties (e.g., domain, range, function composition, inverses).
Understands characteristics and uses of basic trigonometric functions (e.g. the sine and cosine functions as models of periodic real-world phenomena).
Understands properties of graphs and the relationship between a graph and its corresponding expression (e.g., maximum and minimum points, use of derivative).
Understand basic operation on vectors (e.g., vector addition, scaler multiplication).
Understands the basic properties and uses of polar coordinates.
Understand the properties of the normal curve (i.e., the graph used to approximate the distribution of data for many real-world phenomena) and how the normal curve can be used to answer questions about sets of data.
Understands the concepts of probability (e.g., permutations, combinations, conditional probability, odds, etc.).
Understands the types of conics and real-world applications which behave as conics. (e.g., parabolic reflectors, elliptical orbits, hyperbolic trajectories).

MUSIC DEPARTMENT

CHORAL AND INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

We, as Christians believe that God created the world in which we find ourselves. We also believe we, as image bearers, have been placed in this world to understand, shape, use, and enjoy this creation. Sound is part of God's created order. We believe, then, that it is our calling to respond sensitively to the sound surrounding us and develop the potential of shaping these sounds in an expressive way. The music curriculum emphasizes those sounds purposefully organized by human endeavor in fulfillment of our role as as image bearers.

We believe that Christians should be taught to use musical sounds in praise and worship of God through service in community and with other image bearers. Our music curriculum must, therefore, encourage each student to develop his/her musical abilities as image bearers of their Creator, and thereby lead them musically toward a life of praise to God and service to others. The musical activities at Pella Christian High help students discovers ways to meet this goal through the use and development of their musical abilities.

Music instruction at Pella Christian High School incorporates the study, appreciation, and performance of music for worship and an on going devotional life into music standards for our students:

Sings, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music.
Performs on instruments, alone, and with others, a varied repertoire of music
Improvises melodies, variations, and accompaniments.
Reads and notates music
Knows and applies appropriate criteria to music and music performances.
Understands the relationship between music and history and culture.

These content standards drive the rehearsals and the performances of:

Concert Band 9-12
Concert Choir 10-12
Junior Choir 9-10

PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The student will achieve and maintain a level of physical fitness.
The student will demonstrate the skills and movements needed to perform physical activities.
The student will know the value and benefits of movement and physical activity.
The student will understand the social and personal responsibility associated with participation in physical activity.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

Students will investigate and describe motion and forces.
Students will investigate and describe the structure and properties of matter.
Students will investigate and describe the interactions of energy and matter.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

Students will locate the anatomical structures and describe the functions of body systems and explain how all systems work together to maintain the body's equilibrium.
Students will identify disorders and diseases associated with the body systems.

BIOLOGY

Students will recognize the importance of many species of organisms and their roles in creation.
Students will investigate and describe how organisms respond to internal and external stimuli.
Students will investigate and describe the structure and function of cell parts and processes.
Students will investigate and describe cell reproduction ( mitosis and meiosis) and molecular basis of heredity.

CHEMISTRY

Students will know the atomic theory and its development.
Students will know common elements and their chemical characteristics.
Students will understand chemical equations and apply them to our world.
Students will understand the role of energy in chemistry.

ADVANCED BIOLOGY

Students will investigate and identify how body structures are uniquely designed and adapted for their function.
Students will predict and demonstrate how organisms respond to internal and external stimuli.
Students will understand that organisms are classified into a hierarchy of groups and subgroups based on similarities that reflect a common Creator.

ADVANCED CHEMISTRY

Students will understand the structure and properties of matter.
Students will investigate and describe chemical reactions with an emphasis on writing equations.
Students will investigate interactions of energy and matter.
Students will learn and practice laboratory procedures.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Students will understand man's role as the caretaker of God's creations.
Students will see how ecosystems on earth are interdependent.
Students will know various environmental problems and possible solutions to those problems.
Students will know the relationship between environmental concerns and the human population.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

GEOGRAPHY

Having taken this course, the student should...

Understand the five basic themes of geography, particularly as they are viewed from a Christian perspective.
Understand the characteristics and uses of maps and globes.
Understand how geography is helpful in learning about history and the variety of cultures in the world.
Know the location and basic description of the countries of the world, including both God-made and man-made features.
Understand political, economic, and social relationships between peoples of the world.
Know the different climates of the world and how they relate to settlement patterns, economic development, and lifestyle choices.
Understand the concept of regions.
Understand the meaning, use, distribution, and importance of the world's resources.
Know the meaning and usage of geographical terms.
Appreciate the blessings of his/her place in God's world.

WORLD HISTORY

Students will be able to understand the following standards:

The advancement of man from the time of his creation to the present.
The purpose of studying history from a Christian point of view
3. Relate how the past affects the present and the future
Describe the successes and failures of past civilizations that have shaped the world we live in today
Understand the contributions by specific individuals and events that have created important turning points in history
Appreciate the development of the various cultures around the world, and understand how their geography and history have influenced the development of these cultures
Identify the various cultures and civilizations that have influenced history and describe their contributions to developing civilizations
Describe lessons learned from the civilizations of the past
Understand how people's lives have changed over the course of history through political, social, and cultural changes
Discuss the values of the various peoples that influence world history and compare the values of the past to our values today
Know and appreciate the sacrifice of many individuals so that we have continued freedom

CONTEMPORARY AFFAIRS

Students will be able to understand the following standards:

The current issues of the day in the light of their historical past.
The national affairs as reported in newspapers, magazines, and television broadcasts.
The international affairs as reported by the above mentioned sources
The vital role of having an informed citizenry.
The multicultural nature of our society.
How to read the commentaries from editorials in the news.
The importance of being able to express their opinions based on the best information available
The importance of bias in the various sources used to learn about the important issues of the day.
How to discuss and listen in a large group setting
How to apply our Christian beliefs to the various issues of the day, and use these beliefs to guide our actions in response to the events of the day.
Understand the complexities of the moral issues that we face in the modern world.
Apply Christian beliefs to the difficult issues of the day.

U.S. HISTORY

Students will be able to understand the following standards:

The cultural interaction between Europe, Africa, and the Americas in the colonial era.
Recognize the influential role Europe played in forcing the interaction between continents in the colonial era.
Explain the differences that occurred as each of these colonies developed.
Explain the causes of the Revolutionary War
Identify the key people and events that influenced the outcome of the Revolutionary War.
Explain the significance of the development of the Constitution and the principles that influenced its creation.
Understand the early struggles faced by a new American nation
Explain the causes for the developing sectional struggle that would eventually lead to the civil war.
Describe the events that contributed the Civil War
Explain the significance of the Civil War and Reconstruction Era in American History.
Understand the economic, political, and international developments in US History in the Late 1800s.
Describe the influence of the Populist movement on American society.
Explain the causes of WWI and the role the US played in WWI.
Describe the cultural changes that occurred during the 1920s
Explain the causes of the Great Depression and how FDR's New Deal transformed America's view of government.
Describe the causes of WWII, and the role of the US in WWII.
Analyze the causes of genocide and the Christian response to evil in the world.
Describe American society in the Cold War.
Explain the causes of the tumult of the 1960s and the impact of the various movements that rose in the 60s.
Describe the key events of the 70s, 80s, and 90s that have influenced our world today.

PSYCHOLOGY

Students will be able to understand the following standards:

The various approaches to the field of psychology
The influence of biology on behavior.
The various theories and stages of development that influence behavior throughout all of life.
Describe the various views of consciousness
Explain the importance of sleep and the theories regarding the purpose of dreams.
Describe the various theories on learning.
Explain the different techniques used in classical and operant conditioning.
Understand the influence of Freud on Psychology
Identify the symptoms of the various Psychological disorders.
Explain the various types of therapy used by psychologists to treat those with disorders.

MODERN U.S. HISTORY

Students will come to understand the cultural and philosophical movements that have influenced American culture in the last 50 years.
Students will examine the philosophical roots of popular culture as it has developed from the 1950's to the present. This includes music, television, and movies.
Students will work to understand how the past has influenced their own culture.
Students will examine the artistic nature of cinema, and how movie directors wrestle with philosophical and cultural issues. To that end the goal is to watch and critique one movie from each decade.
The goal of this course is to try and get students to examine cultural, historical, and political issues from a Biblical perspective, and to see the root causes of some of the problems facing our culture.

U.S. GOVERNMENT

Having taken this course, the student should...

Understand the central ideas of American constitutional government and how this form of government has shaped the character of American society.
Understand the basic concepts of the US Constitution's Preamble, seven articles, and 27 amendments. This includes a basic knowledge of the three branches of government in the United States and the individual freedoms of the Bill of Rights.
Understand the roles of political parties, campaigns, elections, and associations and groups in American politics.
Understand the biblical basis for government and the role of the Christian in a free and democratic society.
Understand how participation in civic and political life can help citizens attain individual and public goals.
Understand the issues involving the relationship between individual liberties and the good of the society at large.
Know the differences between limited and unlimited government, between a variety of forms of government, and between presidential and parliamentary systems of government.
Understand the historical background to the development of America's democratic and constitutional government.
Understand the concepts of federalism, the separation of powers, judicial review, popular sovereignty, and the due process of law.
Understand the issues pertaining to voting rights in the United States, and the procedures for exercising those rights.
Understand the meaning of citizenship in the United States, and the requirements for citizenship and naturalization.
Understand the role, the formation, the measurement, and the effect of public opinion, and the influence of pressure groups.