Spanish Courses
Course Catalog
This Course Catalog contains descriptions, costs, and other important information for each course we offer. Feel free to contact any of the faculty members with further questions. Students must be rising 7th graders and at least 12 years old by the first day of class in order to register for 7th grade courses.
Costs:
Registration Fee: $50/student/academic year [$75/student/academic year if registering after May 15, 2017]
Tuition: $100/course/quarter or $170/course/semester (beginning with the 2017-2018 academic year)
Any additional expenses (textbooks, lab fees, materials, etc.) are noted in the course description. Textbooks and materials should be purchased at least two weeks before class.
All classes meet once per week for 90 minutes, except for Physics classes, which meet for 2 hours. Although individual class requirements will vary somewhat from class to class and from week to week, each class generally requires about 3 to 5 hours of reading, study, and/or homework outside of class per week in addition to actual class attendance.
If you are wondering what courses to take and when to take them, a suggested 7th to 12th grade curriculum plan is available below. (Please note that not all classes are offered every year.)
Costs:
Registration Fee: $50/student/academic year [$75/student/academic year if registering after May 15, 2017]
Tuition: $100/course/quarter or $170/course/semester (beginning with the 2017-2018 academic year)
Any additional expenses (textbooks, lab fees, materials, etc.) are noted in the course description. Textbooks and materials should be purchased at least two weeks before class.
All classes meet once per week for 90 minutes, except for Physics classes, which meet for 2 hours. Although individual class requirements will vary somewhat from class to class and from week to week, each class generally requires about 3 to 5 hours of reading, study, and/or homework outside of class per week in addition to actual class attendance.
If you are wondering what courses to take and when to take them, a suggested 7th to 12th grade curriculum plan is available below. (Please note that not all classes are offered every year.)
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Spanish I, II, and III
Taught by Josue Raimundo
(grades 7 - 12)
Books and materials will be issued the first day of classes. Mrs. Waller will send invoices for these materials for payment.
Spanish-language sources and hands-on objects will be used to teach more than one aspect of Spanish, including vocabulary, grammar, culture, caring, and community.
Students will build vocabulary, confidence with conversation, and grammar, all of which will immediately be put to use with each other. They will be able to write simple sentences in Spanish. Students will have many chances to participate interactively as well as opportunities to listen to authentic Spanish. Homework will be given to reinforce what was learned in class and the student should work on Spanish every school day between classes. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with building blocks to communicate, express ideas and opinions at a basic level in Spanish. Josue hopes to instill in each student a deep appreciation for the Spanish language. The work completed for each course equals one high school credit.
Spanish I focuses on basic daily conversations with an emphasis on speaking and writing the language.
Spanish II focuses on Spanish grammar and mid-level conversational skills. The student will learn to speak and write about different issues related to daily living. Students will learn different conjugations of verbs and acquire a clear understanding of the grammatical components and tools to express themselves in Spanish.
Spanish III concentrates on reading, discussions, literature, debates, and essays on various topics. Spanish III will also cover advanced grammar and composition. (Class size: 3–10 students/class)
Purchase Spanish books on the first day of class at Tara Learning Center.
(grades 7 - 12)
Books and materials will be issued the first day of classes. Mrs. Waller will send invoices for these materials for payment.
Spanish-language sources and hands-on objects will be used to teach more than one aspect of Spanish, including vocabulary, grammar, culture, caring, and community.
Students will build vocabulary, confidence with conversation, and grammar, all of which will immediately be put to use with each other. They will be able to write simple sentences in Spanish. Students will have many chances to participate interactively as well as opportunities to listen to authentic Spanish. Homework will be given to reinforce what was learned in class and the student should work on Spanish every school day between classes. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with building blocks to communicate, express ideas and opinions at a basic level in Spanish. Josue hopes to instill in each student a deep appreciation for the Spanish language. The work completed for each course equals one high school credit.
Spanish I focuses on basic daily conversations with an emphasis on speaking and writing the language.
Spanish II focuses on Spanish grammar and mid-level conversational skills. The student will learn to speak and write about different issues related to daily living. Students will learn different conjugations of verbs and acquire a clear understanding of the grammatical components and tools to express themselves in Spanish.
Spanish III concentrates on reading, discussions, literature, debates, and essays on various topics. Spanish III will also cover advanced grammar and composition. (Class size: 3–10 students/class)
Purchase Spanish books on the first day of class at Tara Learning Center.
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Spanish I:
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Spanish II:
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Spanish III:
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Composition/Literature ITaught by Tom Rogers
(grades 7 - 9) Composition/Literature I includes writing and its many elements, mechanical and creative. Initial emphasis is on mechanics: overall organization, sentence structure, and spelling. This course also includes a comprehensive, year-long review of the fundamentals of English grammar. Creativity, the interest factor, is integral from the beginning, increasing in significance as mechanical issues are resolved. Assignments may include basic essay forms, book reports, creative writing, newspaper forms, letters, poetry, term papers, and reviews. The course stresses preparation for college-level writing and formats. Each quarter is structured around one or two classic works of literature or history, including children’s literature. Special exercises deal with the importance of titles, openings, and conclusions. There will be writing exercises during and outside of class, in addition to longer-range projects. Spelling concentrations include spelling problem words, ie/ei words, Latin expressions, and foreign language expressions. Vocabulary study of word meanings using Greek and Latin word roots will be included. This course stresses both reading and writing, but the emphasis here is on writing. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Prerequisite: None. Purchase Books at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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Composition/Literature IITaught by Tom Rogers
(grades 8 - 10) Composition/Literature II is an intermediate course in writing that also includes a broad survey of world literature from ancient times to the modern era. Students will study various works of literature and explore their historical and stylistic contexts. The course stresses preparation for college-level writing and formats. Each quarter is structured around one or two classic works of literature or history. There will be writing exercises in and out of class, plus longer-range projects. Assignments may include term papers, essays, book reports, research projects, creative writing, and letters. Spelling and vocabulary enrichment covers difficult words and word spellings, foreign expressions, and word roots. Grammar will be included as needed. This course stresses both reading and writing, but the emphasis here is on writing particularly, including cover letters, resumes, college application essays, etc., as well as general preparation for the SATs. This course serves as a "bridge" between the grammar-intensive and writing fundamentals-intensive Composition/Literature I course and the heavier reading and longer-form writing requirements of the American and British Literature survey courses. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Prerequisite: Composition/Literature I is recommended (but not required). Purchase Books at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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Composition/Literature I (Comp I) and Composition/Literature II (Comp II) are usually offered in alternate academic years. Students entering 7th or 8th grade in years when Comp I is not offered will have an opportunity to enroll in Comp I the following year. Although Comp II is intended primarily for students in 9th or 10th grade, 8th graders who have successfully completed Comp I may take Comp II.
Survey of American Literature
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Survey of British
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Survey of American Literature and Survey of British Literature are offered in alternate academic years and may be taken in any order. These courses emphasize not only literature (both courses have a substantial reading requirement) but also research paper preparation, writing improvement, and intensive vocabulary enrichment. Although these two courses are intended primarily for students in grades 10 to 12, 9th graders who have successfully completed Comp II may also enroll.
World Literature/Writing (Honors Course)
Administered by Tom Rogers
(grades 11 - 12)
Students who have completed either (or preferably both) the American and the British Literature courses are eligible to enroll in an Honors Literature and Writing course. For more information, see World Literature/Writing (Honors).
(grades 11 - 12)
Students who have completed either (or preferably both) the American and the British Literature courses are eligible to enroll in an Honors Literature and Writing course. For more information, see World Literature/Writing (Honors).
BiologyTaught by Karen Scott
(grades 8 - 12) This is a college-prep biology course providing a detailed introduction to the methods and concepts of general biology. Topics include the scientific method, kingdom classification, microscopy, biochemistry, cellular biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evolution, dissection, and ecosystems. Students will perform three dissections including a frog in the spring. The work completed equals one high school credit. An honors credit will be available to students 9th grade and up after meeting additional requirements. (Class size: 4–10 students) Cost: Lab Materials Fee, $25 Purchase Book at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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Advanced BiologyTaught by Karen Scott
(grades 11 - 12) This is an Honors course which, when combined with Exploring Creation with Biology, gives the student the equivalent of a university biology course. These two courses together, cover the entire "advanced placement" (AP) curriculum. The Human Body: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made covers both the anatomy and the physiology of the human body's eleven organ systems in detail. Students must have completed a first year biology course and the equivalent of a first year chemistry course before taking this course. Lab will be included and the student will do at least three dissections during the year. The work completed equals 1.5 high school credits. (Class size: 4–10 students) Prerequisite: Both Biology and Chemistry Cost: Lab Materials Fee, $25 Purchase Book at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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PhysicsTaught by Sharon Eberly
(grades 11 - 12) This course provides a detailed introduction to general physics. Course contents include one-dimensional and two-dimensional motion, Newton’s laws, circular motion, gravity, work, energy, momentum, periodic motion, waves, optics, electrostatics, electrodynamics, electrical circuits, and magnetism. The laboratory component will reinforce course content in all topic areas. Interactive computer simulations will provide further experimentation to aid conceptual understanding. The work completed equals one high school lab science credit. An optional honors credit will be offered to students who choose to meet additional course requirements. Please note that Physics classes are 2 hours in length (not 90 minutes). (Class size: 4–10 students) Cost: Lab Materials Fee, $25 Prerequisite: To succeed in this course, students must have a working understanding of Algebra I and Geometry and be able to manipulate and solve multivariable equations. Students should also know the three basic trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, and tangent) and their inverses, be able to convert units using the metric system, and be comfortable using scientific notation. Purchase Books at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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ChemistryTaught by Karen Scott
(grades 9 - 12) This is a college prep chemistry course designed to give the student a rigorous foundation in chemistry. Topics include significant figures, units, classification, the mole concept, stoichiometry, themochemistry, acids and bases, thermodynamics, kinetics, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular geometry, the gas laws, and equilibrium. The work completed equals one high school credit. An honors credit will be available to students 9th grade and up after meeting additional requirements. (Class size: 4–10 students) Cost: Lab Materials Fee, $25 Prerequisite: At least a C+ in Algebra I. Purchase Book at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
Physical ScienceTaught by Karen Scott
(grades 7 - 12) Although this course is designed by Dr. Wile as the last science course the student takes before high school biology, it can be a high school class when supplemented with additional papers and projects. The following is an excerpt from the Apologia site: “this course discusses such topics as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth, environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics. The author especially concentrates on the myths generated by the hysterical environmentalist movement.” The work completed equals one high school credit. An honors credit will be available to students 9th grade and up after meeting additional requirements. (Class size: 4–10 students) Cost: Lab Materials Fee, $25 Purchase Book at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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Algebra ITaught by Leanne Caldwell
(grades 7 - 12) Algebra I is the foundation for solving many real-life problems and of all math and science that a student will take in high school and beyond. This Algebra I course strives to equip students with algebraic fundamentals to succeed in future math and science work. The class will explore concepts in a concrete manner before it progresses to abstract equations and real-world applications. Topics covered in this course include algebra in the four operations, absolute value, radicals, systems of equations, exponents, rates of change, quadratic equations, and algebraic properties to manipulate expressions, equations, and inequalities. Students who complete this class will be prepared for any future classes that require Algebra I as a prerequisite. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Notes on the textbook: The student edition is one hardcover text. The teacher's edition comes in two volumes and there is a solutions manual. You do not need the teacher's editions or the solutions manual, unless you want to get them. There is a 3rd edition; Tara is using the 2nd edition. Only the student text is required. It is listed on Amazon, AbeBooks, and others for as little as $1. Purchase books/supplies at least 2 weeks before the first class:
Algebra II
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GeometryTaught by Leanne Caldwell
(grades 8 - 12) This geometry course is a high school course that emphasizes problem solving, everyday applications, and the use of technology and reading, while developing and maintaining basic skills. The UCSMP Geometry integrates, coordinates, and gives strong attention to measurement formulas and 3-dimensional formulas. The course also introduces logical symbols early on and teaches two-column proofs. Algebra is integrated throughout the course. Real-world applications show students why they need to learn geometry. While the text covers typical topics found in other geometry courses, it also includes a brief introduction to trigonometry. Students do learn how to do traditional constructions with compass and straight edge, as well as how to use a protractor, but such constructions and drawings take a back seat to learning through study and the application of logic combined with the use of electronic tools. The work completed equals one high school credit. Students must use a scientific calculator with this course. A graphing calculator (see class materials) is highly recommended. (Class size: 4–10 students) Notes on the textbook: The student edition is one hardcover text. The teacher's edition comes in two volumes and there is a solutions manual. You do not need the teacher's editions or the solutions manual, unless you want to get them. There is a 3rd edition; Tara is using the 2nd edition. Only the student text is required. It is listed on Amazon and elsewhere for as little as $5. Purchase books/supplies at least 2 weeks before the first class:
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*Note on Calculators: If you are going to purchase a graphing calculator for either Algebra I or Geometry, the TI-83/84 graphing calculator is recommended. This is the only advanced calculator for which Mrs. Caldwell can offer tech support. This calculator is also approved for SAT/ACT tests.
Public SpeakingTaught by Ellen Rogers
(grades 8 - 12) Students will learn to present themselves and their subject matter in a confident, polished manner. We will address verbal and non-verbal verbal communication skills through the practice of extemporaneous speaking, formal lectures and a variety of public speaking scenarios. The long-term goal is to master self-confidence and clarity when speaking in front of large and small groups in a variety of settings. This will be accomplished through a series of informal and enjoyable exercises. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 6–10 students) Prerequisite: None Latin I and IITaught by Tom Rogers
(grades 9 - 12) The study of Latin is very worthwhile. Latin is a highly structured language that depends heavily on a system of word endings ("declensions") and word order to convey clear meaning. Latin language study emphasizes logic and order in both thinking and writing. The three primary modern Romance languages -- French, Spanish, and Italian -- are all derived from the base structure and root words of Latin. Finally, a working familiarity with Latin provides students with a lifelong and significant boost in verbal acuity. Statistically, a working knowledge of any foreign language translates into better reading comprehension, improved writing ability, a wider vocabulary range, and higher SAT verbal scores. TLC's Latin classes utilize Latin course materials developed for secondary schools by Cambridge University. Latin I and II emphasize the study of Latin for reading knowledge, English vocabulary enrichment, and a better understanding of language structure. The work completed for each course equals one high school credit. (Class size: 6–10 students) Prerequisite for Latin I: None Prerequisite for Latin II: Latin I Latin I*: Purchase the workbooks at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
Latin II*: Purchase the workbook at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
*Workbooks must be purchased. The corresponding textbooks, however, can be purchased or borrowed. For more information about this, contact the instructor. |
Biblical Thinking/ ApologeticsTaught by Josue Raimundo
(grades 8 - 12) What is thinking? How do we think? Why do we think? What, after all, is a Christian thinker? In this course, Josué Raimundo uses the Bible to answer these basic questions, thereby teaching students not primarily what to think, but how to think. As the class explores Biblical thinking, students will discover practically what is the beginning of all knowledge and how to apply it. Because of the nature of thought in the Biblical worldview, Josué necessarily takes the class through Biblical logic, which leads to Biblical debate. “Biblical Thinking” therefore counts as a comprehensive course in both logic and debate. Using the whole of 1 Peter 3:15 as an ideological and functional bedrock, students will emerge from this class with a new confidence in the reasonableness and authority of the Word of God, and a new competence in dialoguing with the world about what Christians believe. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Note: This course is accessible -- in part -- via online instruction. Please contact the instructor if you have questions regarding this course. Prerequisite: None Survey of the BibleTaught by Josue Raimundo
(grades 8 - 12) This course is a comprehensive survey course of the entire Bible, covering the Old and New Testaments, with a focus on content, theology, and practical implications of the Bible in today's world. The purpose of the course is for students to have a clear understanding of God's revelation in the story of the Bible. We will seek to establish the pillars of truth on which our faith rests. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Suggested Reading: Promises Made (Old Testament), Mark Dever (Crossway Books, 2006), and Promises Kept (New Testament), Mark Dever (Crossway Books, 2005) Note: This course is accessible -- in part -- via online instruction. Please contact the instructor if you have questions regarding this course. Prerequisite: None |
U.S. Government/
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Philosophy and Comparative ReligionTaught by Ellen Rogers
(grades 10 - 12) This course is designed to introduce students to the major streams of philosophical and religious thought competing for dominance in the “public square.” The first semester will focus on the fundamental branches of philosophy including, logic, metaphysics, ontology, epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, and political philosophy. In addition, we will examine how these philosophical categories are expressed in less formalized worldview commitments. The second semester will focus on comparing and contrasting the basic contours of major and minor world “religions,” including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Atheism, Naturalism/Materialism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Mormonism, and New Age Spirituality. Throughout the course, particular emphasis is placed on the use of well-reasoned arguments in Christian apologetics. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Purchase Books at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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World HistoryTaught by Tom Rogers
(grades 8 - 10) This literature-based survey course will cover world history from ancient times through the modern era. Each quarter, students will be assigned papers, projects, and various investigative homework assignments. Students will also read a number of biographies and supplemental readings, as well as 8 to 10 fine examples of historical fiction written expressly for young adults. The objective in this course is not only to provide a solid overview and understanding of world history but also to instill a love for history, biography, and historical fiction in each student. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Prerequisite: None Purchase Books at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
First Quarter: Ancient History
Second Quarter: The Middle Ages
Third Quarter: 18th-19th Century
Fourth Quarter: 20th-21st Century
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U.S. HistoryTaught by Ellen Rogers
(grades 9 - 12) This course offers a survey of American history from a biblical perspective. Students will learn about the people, events, geography, and ideas that shaped the development of our nation and engage in an honest evaluation of both her wonders and her flaws. In addition to the basic text, students will read and report on an additional, teacher-approved book (a biography, autobiography, or memoir) by or about a significant figure in American history. The work completed equals one high school credit. (Class size: 4–10 students) Purchase Book at least 2 weeks before classes begin:
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