Course Descriptions

Learn about our classes 2023-2024:

Elementary Classes

US & World Civics
Earth Science (Apologia)
Beginning IEW (Ancient History)
Elementary Literature
Orton-Gillingham Spelling
Elementary Spanish
American Sign Language (ASL)
Elementary Fine Art

Middle/High School Classes

Literature
Spanish 1
Spanish 3
Fine Art

US & World Civics: Citizens in Training
4th - 6th Grade

Course description:
No one is ever too young to learn how to become a good and responsible citizen! Learning about government and civic duty does not have to be boring or for adults only; civics is for ALL citizens, especially young ones.

In this course, students will learn basic knowledge of the US government and its functions and then consider how that knowledge applies to the rights and responsibilities of its citizens and their own lives as young citizens in training. With this foundation, students will then explore other types of governments from around the world and how they compare to the US. This course is intended to be an engaging and exciting introduction to civics that will lead to greater understanding of our government and other forms of government in other countries. It is the goal of this class to help young people begin acquiring the knowledge and understanding that will prepare and assist them to become knowledgeable and responsible citizens throughout their lives.

This class is designed to be fun AND informative; engaging AND empowering! A good, contributing citizen begins with an educated one! The various topics covered over the first half of the course will be the basics of the US government (e.g., brief history, our democratic design and process, three branches of government and how they work together, etc.), important founding documents (e.g., Constitution, Bill of Rights), voting, citizenship, what is civic duty and what it looks like in America, and more. Students will be encouraged to ponder and think, discuss, ask questions, and learn that they have “a voice” as a citizen and how they can use it. The second half of the course will look at other forms of government around the world and consider how they compare to what we have as US citizens.

This will be done through visual presentations, various forms of media, and activities that will help students grasp and apply what they are learning. The class is designed to be very interactive and engaging as students learn the importance of government, its role and impact on its citizens, and also the role of its citizens.

Homework expectations:
Students will have an activity book comprised of various tasks to complete each week (e.g., complete a page in their activity book, gather information on the lesson topic being covered, etc.). It is not designed to be rigorous but to encourage students to begin to explore and learn more about US and World civics and stay engaged in the course from week to week.

Class materials:

On the Guiding Arrows Materials Exchange Day, students will receive:

An activity workbook students will work through during class and throughout the week.
Resources are still being reviewed and explored and have not been finalized. More information will be forthcoming as the course materials are finalized.

Materials fee (per year): TBD (approx. $20)
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Earth Science: Apologia Exploring Creation with Earth Science
4th - 6th Grade

Course description:
During this Earth Science course, we will dive deeply into God’s amazing creation! We will honor Him by exploring rocks, minerals, weather, our solar system, galaxies, air, and so much more. We will even become cartographers while tapping into mapping skills. We will think like geologists, meteorologists, and astronomers (we will also explore extensions into each of these career paths).

We will complete a wide variety of experiments (using the scientific method process) and hands-on activities throughout the course. Students will watch informative video clips, participate in interactive games, follow along with slideshow presentations, and engage in mapping activities.

Homework expectation:
20 – 30 minutes of studying, reading/writing activities
20 – 30 minutes of projects/activities as needed

There will be a few quizzes, so review of material will be expected (guides will be provided).
An end of semester project/paper will be expected once or twice during the course. This will take the place of aforementioned activities (ample guidance will be provided- the project will be child-centered and should not be completed by a parent).

Class materials:
Textbook: Apologia Exploring Creation with Earth Science (2021 Edition)
https://www.apologia.com/product/earth-science-textbook/

Optional: Apologia Exploring Creation with Earth Science Audiobook (available as MP3 download or Audiobook CD)

MP3 Download
https://www.apologia.com/product/earth-science-mp3-download-audiobook/

Audiobook CD
https://www.apologia.com/product/earth-science-mp3-audio-cd/

Materials fee (per year): $30
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Elementary IEW: Ancient History
4th - 6th Grade

Course description:
Let your students explore fascinating aspects of the ancient world while learning to write with structure and style! (IEW). We will dive into ancient literature that will provide a foundation for imaginative and enjoyable writing. The class includes nine units: take notes, retell stories, summarize references, write from pictures, write essays, compose formal critiques, and more.

Outside of class, students can expect 30-40 minutes of daily homework using a checklist to write and rewrite papers using the Structure and Style® techniques taught in class. All work, both during and outside of class, is expected to be written entirely by the student. However, the parent may decide whether having the student dictate the rough draft, while the parent types, is an option that will lessen the frustration. All final copies will be typed and turned in on Google Classroom. Parents should plan to be available at home as a listener and editor. More about the process will be shared before class starts. Students will be asked to keep a notebook of their completed and polished works throughout the year.

Prerequisites:
This beginning level IEW class is for 4th-6th graders who can write 4-5 sentences independently, who are able to spell fairly well, and who may have been introduced to basic paragraph writing but not necessarily Structure and Style (IEW).

Also helpful but not required:
Have a basic understanding of parts of speech: noun, verb, adjective, and -ly adverbs.

Homework expectations: 2 hours/week

Class materials:
Textbook (required): IEW- Ancient History Based Writing Workbook (student book).
Found Here: https://iew.com/shop/products/ancient-history-based-writing-lessons-student-book-only

Also recommended: The teacher workbook to be used for homework assistance. Found Here: https://iew.com/shop/products/ancient-history-based-writing-lessons-teacherstudent-combo

Materials fee (per year): $0
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Elementary Literature
4th - 6th Grade

Course description:
Develop a love for literature through a selection of stories that range from silly to serious! Miss Clines will guide students through vocabulary studies, historical context, author biographies, and literary elements for each book. Students will play games, improve comprehension, and discuss literature alongside friends. Get ready for good times with good books!

Books:

A Bear Called Paddington (Michael Bond)
Snow treasure (Marie McSwigen)
Homer Price (Robert McCloskey)
The Cricket in Times Square (George Selden)
Rolf and the Viking Bow (Allen French)

Homework expectation:
Read or listen to assigned sections -about 45 minutes per week
Review vocabulary taught in class -10 minutes per week

Class materials:
Books may be purchased or borrowed from the library. Audio books are also acceptable for students who find the reading level above their current ability.

A Bear Called Paddington (Michael Bond)
Snow Treasure (Marie McSwigen)
Homer Price (Robert McCloskey)
The Cricket in Times Square (George Selden)
Rolf and the Viking Bow (Allen French)

Amazon Book List
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/GSZIHQ53662G?ref_=wl_share

Materials fee (per year): $0
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15, 2022. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Orton-Gillingham Spelling
3rd - 5th Grade

Course description:
Should I use c, k, or ck? Do I put an e at the end? Spelling doesn’t have to be confusing or boring! Say goodbye to weekly spelling lists that are memorized and forgotten. After learning structured phonics and orthographic spelling rules taught in the Orton-Gillingham method, your student will know the logic behind English spellings. Orton-Gillingham is a method that is beneficial for all learners and especially helpful to those with dyslexia. Instruction is multi-sensory, explicit, and direct. Students will think deeply, using question and answer analysis and graphic organization of the content. Phonemic awareness, the alphabetic code, and orthography will be taught and practiced.

Use the following list to determine if your student has already mastered the concepts that will be taught in the first half of this course. Pronounce the words clearly and repeat them as needed, but do not assist with sounding out or spelling.

hoof, gloss, citrus, regent, welt, bicep, cull, shifty, spry, gallant, stern, scarf, major, gist, thrice, skeet, valve, booth, extreme, skiff, exclude, slope, jade, ying, brink

If your student misses 5 or more words, this class is perfect for their level. If they miss less than 5, the first half of the year will be review for them, or they may prefer a more advanced spelling curriculum.

Miss Clines has tutored using the Orton-Gillingham method for three years and received training through The Institute for Multi-Sensory Education (IMSE) and the Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA). She is currently working toward OGA Associate Level certification.

Homework expectations:
Review concept and practice words between classes -30 minutes per week

Class materials:
Students will need a dry erase board (8x10 or similar size) and dry erase markers/eraser. A further list of supplies will be sent to parents and include items such as pencil, paper, pens, notebook, etc.

Materials fee (per year): $0
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Elementary Spanish
4th - 6th Grade

Course description:
This class will be taught through thematic units that will be 4-5 weeks long. Kids will learn meaningful vocabulary related to each theme through repetitive language, engaging visuals, stories, songs, videos, games, movement, interactive activities, and even crafts all packed into a high energy class that is sure to lay a strong foundation for your child's Spanish learning journey ahead. Upon enrollment, parents will receive access to an online student center which contains materials and resources related to our classes, so that your child can use them to practice and receive additional input between classes. There will be no homework outside of practicing what we did in the previous class to be prepared for the following class, as our main focus will be to actively communicate with each other during class time.

You will need basic materials such as pencils, paper, glue, etc. for when we are guided through crafts as well as access to a printer, as I will regularly send out emails with printables to complete together in class. You will also occasionally be asked to provide additional items - most of which will be readily accessible to you at home - to enhance the class experience for certain themes.

Materials fee (per year): $0
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

American Sign Language (ASL)
3rd - 5th Grade

Course description:
Sign your student up for American Sign Language! This hands-on course is going to be a fun and engaging exploration of the language, Deaf History, and Deaf Culture. This course is especially good for visual and kinesthetic learners. Your student will learn the following:

A broad vocabulary
Conversational skills in ASL
Receptive & Expressive language skills
Cultural understanding

Homework expectations:
Students will be given light homework each week to practice what they learned in class.

Class materials:
Students are required to buy Barron’s American Sign Language: A Comprehensive Guide to ASL 1 & 2 (Amazon $18). They will also need to have a notebook, pens and pencils, and a folder for the class.

Materials fee (per year): $0
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Important: ASL will have 3 class sessions before the normal Guiding Arrows calendar schedule begins. These classes will take the place of few classes in September when the instructor is unavailable.

Additional classes will be held:
Monday, August 21st at 11:00am
Wednesday, August 23rd at 11:00am
Thursday, August 24th at 11:00am

Elementary Fine Art
3rd - 5th Grade

Course description:
Whether you love art or find it daunting, this class is for you! Drawing is the foundation of all art forms, and, in this course, students will learn the systematic and logical skills of observational drawing, and they will be amazed at their artistic ability! Moving from graphite to charcoal to watercolor, students will be able to recreate the world around them with accuracy and beauty.

No previous art experience needed.

While instruction and exercises will overlap with the middle school class, major projects will differ.

Homework expectations:
No homework- occasionally a student may need to finish a step in a project before the next class.

Class materials:
Materials will be provided by the instructor at the Guiding Arrows Materials Exchange day.

Materials fee (per year): $35
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Literature: Mysteries and Adventure
7th - 9th Grade (6th with approval)

Course description:
The goal of this course is to set the groundwork for becoming a mature reader. This will be a school year of moving past simply reading for entertainment or to learn basic facts. Instead, students will be guided in digging deeper and developing their analytical skills.

Our theme this school year is “Mysteries and Adventure.” We’ll spend the first semester reading an eclectic mix of books and stories that fit into the mystery category. These will span the literary spectrum from gothic mystery (The Secret Garden), to psychological thriller (The Most Dangerous Game), to classic oddity (The Metamorphosis), to Victorian era sci-fi (The Invisible Man), and much more.

During the second semester, we’ll dive into tales of adventure. Again, we will read a wide mix of stories in this category, including a famous saga about temptation, hunger for power, and unlikely heroes facing immeasurable evil (The Fellowship of the Ring), a witty and fanciful trip down the "rabbit hole" (Alice in Wonderland), a fantasy novel ripe with Biblical allusions (Prince Caspian), and a satirical and nostalgic portrayal of a boy growing up in the mid-19th century American south (The Adventures of Tom Sawyer).

In addition to reading novels and short stories, students will spend part of the class exploring poetry and learning about an array of literary devices and terms to better understand their reading.

Homework expectations:

1. Read about 50 pages a week.

2. Be prepared to participate in class discussions and share ideas.

3. Create a final project based around our reading for the year.

Class materials:
All books should be unabridged. Students are welcome to utilize audiobooks but should also have a physical copy of the books.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
The Invisible Man by H. G. Wells
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
The Most Dangerous Game by Richard Connell
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving
The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien
Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
Prince Caspian by C. S. Lewis

All copies of the poetry and other short stories will be provided by the teacher.

Materials fee (per year): $0
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.

Spanish 1
7th - 10th Grade (6th with approval)

Course description:
This class is designed for students who are new to the study of a language. Level One will introduce students to listening, reading, speaking, and writing as well as the study of Latino culture.

Listening and reading are the language skills that students acquire first, so active participation is essential.

The classroom methodology is based upon the TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling)/CI (Comprehensible Input) method. Each student must have access to a computer at home in order to complete the online assignments. In addition to the class, 2-3 hours of homework will be assigned each week. In class there will be homework review, presentation of new material, and fun, interactive exercises. Students will read at least one short novel.

**Please note that this class will meet 2 times per week.

Homework expectations:
In the first semester there will be about 1 hour of homework per week. This will increase as students build their skills.

Class materials:
There is no textbook, but we will read 1 or 2 novels.

Materials fee (per year): $10
Class fees for the full year ($420* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $450 after June 15.

Spanish 3
9th-12th Grade (Prerequisite Spanish 2)

Course description:
Spanish 3 builds on previously learned concepts and continues to challenge the student in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture.

This class requires active participation and focused attention. Each student must have access to a computer at home in order to complete the online assignments. In addition to the class, about three hours of homework will be assigned each week. In class there will be homework review, presentation of new material, and fun, interactive exercises all presented with comprehensible input.

**Please note that this class will meet 2 times per week.

Homework expectations:
2-3 hours per week to include reading, listening activities, vocabulary practice, and some writing.

Class materials:
There is no textbook, but we will read 1 or 2 novels.

Students may use their notebook from Level 1 and continue adding items, or they may begin a new one.

Materials fee (per year): $10

Class fee:
Class fees for the full year ($420* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $450 after June 15.

Fine Art
6th - 8th Grade

No previous art experience needed.

While instruction and exercises will overlap with the elementary school class, major projects will differ.

Homework expectation:
No homework- occasionally a student may need to finish a step in a project before the next class.

Class materials:
Materials will be provided by the instructor at the Guiding Arrows Materials Exchange day.

Materials fee (per year): $35
Class fees for the full year ($320* + materials fee) are due on June 15. This fee increases to $350 after June 15.