2025-2026 Class Descriptions
High School Classes
US Government & Constitution with Current Events
We will dive into the history, meaning, and daily functions of the U.S. Constitution in our life and our nation. From its original meaning to the controversies that arise from re-interpretations of it, you will understand how and why the Founding Fathers fashioned adocument of God-given rights that have stood the test of time and political tinkering. For Economics portion our class will help your high school students understand God’s views on money. Students will finish this course knowing biblical and practical ways to avoid debt, save money, spend wisely, and give from a heart of grace. This course also covers the origins and history of various currencies, the historical impact of the Federal Reserve, and modern money mechanics. We also will work weekly on current events as students listen to podcasts and evaluate news from a Christian worldview.
US History
American History fulfills a High School credit and invites students to not only learn history, but to examine it with a careful eye considering worldviews and understanding that God alone is sovereign over all of History. Events never occur in a vacuum. We will journey throughout history together as we make weekly stops on our timeline. Students will make timelines, create projects, write papers, and become excellent note-takers in their preferred note- taking method.
IEW Writing & Grammar for High School
This class is intended for the high school student who has a solid grammar and writing foundation and is familiar with Institute of Excellence in Writing’s systematic methods. The pace will be steady, seeking to transform the more reluctant writer and supercharge the most talented writer. Grammar, writing, and vocab will be included during class time. Weekly homework expected to be approximately 2+ hrs per week. Optional literature recommendations provided.
Please note: For success in this class, parents should be actively involved and are expected to check grammar homework and edit weekly writing assignments. I will offer feedback but not grades. Kindly consider if this class would be a suitable fit for your family.
IEW WRITING:
Students will build on their current writing skills, expanding their knowledge and abilities to write clearly and creatively. Using U.S. History Based Writing Lessons as a starting point, students will work through IEW units 1– 9 as they learn to take notes, retell narrative stories, summarize references, construct formal essays and persuasive essays, compose creative stories, and create a formal critique. Enhanced lessons from IEW’s Advanced U.S. History Based Writing Lessons will be integrated.
GRAMMAR:
Using Our Mother Tongue, students will solidify their grammar foundation. Fundamentals include 8 parts of speech, sentence patterns, grammar rules, capitalization, and punctuation.
WRITING MATERIALS:
1. U.S. History Based Writing Lessons STUDENT BOOK (IEW), ISBN: 978-1-62341-324-8
GRAMMAR MATERIALS:
1. Our Mother Tongue: A Guide to English Grammar STUDENT BOOK (Nancy Wilson), ISBN-10 ? : ? 1947644556, ISBN-13 ? : ? 978-1947644557
2. Our Mother Tongue: A Guide to English Grammar ANSWER KEY (Nancy Wilson), ISBN-10 ? : ? 1947644726, ISBN-13 ? : ? 978-1947644724
Communications & Public Speaking
Students will learn valuable communication skills and the basics of public speaking during this hands-on, interactive class. Topics covered will include: Presentations, journalism, video broadcasting, event planning, communication planning, and more! All students will be part of our school newsletter and school video broadcast publications.
Apologetics 1
Worldview Exploration….Worldviews come in various forms, but are they equally logical, rational and truthful? Do all worldviews point to God or do some claim a way to God outside of what is true?
In this class, your students will learn scripture to address the big questions that every worldview needs to answer, develop evaluation skills to think critically about various beliefs circulating in our culture, and begin to develop a strong Christian worldview on the truth of scripture and the firm foundation of the Gospel.
Why is this important? It's important because many adult Christians find it difficult to articulate their beliefs in the midst of opposing worldviews. However, through Bible application, thoughtful discussions and cultural study, your students will develop confidence and compassion to hold fast to their faith (Heb. 10:23), be ready for an answer (1 Peter 3:15) and participate in the Great Commission (Matt. 28:16-20) with courage, clarity and kindness.
Apologetics 2
Semester 1: Biblical Reliability
Semester 2: Proof of the Resurrection - Why It is true and not a myth - OR- The Historicity of the Bible (How was it compiled? Why do we believe it is God breathed? Inerrancy, Infallibility and the Sovereignty of Scripture)
*Completion of Apologetics 1 is a requirement for Apologetics 2 where they will continue an in depth study of Apologetics 1.
Introduction to Auto
Students will start off by learning about the history of the automobile and the impact it had on America. We will then spend some time going through each major system in a car, Engine Repair/Performance, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission/Axles, Suspension & Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, and Heating and Air Conditioning. At the conclusion of the course students will be able to put their knowledge to use as we cover Basic Automotive Maintenance, Roadside Emergency Repairs, and Basic Dealership/Repair shop Operations.
Chemistry
Friendly Chemistry: A Guide to Learning Basic Chemistry
By Joey Hajda DVM MEd and Lisa B. Hajda, MEd
Friendly Chemistry is a complete high school-level chemistry course which uses simple language and a multitude of analogies to make learning (and teaching) chemistry easy! Friendly Chemistry utilizes games, activities and lab experiences to make the concepts crystal clear and readily retained.
Topics Covered in Friendly Chemistry include:
-The Atomic Theory
-Trends of the Periodic Table of Elements
-Quantum Mechanics (Electron Arrangement)
-Ion Formation
-Compound Formation - Bonding
-Avogadro's Number and the Mole
-Calculation of Formula Weights and Percent Composition
-Empirical Formulas
-Writing and Classifying Chemical Reactions
-Balancing Chemical Equations
-Stoichiometry (predicting quantitative outcomes of reactions and predicting necessary amounts of reactants to produce a desired amount of product)
-Solutions and Molarity and application to stoichiometry
-The Ideal Gas Laws
Biology
Abeka curriculum
Yearbook
In this year-long course, students will learn the basics of photography and photo editing as well as yearbook production. In the yearbook aspect of this course, students will learn page design, marketing, journalism, and other skills required to create a memorable yearbook such as: teamwork, responsibility, brainstorming, content, coverage, reporting, writing, headlines, captions, editing, typography, design, graphics, finances, advertising, and distribution.
We will also touch on the photography aspect of this course, students will learn the fundamentals of digital photography. Four areas of instruction will be emphasized: camera’s operation, composition, lighting, photo editing. Students will receive basic instruction, demonstration, and see samples of the desired outcomes. Assignments will be based on what the students are learning in class. Assignments will include: reading, research, problem solving, photography projects, and yearbook projects. Students will often work in teams, but will be expected to complete individual assignments in relation to the team's work and on time. Assessment methods will include written tests and/or quizzes; oral and written research reports; reading assignments; and photography projects. The final grade results in the current volume of the CHA yearbook. The publication strives to have fun and provide students a way to preserve their time at CHA.
Bible Quizzing
This class will prepare students to participate in Teen Talent Bible Quizzing competition. Students will be taught how to memorize the questions and find answers in the Bible. The students will also learn how to utilize the Bible to research these answers.
Bible Quizzing questions are unique to our denomination, as the Church of God hosts it each year. It covers the history, polity, and statement of faith connected with the Church of God as well as a full Gospel understanding of the Bible
Middle School Classes
US History
The Mystery of History Volume IV covers world history from Johann Sebastian Bach (1708) to the global war on terror (2001–2014). Where most modern history books focus heavily on the World Wars, The Mystery of History Volume IV weaves American history into the pages of world history for proper context—on one thought-provoking timeline. We will dive into American history issues more in depth as we also complete timelines, work on mapping skills, and develop our note taking methods.
IEW Advanced Writing with Grammar
This class is intended for the advanced middle school student who has a solid grammar and writing foundation and is familiar with Institute of Excellence in Writing’s systematic methods. The pace will be steady, seeking to transform the more reluctant writer and supercharge the most talented writer. Grammar, writing, and vocab will be included during class time. You can expect homework to be approximately 2+ hrs per week. Optional literature recommendations provided.
Please note: For success in this class, parents should be actively involved and are expected to check grammar homework and edit weekly writing assignments. I will offer feedback but not grades. Kindly consider if this class would be a suitable fit for your family.
IEW WRITING:
Students will gain confidence in their writing abilities and learn how to express their ideas clearly and creatively. They will work through IEW units 1– 9 as they learn to take notes, retell narrative stories, summarize references, construct formal essays and persuasive essays, compose creative stories, and create a formal critique.
GRAMMAR:
Using Our Mother Tongue, students will solidify their grammar foundation. Fundamentals include 8 parts of speech, sentence patterns, grammar rules, capitalization and punctuation.
WRITING MATERIALS:
1. U.S. History Based Writing Lessons STUDENT BOOK: (IEW), ISBN: 978-1-62341-324-8
GRAMMAR MATERIALS:
1. Our Mother Tongue: A Guide to English Grammar STUDENT BOOK (Nancy Wilson), ISBN-10 ? : ? 1947644556, ISBN-13 ? : ? 978-1947644557
2. Our Mother Tongue: A Guide to English Grammar ANSWER KEY (Nancy Wilson), ISBN-10 ? : ? 1947644726, ISBN-13 ? : ? 978-1947644724
Creative Writing with Graphic Design Part 2
Students will continue learning and growing their digital illustration skills, while exploring several new methods for creative writing and storytelling. We will work towards publishing their 2nd book (students who completed part 1 of this class published their first book Spring 2025). Any students that would like to join this class and did not complete Part 1 will be required to complete a series of beginning teaching videos and projects for the Procreate Design App prior to class beginning in Fall of 2025. All students will need an iPad (or iPhone) and will need to purchase the Procreate App (one time purchase of less than $20). Optionally, a digital stylus is helpful (less than $15). Any questions, please contact Starr Haigler via email at Starrhaigler@gmail.com.
Science
Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics
?From the laws of motion to electricity and magnetism to the very building blocks of creation, this course is a God-honoring study about some of the most impactful scientific principles that are at work all around us. As your student works through this course, their scientific curiosity and confidence will explode as they engage with the thought-provoking lessons, and hands-on experiments that will bring theory to life. Your student will appreciate the fascinating (and fun!) world of science in a whole new way as they study the basic building blocks of creation, atoms and molecules, simple chemicals, the laws of motion, and energy in its many forms.
Middle School students will fully utilize the student notebook for class assignments and homework. Lesson tests will be sent home to be administered and graded at home.
Communication & Public Speaking
Students will learn valuable communication skills and the basics of public speaking during this hands-on, interactive class. Topics covered will include: Presentations, journalism, video broadcasting, event planning, communication planning, and more! All students will be part of our school newsletter and school video broadcast publications.
Creative Arts
This interactive class will cover an array of creative art methods, including: graphic design, digital photography with editing, drafting and design, product design, theater production, multimedia and more! Students will receive hands-on experience in each of these methods and develop their skills using a variety of techniques.
Yearbook
In this year-long course, students will learn the basics of photography and photo editing as well as yearbook production. In the yearbook aspect of this course, students will learn page design, marketing, journalism, and other skills required to create a memorable yearbook such as: teamwork, responsibility, brainstorming, content, coverage, reporting, writing, headlines, captions, editing, typography, design, graphics, finances, advertising, and distribution.
We will also touch on the photography aspect of this course, students will learn the fundamentals of digital photography. Four areas of instruction will be emphasized: camera’s operation, composition, lighting, photo editing. Students will receive basic instruction, demonstration, and see samples of the desired outcomes. Assignments will be based on what the students are learning in class. Assignments will include: reading, research, problem solving, photography projects, and yearbook projects. Students will often work in teams, but will be expected to complete individual assignments in relation to the team's work and on time. Assessment methods will include written tests and/or quizzes; oral and written research reports; reading assignments; and photography projects. The final grade results in the current volume of the CHA yearbook. The publication strives to have fun and provide students a way to preserve their time at CHA.
Bible Quizzing
This class will prepare students to participate in Teen Talent Bible Quizzing competition. Students will be taught how to memorize the questions and find answers in the Bible. The students will also learn how to utilize the Bible to research these answers.
Bible Quizzing questions are unique to our denomination, as the Church of God hosts it each year. It covers the history, polity, and statement of faith connected with the Church of God as well as a full Gospel understanding of the Bible
*NOTE- Students must be 13 years of age by the time they participate in the competition.
Elementary Classes
Foundations for 7 & 8 year olds
This exciting class offers a perfect blend of fun and learning. Your child will experience the joy of making friends while diving into subjects like Math Games, Bible study, Science/Nature Study, and Language arts in a way that feels more like play than schoolwork! Our small class size creates a close-knit environment where everyone can participate and thrive.
Foundations 1 will enhance what parents teach at home and provide a group setting for students to learn together. Light homework may be provided, but there won’t be any daily curriculum to follow. Foundations 1 provides practice with reading and numbers, as well as seasonal activities and lots of fun!
Foundations 2 for 9 & 10 year olds:
Early American History-
Watch early American history come alive through the rich, literature based history curriculum, Beautiful Feet. Through living books, we will learn about Indigenous people, the first explorers, the Colonial Period, the Revolutionary War, the young United States, and the Civil War. Families are encouraged to follow the reading plan at home to gain a more complete understanding of the material. Tuesday co-op classes will offer engaging discussion, map work, note booking and hands on activities.
THE FOLLOWING AT HOME MATERIALS ARE OPTIONAL BUT HIGHLY ENCOURAGED:
RESOURCES: (Used throughout the year)
Early American History Intermediate Teacher Guide by Rea Berg/ Rebecca Manor (2021 edition), ISBN: 9781893103900
A Child's First Book of American History by Earl Schenk Miers, ISBN: 9781893103412
LIVING BOOKS: (In reading order)
THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLES OF NORTH AMERICA: FIRST ENCOUNTERS
People of the Breaking Day by Marcia Sewall
The Vikings by Elizabeth Janeway
Hiawatha and the Peacemaker by Robbie Robertson
Children of the Longhouse by Joseph Bruchac
THE GOLDEN AGE OF DISCOVERY
Where Do You Think You’re Going, Christopher Columbus? by Jean Fritz
Pedro’s Journal: A Voyage with Christopher Columbus August 3, 1492-February 14, 1493 by Pam Conrad
THE COLONIES
Pocahontas and the Strangers by Clyde Robert Bulla
The Landing of the Pilgrims by James Daugherty
The World of William Penn by Genevieve Foster
Amos Fortune: Free Man by Elizabeth Yates
THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
A Voice of Her Own: The Story of Phillis Wheatley by Kathryn Lasky
George vs. George: The American Revolution as Seen from Both Sides by Rosalyn Schanzer
Toliver’s Secret by Esther Wood Brady
Why Not, Lafayette? by Jean Fritz
Remember the Ladies: A Story about Abigail Adams by Jeri Chase Ferris
Shh! We’re Writing the Constitution by Jean Fritz
THE YOUNG UNITED STATES
How We Crossed the West: The Adventures of Lewis and Clark by Rosalyn Schanzer
Heart of a Samurai by Margi Preus
The Story of Harriet Tubman, Conductor of the Underground Railroad by Kate McMullan
THE CIVIL WAR
Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman
John Lincoln Clem: Civil War Drummer Boy by E.F. Abbott
Seven Miles to Freedom: The Robert Smalls Story by Janet Halfmann
Language Arts Explorers-
Class time will enhance grammar knowledge, stretch writing talents, and weave in quality literature as time allows. Students will learn about phrases, clauses, and building sentences that they can incorporate into their own work. Writing practice in and out of the classroom will offer opportunities to hone public speaking skills. We’ll dive into nouns, pronouns, verbs, adverbs, conjunctions, interjections, prepositions, and adjectives through songs, games and written work. Class will be upbeat with rewards incorporated; optional homework will be offered.
Science-
Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Chemistry and Physics
?From the laws of motion to electricity and magnetism to the very building blocks of creation, this course is a God-honoring study about some of the most impactful scientific principles that are at work all around us. As your student works through this course, their scientific curiosity and confidence will explode as they engage with the thought-provoking lessons, and hands-on experiments that will bring theory to life. Your student will appreciate the fascinating (and fun!) world of science in a whole new way as they study the basic building blocks of creation, atoms and molecules, simple chemicals, the laws of motion, and energy in its many forms.
Physical Education (Ages 7-10)
Get ready to move, play, and grow! This engaging Physical Education (PE) class is designed for elementary students aged 7-10. Our focus is on building physical fitness, developing motor skills, and fostering teamwork through fun activities and games. Each session will include a mix of warm-ups, skill-building exercises, and exciting group challenges that promote coordination, strength, and confidence.
Whether your child loves sports or is just beginning their fitness journey, this class provides a supportive environment where every student can thrive. We emphasize active participation, positive attitudes, and the importance of staying healthy while having fun!
Key Focus Areas: Fundamental Movement Skills, Fitness and Health, Team Sports and Cooperative Games, Individual Sports and Activities, Rhythm and Dance, Outdoor and Adventure Activities.
Key Focus Areas (Descriptions):
Fundamental Movement Skills: Students will refine basic locomotor skills such as running, jumping, and skipping, as well as manipulative skills like throwing, catching, and kicking.
Fitness and Health: Age-appropriate exercises and activities will be introduced to improve cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and strength. We'll also discuss the importance of nutrition and hydration.
Team Sports and Cooperative Games: Children will learn the basics of popular team sports and participate in cooperative games that emphasize collaboration, communication, and good sportsmanship.
Individual Sports and Activities: Students will explore individual sports and activities to discover personal interests and talents.
Rhythm and Dance: Creative movement and simple dance routines will be incorporated to enhance coordination, and balance.
Outdoor and Adventure Activities: When weather permits, we'll take advantage of our outdoor spaces for nature walks, obstacle courses, and other exciting adventures.
Arts and Crafts
Details to come