The Scholars Connection

This course is designed to move from English basics to skill sets and ultimately to application and usages of English principles. Students read and respond to literature, learning about inferences, literary devices and comprehension of an author’s viewpoint. Writing will be aimed at specific purposes and audiences and will emphasize expression, reflection, style, influence and communication of ideas. Knowledge of English mechanics, grammar and spelling will be targeted in class discussions and students will be encouraged to formulate specific points of view. Students will develop strategies for active reading and clear writing.

Required Textbook:
Richbaub’s Academy Grammar 2, A Grammar Series for Middle School Writers by Richard M. Gieson, Jr., First Edition 2018, ISBN: 978-1724816450

Novels:
Will be purchased by TSC and provided to students at cost to ensure everyone works from the same version. Students will be reading Crispin – Cross of Lead by Avi.

Supplies Needed: 3-ring binder and paper, black/blue pens, highlighter, and composition notebook

The study of ninth grade English language arts will include grammar, vocabulary, literature and composition. Students will learn the disciplines of analysis, sentence construction, identification of parts of speech and the function and relationship of words in sentences. Class discussions will highlight oportunities for students to improve their communicaiton, presentation and critical thinking skills.

Required Textbook:
The Only Grammar Book You’ll Ever Need, Thurman, First Edition 2003, ISBN: 978-1580628556

Novels:
Will be purchased by TSC and provided to students at cost to ensure everyone works from the same version. Students will be reading The Short Story – 25 Masterpieces, edited by Ellen C. Wynn.

Supplies Needed: 3-ring binder and paper, black/blue pens, highlighter, and composition notebook

This course of study will continue to include literature, composition, grammar and vocabulary. Exploration of literature will demonstrate the effectiveness of English composition and presentation, while observing the alternate aims and audiences of written compositions. Emphasis will be placed on determining an author’s intent and theme and recognizing techniques used to deliver a message or idea.

Required Textbook:
The textual material will come from lecture and exercises that instructor will copy as class progresses. A small copy fee may be applied to cover copy expenses. The subjects included will be grammar, critical reading, prompts for writing, and quarterly speeches (written and delivered orally).

Novels:
Will be purchased by TSC and provided to students at cost to ensure everyone works from the same version. Students will be reading Pilgrim’s Progress in Today’s English by John Bunyan and Civil War Poetry and Prose by Walt Whitman.

Supplies Needed: 3-ring binder and paper, black/blue pens, highlighter, and composition notebook

This course will expand proficiencies in using the tools of reading and writing with emphasis on comprehension and mastery of syntax, grammar, punctuation, capitalization, spelling and usage in written communication. Word analysis and systematic vocabulary development will also be included. Writing skills will emphasize clear, logical writing patterns, word choice and usage, and will include the writing and delivery of assigned speeches. Essays will be written and the techniques of writing research papers will be studied and applied. Composition and literature will be blended into a cohesive whole as students write critical and comparative analyses of selected literary passages, continuing to develop and strengthen their skills.

Required Textbook:
Essentials of English (Barron’s Educational Series); Hopper, Gale, Foote and Griffith; 6th Edition; ISBN: 978-0764143168

Novels:
Will be purchased by TSC and provided to students at cost to ensure everyone works from the same version. Students will be reading The Turn of The Screw and The Aspern Papers by Henry James.

Supplies Needed: 3-ring binder and paper, black/blue pens, highlighter, and composition notebook

This course reviews basic math concepts, number sense, computation/estimation, areas, and measurements, ensuring students have a solid mathematical foundation. Students are then introduced to the basics of percentages, algebra, and geometry. This course includes some hands-on learning activities to be completed individually and in groups.

Prerequisite: Placement by instructor

Required Textbook:
Intermediate Mathematics, Abeka, 1st edition , 2019, #294012 (available on Abeka.com)

Supplies Needed:
Loose leaf binder with paper or 3-subject notebook, ruler, and pencils

The goal of this course is to prepare students for Algebra 1 – Introductory Algebra.

Pre-Algebra provides the foundation for Algebra. Main topics include fractions, decimals, integers, ratios and proportions, solving equations, percents, introduction to geometry and graphing. This class will incorporate some hands-on learning activities (individual and group) to be completed in class.

Prerequisite: Math 7/8 or placement by instructor

Required Textbook:
Barron’s Pre-Algebra The Easy Way, August 2019, Caryl Lorandini, ISBN: 9781438012094 (available on Amazon.com)

Other worksheets will be added for instruction and homework, but will be provided by the instructor.

Supplies Needed:
Loose leaf binder and paper or a 3 subject notebook, graph paper or notebook, ruler, pencils, and calculator (used in some sections)

The goal of this course is to prepare students for Algebra 2 – Intermediate Algebra.

Students learn to:

1. Simplify expressions using the order of operations
2. Solve linear equations and use them to solve application problems
3. Solve linear inequalities and graph and express answers in interval form
4. Find slope and intercepts of a linear equation in two variables
5. Simplify expressions using laws of exponents
6. Add, subtract, multiply and divide polynomials
7. Factor polynomials
8. Solve quadratic equations using multiple methods
9. Solve systems of linear equations in two variables
10. Write a linear equation given pertinent information

Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or placement by instructor

Required Textbook:
Introductory Algebra, Miller, O’Neill, and Hyde, Third Edition, ISBN 978-0073384542 (available used on amazon.com)

Supplies Needed:
Paper, pencil, graph paper, loose leaf notebook

The goal of this course is to prepare students for Pre-Calculus with College Algebra

Students learn to:

1. Solve polynomial equations by factoring
2. Solve equations involving rational expressions and apply them
3. Solve equations with radicals and rational exponents
4. Perform operations with complex numbers
5. Recognize functions defined by sets of ordered pairs, graphs, and equations and to apply function notation to applications
6. Sketch graphs of linear relations and determine a linear equation in two
   variables given pertinent information
7. Solve linear inequalities in one and two variables
8. Solve quadratic equations using the quadratic formula, completing the
   square, factoring, and extracting roots
9. Solve absolute value equations and inequalities

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or placement by instructor

Required Textbook:
Intermediate Algebra, Miller, O’Neill, and Hyde, Third edition, ISBN 978-0073384429 (available used on amazon.com)

Supplies Needed:
Pencil, graph paper, loose leaf notebook, straight edge (six inch ruler will suffice)

Geometry introduces mathematical properties, theorems, and vocabulary involving proofs. It includes topics such as the study of points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, polygons, circles, congruence and similarity, area and volume, and coordinate geometry. Geometry helps to develop critical thinking skills as it relates to logical reasoning and argument. Hands-on learning will be provided in many classes both individually and in groups.

Pre-Requisite: Algebra 1
NOTE: Students may take Geometry prior to or after taking Algebra 2.

Required Textbook:
Geometry, Seeing, Doing, Understanding; Harold R. Jacobs; 3rd Edition (2020 version); Paperback version ISBN: 978-1683442547; Check Christianbook and Masterbooks websites for sales.

Supplies Needed:
Loose leaf paper and binder, dividers, graph paper, pencils, ruler, compass, protractor and calculator

The goal of this course is to prepare students for appropriate level class when entering a college/university

Students will:

1. Solve quadratic and rational inequalities
2. Review the methods for solving quadratic equations, equations in quadratic form and radical equations
3. Develop an understanding of the concept of a function including topics such as the domain and range of a function
4. Study techniques of graphing functions including polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions
5. Use distance and mid-point formulas to develop equations of conics and convert the general form to standard form
6. Study the properties of logarithms and their application in simplifying expressions and solving exponential and logarithmic equations
7. Develop strategies for finding zeros of polynomial functions including Rational Roots Theoerm and Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
8. Study matrix solutions of linear equations

Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry or placement by instructor

Required Textbook:
College Algebra, 6th edition; Authors: Stewart, Redlin, & Watson; ISBN: 978-1111990169 (available used on amazon.com)

Supplies Needed:
Scientific calculator, pencil, graph paper, loose leaf notebook

This course teaches students about the nature of science, the history of life and some of the amazing creatures that exist in God’s creation, how the body works, and history of our earth. We will look at geology, fossil records, archaeology, paleontology, and introduce life science concepts that will be used later in biology. (Student Notebook that goes along with the book is required. It contains space for personal notes and has the questions and space for the On Your Own, Study Guide and Summary questions.)

Textbook Required:
Exploring Creation with General Science 3rd Edition, Sherri Seligson, Apologia, 2019, ISBN 978-1-946506-27-6
Exploring Creation with General Science 3rd Edition Student Notebook, Apologia, 2019, ISBN 978-1-946506-30-6

Supplies Needed:
Pocketed folder with three prongs, colored pencils, spiral notebook, fineline markers, calculator (suggested but not required), pen, pencil (for math), highlighter (any color), glue stick or small bottle of glue

This course is designed to be the student’s first high school science course and is a college-prep biology course that provides a detailed introduction to the methods and concepts of general biology. Heavily emphasizing the vocabulary of biology, it provides the student with a strong background in the scientific method, the five-kingdom classification scheme, microscopy, biochemistry, cellular biology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evolution, dissection, and ecosystems. It also provides a complete survey of the five kingdoms in Creation.

Textbook Required:
Exploring Creation with Biology, 3rd Edition, Apologia, 978-1-946506-45-0

Supplies Needed:
Pocketed folder with three prongs, colored pencils, 3-subject spiral notebook, fineline markers, pen, pencil (for math), highlighter (any color), glue stick or small bottle of glue

Topics include significant figures, units, classification, the mole concept, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular geometry, gas laws, and equilibrium.

Experiments include measuring specific heat, discovering the electrical conductivity of compounds dissolved in water, measuring the width of a molecule, exploring freezing-point depression, using the ideal gas equation, recognizing the effects of catalysts, and much more.

Prerequisite:
Must have successfully completed Algebra I

Textbook Required:
Discovering Design with Chemistry, Dr. Jay L. Wile, Berean Builders, 2015, ISBN 978-0996278461

Supplies Needed:
Pocketed folder with three prongs, colored pencils, 3-subject spiral notebook, fineline markers, pen, pencil (for math), highlighter (any color), glue stick or small bottle of glue, and scientific calculator (such as TI-30XS Multiview or TI-36XPro – both available from Amazon for less than $20)

Physics is often referred to as the “fundamental science” because it forms the basis of all other fields of science.  In this course we will look at fundamentals of motion, explore work and energy, waves, optics, electricity and magnetism.  To study and understand the details of how the above concepts interact in nature one must do a lot of observation and experimentation.  One of the aspects of observation and experimentation is measurement which this course of study will be practicing frequently.

Prerequisites:
Must be proficient with Algebra concepts and familiar with basic Geometry/Trigonometry concepts (sine, cosine, tangent)

Textbook Required:
Exploring Creation with Physics, 2nd edition, Apologia, ISBN 978-1932012422

Supplies Needed:
Pocketed folder with three prongs, colored pencils, 3-subject spiral notebook, fineline markers, pen, pencil (for math), highlighter (any color), glue stick or small bottle of glue, composition book, scientific calculator (such as TI-30XS Multiview or TI-36XPro – both available from Amazon for less than $20)

This course will take students on a guided trip of self-discovery as they use sight, hearing, taste, and smell to experience Texas history. The class will use a wide array of books, hands-on projects, virtual field trips, essay writing, and student presentations to delve into the great state of Texas and its rich history. Students will learn about geography, history, culture, government, economy, and citizenship, as they explore key people, events and influences that have earned Texas its larger than life reputation among other states.

Required Textbooks:
New Texas History Movies, Jack Jackson, 2007, ISBN: 978-0876112236
The Spirit of Texas Daily Reader: A Unique Approach to Learning Texas History, Laurie Cockerell and Yvonne Cumberland, 2017, ISBN: 978-0984560936

Novels:
Three or four novels will be added to support the material being studied. TSC will purchase these and make them available to students at cost, to ensure everyone is working from the same version. The list of novels will be finalized prior to the start of school.

Supplies Needed:
Heavy duty 5-subject spiral notebook, pencil/pen

This course explores geography and cultures as it guides students on a journey around the world. Students will use books, virtual field trips, food and more to learn about lands and people around the globe. They will practice note taking, organizational/research skills, presentations and writing as they tackle past and present events that impact and help foretell the future.

Required Textbook:
Cultural Geography, Student Text, BJU Press, 4th Edition, ISBN: 978-1606824993
Cultural Geography Student Activities, BJU Press, 4th Edition, ISBN: 978-1606826171

Supplies Needed:
Notebook, pens, pencils,highlighters, 3×3 post-it notes, map colors

This course provides a chronological study of the major events in the history of the United States, from the first American settlements to the early days of the Trump presidency. Students will develop critical thinking skills as they study and discuss the many challenges that have threatened our nation both in the past and the present. They will learn to evaluate people, events, and movements, preparing them to make informed decisions about local, state and national issues.

Required Textbook:
United States History, Student Text, BJU Press, 4th Edition, ISBN: 978-1606820056
United States History Student Activities, BJU Press, 4th Edition, ISBN: 978-1606820063

Supplies Needed:
Notebook, pens, pencils,highlighters, 3×3 post-it notes, map colors

In this course, students will study art history and learn to apply the techniques of famous artists to their own creations. This is an entry-level class suitable for students with or without art experience. We will explore a variety of mediums in the classroom as well as dedicate time for students to build their skills in their preferred medium. This course will mostly focus on painting, illustration, and other 2D mediums.

Students may register for Fall only semester ($310) or Fall/Spring ($675).

A second class section may be opened at a different time if there is enough interest.

Supply Fee: $35 per student

Supply List:
Students will need an apron/smock to prevent any art supplies from damaging clothes, a basic package of small flat brushes (any brushes smaller than one inch in width will do), an unlined sketchbook (preferably size 8×10 or larger) and three 16 x 20 primed white canvases. Everything listed here can be found at Hobby Lobby or similar stores!

This first-year computer science class will loosely follow the requirements for the CS Principles AP Exam. The course is a mix of lecture and lab, covering overview topics such as the roll/social impact of digital information in the world, in addition to programming specific topics such as variables, loops, functions, testing, etc. JavaScript will be used for the programming portion of the class. This class is suitable for all ages and no experience is required.

Required Textbook: We will be using a free online curriculum and teacher handouts. Instructions for registering for the curriculum will be sent out one to two weeks before the first day of class.

Supplies Needed: Computer and access to internet (a laptop preferably that can be brought to class on lab days), spiral for note taking, folder/notebook for organizing handouts

This one-semester class will focus specifically on the SAT, but will be helpful for students needing to prepare for any standardized test. The course will cover basic test-taking topics, but will also incorporate review of English/Grammar and Math concepts included in the SAT exam. Because of limited on-campus time, students will need to self-administer practice exams at home. Toward the end of the semester, several non-school days will be set aside for students who wish to practice taking a full SAT (all sections) in one day. Please note that the SAT no longer includes an essay portion. This course may be offered again in spring at a different time if there is enough interest.

Required Textbook: No books are required. Instructor will provide practice tests and handouts.

Supplies Needed: Pencils, spiral/notebook paper for notetaking and working problems, notebook/folder for organizing practice tests and handouts, an SAT-approved calculator

Supply Fee: $20 (to help cover copy costs)

An interactive beginners course designed to introduce students to the beautiful language of Spanish. Students will learn to speak, read and write on a basic level. This class is very interactive because the best way to learn a language is to speak it. The student will learn through memorization, repetition, conversation, role play and song.

Required Textbooks:
The textual material will come from lecture and exercises that instructor will copy as class progresses.

Supply Fee: $15 (to cover copy costs of materials provided)

Supplies Needed: 1 1/2“ folder/notebook/organizer, subject dividers, lined paper, compostion folder for vocabulary/memory verses/study notes, index cards to make flashcards (optional)

An intermediate Spanish class taught with personal conversation and real world application.

Pre-requisite: Completion of Spanish 1 at TSC with a minimum grade of C OR grade of C or higher on a skill level test provided by the instructor. Contact Mrs. Peck with questions on class enrollment.

Required Textbooks:
Mas que vencedores Spanish 2A (published by Abeka)
Mas que vencedores Spanish 2B
Vocabulary Manual for Mas que vencedores Spanish 2
Mas que vencedores Student Test Book Spanish 2

Supplies Needed: Notebook, pencils

Through a relaxed environment, students are encouraged to analyze current events as they are taught common informal fallicies. Students are encouraged to voice their opinions as they learn to make reasoned arguments. As the class progresses and time permits, students will learn Christian apologetics and/or compare/contrast Christianity to other world religions. No homework!

Cost for FACT class is $15 per month.

Other periods may be added if there is enough student interest.

The purpose of this course is to develop and enhance critical life management skills necessary to make sound decisions and take positive actions necessary for a healthy and effective life. This Life Management class will promote student responsibility, problem-solving skills, and independence.

In this hands-on class, students will learn to budget their money and time while gaining experience in resume development and interviewing skills. They will also practice proper social interactions, healthy cooking on a college budget (hot pot and microwave), basic car maintenace, goal setting and personal applications, along with many other important topics.

Class Cost: $15/month

Supply Fee: $50

CoffeeHouse is a central room for studying, visiting, and snacking between classes. Students may choose to do schoolwork or just hang out and talk with their friends. Though TSC Staff monitors these periods to ensure appropriate and courteous behavior, students are free to choose how they wish to spend their time. As the name suggest, Coffee and Cocoa are available, as well as light snacks. The cost for CoffeeHouse is $15 per month per period.