2012-2013 Middle School Course Offerings

Bible (6th)
The 6th grade Bible curriculum is a synthesis of basic Bible doctrines and Christian living. Throughout the study, the focus will be on who God is, what He has done, and the submission of our habits, traits and abilities to God that He might shape our lives for His glory.

Language Arts (8th)

This course is designed to continue strengthening the students knowledge of basic grammar, to broaden the scope of literary knowledge, and to develop strong vocabulary usage, writing habits, and speaking ability.

Bible (7th)

Mathematics (6th)

The 7th grade Bible curriculum, Survival Quest, presents an in-depth Scriptural study of the life of an Old or New Testament character. Using both positive and negative examples, students learn from the context of the individuals life how to face both the challenges of everyday living and the challenges of overwhelming experiences. The emphasis extends beyond surviving to thriving in the midst of such circumstances as they learn the true meaning of Romans 8:37, Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

This course concentrates on instruction in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, integers, decimals, and fractions. Foundational topics such as geometry, metric measurement, algebraic equations, and reading/ interpreting graphs are included in the courses curriculum.

Math Connects (7th)

Bible (8th)

Eighth grade Bible uses a Summit Ministries Curriculum entitled Lightbearers. This curriculum is designed to help Middle School students define, understand, develop, and apply a Biblical Worldview. Attention is given to the study of the existence and nature of God, as well as the nature of truth, reality, and ethics. Non-Christian worldviews and belief systems are discussed and examined in light of Biblical truth. In addition, the particular topics of evolution, humanity, society, family, law, government, and stewardship are addressed. Emphasis is given to the relevant evaluation and application of a Biblical Worldview to pop culture issues and ideas. Students are challenged in personal growth, as well as seeking to engage and influence the world for Christ.

This course focuses on the study of fractions, decimals, percents, integers, geometry (polygons, area, and volume) and simple algebraic equations. Students will be introduced to statistics through analyzing data and probability. Problem solving using some of the concepts being taught is emphasized throughout the curriculum.

Pre-Algebra (6th Semester 2, 7th and 8th)

Instruction in this course includes the fundamentals of mathematics with basic abstractions of beginning Algebra. Special emphasis is given to the four operations of fractions, mixed numbers and decimals. Ratio, proportion and percent are visually emphasized to aid in conceptualization; and word problems are stressed using the concepts being taught. Simple concepts in Algebra are introduced including variables, evaluation, operations in equations, integers, graphs, exponents, and roots.

Technology (6th-8th)

This course focuses on computer skills and applications with a primary focus on technology integration within each subject area.

Algebra I (7th and 8th)

Language Arts (6th)

This is a literature-based course integrating grammar, composition, spelling, and vocabulary to promote the structure for developing strong communication skills.

Language Arts (7th)

This course is divided into two parts. The first part enables students to make the transition from general math to simplifying rational, irrational, and polynomial expressions. The second part introduces students to solving linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, systems and functions. Students are evaluated for qualification for this course on the basis of academic performance, standardized testing scores, the Orleans Hannah Algebra I prognosis test and teacher recommendation. Students may earn a High School credit for successful completion of the course.

This course emphasizes the development of grammar, writing, vocabulary usage, punctuation and mechanics. Composition skills are directly related to reading selections in order to develop different styles of writing. Various forms of literature are emphasized along with speech communication skills.

Algebra II (8th)

This course continues the students study of advanced algebraic concepts including functions, polynomials, linear and quadratic equations, systems of equations, inequalities and matrices. The course will also include discussions of, and problems relating

to, logarithms, complex numbers and trigonometric functions. Students will solve problems using algebraic, numeric, verbal and graphic means. Students may earn a High School credit for successful completion of the course.

United States History (8th)

Science (6th)

This course focuses on life science, physical science and space/ technology. The first unit explores and compares creation and evolution. Methods include firsthand experiences such as direct observation, experiments and a wide variety of learningby-doing activities.

This course covers the time frame from the early exploration period through the present. The purpose is to cultivate an understanding of the history of our country and to encourage appreciation of our American heritage. Emphasis is placed on the role of South Carolina during each historical period. The class is taught in a block period and is one semester in length, (first semester).

Art (6th - 8th)

Life Science (7th)

This program is designed to promote a students awareness, appreciation, and enjoyment of the visual arts. Students will be provided with information and experiences to help develop aesthetic and creative expression as well as artistic presentation.

This Life Science course begins with the metric system and the Scientific method. Next is a study of the classification of living things: viruses, bacteria, protests, fungi, plants and animals. The course finishes with a study of genetics. There is a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, including labs, microscope work, and projects. The class is taught in a block period and is one semester in length, (first semester).

Physical Education (6th - 8th)

The physical education curriculum places emphasis on learning team sports and having a healthy body through regular exercise. Some of the sports taught include soccer, badminton, tennis, volleyball, and track.

Physical Science (8th)

Health (7th 8th)

This course covers the basics of Physical Science. Topics include: matter, introduction to chemistry, motion and forces, energy and electricity. A hands-on approach is used as much as possible along with opportunities for group work, projects, and labs. This course prepares students for high school chemistry and physics. The class is taught in a block period and is one semester in length, (second semester). Students may earn a High School credit for successful completion of the course.

This course focuses on the four major areas of life - spiritual, mental, social, and physical. It includes topics such as nutrition, exercise, biology, drug abuse, relationships, and sexual education.

Life (6th)

World History (6th)

This course includes a systematic study of mans activities throughout history. Under God, man is the crown of creation: his art, inventions, settlements, worship, music and architecture express the depths of mans being. The course focuses on five major or enduring features: Government, Social Classes, Religion, Education and advancement, and Economics.

This class covers study skills, organization, and time-management. It is designed to assist students in managing school work and activities in order to help maximize their potential for performance, achievement, and quality in these areas. The curriculum is based on the principles found in 1 Corinthians 14:40 Let everything be done decently and in order.

Band (6th-8th)

Geography (7th)

As a co-curricular students have may choose to participate in band. There is a beginning band and an advanced band. All musical styles and elements will be covered at levels increasing in difficulty as the player advances. Classes meet two or three times a week during the Study Hall period.

This course is designed to help the student gain a broader perspective of his place in the world through the study of the United States and its relationship to other countries. Students are introduced to the needs of different cultures and are challenged to identify ways that Christians can meet those needs. Students will use their knowledge of physical features and political boundaries to be better equipped to fulfill the Great Commission. Students will study the uniqueness of all cultures and understand how geography skills can be used to carry out Gods desire for all people to know him. The class is taught in a block period and is one semester in length, (second semester).

Choir (6th-8th)

As a co-curricular students may choose to participate in choir. This class focuses on vocal technique and ministry skills. The class meets during the Study Hall period.

7401 Monticello Road, Columbia, SC 29230 (803) 807-4200 (803) 744-1387 (FAX) www.BenLippen.com

A ministry of Columbia International University