Affirming Christ; Achieving Excellence
Course Catalog
2015-2016
Brighton Academy
Phone: 913-269-6939
http://www.brightonkc.com
1
Table of Contents
ART
3
CHOIR/PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS
4
COLLEGE AND CAREER PLANNING
5
CRITICAL THINKING/WORLDVIEWS
6
COMMUNICATION ARTS
7
CLASSICAL WRITING (PROGYM)
17
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
25
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
26
MATHEMATICS
32
SCIENCE
39
SOCIAL STUDIES
45
STUDY SKILLS
48
2
Art
Elementary Mixed Media Art Two days per week
In this class students will explore a wide variety of 2D and 3D media involving drawing, painting,
collage, printmaking, and sculpture. Students will be exposed to master artists and historical
art movements as they create their projects. Drawing skills involving use of line, texture,
shading, composition, and color will be taught. Observation skills will be developed as students
learn to see and draw what is before them. This fun, highly interactive class is perfect for
students of all levels.
Instructor: Sarah Berger
Pre-requisite: none
Materials Fee: $75.00 per semester
Required Supplies: none
Introduction to Studio Art: (MS/HS)
Two days per week
This class is designed to expose students to a variety of media and broaden drawing skills. We
will study works of master artists as new techniques and skills are presented. Students in this
class will work in pencil, charcoal, pastel, painting, printmaking, collage and clay. Students will
learn to work conceptually as well as through observation. This class is for those who have not
had much art exposure and for those more experienced students who would like to explore
studio art further.
Instructor: Sarah Berger
Pre-requisite: none
Materials Fee: $85.00 per semester
Required Supplies: none
3
Choir/Private Music Lessons
Choir (MS/HS) Two days per week
During rehearsals, students will experience learning in a safe, high-energy environment where
we work hard to achieve musical excellence in genres ranging from classical to pop. We will
learn how to read music through a variety of techniques, including solfeggio and ear-training,
and master the skills necessary to perform beautiful repertoire.
Instructor: Kourtney Black
Pre-requisite: none
Music and Performance venue fee: $50.00
Required Supplies: Kazoo, 2 sharpened pencils, 3-ring binder with 5 dividers
Private Piano, Flute & Voice Lessons
Kourtney Black offers private lessons on Monday and Wednesday
At
Brighton Academy.
Questions and to sign up for lessons please contact Kourtney Black:
Kckrause123@gmail.com
Or
Call or text 631-792-3541
4
College/Career Planning
Career Exploration, College Planning and ACT test prep: Grades 8-12,
One day per week
This course will guide students through the career exploration and college planning process to
provide the strategies and skills necessary for a lifetime of career-related decision making.
Students will engage in a variety of self-discovery assessments, exploring personal traits,
interests, values and skills to define and clarify college and career paths. They will learn how
their course work now will impact their success in the future. Students will explore career
interests, learn interviewing and online research skills, and apply them as they investigate
occupations and colleges in depth. They will discover career and college options, education
choice and requirements, college and career plans and development. This course is designed to
help the student understand that God designed them uniquely and personally and that He not
only has a plan for their life, but that He has equipped them for the call He has placed on them.
They will also develop an academic resume, put a transcript together, begin to apply for
scholarships and understand the college search and application process. The student will have
the opportunity to shadow individuals in areas of career interest. Students will learn tips on
preparing for the ACT test and practice for testing day.
Instructor: Pam Dunlop
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 15
Materials fee: $10.00
Required Supplies: A 2” three-ring binder with seven tabs/dividers, willingness to seek God’s
will, and a desire to learn more about themselves and what their future holds.
Textbook: What Color Is Your Parachute for Teens, 3rd Edition, C. Christen and R. Bolles (release
date April, 2015)
5
Critical Thinking/Worldviews
Critical Thinking I (7th -8th Grade) Two days per week
This is an introductory course, taught from a Biblical perspective, designed to equip students in
the principles of good reasoning and analytical skills. Exploring the techniques of classical logic
will open the door to discernment of truth over fallacies. In a day when the battle for the minds
and hearts of young people is at an all-time high, the need for critical thinking has never been
greater. The text will be completed as well as supplemental projects.
Instructor: Margaret Del Debbio
Minimum class size: 5
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: None
Textbook: The Fallacy Detective, author: Nathaniel Bluedorn, 2009
Worldviews (HS) Two days per week
This is an introductory course to broaden our understanding of the world we live in. It can serve
as a continuation of the concepts and thought processes learned in Critical Thinking II.
Worldviews is designed primarily as a forum for open discussion in the classroom, with very
little out of class work or reading. We will compare and describe similarities and differences in
the ways various world cultures define individual rights and responsibilities including the use of
rules, folkways, mores and taboos. We will also analyze economic, political, educational,
familial, and religious institutions as agents of both continuity and change. All this will be
studied under the umbrella of the Biblical Worldview. This class seeks to achieve the goal of
better understanding this diverse world and our place in it!
Instructor: TBD
Minimum class size: 5
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $10.00
Required Supplies: Pen or Pencil, Notebook, Bible
Textbook: Textbook: Thinking Like a Christian: Understanding and Living a Biblical
Worldview ISBN-10: 0805438955
6
Communication Arts
Spell to Write and Read/Cursive First (1st - 2nd Grade)
Two days per week
To assure correct class placement, each student will need to be assessed.
Please contact Liz Allegar at lizkc@aol.com.
Is Spelling a dreaded subject for your student? Is your child struggling with reading because of
so many ways to pronounce letter combinations? Do you want your student to have the very
best instruction in Spelling and foundation for reading?
Spell to Write and Read, (SWR) overcomes the challenges of learning to spell by instructing
students through a time honored, phonics based approach to spelling. Strong phonemic
awareness is the very best indicator of future reading success. Children, who can spell well,
read well.
SWR teaches your child to learn to spell the "write" way into reading.
SWR teaches students to spell the 45 sounds found in the English language by using 70 basic
phonograms. Students are also taught 29 basic spelling rules. With these tools, students are
faced with only a very few spelling exceptions. This takes the guesswork out of spelling!
SWR is an integrated and multi-sensory approach that teaches students to spell as a foundation
for learning to write and read.
SWR is based on the research of the renowned neurologist, Samuel T. Orton and the
subsequent work of Romalda Spalding.
SWR is suitable and successful for all learners. It helps the gifted and struggler alike, to master
their mother tongue.
SWR is taught in conjunction with the Cursive First curriculum a program that teaches children
to step by step master the art of clear cursive penmanship.
Instructor: Liz Allegar
Materials Fee: $30.00
Required Supplies: #2 pencils and red pencil
Textbook: Provided by teacher
7
Spell to Write and Read/Cursive First (3rd - 4th Grade)
Two days per week
To assure correct class placement, each student will need to be assessed.
Please contact Liz Allegar at lizkc@aol.com.
Is Spelling a dreaded subject for your student? Is your child struggling with reading because of
so many ways to pronounce letter combinations? Do you want your student to have the very
best instruction in Spelling and foundation for reading?
Spell to Write and Read, (SWR) overcomes the challenges of learning to spell by instructing
students through a time honored, phonics based approach to spelling. Strong phonemic
awareness is the very best indicator of future reading success. Children, who can spell well,
read well.
SWR teaches your child to learn to spell the "write" way into reading.
SWR teaches students to spell the 45 sounds found in the English language by using 70 basic
phonograms. Students are also taught 29 basic spelling rules. With these tools, students are
faced with only a very few spelling exceptions. This takes the guesswork out of spelling!
SWR is an integrated and multi-sensory approach that teaches students to spell as a foundation
for learning to write and read.
SWR is based on the research of the renowned neurologist, Samuel T. Orton and the
subsequent work of Romalda Spalding.
SWR is suitable and successful for all learners. It helps the gifted and struggler alike, to master
their mother tongue.
SWR is taught in conjunction with the Cursive First curriculum a program that teaches children
to step by step master the art of clear cursive penmanship.
Instructor: Liz Allegar
Materials Fee: $35.00
Required Supplies: #2 pencils and red pencil
Textbook: Provided by teacher
8
Spell to Write and Read/Cursive First (5th-6th Grade)
Two days per week
To assure correct class placement, each student will need to be assessed.
Please contact Liz Allegar at lizkc@aol.com.
Is Spelling a dreaded subject for your student? Is your child struggling with reading because of
so many ways to pronounce letter combinations? Do you want your student to have the very
best instruction in Spelling and foundation for reading?
Spell to Write and Read, (SWR) overcomes the challenges of learning to spell by instructing
students through a time honored, phonics based approach to spelling. Strong phonemic
awareness is the very best indicator of future reading success. Children, who can spell well,
read well.
SWR teaches your child to learn to spell the "write" way into reading.
SWR teaches students to spell the 45 sounds found in the English language by using 70 basic
phonograms. Students are also taught 29 basic spelling rules. With these tools, students are
faced with only a very few spelling exceptions. This takes the guesswork out of spelling!
SWR is an integrated and multi-sensory approach that teaches students to spell as a foundation
for learning to write and read.
SWR is based on the research of the renowned neurologist, Samuel T. Orton and the
subsequent work of Romalda Spalding.
SWR is suitable and successful for all learners. It helps the gifted and struggler alike, to master
their mother tongue.
SWR is taught in conjunction with the Cursive First curriculum a program that teaches children
to step by step master the art of clear cursive penmanship.
Instructor: Liz Allegar
Materials Fee: $35.00
Required Supplies: #2 pencils and red pencil
Textbook: Provided by teacher
9
Elementary Composition/Grammar (Pre-Progym) Two days per week
For placement questions, please contact Liz Allegar at lizkc@aol.com.
In this course students will strengthen their mechanical skills such as handwriting, punctuation,
capitalization, spelling, and sentence structure through the tried and true methods of copy
work, dictation, and sentence variation in which students are given a sentence and rewrite it in
their own words. These methods help students to practice the mechanics of writing and at the
same time inculcate in them an awareness of rich vocabulary and varied sentence structure as
they copy and write out from dictation sentences and paragraphs from excellent literature as
well as vary sentences through paraphrase.
Sources for copy work, dictation, and sentence variation will be drawn from the Bible, Aesop’s
fables, children’s poetry, and other fine works of literature.
In addition students will read short works of literature and will learn the skill of narration—the
oral retelling of a story, an excellent precursor for future work in the Progymnasmata exercises
(beginning in the 4th grade Fable stage) which are available at Brighton.
Memorization of selected Bible verses, poems, and rhymes will also be included and integrated
with the copy work and dictation.
Basic grammar including parts of speech and simple diagramming will also be covered
Instructor: Liz Allegar
Materials Fee: $30.00
Required Supplies: #2 pencils and red pencil
Textbook: Provided by teacher
10
Grammar and Reading (5th - 6th Grade) Two days per week
This comprehensive course incorporates grammar, composition, vocabulary, and literature.
The Shurley Grammar curriculum provides opportunities for visual, auditory, and kinetic
learning as students master parts of speech and sentence components. Jingles and sentence
flow patterns allow them to see, hear, say, and do as they label parts of speech and sentence
parts. Students will learn to construct different types of sentences as well as paragraphs and
essays.
Grammar, composition, and vocabulary come to life when paired with excellent literature! The
class will read and discuss novels which are sure to expand their imagination as well as their
skills in communication arts.
Instructor: Jenny Behrens
Minimum class size 8
Maximum class size 20
Materials Fee: None
Textbooks: Shurley English Student Workbook, Level 6; Shirley English Practice Booklet, Level 6
Recommended (optional): Shurley English Jingles CD, Level 6
Optional: Shurley English Teacher’s Manual, Level 6 (includes Jingles CD)
Novels: TBA per quarter
Required supplies: Pen (blue or black ink), pencil, loose leaf paper, flat composition notebook
Dictionary and thesaurus for home use
11
Literature and Grammar (7th – 9th Grade) Two days per week
In this class, we will read eight works of literature, four in each semester. Students will
broaden their reading horizons with a variety of genres, like classical, historical fiction,
biography, humor, mystery, fantasy, and more. With each book, there will be writing
assignments which will be used for grammar and composition study. Through weekly
composition practice, students will create a well-crafted, 5-paragraph essay by the end of
the year. The grammar review will be in the form of editing practice. There is no better way
to practice grammar skills than to edit other people’s writings as well as your own! We will
use the textbook Editor in Chief Level 2 to review various grammar rules with which
students struggle most. In addition to literature, grammar, and composition, students will
learn three vocabulary words each week, with a test after every twelve words.
Some of the guides used to choose books are listed below. Families are encouraged to contact
the instructor with any questions or concerns about the book choices. A final book list for the
year will be available by April 15th. Parents are welcome to inquire about which books have
been used in previous years.
Honey for a Teen's Heart - by Gladys Hunt and Barbara Hampton
Books That Build Character - by William Kilpatrick and Gregory and Suzanne Wolfe
All Through The Ages - by Christine Miller
The Read-Aloud Handbook - by Jim Trelease
Instructor: Cathan Prinzing
cabaprinzing@gmail.com
Minimum class size 8
Maximum class size 20
Materials Fee: $15 for copies of classroom materials
Supplies needed: 3-ring binder with 5 dividers and a folder, notebook, paper, pencils.
Textbook: Editor in Chief Book Level 2 (B1-B2 Combined), ISBN: 9781601447661. There will be
also be a reading list (published by April 15th). Families will have to provide students with these
books, either by purchase or from the library.
12
Public Speaking (7th-12th Grade) Two days per week
CCC dual credit option for 11-12th grade
Developing proficient speaking skills requires experience. Through a variety of activities in both
small and large groups students will learn to give powerful, on-target speeches that capture the
audience’s attention. Aspects covered are researching, organizing and writing to effectively
communicate. Practical ideas will be learned on the mechanics of delivery and audience
evaluation. Students will practice a variety of speaking assignments and learn to proficiently
peer edit speeches.
Instructor: Pam Dunlop
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials fee: $10
Required Supplies: Notebook for taking notes and organizing handouts
Textbook: The Art of Public Speaking by Stephen E. Lucas; ISBN: 978-0-07-338515-0
High School Literature/Composition: 9-12th grade; Two Days Per Week
This class will emphasize analytical and critical thinking skills in the areas of reading, writing,
speaking, and listening. Regular vocabulary assignments will add depth to student’s
communication skills. Students will show progress in reading skills by demonstrating how to
analyze elements of literature: setting, plot, conflict, characterization, imagery, allusions,
parallelism, and much more. Literature will be analyzed to help students develop Christian
discernment skills as well as understanding what influenced the author’s work(s). Students will
think critically to write and revise original analytical essays. Students will also display poise
when making oral responses to literature analysis questions during class discussion.
Instructor: Pam Dunlop
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $5.00
Required Supplies: 3 ring notebook, 5 dividers, loose leaf notebook paper, blue/black pens,
pencil, and highlighters
Textbook: Windows on the World: An Introduction to Literary Analysis, by Lesha Myers,
Institute for Excellence in Writing, student text.
Novels: TBA – Will follow a world literature approach
13
Literature-Iliad and Odyssey (9th-10th grade) Two days per week
The students will be reading through two of the greatest pieces of literature written by any
Greco Roman author. Not only have these books become influential in current thought and
philosophy, but they are treasured by most all who read them. Geoffrey Kirke, contributor of
the encyclopedia of Britannica has this to say about the epic poems, "Homer is one of the most
influential authors in the widest sense, for the two epics (Iliad and Odyssey) provided the basis
of Greek education and culture throughout the Classical age and formed the backbone of
human education down to the time of the Roman Empire and the spread of Christianity... the
Iliad and the Odyssey most subtly affected Western standards and ideas."
The students will read through both texts in their entirety and will discuss in class the ideas
which have built the cultural foundations of what they know now. They will learn how to
successfully write a five paragraph essay concerning the great ideas in the text.
Of course, we will also look at the time period in particular in which the books are set. The two
books contain famous stories in which we will glean solid truth and form clear thoughts about
our Christian worldview and thinking.
Instructor: Joel Reed
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: None
Books: Homer (ca. 8th century BC), Iliad, trans. Stanley Lombardo
Homer (ca. 8th century BC), Odyssey, trans. Stanley Lombardo
Transformational and Allegorical Literature from C. S. Lewis
(10th-12th) Two days per week
This class will dive into the Christian Ethics and discussion that Lewis masterfully brings about in
his works of literature. We will be reading Mere Christianity, The Great Divorce, (A couple of the
Chronicles of Narnia Series), Screwtape Letters and if we have enough time Till We Have Faces.
In this class, students will discuss and interact with text in class discussions, literature critique
and personal reflection essays. Using Lewis as a springboard, we will engage a great many of
the cultural dilemmas faced by the students in their daily lives. I would like this class to help
them in their reading comprehension skills and also grow them in their worldviews.
Instructor: Joel Reed
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $15.00
Books: Mere Christianity, The Great Divorce, Screwtape Letters
14
Literature (HS) Two days per week
CCC dual credit option for 11th-12th grade
American Literature explores the vast landscape of the American experience as reflected in the
works of literary classics over the nation’s exceptional history. Our time together will emphasize
reading, writing, and speaking skills, critical and creative thinking skills, and literary analysis, we
will improve these skills as we explore ideas and beliefs that shaped a people. Our explorations
will done with the goal of discovering great truths authors convey through literary elements;
setting, plot, figurative language, characterization, conflict, and theme.
Instructor: Margaret Del Debbio
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $5.00
Required Books: The Scarlett Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet
Beecher Stowe, Black Elk Speaks by Black Elk, Gift of the Magi and the Last Leaf by O Henry, The
Jungle by Upton Sinclair, The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, and Brave New World
by Aldous Huxley. Works of poetry, which will be interspersed throughout the course,
can be found online or will be provided.
15
Composition 1 Two days per week
CCC dual credit option for 11th-12th grade
For placement questions please contact Ms. Del Debbio at mddbrighton@gmail.com
Composition 1 focuses on writing nonfiction. Nonfiction describes communication that is based
on proven facts to which varying degrees of subjective thought can be reason-ably applied.
Examples of nonfiction writing done for the course will include news reporting/journalism
(articles & essays), interviews/auto-biographies, narrative, explanatory, commentary, and
analytical research. Students will be taught critical thinking skills and have the opportunity to
improve pre-writing, writing, and post-writing skills (discovering ideas, finding & selecting
information/evidence, organizing, drafting, revising, and editing). All writing will be assessed
according to the 6 Traits of Good Writing model.
Instructor: Margaret Del Debbio
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: TBA
Supplies: TBA
Required Texts: TBA
Composition 2 Two days per week
CCC dual credit option for 11th-12th grade
For placement questions please contact Ms. Del Debbio at mddbrighton@gmail.com
Composition 2 will strengthen, build upon, and therefore expand the critical thinking and
writing skills learned in Composition 1 by specifically engaging in persuasive research. The
rigorous nature of research will thus be blended with the art of contributing one’s personal
voice to public conversation. The course will therefore focus on the skills necessary to write and
present persuasive research compositions. All writing will be assessed according to the 6 + 1
Traits of Good Writing model. (Main Idea, Organization, Voice, Word Choice, Fluency,
Conventions + Presentation)
Instructor: Margaret Del Debbio
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: TBA
Supplies: TBA
Required Texts: TBA
16
Classical Writing Introduction
What is special about Progymnasmata (Progym for short)
Tried and
true—developed in the 4th century B.C. and used for centuries in Western
Civilization—Shakespeare, Milton, Luther trained under this amazing
program
Teaches step by step: all students can learn to write
Teaches ideas, rather than introducing style too early
Teaches students to write descriptively and clearly
Prepares students for higher level writing in high school and college
Helps students succeed when taking ACT and SAT essay exams
Students enjoy these exercises. No more tears for composition!
Jim Selby, author of Classical Composition materials, notes:
“Whitefield Academy, where I teach, has a 100% qualification rate on the
optional essay portion of the college entrance exams (ACT and SAT) versus
the national average of 23%, or has gained college credits with successful
completion of the English AP exams. Qualification (min score of 8 on a scale of
1-12) requires that a cohesive and coherent essay be written within a 30
minute period.”
For Progym placement questions please contact Elaine Selby at
elainecselby@gmail.com
Progym #1 Fable (4th Grade) Two days per week
Fable is the first stage in the Progymnasmata, an effective writing program that was used
before the 4th century AD throughout the world producing effective writers. It is now being
revived throughout the country in classical schools and home schools with stunning
results. Your student, whether a gifted or struggling writer, will enjoy putting the wonderful
Aesop's fables into his or her own words while learning fun ways to write creatively and
descriptively. This is a "no more tears" writing program and you will be amazed at the
results! Telling a story is fundamental to good communication and this is the exercise that
teaches students to do just that.
Instructor: Joel Reed
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: None
Supplies Needed: one three ring binder with pockets, loose leaf paper and pencils.
Textbook: One workbook ($19.95) will be purchased from the teacher
17
Progym #2 Fable/Narrative (5th and 6th grade) Two days per week
For those in 4th and 5th grade who have not had Progym (students should have adequate
spelling, grammar and handwriting before taking this class)
Fable is the first stage in the Progymnasmata, an effective writing program that was used
before the 4th century AD throughout the world producing effective writers. It is now being
revived throughout the country in classical school and home schools with stunning results. Your
student, whether a gifted or struggling writer, will enjoy putting the wonderful Aesop's fables
into his or her own words while learning fun ways to write creatively and descriptively.
This is a "no more tears" writing program and you will be amazed at the
results! Telling a story is fundamental to good communication and this is the exercise that
teaches students to do just that. In the Narrative stage, the second stage of the
Progymnasmata, students continue to hone their storytelling skills, and practice using
creativity, description, and variety in their compositions through rewriting in their own words,
great stories from the past including folk tales, Biblical narrative, and myths. Students are
taught 18 figures of description that aid students who do not naturally come up with ideas, and
also provide a great spring board for those who are gifted in this area.
Students will paraphrase Fables from Aesop the first semester. Second semester they will
paraphrase Narratives. In both semesters they will practice and master the use of eighteen
figures of description and will learn to vary a story by changing the point of view, inverting the
sequence of events, condensing the story, and expanding it creatively by using figures of
description. Students will become adept at recognizing and utilizing the nine components of
narrative invention: narrative structure (who, what, when, where, how and why) and the three
plot components of recognition, suffering, and reversal which, Aristotle taught, are present in
any good story.
Students will purchase a fable and a narrative workbook. The instructor will bring the Fable
workbook to class the first day and will send an email prior to class to let parents know how to
purchase it. Second semester, the same will occur for the Narrative workbook.
Instructor: Jenny Behrens
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: None
Supplies Needed: One three ring binder with pockets, loose leaf paper and pencils.
Textbook: A total of two workbooks ($19.95 each) will be purchased from the teacher at the
beginning of each stage.
18
Progym #3 Chreia/Maxim Two days per week
Prerequisite: Fable/Narrative course
In this stage of the Progym students use the story telling ability that they gained in
Fable/Narrative and in addition, learn other methods for developing an idea, through writing an
eight paragraph essay about a "chreia" or wise saying such as a proverb or a quotation from an
American President. Through writing these eight paragraphs, they learn to develop a topic
sentence with support points giving them foundational skills that they will use in high school
and college.
Instructor: Elaine Selby
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: None
Supplies Needed: One three ring binder with pockets, loose leaf paper and pencils.
Textbook: One workbook ($19.95 each) will be purchased from the teacher.
19
Introductions to the Progym (Stages #1-3) (MS/HS) Two days per week
This course is for students 6th through 12th grade who have not had instruction in the classical
writing method called the Progymnasmata. The Progym is a set of exercises (fourteen stages in
all) developed in ancient education to move students in a smooth and logical progression from
the basics of telling a story all the way to a thesis exercise. The purpose of the exercises is to
prepare students to become clear and effective communicators as they are being equipped to
tackle higher-level writing tasks in the upper grades of high school and in college.
In this course, students will begin the first semester at the initial stage of the Progym with Fable
and then will progress to Narrative. In these two stages, students learn how to tell a story
effectively while engaging the imaginations of their audience by using various Figures of
Description. Students will focus on identifying the key components necessary to any good story
(recognition, suffering and reversal), and they will begin to learn how to retell several fables in
their own words by focusing on word and phrase variations and changing the point of view.
Students will learn to compose useful outlines of fables and narratives and retell those stories
by starting at the beginning, middle or the end. (Beginning a story in the middle or end
sharpens the mind and, with practice, will enhance one’s overall ability to communicate
effectively.) By the end of the first semester the students will be ready to move into writing
original essays using the Chreia/Maxim format.
During second semester the class will progress to the Chreia/Maxim stage which teaches how
to develop an idea that is focused on a wise saying or “chreia.” These ideas are developed
through eight paragraphs, four of which are narratives, thus using the skills mastered in the
Fable and Narrative stages. Students will focus on making compelling arguments, engaging the
imaginations and emotions of the reader through Figures of Description and Figures of Speech
and writing a seamless eight paragraph essay, including introductory and concluding
paragraphs.
Throughout the school year, students will engage in various word and phrase variation
exercises, learn from one another in peer editing sessions, present their essays to the whole
class and learn through various activities and special assignments.
Instructor: Jenny Behrens
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: None
Supplies Needed: one three ring binder with pockets, loose leaf paper and pencils.
Textbook: A total of three workbooks ($19.95 each) will be purchased from the teacher at the
beginning of each new stage.
20
Progym #4 Refutation/Confirmation/CommonTopic Two days per week
Prerequisite: Chreia (Progym #3) OR Intro. to Progym MS OR Intro. to Progym HS
The course will begin by reviewing the Fable, Narrative, and Chreia stages and then will move to
Refutation/Confirmation. These two sets of exercises, Refutation and Confirmation, correspond
to an argumentative essay in modern composition theory. The students are learning how to
structure their thought and, thus, their communication process when given the task of
arguing for or against an idea, thought, chain of events, method or story. The categories of
development or paragraphs that make up these essays are essential elements in the rhetorical
process (identified as heads of purpose in later stages) that must become second nature in the
mental processes of our students. Students’ writing skills explode after completing these
exercises!
During the first 4 weeks of school, students will review the Fable, Narrative, and Chreia/Maxim
stages. In early fall they begin the Refutation/Confirmation exercises. In the early spring they
will begin Common Topic.
Key Benefits
•Explicit instruction of skills
•Multiple contexts for skill development
•Allows for deep cognitive processing around skills
Capabilities Encouraged
•Invention of argumentation
•Craft an introductory paragraph
•Flexibility in creating topic sentences
Instructor: Elaine Selby
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 15
Supplies Needed: 3 ring binder, notebook paper, pencils.
Textbook: A total of two workbooks ($19.95 each) will be purchased from the teacher at the
beginning of each new stage.
21
Progym #5 Encomium/Invective/Comparison/Five Paragraph Essay
Two days per week
Prerequisite: Progym #4 Refutation/Confirmation/Common Topic
After a review of the previous stages: Fable, Narrative, Chreia/Maxim,
Refutation/Confirmation, Common Topic, this class will begin the
Encomium/Invective/Comparison stages. This stage is primarily concerned with the skills of
style although students continue to practice the skills of Invention and Arrangement. These
three stages continue to train the students in their ability to utilize and integrate heads of
development or enthymemes and examples, that is, the general and the particular in
communicating ideas as well as continuing to train them in the use of heads of purpose or
modes of argument.
Key Benefits



Interesting topics for expository essays
Review of skills mastered in previous seven stages
Models for imitation
Capabilities



Ability to write expository essays
Write a complex introductory paragraph
Cohesive Arrangement of lengthy essay
As a bonus, students will also practice writing a number of 5 paragraph essays which will help
prepare them for the ACT essay writing portion.
Students will spend the first 4 weeks of class reviewing the previous stages of the Progym, and
then will move to Encomium for several weeks, then Invective, and last Comparison. Students
will also be instructed in writing 5 paragraph essays in preparation for the ACT or SAT, using
cumulative Progym skills.
Instructor: Elaine Selby
Minimum class size: 6
Maximum class size: 15
Supply Fee: None
Supplies Needed: 3 ring binder, notebook paper, pencils.
Textbook: A total of two workbooks (19.95 each) will be purchased from the teacher at the
beginning of each new stage
22
Progym #6 Characterization/Description/Thesis/Law Two days per week
For placement questions please contact Elaine Selby at elainecselby@gmail.com
Prerequisite:
Progym #5 (Encomium/Invective/Comparison/Characterization)
After a review of previous Progym exercises from the various stages, students will continue
with Characterization. This exercise further develops the students’ skills of sequencing and is
told as a soliloquy further honing their narrative ability. This particular style is achieved through
continued mastery of paraphrase and confining students to an abbreviated word count. The
Description stage which is primarily concerned with the development of particular
styles as the students bring the subject of the exercise vividly into the reader's imagination.
Person, places, objects, will serve as topics for in depth description, painting a picture with
words. In description a fast paced, free, relaxed style is developed with the inclusion of many
figures of description, speech, and thought. This stage allows for creativity and engaging
eloquence. Upon completion of Description, students will move to the Thesis and then the Law
stages, the final and crowning stages of the Progymnasmata .The Thesis and Law stages of the
exercises serve as capstones to the five plus years our students have been learning to write
through the Progymnasmata. These exercises hone reasoning skills through the introduction of
counter point and resolution providing the students with a plethora of opportunities to create
arguments (Invention) using the heads of purpose and to demonstrate arguments using the
heads of development.
Benefits of this stage include:
•Skills of argumentation
•Preparation for the advanced skills of Rhetoric
•Ability to write “Qualifying” essays for College Entrance Exams
Students will spend 4-6 weeks reviewing previous Progym stages and then will proceed
to Characterization, followed by Description, and then Thesis and Law.
Instructor will send an email out when students are ready to purchase a new workbook.
3 ring binder, notebook paper, pencils.
They will have completed all 14 stages of the Progym by the end of the school year! :)
Minimum 6 Maximum 15
Supply Fee: None
Supplies Needed: 3 ring binder, notebook paper, pencils.
Textbook: A total of two workbooks, ($19.95 each) will be purchased from the teacher at the beginning
of each new stage
23
Rhetoric I Two days per week
For placement questions please contact Elaine Selby at elainecselby@gmail.com
Minimum number of students: 8
Students who have had the Progym (Progymnasmata-“before exercises”) are now ready to
begin the study of Classical Rhetoric. They will continue to use skills acquired in their Progym
classes and will build upon these skills in writing longer papers, called declamations. In
addition, they will write and deliver speeches.
Texts for the course will include:
Classical Rhetoric for the Modern Student by Edward Corbett and Robert Connors; On Copia of
Words and Ideas by Erasmus; The Craft of Research, 2nd edition (Chicago Guides to Writing,
Editing, and Publishing) by Booth, Colton and Williams.
24
Computer Applications
MS/HS School Computer Applications One day per week
The purpose of this course is to give students the knowledge and skills needed to use
computers effectively throughout their educational journey and in the workplace. Emphasis
will be placed on developing computer skills and knowledge of business applications using
Microsoft Office 2010 or 2013. Students need a laptop for classroom and homework with
Microsoft Office 2010 or 2013 that includes Word, Excel, Power Point and OneNote. Publisher
is welcome but not required. Students will cover internet safety and what digital citizenship
means. Students will become familiar with internet free software programs that are commonly
used for school, home and the workplace, such as google docs.
Instructor: Pam Dunlop
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 15
Materials fee: None
Required Supplies: Laptop computer with wireless internet capability and Microsoft Office
2010 or 2013 with Word, Excel and Power Point. (Publisher would be nice but not required!)
Textbook: Microsoft office 2010 or 2013 Simplified (purchase text relevant to version of
Microsoft Office on laptop)
25
Foreign Languages
Latin 1 (7th-12th Grade) Two days per week
NOTE: This class is for students with no Latin background AND those who have had any former
basic Latin course such as LC I. Call instructor if you have any questions on previous curricula.
Is Latin really a dead language??? Over half of our English words are really Latin words--and it's
not just any half, it's the difficult, SAT half! Early Latin gives your students the tools to decode
and remember these big words just when they begin to encounter them. In addition, Latin
teaches English better than English itself, reinforcing and giving practical application to all parts
of speech. Lastly, Latin develops concentration, logic and mental capacities like no other study
can do. This is why we learn Latin!
This beginning level Latin course is designed for 5th-8th grade students with no background in
Latin as well as graduates of Latina Christiana I OR II. Students will learn 10 – 12 Latin words a
week with exponential English derivatives, the first two conjugation (verb) endings in all 6
tenses, and all five of the Latin declensions (noun). In addition 25 colloquial Latin sayings and
various ecclesiastical ancient prayers will be mastered for fun. This class is very incremental and
do able for all students with interest and a willingness to follow a 20-30 minute, 4 days-a-week,
independent, home-study regimen outlined by the instructor.
Instructor: Joel Reed
Minimum 6, Maximum 15
Materials Fee: $15.00
Required Materials: 1 inch, 3 ring binder with loose leaf paper and 15 page protectors, 4
colored pencils OR pen with 4 colors, 1 highlighter, small box with rubber bands OR 5 small
rings to organize flashcards by unit.
Required text: First Form Latin textbook and workbook (both paperback), Flashcards,
Pronunciation CD (optional), Book of Roots and answer key-(optional--email instructor for
clarification if potentially interested) (Paperback). ALL MATERIALS ARE PUBLISHED BY
MEMORIA PRESS BUT CAN BE ORDERED ELSEWHERE.
26
Latin 2 (8th-12th Grade) Two days per week
Prerequisite: 8th -12th graders having completed First Form Latin WITH teacher
recommendation (other former Latin courses may be approved by Instructor)
Is Latin really a dead language??? Over half of our English words are really Latin words--and it's
not just any half, it's the difficult, SAT half! Early Latin gives your students the tools to decode
and remember these big words just when they begin to encounter them. In addition, Latin
teaches English better than English itself, reinforcing and giving practical application to all parts
of speech. Lastly, Latin develops concentration, logic and mental capacities like no other study
can do. This is why we learn Latin!
This second level Latin course is designed for 6-12 graders who have successfully completed
Memoria's First Form Latin. This curriculum will review and further define First Form concepts
while adding on the 3rd and 4th conjugation verbs in the active voice as well as learning the
passive voice of all four conjugation sets. In addition, students will continue using the
nominative and accusative cases for 1-5th declension nouns while adding on the genitive,
dative, and ablative cases for richer translation purposes. In addition, we will finalize our work
in the Book of Roots, learning many supplemental derivatives and their meanings. Finally, we
will learn several Latin ecclesiastical songs and prayers. This class is very incremental and do
able for all students with interest and a willingness to follow a 30- 40 minute, 4 days-a-week,
independent, home-study regimen outlined by the instructor.
Instructor: Joel Reed
Minimum 6, Maximum 15
Materials Fee: $15.00
Required Materials: 1 inch, 3 ring binder with loose leaf paper and 15 page protectors, 4
colored pencils OR pen with 4 colors, 1 highlighter, small box with rubber bands OR 5 small
rings to organize flashcards by unit.
Required text: Second Form Latin textbook and workbook (both paperback), SF Flashcards,
Pronunciation CD (optional), Book of Roots and answer key (Paperback-do not purchase
additional one if you have already been in previous Latin courses at Brighton) (Paperback). ALL
MATERIALS ARE PUBLISHED BY MEMORIA PRESS BUT CAN BE ORDERED ELSEWHERE.
27
Spanish 1 Two days per week
Note: This is the first in sequence for College Dual Credit. This class provides the base for
Spanish 2.
Spanish 1 covers all topics in a typical first-year Spanish course. The course will be taught using
a communicative approach to language learning through the use of thematic, contextualized
vocabulary in real-life situations/conversations and progressive practice and recycling.
Students will engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and
emotions, and exchange opinions. They will also understand, interpret and produce written and
spoken language on a variety of topics. Students will also be exposed to Hispanic cultures
through cultural readings in the target language. Emphasis will be on listening and speaking
skills during class, with written work to be done at home. At least twice a week, students will
be expected to participate in and complete audio activities at home, reinforcing oral skills
obtained during class.
Instructor: Jennifer Vrablic
Supplies needed: Text: ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 1, McGraw-Hill Publishing
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 1
Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 1, 2005 edition or later, McGraw-Hill Publishing ISBN#
0078465702 or 0078791383. It is the red book with a picture of three students on the front.
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 1 ISBN# 0078619521 Students
must have a NEW, unmarked workbook. It includes audio activities, but does not, and should
not, come with the audio CD. I have the audio tracks and will make them available through the
Brighton website as they are assigned.
Suggested materials: 3-ring binder (1" is fine) to keep class notes, quizzes, and tests in all year
to prepare for the cumulative final exam at the end of the year
Optional: flash drive for audio activities if your computer tends to have issues with the Brighton
website. The instructor can load the audio tracks onto your flash drive so you always have
them, even if there are computer issues at home or with the website.
Note: This is the first in sequence for College Dual Credit. This class provides the base for
Spanish 2.
28
Spanish 2 Two days per week
Dual Credit option available through JCCC (10th-12th grade)
Spanish 2 covers all topics in a typical second-year Spanish course. The course will be taught
using the same method as in Spanish 1 through the use of thematic, contextualized vocabulary
in real-life situations and progressive practice and recycling. Students will further their
communication skills through the use of more extensive vocabulary and grammar. Emphasis
will be on listening and speaking skills during class, with written work to be done at home. At
least twice a week, students will be expected to participate in and complete audio activities at
home, reinforcing oral skills obtained during class.
Prerequisite: Grade of A or B in Spanish 1 Taken at Brighton by this instructor or instructor
approval.
Instructor: Jennifer Vrablic
Supplies needed: Text: ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 2, McGraw-Hill Publishing
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 2
Required Texts: ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 2, 2005/2007 edition, McGraw-Hill Publishing
ISBN# 0078791405
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 2 ISBN# 0078619726
Suggested materials: 3-ring binder (1" is fine) to keep class notes, quizzes, and tests in all year
to prepare for the cumulative final exam at the end of the year
Optional: flash drive for audio activities if your computer tends to have issues with the Brighton
website. The instructor can load the audio tracks onto your flash drive so you always have
them, even if there are computer issues at home or with the website.
29
Spanish 3
Two days per week
Dual Credit option available through JCCC (10th-12th grade)
Spanish 3 is the third level in the high school Spanish program. The course will be taught using
the same methods as in Spanish 1 and 2 through the use of vocabulary used in real-life
situations and progressive practice and recycling. Students will continue to further their
communication skills through the acquisition of a more extensive vocabulary. Spanish 3 is
different than the previous two courses in that each unit will focus on a different country or
region in the Spanish-speaking world. We will explore the various cultures through each
country’s particular literature, journalism, art and history. Students will be reading authentic
texts from the different areas we study and will also explore the particular conversational styles
of each location. We will discuss the different vocabularies, accents, etc. of speakers in each
area we study. Grammar will be minimal in this course. Each unit contains a review of several
grammar points presented in Spanish 1 and 2 and occasionally we will study a new grammar
point or explore the nuances of a previously learned concept. As always, emphasis will be on
listening and speaking skills during class, with written work to be done at home. At least twice
a week, students will participate in and complete audio activities at home, reinforcing oral skills
obtained during class.
Instructor: Jennifer Vrablic
Prerequisite: Grade of A or B in Spanish 2
Supplies needed: Text: ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 3, McGraw-Hill Publishing
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 3
Required Texts: ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 3, 2004-2007 editions or later, McGraw-Hill
Publishing ISBN # 0078791421
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 3 ISBN # 0078619920
Suggested materials: 3-ring binder (1" is fine) to keep class notes, quizzes, and tests in all year
to prepare for the cumulative final exam at the end of the year
Optional: flash drive for audio activities if your computer tends to have issues with the Brighton
website. The instructor can load the audio tracks onto your flash drive so you always have
them, even if there are computer issues at home or with the website.
30
Spanish 4
Two days per week
Dual Credit option available through JCCC (10th-12th grade)
Spanish 4 is the fourth level in the high school Spanish program. The course will be taught using
the same methods as in Spanish 3 through the use of vocabulary used in real-life situations and
progressive practice and recycling. Students will continue to further their communication skills
through the acquisition of a more extensive vocabulary. We will continue to focus on a
different country or region in the Spanish-speaking world. We will explore the various cultures
through each country’s particular literature, journalism, art and history. Students will be
reading authentic texts from the different areas we study and will also explore the particular
conversational styles of each location. We will discuss the different vocabularies, accents, etc.
of speakers in each area we study. Grammar will be minimal in this course. Each unit contains
a review of several grammar points presented in Spanish 1 and 2 and occasionally we will study
a new grammar point or explore the nuances of a previously learned concept. As always,
emphasis will be on listening and speaking skills during class, with written work to be done at
home. At least twice a week, students will participate in and complete audio activities at home,
reinforcing oral skills obtained during class.
Instructor: Jennifer Vrablic
Prerequisite: Grade of A or B in Spanish 3
Supplies needed: Text: ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 3, McGraw-Hill Publishing
Workbook/Audio Activities for ¡Buen viaje! Glencoe Spanish 3 (same materials as Spanish 3 so
you do not need to buy anything new for Spanish 4)
31
Mathematics
Four levels for Saxon: Please take the online test under Saxon to determine level for
your student. http://www.hmhco.com. If you have questions, regarding which
Saxon level to enroll in, please contact Dama Johnson, at 913-515-6625
Math 1st and 2nd grade Two days per week
This math course will be teaching the concepts of:
*counting 1-100
*counting by 1's from 100-200
*ordinal and cardinal numbers
*addition
*subtraction
*basic fractions
*sets
*shapes
*graphs
*units of measure
For the level 2 students in this class we will introduce and practice:
*skip counting
*multiplication facts
*using coins and dollar bills in money calculations
*recognizing and finding area, perimeter, and volume
In this class we will implement some hands on activities, singing, games and prizes to aid in
learning and keep our math class fun!
Instructor: Calyn Kosanke
Minimum class size: 8
Materials fee: $20
Required Supplies: TBA
Required Text: TBA
Maximum class size: 20
32
Saxon Math 3 Two Days per week
This course covers skip-counting, identifying ordinal positions, adding and subtracting multidigit numbers, dividing by single-digit divisors, adding positive and negative numbers, and
adding and subtracting fractions. We will also learn about measurements, mass, function rules,
coordinate graphs, angles and lines of symmetry. In this class we will be practicing our basic
math facts for memorization and speed by taking timed quizzes. These quizzes will not be for a
grade, but simply for practice with the goal being improvement of speed and accuracy. The
students will be rewarded with small prizes for their improvement. We will also be using some
hands on activities, singing, games, and prizes to aid in learning and keep our math class fun!
Instructor: Calyn Kosanke
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials fee: $20
Required Supplies: TBA
Required Text: Saxon Math 3 Student Workbook Set with fact cards-1st Edition
Saxon Math 5/4 Two days per week
This class reviews material such as the four basic operations; addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division. It also expands on previously learned items such as reading from a
clock and rounding numbers. New concepts, such as multi number multiplication and division
are also taught. Decimals, percents, fractions, geometry, and word problems are a few of the
other skills covered in this class. New skills are continually being taught, but there is also
review of previous concepts in each lesson. Daily work will be discussed and assigned in class,
graded by the parent, and reviewed by the teacher. Tests will be provided and graded
by the instructor. Please purchase the textbook below.
Instructor: Dama Johnson
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $10.00 for classroom materials
Required Supplies: notebook/grid paper, pencils, 12 inch ruler, compass, scissors
Required Text: Saxon Math 5/4 (3rd Edition) Student textbook, Worksheet and Test booklet
and Solutions Manual.
33
Saxon Math 6/5 Two days per week
This class expands on the concepts taught in Math 5/4. The first several lessons will be a review
from the previous year. As the class progresses, the student will continue with multiplication,
division, decimals, fractions, percents, geometry, graphing, and will learn probability and
statistics, and some pre-algebra concepts. New skills are constantly being taught, but there is
also review of previous concepts in each lesson. Daily work will be discussed and assigned in
class, graded by the parent, and reviewed by the teacher. Tests will be provided and graded
by the instructor. Please purchase the textbook below.
Instructor: Dama Johnson
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $10.00 for classroom materials
Required Supplies: notebook/grid paper, pencils, 12 inch ruler, protractor, scissors
Required Text: Saxon 6/5 (3rd Edition) Student textbook, Worksheet and Test booklet and
Solutions Manual
Saxon Math 7/6 Two days per week
This math class will meet twice a week. Saxon 7/6 reviews fundamental math
skills and covers everything the student needs to know to be prepared for
Pre-Algebra. Daily work will be discussed and assigned in class, graded by
the parent, and reviewed by the teacher. Tests will be provided and graded
by the instructor. Please purchase the textbook below.
Instructor: Dama Johnson
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Supply fees: $10 for classroom materials
Supplies needed: notebook/grid paper, pencils, a compass, a protractor,
and a small ruler
Textbooks: Saxon Math 7/6: Homeschool Edition Student Text [Paperback],
fourth edition, ISBN-13: 978-1591413196 and the Solutions Manual, ISBN-13:
9781591413271.
34
Pre-Algebra Two days per week
Please contact Cathan Prinzing with placement questions for Pre-Algebra at
cabaprinzing@gmail.com
Pre-Algebra will meet twice a week. Larson's Pre-Algebra covers everything
the student needs to know to be prepared for Algebra I. The topics include:
Variables, Expressions, and Integers, Solving Equations, Multi Step
Equations and Inequalities, Factors, Fractions, and Exponents, Rationale
Numbers and Equations, Ratio, Proportion, and Probability, Percent’s, Linear
Functions, Real Numbers and Right Triangles, Measurement, Area, and Volume,
Data Analysis and Probability, Angle Relationships and Transformations.
Daily work will be discussed and assigned in class, graded by the parent,
and reviewed by the teacher. Tests will be provided and graded by the
instructor. Please purchase the textbook listed below.
Instructor: Cathan Prinzing
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Supply fees: $25 ($10 for copies of classroom materials, $15 for rental
of solutions manual)
Supplies needed: grid paper, pencils, a folder and a basic scientific calculator
Textbook: McDougal Littel Pre-Algebra by Ron Larson, student edition,
Hardcover, Published in 2008, ISBN-13: 978-0-618-80076-6
35
Placement questions regarding Algebra 1, Geometry or Algebra II please contact
Christi Gramling at christigramling@gmail.com
Algebra 1 Two days per week
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra. (Contact the instructor if you have any questions about readiness.)
This high school level course covers connections to algebra; properties of real numbers; solving
linear equations; graphing linear equations and functions; writing linear equations; solving and
graphing linear inequalities; systems of linear equations and inequalities; exponents and
exponential functions; quadratic equations and functions; polynomials and factoring; rational
equations and functions; radicals and connections to geometry. Students will be required to
complete homework assignments and tests outside of class in a timely manner. Daily work in
Algebra 1 will be graded by the parent and reviewed by the instructor.
Instructor: Christi Gramling
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Materials Fee: $10
Required Materials: a basic scientific calculator with sine, cosine, and tangent functions (TI-30X
is sufficient) and graph paper
Required Texts: McDougal Littel Algebra 1 by Ron Larson, 2004 student edition. Note: There
are two ISBN numbers on the book. ISBN-10: 0618250182; ISBN-13: 9780618250189
The solution manual will be needed and offered for a $15 rental fee.
36
Geometry Two days per week
Prerequisite: Algebra I (Contact the instructor if you have any questions about readiness.)
This is a proof-based course that covers points, lines and planes; rays and angles; congruent
triangles; inequalities; parallel lines; quadrilaterals; area; similarity; circles; the right triangle;
the concurrence theorems; regular polygons; geometric solids; and coordinate geometry.
Problems from the SAT are included as well as examples that help show the real life
applications of geometry. This is a high school level course that develops deductive reasoning
skills. Students will be required to complete problem sets and tests outside of class in a timely
manner. Daily work in Geometry will be graded by the parent and reviewed by the instructor.
Tests will be provided and graded by the instructor.
Instructor: Christi Gramling
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Materials Fee: $10
Required Materials: a compass, protractor, straight edge, graph paper and a basic scientific
calculator with sine, cosine, and tangent functions (TI-30X is sufficient).
Required Texts: McDougal Littel Geometry by Ron Larson, 2004 student edition. NOTE: There
are two ISBN numbers on the book. ISBN-13: 9780618250226 and ISBN-10: 0618250220 .
The solution manual will be needed and offered for a $15 rental fee.
Algebra 2 Two days per week
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 (Contact the instructor if you have any questions about readiness.)
This high school level course covers equations and inequalities; linear equations and functions;
systems of linear equations and determinants; quadratic functions; polynomials and polynomial
functions; powers, roots, and radicals; exponential and logarithmic functions; rational
equations and functions; quadratic relations and conic sections; sequences and series;
probability and statistics, trigonometric ratios and functions; trigonometric graphs, identities,
and equations. Students will be required to complete homework assignments and tests outside
of class in a timely manner. Daily work in Algebra 2 will be graded by the parent and reviewed
by the instructor.
Instructor: Christi Gramling
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Materials Fee: $10
Required Materials: Graph paper and a scientific/graphing calculator. The book specifically
discusses the TI-8x series.
Required Texts: McDougal Littel Algebra 2 by Ron Larson, 2004 student edition
ISBN-10: 0618250204.The solution manual will be needed and offered for a $15 rental fee.
37
Placement questions regarding Pre-Calculus or Calculus please contact Brent Morgan
at brent.morgan@outlook.com
Pre-Calculus Two days per week
Prerequisite: Algebra 2
Advanced Mathematics fully integrates topics from algebra, geometry, trigonometry, discrete
mathematics, and mathematical analysis. Word problems are developed throughout the
problem sets and become progressively more elaborate. With regular practice, high-school
level students will be able to solve challenging problems such as rate problems and problems
involving abstract quantities. Conceptually oriented problems help prepare students for college
entrance exams such as the ACT and SAT.
Instructor: Brent Morgan
Minimum class size: 4
Maximum class size: 16
Materials Fee: $10.00
Required Texts: Algebra and Trigonometry Pre-Calculus, 5th edition, by Larson
Calculus Two days per week
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry
Topics for the course include elementary functions (polynomial, algebraic, trigonometric,
exponential and logarithmic), limits, differential calculus with applications, integral calculus
with applications, techniques of integration and plane analytic geometry. This is Calculus 1
college level.
Instructor: Brent Morgan
Minimum class size: 4
Maximum class size: 16
Materials Fee: $10.00
Required Materials: A scientific/graphing calculator is recommended.
Required Texts: Calculus with Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry, 2nd edition
38
Science
Elementary Science Two days per week
Zoology 2- Swimming Creatures of the Fifth Day
God filled the Earth’s waters with animals great and small. Exploring Creation with Zoology 2:
Swimming Creatures of the Fifth Day covers swimming creatures from the microscopic to the
massive. No matter how near or far you live from the ocean, you and your students will wonder
at God’s designs in the amazing aquatic animals He formed.
This book will be used 1st semester. There will be a few experiments, but this semester will have
more projects.
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy and Physiology is an elementary level Anatomy and
Physiology book that gives glory to God as children discover all that goes on in their bodies from
their heads to the nails on their toes! Beginning with a brief history of medicine and a peek into
cells and DNA, your students will voyage through fourteen lessons covering many subjects, such
as the body systems: skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, nervous and
more!
This book will be used 2nd semester. Many experiments and activities will be covered this
semester.
Elementary science will involve reading the chapters, taking quizzes on them and various other
homework assignments.
Instructor: Heather Karamath
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $35 (this includes copies, experiment supplies, and the blood typing kit for 2 nd
semester)
Required Materials: Notebook, pencils, paper
Required Textbooks: 1st Semester: Exploring Creation with Zoology 2: Swimming Creatures of
the Fifth Day by Jeannie Fulbright (Apologia). (NOTE: This is the third book in the zoology
series. It is NOT necessary to have completed book 1 before taking this class.) 2nd Semester:
Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy and Physiology by Jeannie Fulbright (Apologia)
39
Life Science (7th -8th grade) Two days per week
Offered odd school years-2015-2016
Life Science is a survey course that provides a foundation for high school studies in biology. The
course introduces students to God’s organic creations, focusing on the classification of living
things, the animal kingdoms, basic cell structure, and activities of living cells and organisms.
Students examine the theories of creation and biological evolutions in relationship to the Word
of God. They develop a Biblical understanding of man’s stewardship of the earth by studying
ecosystems, interrelationships among organisms, and natural resources. Students also study
the human body and its basic structure and function. The course includes hands-on activities.
We will learn how to use the scientific method through many class experiments. Students will
be expected to read the text at home each week, participate in class discussions, work with
class mates, and prepare for tests. This is a great foundational class to help students prepare for
high school science.
Instructor: Heather Karamath
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $30
Textbooks: BJU Press, Life Science 4th edition text ISBN - 978-1-60682-161-9
Plus :
4th edition student lab manual ISBN - 978-1-60682-202-9
Textbooks are available used online. Please purchase a new lab manual.
Space and Earth Science (7th grade up) Two days per week
Offered even school years-2016-2017
This science class is the alternate year for Brighton Middle School students. Due to its advanced
content, it is also appropriate for High School students seeking another year of laboratory
science. Space and Earth Science affirms the young-earth Creationary view of the earth’s
history while exposing the student to the old-earth evolutionary model. The material presents a
testimony of God’s judgment and plan for redemption through the study of scientific
philosophy and models, outer space, meteorology, geology, and oceanography/hydrology.
Topics include the sun, moon, stars, planets, asteroids, comets, meteors, atmosphere,
lithosphere, and hydrosphere. We will learn how to use the scientific method through many
class experiments and outside activities. Students will be expected to read the text at home
each week, participate in class discussions, work with class mates, and prepare for tests. Due to
the nature of astronomy lab exercises, at least one night time lab will be required.
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $30
Textbook: BJU Earth Science 4th edition text ISBN - 978-1-60682-070-4
Plus: 4th edition student lab manual ISBN - 978-1-60682-071-1
Textbooks are available used online. Please purchase a new lab manual.
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Physical Science (9th grade and up) Two days per week
Physical Science is considered to be a first level high school science class, to be taken
*before* Biology if possible. Due to the advanced nature of the course content it is also
appropriate for older high school students needing a lab course, but who are not yet at the
math level required for a full year of chemistry or physics. It is recommended that students
have completed pre-algebra or are taking pre-algebra concurrent with this class. Physical
Science encourages students to see matter and energy as part of God’s creation. Students
first study elementary chemistry for a full semester, discussing the structure and interactions
of matter and defining chemical and nuclear energy. Then, they focus for the second
semester on conceptual physics: the other six forms of energy, thermodynamics, electricity,
magnetism, sound, light, and optics. This is a laboratory course that includes many hands-on
experiments and demonstrations. We will study these subjects and many others using the
scientific method in classroom lab work and outside activities. Students will be expected to
read the text at home each week, participate in class discussions, work with class mates, and
prepare appropriately for tests.
Instructor: Denna Flickner
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: $40
Required Textbooks: BJU Physical Science 4th edition text ISBN - 978-1-59166-552-6,
Plus: Student Lab Manual 4th edition ISBN - 978-1-59166-793-3
Textbooks are available used online. Please purchase a new lab manual.
Honors option is available for this course. Requires permission from parent, teacher and
approval by administration.
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Biology (9th Grade and up) Two days per week
Pre requisites: prefer students to have a previous introduction in Physical Sciences.
This course is designed to be a thorough introduction to the field of Biology. This is a college
prep honors level text and is intended to be used at the 10th and above grade level. However,
most homeschooled students 9th grade and up will do well with the text. Biology shows your
student God’s power and glory in creation as he learns about cellular biology, genetics,
taxonomy, microbiology, botany, and zoology. When studying topics such as creation and
evolution, human cloning, abortion, and stem cell research, students are pointed to Scripture as
the ultimate authority and are encouraged to develop a Biblical perspective about these topics.
This is a very lab intensive course, and we will do most of the labs in the accompanying lab text
and well as others. Homework will include reading, work from the text and, occasionally,
internet research. The teacher will provide all laboratory materials other than the individual
project supplies. Students who take this course will be very well-prepared for a tough university
biology course. Although the text includes a unit on Human Anatomy and Physiology, we will
probably not being working in that section. Further A & P study, as well as possible dual credit,
is provided in the Advanced Biology course.
Instructor: Denna Flickner
Maximum 20 per section
Materials Fee: $45
Required Materials: 3 ring binder with dividers.
Textbooks: BJU University Press Biology student text (4th edition) ISBN - 978-1-60682-017-9
BJU University Press Biology Lab Manual (4th edition) ISBN - 978-1-60682-015-5
Textbooks are available used online. Please purchase a new lab manual.
Honors option is available for this course. Requires permission from parent, teacher and
approval by administration.
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Advanced Biology (HS) Two days per week
Dual credit option available through CCC (11th-12th grade)
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry
Combined with a previous full year of Biology, this course gives the student the equivalent of a
university biology course. We begin the year with a comprehensive review of basic biology and
biochemistry. Then we cover both the Anatomy and the Physiology of the human body’s 11
organ systems in detail. Advanced Biology would be especially helpful to any student
considering a career in a Health Sciences field, such as: pre med/dental/nursing/PT/OT/dental
hygiene/biotechnology/etc. There may be required or extra credit semester class projects
related to Human Anatomy. We will absolutely add to the laboratory work in the text. There
will also be 4 Biology article reviews completed by the students who will be receiving dual
college credit for this class. The teacher will provide all laboratory materials, excepting those
for individual projects.
Instructor: Denna Flickner
Maximum 20 per section
Materials Fee: $45
Required Materials: Quality colored pencils such as Prismacolor, 3-ring binder with dividers
Textbook: Apologia (Advanced Biology)
* The Human Body 2nd Edition Textbook
*The Human Body Student Notebook – make sure you are purchasing the
high school text please, not the elementary!
*Kaplan Anatomy Coloring Book, 5th edition
Textbooks are available online. Please make sure you get the 2nd edition. The 1st edition is
*not* compatible.
Honors option is available for this course. Requires permission from parent, teacher and
approval by administration.
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Chemistry Two days per week
Prerequisite: Algebra I
This course is designed to be a high school chemistry course and gives the student a rigorous
foundation in chemistry, in order to prepare him or her for an advanced level or a college-level
course. The course covers significant figures, units, classification, the mole concept,
stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic
structure, Lewis structures, molecular geometry, the gas laws, and equilibrium. The students
will also be learning how to complete the scientific process and complete a lab report. The
course will be set up completing one module approximately every two weeks. We will meet
twice a week. We will do both experiments that are located in the book, as well as out of book
experiments. A formal lab report will be written each week.
Instructor: Bridget Barney
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Material/Lab Fee: $20.00 per student
Supplies needed: Text: Exploring Creation with Chemistry by Dr. Jay Wile, 2nd edition (it is NOT
necessary to purchase the "Solutions Manual" - I prefer students to not have access to it),
three-ring binder with seven dividers and a scientific calculator (Texas Instruments TI-30AX
recommended).
Physics Two days per week
Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Geometry (Chemistry and Algebra 2 recommended but not
required) Contact the instructor if you have any questions about readiness.
This college-prep physics course is designed for the student who has completed algebra and has
had an introduction to the definitions of sine, cosine, and tangent. It provides a detailed
introduction to the methods and concepts of general physics, heavily emphasizing vector
analysis; this text is ideal preparation for a university-level physics course. It provides the
student with a strong background in one-dimensional and two-dimensional motion, Newton’s
laws and their application, gravity, work and energy, momentum, periodic motion, waves,
optics, electrostatics, electrodynamics, electrical circuits, and magnetism. The course will be set
up to complete one module approximately every two weeks. We will do experiments that are
located in the book, as well as out of book experiments. Formal lab reports will be written each
week.
Instructor: Christi Gramling
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 16
Materials Fee: $20
Required Materials: A basic scientific calculator with sine, cosine, and tangent functions is also
required.
Textbook: Physics, Exploring Creation with by Dr. Jay Wile, 2nd Edition - Book Set, Apologia
(Includes student text and Solutions Manual)
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Social Studies
Elementary Social Studies (1st-3rd grade) Two days per week
This class will introduce our youngest students to the geography and cultures of the world using
Expedition Earth. With fun games and activities we will discover the diversity of lifestyles,
dress, food, and many other aspects of culture around the world. We will even build our own
passport books as we “travel” the globe!
Instructor: Dama Johnson
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 22
Materials Fee: $25
Required Materials: Three ring binder with dividers, Lined paper, pencils, colored pencils, glue
or glue sticks, scissors, folder for holding loose papers
Required text: Expedition Earth, download and print at home as needed
(http://www.confessionsofahomeschooler.com/world-geography
Elementary History (4th-6th grade) Two days per week
This class will introduce students to the civilizations and major empires of the ancient past,
from creation to the fall of Rome. Biblical history will be incorporated. Mapping, note booking,
a timeline, and hands on activities will help give students a picture of the ancient world and its
impact on our world today. Students will also be encouraged to read historical literature
relating to the time periods studied. Reading and research will be done at home.
Instructor: Dama Johnson
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 22
Materials Fee: $25
Required Materials: Lined paper, pencils, colored pencils, glue or glue sticks, scissors, folder for
holding loose papers
Required text: The Story of the World Volume 1: Ancient Times text book
Ancient History Portfolio Classic (can be purchased at
http://www.homeschooljourney.com/Products2.html, only the notebook is required, not the
bundle, may be able to get a group discount)
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American History (7th-8th grade) Two days per week
Description will be forthcoming.
Instructor: Cathan Prinzing
Minimum class size: 8
Materials Fee: TBA
Required Supplies: TBA
Required Text: TBA
Maximum class sizes: 20
American History: 9th-12th grade Two days per week
American history is a survey of the history of the United States from a Biblical perspective, preColumbus to current day. Emphasis will be placed on the student thinking critically about the
events, issues and people that have shaped this nation. In addition to completing the text,
there will be periodic tests, enrichment projects and assignments designed to create interest
and appreciation for the sacrifices of those who founded and guided our nation.
Instructor: Pam Dunlop
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class sizes: 20
Materials Fee: none
Required Supplies: Please have a 3 ring, loose leaf binder with 5 dividers for note taking and
handouts
Required Text: United States History, 3rd Edition, BJU Press, Student Text. ISBN:
Fulfills 1 credit of required American History
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American Government and Economics: 9th-12th grade
Two days per week
American Government CCC dual credit option for 11-12th grades
Government class will study the history and fundamental structure of the United States
Constitution. Students will understand the government it established and the rights and
privileges it guarantees its citizens. Students will also study state and local levels of
government.
Economics class will study the concepts and theories of economics from a Christian perspective
of work, wealth and stewardship. Students will develop an understanding of their role in
economics as producers and consumers as well as contrast a market economy with the features
of a command economy.
Instructor: Pam Dunlop
Minimum class size: 8
Maximum class size: 20
Materials Fee: none
Required Supplies: Please have a 3 ring, loose leaf binder with 5 dividers for note taking and
handouts
Required Text: American Government in Christian Perspective, 3rd edition Abeka student text
AND
Economics: Work and Prosperity, 3rd edition Abeka student text
Fulfills ½ credit of required KS Government and ½ credit of elective social sciences for a total of 1
credit.
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STUDY SKILLS
Study Skills and Test Taking (6th-8th grade) Two days per week
The focus of this class will be on specific skills and strategies students can use to effectively
organize their coursework at school and at home. Students will learn to read textbooks
strategically to glean important information, take notes effectively, organize their folders and
notebooks for easy use, utilize a weekly planner to track homework assignments and due dates,
and learn to take a variety of types of tests effectively.
Instructor: Liz Allegar
Minimum 8, Maximum 20
Materials Fee: $30.00 for text and handouts
Required Materials: Planner or assignment book of student’s choice, folder, notebook paper,
pencil, pen, highlighter
Required text: Will be provided by instructor
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