Olive
Tree
Book List & Class Descriptions 6th – 12th Grades
All prices listed are retail prices from the publisher's website. Many find books for less at local retailers
(Probascos and Salt &Light). Please be mindful to purchase book editions as listed. Books to be
purchased by students are listed in BOLD type.
6th Grade Block:
Science: Apologia (apologia.com)
Exploring Creation with Human Anatomy & Physiology $39.00
Anatomy Note-taking Journal $27.00
No Testing – there will be a few in class quizzes.
Scientific experiments and projects in class, such as testing bacteria content around the house, finding
their blood type, creating a cell model from Jell-O and candy, and building a stethoscope! Students read
the chapter and test at home. Labs are done in class. Students provide textbooks. The journal is uniquely
designed to correspond with every assignment and activity in the course book, providing you with a
record of your student's scientific endeavors throughout the year.
Logic & Reasoning:
Logic will do more to teach the students to think clearly, reason well, and spot errors in the reasoning of
others, than any other activity. A good grasp of the concepts taught here will help the students in many
areas of life. In this class, we will be discussing informal reasoning and logic. We will talk about good
reasoning and bad reasoning. We will be exploring some different thought process in reasoning and
critical thinking skills such as analogies, word games, Sudoku, fallacies, red herrings and other logic
games. No text to purchase.
Art Studio:
Finally! An art class just for 6th graders! Students will learn to express themselves through various art
techniques and mediums. Hands on activities in groups allow students to enjoy their peers as they
unleash their creativity.
No text to purchase.
7th Grade Block:
Science 7 Lab: Apologia (apologia.com)
Exploring Creation with General Science 2nd edition $68.00
Solutions and Tests $22.00
The text is designed to be a student’s first systematic introduction to the sciences. The course covers
such topics as the scientific method, designing experiments, simple machines, archaeology, geology,
paleontology, biology, and human anatomy and physiology. There are many hands-on experiments done
in class. This class is the Lab portion only. Students read the chapter and test at home.
Writing: WriteShop (writeshop.com)
WriteShop I (Kautzer, Oldar) $45.95
WriteShop 1 will teach students to develop strong paragraphs with clarity, conciseness, colorful
vocabulary and interesting sentence types. Descriptive, narrative and informative writing are covered
using prewriting activities, dictation, brainstorming, sloppy copy, first revision, editing and final draft.
Speech: Effective Communication
With the benefit of a classroom setting, students will engage in oral and written exercises designed to
improve basic and advanced communication skills. Each child will learn how to individually as well
as corporately work together to prepare various assignments. Another critical skill for the Middle School
students to learn is how to efficiently take notes and organize classroom information. These skills will
undoubtedly prepare them to reach their academic potential, so during all assigned tasks, efficiency and
organization will be heavily stressed. No text to purchase.
7th Grade Tuesday/Thursday OPTIONAL classes:
English 7: Materials supplied by teacher, no text to purchase
Class will focus on reading for enjoyment and understanding- students select books. Reading
comprehension; Vocabulary; Grammar are covered. English 7 and WriteShop are a complete Language
Arts program.
Science 7: Apologia (apologia.com)
Exploring Creation with General Science 2nd edition $68.00
Solutions and Tests $22.00
This text is designed to be a student’s first systematic introduction to the sciences. The course covers
such topics as the scientific method, designing experiments, simple machines, archaeology, geology,
paleontology, biology, and human anatomy and physiology taught from a thoroughly Christian perspective.
Math: BJU (bjupress.com)
Pre-Algebra – 2nd edition Student Book BJU #233114 $53.89
Test Book BJU # 233148 $15.00
With homeschooled students coming from many different math curriculum's, we highly recommend students take the
Pre-Algebra class at OliveTree if you plan to take high school math at OliveTree.
Pre-Algebra eases the transition from arithmetic to algebra. Algebraic expressions and linear equations
are applied throughout a thorough review of operations on integers, fractions, decimals, percents, and
radicals. Students explore relations and functions using equations, tables, and graphs. Chapters on
statistics and geometry extend foundational concepts in preparation for high school courses. Problemsolving and real-life uses of math are featured in each chapter.
8th Grade Thursday Block:
Science Lab: Apologia (apologia.com)
Exploring Creation with Physical Science 2nd Edition $68.00
Solutions and Tests $22.00
Testing is done at home.
The text discusses such topics as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth,
environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics. The author
concentrates on the myths generated by the hysterical environmentalist movement. There are many
hands-on experiments done in class. This class is the Lab portion only.Students read the chapter and test
at home.
Composition: Institute for Excellence in Writing (excellenceinwriting.com)
The Elegant Essay: Building Blocks for Analytical Writing 3rd Ed. (Myers) $29.00
In 8th grade composition students will learn to craft well organized thoughtful essays. They will learn to
write clear thesis statements, make helpful transitions between paragraphs, give thorough explanations in
body paragraphs, and compose satisfying conclusions. WriteShop 1 is not a pre-requisite.
Worldview:
As the name of the course is Worldviews, ultimately students will consider a variety of religious
worldviews. Before we can do that, however, we must first be thoroughly comfortable and conversant
with a Christian Worldview. Thus, the first semester will be invested in an overview of Christianity. The
second semester will be spent considering other religions in light of a Christian Worldview. We will be
interacting with Bible passages and John Blanchard's book, Right with God, as well as regular dialogue
about current events from a Christian worldview. So What's the Difference, by Ridenour will be used second
semester. No text to purchase - OliveTree supplies books.
Worldview can be a component of your History program at home.
8th Grade Tuesday/Thursday OPTIONAL classes:
English 8: Materials supplied by teacher, no text to purchase
Class will focus on reading for enjoyment and understanding- students select books. Reading
comprehension; Vocabulary; Grammar are covered. English 8 and Composition are a complete
Language Arts program.
Science 8: Apologia (apologia.com)
Exploring Creation with Physical Science 2nd Edition $68.00
Solutions and Tests $22.00
Testing is done at home.
The text discusses such topics as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth,
environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics taught from a
thoroughly Christian perspective. The author concentrates on the myths generated by the hysterical
environmentalist movement.
Math: BJU (bjupress.com)
Pre-Algebra – 2nd edition Student Book BJU #233114 $53.89
Test Book BJU # 233148 $15.00
With homeschooled students coming from many different math curriculum's, we highly recommend students take the
Pre-Algebra class at OliveTree if you plan to take high school math at OliveTree.
Pre-Algebra eases the transition from arithmetic to algebra. Algebraic expressions and linear equations
are applied throughout a thorough review of operations on integers, fractions, decimals, percents, and
radicals. Students explore relations and functions using equations, tables, and graphs. Chapters on
statistics and geometry extend foundational concepts in preparation for high school courses. Problemsolving and real-life uses of math are featured in each chapter.
Algebra 1 is also offered to students who have completed Pre-Algebra (see 9th grade list for book and
description)
HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES - offered individually, note some classes have pre-requisites
MATH
BJU Algebra 1 – 3rd edition Student Book BJU #270546 $51.39 (bjupress.com)
Test Book BJU #270579 $15.00
Scientific Calculator and Graph paper
The Algebra I student text includes scriptural principles woven throughout. Concepts are presented with
examples and explanations. Homework sections are on three levels. Cumulative Review questions are
located at the end of every section. Procedures and definitions are color-coded for reference.
Pre-Algebra is a pre-requisite
BJU Geometry – 3rd edition Student Book BJU #281592 $51.39 (bjupress.com)
Test Book BJU #217620 $15.00
Protractor, Compass, Scientific Calculator
Traditional geometry text requiring the students to prove theorems. Exercises seek to develop problem
solving skills and reinforce the geometry concepts covered in each lesson. The curriculum is biblically
based. "Analytic Geometry" helps students to make the algebra-geometry connection in each chapter.
"Geometry Around Us" reveals some of geometry's secret hideouts. "Geometry Through History"
introduces students to the achievements of mathematicians of the past. Algebra 1 is a pre-requisite.
BJU Algebra 2 – 3rd edition Student Book BJU #279141 $51.39 (bjupress.com)
Tests Book – 3rd edition BJU # 286419 $15.00
Graphing Calculator: TI-83 Plus (or higher)
Algebra 2 reviews and expands concepts learned for graphing and solving linear and quadratic equations.
Lessons take a more advanced look at radical, exponential, rational, logarithmic, and trigonometric
equations and functions. To expose the student to higher mathematical studies, the course introduces
complex numbers, probability, statistics, and analytic geometry. The TI-83 Plus graphing calculator is
used all year to build concepts and expand understanding of the material.
Algebra 1 is a pre-requisite, Geometry before Algebra 2 is recommended
SCIENCE
Apologia Exploring Creation with Biology (2nd edition) $68.00 (apologia.com)
Tests Book $22.00
This course features an introduction to the study of living things. The chemistry of life, cell structures and
processes, cellular reproduction, genetics, ecosystems and creation vs. evolution. The five major
kingdoms are studied individually. The experiments include dissections with high quality microscopes and
dissection kits. This award-winning, college-prep biology course provides the student with a solid
background in biology which is presented an in a readable, conversational tone, taught form a Christian
worldview. No pre-requisite
Apologia Exploring Creation with Chemistry (2nd edition) $68.00 (apologia.com)
Solutions and Tests $22.00
This award-winning, Christ-centered modular course offers a rigorous foundation in high-school/collegeprep chemistry. Completion of Algebra 1 is a pre-requisite.
Apologia Exploring Creation with Physics (2nd edition) $68.00 (apologia.com)
Solutions and Tests $22.00
This course provides a detailed intro to the methods and concepts of general physics, heavily
emphasizing vector analysis. It provides the student with a strong background in units, measurement, one
and two-dimensional motion, Newton’s laws and their application, gravity, work & energy, momentum,
periodic motion, waves, optics, electrostatics, electrodynamics, electrical circuits and magnetism.
Pre-requisite: Algebra and an introduction to the definitions of sine, cosine, and tangent.
LITERATURE
BJU Fundamentals of Literature - 2nd edition BJU #259960 $58.89 (bjupress.com)
Fundamentals of Literature presents the foundational elements for literary analysis. Covering the topics
conflict, character development, plot, theme, tone, etc., this course provides excellent practice in
examining fiction under the light of a biblical framework. A review of grammar rules, editing practice and
critical thinking exercises are provided by the instructor. Weekly assignments involve selected readings
and discussion questions. Quarter requirements involve student analysis of a personally selected work.
No pre-requisite
BJU American Literature (2nd edition) BJU#273714 $53.89 (bjupress.com)
Writers INC. A Student Handbook ISBN#9780669529951 $24.45
1st Semester: In-class Essay Writing – Students provide Writers INC., all other materials are provided by
the instructor. These materials include selections from: J. Stobaugh’s Workbook for the SAT 1 Essay,
Editor-in-Chief, Perplexor Critical Thinking Exercise. This writing course is designed to prepare students
to effectively address essay questions. The format used is the in-class timed SAT Essay. This format can
be expanded to fit any essay assignment. The students will also review writing techniques, editorial skills,
and critical thinking skills. Weekly assignments include writing within the SAT time framework, editing
practice, and critical thinking exercises.
2nd Semester: American Literature - This course provides a survey of literature through America’s cultural
periods. Students will have a chance to critically assess the writings using a biblical framework. This
course provides an excellent companion study to American History. No tests. Students will be graded
according to their weekly analysis. Quarter Grades will include a written analysis of an American author’s
work.
No pre-requisite
Classic Literature: Selected full length Literature Texts correspond to periods in World History. $ varies
Teacher will place a group order for the following titles so students can be on same page for class
discussions. We will email you to confirm costs before ordering.
The Odyssey, Richmond Lattimore To Kill A Mockingbird, Harper Lee
Julius Caesar, William Shakespeare Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury
Pilgrim's Progress, John Bunyan A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens
Institute for Excellence in Writing (excellenceinwriting.com) Writing Research Papers; The Essential Tools
(Myers) $29.00
Moving students beyond basic essay writing, this course teaches students to conduct research, manage
note-taking, and craft a well organized paper. Students will focus on literary analysis essays 1st semester
and a research paper 2nd semester. Lit tests will include in-class essay questions to help students
prepare for college entrance and exams. Students will be required to read and discuss 50 to 100 pages a
week depending on the text.
No pre-requisite
British and Film Literature:
Note: Students supply British Lit books after final approval of titles. Film Lit materials supplied.
In A Survey of British Literature, students will be introduced to texts that relate to Britain from the Middle
Ages through the 20th Century. These texts represent the political, social, and ideological movements of
their time. As students analyze the purpose and audience for each text, they will better understand how
these movements shaped each literary period. Students will also evaluate good storytelling through the
use of literary devices (such as text form, tone, word choice, figurative language, symbolism), and
respond to the literature through a variety of genres, both written and digital, to better understand how the
texts are relevant to themselves. Some examples of texts studied in the past are: Beowulf, Hamlet, A
Modest Proposal, Frankenstein, The Importance of Being Earnest, Lord of the Flies, and related poems.
Movies As Literature is intended to teach students how to analyze movies as story and discern the ideas
being communicated through this visual media. The class focuses on three areas of storytelling and
audience manipulation: movie techniques (such as camera shots/angles, lighting, sound), literary devices
(theme, hero's flaw/arc, apparent defeat), and prevalent worldviews. By sharpening their understanding of
these three things, students are better able to recognize good storytelling and both the overt and subtle
messages being promoted. . Examples of movies viewed in class: The 39 Steps, Shane, E.T. The
Extraterrestrial, Chariots of Fire, and short animated films/documentaries.
No pre-requisite
HISTORY
BJU Cultural Geography 9 (4th edition) BJU # 290866 $55.00 (bjupress.com)
Cultural Geography involves a survey of the world with its variety of nations, cultures and physical
features. Weekly assignments involve chapter readings/questions. Unit work involves research over
individually selected nations. Actual testing will cover only the foundational terms and concepts. The
individualized student research constitutes the Unit test grade. The third and fourth quarters include a
chance for the students to design brochures highlighting a favorite nation. Come journey with us! We will
have a chance to explore parts of our marvelous world through appropriate DVD documentaries and
sample some of the cuisine from the nations under study.
No pre-requisite
BJU United States History (3rd edition) BJU #222141 $43.00 (bjupress.com)
Beginning with an overview of Christian worldview issues, this course provides a survey of America’s
history from pre-colonial days to the year 2000. Weekly assignments are designed to provide both
deductive (chapter reading/section questions) and inductive study practice (individualized topical
research). Historical documentaries supplement the text material, adding depth. The students’ weekly and
quarterly research constitutes the tests for this course.
No pre-requisite
BJU World History Student Text (4th Edition) BJU# 275560 $51.94 (bjupress.com)
Teacher supplies tests
Students examine ancient civilizations through the Greeks to the Roman Empire. Then they survey India,
Asia, and Africa on their way to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Reformation, upon which
modern history is founded. They are challenged to discover the forces, issues, people, and movements
that have shaped our modern world. God’s providence and Bible integration are given prominence as the
students are taught to view the world through a Christian lens.
No pre-requisite
Government & Economics
Texts - OliveTree will place a group order for these books:
Money, Greed and God by Jay Richard
Common Sense Economics by Gwartney, Stroup
The Law by Frederic Bastiat
Real Citizenship by Tim Echols
U.S. Constitution
American Government: This semester-long course will begin with a reading of The Law by Frederick
Bastiat, followed by an in-depth reading and analysis of the U.S. Constitution based on the original intent
of the Founding Fathers as well as an understanding of the background sources of the document
including the Bible. Students will gain a thorough grasp of their rights and responsibilities as U.S. citizens
as well as an understanding of the challenges of our modern political system. In addition to our study of
the federal government, state and local government will be investigated because this is where citizens
can have the most impact on the system. Students will take three or four tests and will write a couple of
essays and/or projects during the semester. One field trip such as attending a political caucus, county
convention, or visit to a court of law will be required per quarter. Students should leave this class with a
deep appreciation for the American system of government as well as specific knowledge of how and why
they should be involved.
Economics: Given the uncertainty of our current economic situation, students need to understand and be
able to apply sound economic principles in their lives today. This course will teach basic economic ideas
that are crucial to this understanding based on a free market and biblical perspective. Students will learn
about inflation, trade-offs, the importance of incentives, supply and demand, the problems of debt, the
influence of government and politics on the economy, the various schools of economic thought, and other
common macroeconomic topics. In addition to basic economics, students will be given simple practical
steps to get off to a good start in their personal financial lives. There will be four tests throughout the
semester, at least one paper, and a semester-long project that will be presented to the class. At the end
of the class, students will be equipped to manage their own affairs wisely and will have the ability to
understand the causes behind the volatility seen in today's global economy.
No pre-requisit
ELECTIVES
Spanish 1 - Realidades 1 Student Text ISBN 0133691721 $71.97
Prentice Hall Publishers
www.pearsonschool.com
Leveled Vocabulary and Grammar Workbook I 013369268X $13.97
Spanish 2 – Realidades 2 Student Text ISBN 013369173X $71.97 Prentice Hall Publishers
www.pearsonschool.com
Leveled Vocabulary & Grammar Workbook 2 0133692698 $13.97
Note: No group order will be placed, order these books on your own – leave time
for shipping. We recommend placing order by mid to late July.
REALIDADES is a standards-based Spanish curriculum that balances grammar and communication. The
program offers technology via computer web codes that enable students to hear the language inside and
outside of the classroom allowing an integration of language and culture to teach and motivate all
students. With a fluent Spanish speaker for a teacher, students enjoy lively conversation in class.
Speech Class:
This is a high school level speech class geared toward 11th – 12th graders. It is designed as a
fundamental course to improve public speaking in formal as well as informal situations. The activities
include the organization, preparation and delivery of solo speaking opportunities. The class includes
Introductory, Demonstration, Persuasive and Book Review Speeches. Also covered is storytelling,
dramatic interpretation and a creative team project.
Teacher: Nana Tonkin No text required.
Graphic Art
Students will be taught the fundamentals of graphic design. Designing logos, newsletters and band
posters. Enrolled students will be emailed a minimal supply list for both Graphic and/or Fine Art.
Fine Art
Students are challenged to take their drawing skills to a higher level. Illustrating portraits, still life, figure
drawings, and landscapes, paying extra attention to detail with a realistic approach.
Meet the Art Teacher, Mrs. Mary Caraway:
Mary grew up in the New Orleans area, where her childhood was shaped by the art, architecture and
spirit of the region. After studying fine art and graphic design at Louisiana State University, she spent 15
years as an award winning graphic designer, illustrator and watercolor artist before relocating with her
Husband and 2 sons to Fort Collins in 2002. Mary is passionate about teaching art to kids.
*OliveTree reserves the right to cancel classes if minimum enrollment is not met