Intermediate School
Curriculum Guide
Legacy Christian Academy OFFERS A
COLLEGE PREPARATORY EDUCATION
BALANCED IN Academics, Athletics, & Fine Arts
WITHIN A CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY
TO EQUIP strong leaders WITH
BIBLICAL CONVICTIONS FOR tomorrow
EST: 1999
5000 Academy Drive Frisco, Texas 75034 469-633-1330 www.legacyca.com
Graduating Class of
2013
ABOUT THE LCA INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
The Intermediate School is a Strengths Based Community. All teachers have
The Class of 2013 graduates
were admitted to the following
had their strengths identified through the Gallop’s Strengths Quest and
all students in 6th – 8th grade also discover their own personal strengths.
colleges and universities:
With every student knowing their strengths and the strengths of others, the • Abilene Christian University
Intermediate School is a very positive and encouraging community in which • Arizona State University
• Azusa Pacific University
teachers are able to appreciate and bring out the very best in students.
All students participate in Eagle Club, which is an intentional advisory class.
Eagle Club provides opportunity for spiritual challenge, prayer times, teambuilding activities as well as fun weekly grade competitions.
CHAPEL
At Legacy, our chapel services are a vital part of our school culture. Our
mission with chapel is to provide a Christ-centered environment that
nurtures a lifestyle of worship, spiritual growth, and unity. More specifically,
students can expect a relevant Biblical message that encourages, challenges,
and inspires them to be a more devoted follower of Jesus Christ. There are
two Intermediate School chapels; one session for 5th and 6th grades and
one session for 7th and 8th grades.
8TH GRADE HONORS
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An honors class is offered in English, Science, and History for 8th Grade.
The classes are selected based upon academic performance of students
in 7th Grade. Students in Honors courses encounter, in essence, the same
curriculum and content, but these students will take a more in-depth and
analytical approach to learning. Students will be challenged to take an
assignment and demonstrate application, synthesis, and evaluation skills
when approaching activities, projects, writing assignments, and class •
discussions. Assessments will be more challenging and grading standards •
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will be more rigorous.
TECHNOLOGY
The Intermediate School has two sets of iPad tablets available for student
use. Teachers regularly use the iPads to enhance class work and special
assignments, and to increase student awareness of technology and its
implications for educational use.
SAT/ACT SCORES (9TH-12TH)
Class of 2010
Class of 2011
Class of 2012
SAT CR
533
540
569
SAT M SAT (CR + M)
541
1074
548
1088
562
1131
ACT Composite
23.3
24.6
24.9
LCA has had two National Merit Finalists, a National Merit Semi-Finalist, and
8 National Merit Commended Students in the last seven years.
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Baylor University
Berry College
Biola University
Butler University
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado State University
Dallas Baptist University
Florida state University
Harding University
Henderson State University
Houston Baptist University
Howard Payne University
John Brown University
Kansas State University
Louisiana College
Louisiana State University
Midwestern State University
New Mexico State University
Oklahoma Baptist University
Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma State University
Oral Roberts University
Ouachita Baptist University
Pepperdine University
Samford University
Southeastern Oklahoma State
University
Southern Methodist University
Southwest Baptist University
Stephen F. Austin State University
Texas A&M University
Texas Christian University
Texas State University
Texas Tech University
Texas Woman’s University
The University of Alabama
The University of Arkansas
The University of Georgia
The University of Houston
The University of Memphis
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The University of North Texas
The University of Oklahoma
The University of Texas (Austin)
The University of Texas at Dallas
Trinity University
University of Kansas
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
University of Utah
West Texas A&M University
5th Grade Curriculum
SCIENCE
The study of life science reveals to the students
the cycles of life and the changes that are a result
of natural patterns. Through the processes of
photosynthesis, cellular respiration, nitrogen fixation,
and denitrification students see how God is always
in control to restore balance to the cycles of life. In
physical science, students see how matter and energy
are constantly changing. They look at the natural laws
and processes taking place on earth which result in
the provision of our resources. It also explores the
vastness of space and the predictability of regular
patterns that lie beyond our realm.
LANGUAGE ARTS
Reading examines different types of literature,
expository and historical fiction along with a study
of the basic elements of a story. Students work
with vocabulary and writing found in our literary
texts. Grammar study includes the eight parts of
speech and diagramming different types of sentence.
Concentration is on writing complete sentences and
paragraphs, narrative, and expository writing.
MATH
Math skills include operations with whole numbers,
fractions, and decimals; problem solving strategies
with reasoning and estimating; measurement
equations, graphs, number line with decimals;
finding area and perimeter; metric conversions and
introduction to geometry and pre-algebra concepts.
BIBLE
Bible in 5th grade is a survey of the Old and New
Testaments and focuses on God’s plan of redemption
from the Garden through Christ’s resurrection. The
Old and New Covenants are compared and contrasted
while the program culminates with an emphasis on
the Great Commission. Daily devotions are also an
integral part of fifth grade Bible. Students participate
in Bible memorization, covering the most essential
verses for Christian living in 5th - 8th grades.
HISTORY
A survey of American history and geography
begins with the Federal government following the
Revolutionary War, the westward expansion of our
country, the Civil War, immigration and inventions
of the early 20th Century, the World Wars, and the
people and events that shaped our country in
modern times. Geography includes a study of the
world in spatial terms, regions of the United States,
and human populations and patterns of settlement.
ELECTIVES
All 5th grade students are introduced to the fine art electives of Art, Band and Choir. Students participate in
each of these classes for a trimester.
All fifth grade students participate in a weekly Spanish class. This allows students to gain an understanding
and appreciation for a foreign language and also to begin speaking in Spanish.
Physical Education is an important time for the students to learn basic motor skills, gain an understanding of
the need for exercise into one’s lifestyle, and gives students the opportunity to learn to interact with classmates
socially. Physical Education is incorporated into the schedule several times per week.
All information in this guide is correct at the time of printing. Information is subject to change on an annual basis.
6th Grade Curriculum
SCIENCE
Life science study focuses on the students
experiencing the awesome detail and diverse nature
of God through the study of classification of bacteria,
plants and animals. In physical science, God’s pattern
of order and structure is revealed as students study
chemical elements, states of matter, and physical
law. Through the study of earth and space science,
students can see God’s creative patterns in the
predictability in water movements, weather events,
rock layers, and natural disasters. In looking at the
vastness of the universe, the students find that those
patterns are also apparent in the star life cycle, star
clusters, galaxy formations, and constellations.
MATH
Math skills include whole numbers, decimals, number
theory, fraction concepts, operations, statistics, and
graphing. Algebra concepts include integers, rational
numbers, expressions, equations, patterns, graphing,
geometry, measurement, ratio, proportion, percent,
and probability.
BIBLE
Sixth grade focuses on the life of the Apostle Paul and
the early Church. In addition, sixth grade does an indepth study of the Christian worldview followed by
a look at the essential components of all the major
worldviews. This study leaves students prepared
to interpret the world around them and respond
LANGUAGE ARTS
biblically to it in their thinking and actions. Students
Language Arts includes a three-step approach to participate in Bible memorization, covering the most
grammar: memorizing grammar rules, practice of essential verses for Christian living in 5th - 8th grades.
rules in individual sentences, and application of
grammar skills through writing, building sentences, HISTORY
and studying sentence types and variety. In writing, Ancient world history covers the eastern hemisphere
students learn how to write a one-paragraph literary and the beginning of know civilization. This includes
response using a clear assertion, supportive textual the study of Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, and
evidence, and analysis. Finally, students learn to be Antarctica, cultures and religions. World geography
critical readers through novel studies, focusing on skills are developed using maps, globes, latitude,
annotation, plot development, figurative language longitude, and graphs.
and theme. They also refine their understanding of
the research process and source documentation.
ELECTIVES
Students select Art, Band or Choir as a fine art elective. This class is for the entire year. Students are given
several opportunities to perform throughout the year.
All sixth grade students participate in a weekly Spanish class. This allows students to gain an understanding
and appreciation for a foreign language and also to begin speaking in Spanish.
Physical Education is an important time for the students to learn basic motor skills, gain an understanding of
the need for exercise in one’s lifestyle, and gives students the opportunity to learn to interact with classmates
socially. Physical Education is incorporated into the schedule several times per week.
All 6th grade students attend the Sky Ranch Camp as a part of the 6th grade science curriculum.
7th and 8th Grade Fine Arts,
Athletics, and Electives
VISUAL ARTS
This course provides students the opportunity to
produce art using a variety of media. Emphasis will
be placed on utilization of design concepts. Students
will develop skills to examine art in view of historical
events and cultural trends. Students will also develop
awareness in regard to biblical applications, understand
the importance of artistic integrity and discover the
processes involved in art criticism.
CHOIR
Students will sing two and three part choral
literature and establish the best possible ensemble
sound. Students will learn music theory, sightreading, and music history. Students will perform in
school, community, festival, and competition events
throughout the school year.
BAND
Band students will begin to develop basic skills for
the performance of music. Each student is expected
to learn individual instrumental techniques, develop
proper embouchure and tone production, learn
rhythmic fundamentals in multiple time signatures,
understand and perform different music styles and
idioms in multiple ensemble settings, and present
public musical programs of excellence.
ATHLETICS
All students complete the requirements for physical
education through participation in LCA athletics
(football, volleyball, basketball, track and cheer), off
season strength and conditioning, or off-campus P.E.E.
(Physical Education Equivalence).
EAGLE CLUB ELECTIVE
All 7th and 8th grade students particpate in a six week
recreational / life skill elective each quarter. These
occur during the school day on Tuesdays. Electives
include: Keyboarding, Money Skills, Bible Studies,
Sports, Worship, Chess, Home Economics.
All information in this guide is correct at the time of printing. Information is subject to change on an annual basis.
7th Grade Curriculum
BIBLE
Seventh Grade Bible opens with a unit on Bible study
basics, where the students learns how to maximize their
understanding of God’s Word through the use of “study
Bible” tools and basic Bible interpretation methods. The
student embarks on a journey through the Bible using the
“Arc of Bible History” that guides them through 12 eras of the
Bible from creation (Genesis) to Revelation. In 7th grade, the
student only works up through the Gospels era, ending the
course with a focus on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Bridging the Old and New Testaments within the same year
is paramount in one’s understanding of God’s eternal and
sovereign plan for redemption of mankind through His son
Jesus Christ. This Christo-centric approach to interpreting
the Scriptures is latent throughout all the Bible content in
this course. Students participate in Bible memorization,
covering the most essential verses for Christian living in
5th - 8th grades.
ENGLISH 7
This course underscores the compilation and application
of oral communication skills and reading skills, including
comprehension, analysis, inference gathering, utilization of
reference aids, and vocabulary. Literature is genre-based.
Writing is focused on the mastery of short answer questions
and the eventual progression to competency on essay
questions. Basic grammar skills are maintained and applied
to writing. Demonstration of research skills culminates in
the form of a mini-research project.
AMERICAN HISTORY I This course is designed to provide students with a basic
account of the history of the United States of America
from its early native people to the Civil War. Primary and
secondary sources will be used throughout the school year.
Students will also learn how God was, and is, an integral part
of the founding and continued success of our great nation.
PRE-ALGEBRA
This course explores and expands on introductory concepts
of Algebra such as variables, integers with all operations,
solving equations, factors, fractions, exponents, ratios,
proportions, percents, linear functions and graphing,
graphing of inequalities, area, volume, right triangles, as
well as data analysis and probability.
LIFE-SCIENCE
This is an exciting course designed to walk students
through an exploration of God’s Creation through general
science that covers a wide variety of topics which include
laboratory methods, a history of science, scientific method,
inquiry, archeology, fossil record, classification of life, DNA,
the human body, body systems, and a dissection unit
covering the earthworm, cow’s eye, and frog. This course
also includes the Sciencewise program which encourages
students to cooperatively solve problems. Students will
be encouraged to think outside the box, defend their faith
and will be guided in a focused approach that will build a
strong foundation to prepare them for high school biology,
chemistry and physics.
ELECTIVES
Students select Art, Band or Choir as a fine art elective. This class is for the entire year. Students are given
several opportunities to perform throughout the year.
In 7th grade, students also choose one elective from Drama and Technology.
All information in this guide is correct at the time of printing. Information is subject to change on an annual basis.
8th Grade Curriculum
BIBLE
This class will survey the New Testament from the Gospels
to Revelation, continually focusing upon the life, death,
and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Students will study
the development of the early church, and the themes
of salvation, discipleship, and mission will be nurtured
through appropriate devotions. Students participate in
Bible memorization, covering the most essential verses for
Christian living in 5th - 8th grades.
Part of the New Testament Survey course is Logic. This course
is an introduction to the art of reasoning. The student will
be trained in the crucial skills of defining terms, recognizing
basic types of statements, arguing with syllogisms, arguing in
ordinary language, and identifying informal fallacies.
ENGLISH 8 & HONORS ENGLISH 8
This course underscores the compilation and application
of oral communication and reading skills, including
comprehension, analysis, inference gathering, utilization of
reference aids, and vocabulary. Literature is genre-based.
Writing is focused on the mastery of the essay format, as
well as other forms of writing. Review of general mechanics
and grammar occurs throughout the first semester, and
then moves solely to the application of said skills in writing.
Demonstration of research skills culminates in the form of a
mini-research project.
AMERICAN HISTORY II & HONORS
AMERICAN HISTORY II
This course is designed to provide students with a basic
account of the history of the United States of America from
the Civil War to present day events. Primary and secondary
sources will be used throughout the school year. Students
will also learn how God was, and is, an integral part of the
founding and continued success of our great nation.
ALGEBRA I (FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT)
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra
Algebra I provides the foundation for higher level math and
is designed to develop problem solving skills. Students
will review tools of Algebra and solving equations and
inequalities. Students will solve and apply proportions in
real life situations. Students will then have detailed lessons
in graphs and functions so that they can graph linear
equations. Systems of equations and linear inequalities will
also be solved and graphed on a coordinate plane and with
graphing calculators. Students will then study exponents and
exponential functions with properties of multiplication and
division; polynomials and factoring as well as the quadratic
equation.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE & HONORS PHYSICAL
SCIENCE
This course is designed to walk students through an
exploration of God’s Creation through Physical Science that
covers a wide variety of topics which include laboratory
methods, a study of atoms and molecules, metric measure,
air, earth, atmosphere, water, motion, Newton’s Laws, Periodic
Table of the Elements, electricity, waves, sound, and light.
This course also includes the Sciencewise program which
encourages students to work in groups to solve problems
with a given set of materials. Students will be challenged to
think outside the box and defend their faith which will build
a strong foundation to better prepare them for high school
biology, chemistry, and physics.
LATIN I (FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT)
This course emphasizes Latin vocabulary and English
derivatives since one of the greatest benefits of Latin study
is found in the rich etymological understanding of English
words. Students will also sit for the National Latin Exam in the
Spring Semester.
SPANISH I (FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT)
Spanish begins the compilation and application of oral
communication and reading skills, including comprehension,
analysis, inference gathering, utilization of reference aids,
and vocabulary. Vocabulary is learned within the context of
speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Cultures of various
Spanish speaking countries are studied. Writing is focused on
the mastery of short sentences and short answer questions.
Basic grammar skills are mastered and maintained.
ELECTIVES
Students select Art, Band, or Choir as a fine art elective. This class is for the entire year. Students are given
several opportunities to perform throughout the year.
In 8th grade, students also choose one elective from Spanish 1 (for high school credit), Latin 1 (for high school
credit), Technology, and Drama.
The 8th grade class goes to Viriginia as part of the History curriculum.
Academic Glossary
PURPOSEFUL DESIGN BY ACSI
The name of the science curriculum, Purposeful
Design, relates to the creative work of God. Every unit
in the study integrates the wonder of the created world
wth a Biblical worldview. It uses the students natural,
God-given curiosity to engage them in observing,
investigating, and discovering the world around them.
HSP MATH
HSP Math is a complete and balanced program focusing
on numerical fluency, conceptual understanding,
and problem solving providing a strong foundation
for algebra. The program was built on the content
and intent of the national standards and balances
instruction with electronic learning.
DELTA SCIENCE KITS
The Delta Science Modules are used as a supplement
to the science curriculum by giving students an
opportunity for more hands-on activities to assist
as they master science standards in life, earth, and
physical science through discovery.
A BEKA HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES
A Beka History gives a historically accurate account of
what man has done over time from a positive Christian
perspective.
SYMTALK SPANISH
Symtalk
Spanish
program
teaches
verbal
OPEN COURT
communicative Spanish using visual memory
Open Court Reading is a phonics based program to techniques. This program follows a series of symbol
systematically teach decoding, comprehension, inquiry cards that enables the students to start making
and investigation, and writing in a logical progression. sentences from the first week of class.
Phonics involves teaching how to connect the sounds
of spoken English with letters or groups of letters and DESTINATION IMAGINATION
teaching the student to blend the sound of letters Is a group academic competition that is open to
together to produce an unknown word.
6th – 8th grade students. The focus of Destination
Imagination is teamwork, creativity and problem
SIX-TRAITS WRITING
solving. Students who choose to compete are placed
Six trait writing instruction walks students through the in teams of approximately 7 students. They meet
writing process while exposing them to the six traits regularly to solve assigned problems from a variety of
of ideas, organization, voice, word choice, sentence academic fields and compete at a local level with the
fluency, and conventions. Six trait writing provides possibility of advancing to higher levels.
a common writer language, value of assessment,
teaching of revision/editing, higher thinking skills, and
support for the authentic writing process.
The Intermediate School also offers a variety of opportunities to compete in other academic competitions such
as ACSI Spelling Bee and Math League, along with the PSIA Math Competition.