High School
Course Handbook
2011 - 2012 Academic Year
C h r i s t i a n
H i g h
S c h o o l
2200 Williams Boulevard ~ Richland, WA 99354
(509) 946-0602
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................1
GENERAL INFORMATION .....................................................................................................................................1
GRADE CLASSIFICATIONS ...................................................................................................................................1
ATTENDANCE ...........................................................................................................................................................2
SCHEDULE CHANGES.............................................................................................................................................2
GRADING POLICY ...................................................................................................................................................2
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ..........................................................................................................................3
COLLEGE PREPARATION .....................................................................................................................................4
COURSES IN BIBLE ..................................................................................................................................................5
COURSES IN ENGLISH ............................................................................................................................................5
COURSES IN MATHEMATICS ...............................................................................................................................6
COURSES IN HEALTH & FITNESS .......................................................................................................................8
COURSES IN SCIENCE ............................................................................................................................................8
COURSES IN SOCIAL SCIENCE ............................................................................................................................9
COURSES IN FOREIGN LANGUAGES ............................................................................................................... 12
AP & CONCURRENT CREDIT (CC) COURSE INFORMATION.....................................................................14
Introduction
Liberty Christian School is a nondenominational religious school incorporated as a nonprofit
corporation in the State of Washington. The school has been in operation since 1980. As of the
2011-2012 school year, Liberty has an enrollment of over 400 students in kindergarten through
high school representing approximately 50 area churches.
Mission Statement
Liberty Christian School provides a
Biblically-based education marked by
academic excellence in a nurturing
atmosphere. Students are encouraged to
develop a personal relationship with Jesus
Christ and live committed Christian lives.
Liberty Christian School supports the Biblical position that parents are responsible to train their
children in the ways of the Lord (Eph. 6:1-4, Pro. 22:6). Therefore, the school will assist parents
in the teaching of truth and in training for character development. The Core Values of the
school are:
 Valuing the Soul
 Valuing God’s Word
 Impacting the World
 Pursuing Excellence
 Instilling a Christian Worldview
 Modeling Christ
 Partnering With the Home
 Investing in One Another
The educational process at Liberty Christian School is based on a Christian Philosophy of
Education that puts Biblical principles foremost in all actions and activities.
Christian Philosophy of Education
We believe that the Bible is central to the educational
process. It furnishes a unifying frame of reference for every
subject and provides life and power to the entire curriculum.
The Bible, when properly taught, is a liberating influence,
freeing the mind and heart for the pursuit of truth in every
endeavor. It is a constant reminder that all truth, being of
God, is for a purpose.
The board, administration, teachers, staff, and volunteers all desire and pray that the high
school experience at Liberty Christian School will prepare students spiritually and academically
for a lifetime of service to the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
General Information
This Course Handbook is designed to provide parents and students with the necessary
information on grade levels, course offerings, and graduation requirements to make informed
decisions on course and track selections for the entire high school career of the student. It is
important to make these decisions before entering the 9th grade year so that appropriate
courses and prerequisites can be taken in the proper sequence. It is understood that while the
decisions made now will set a course for the student, it is also recognized that changes in the
plan can be made if career interests or aptitude changes during the high school years.
It is also important that these decisions be made in consultation with all three parties:
student, parent, and faculty. All three parties have information and vested interests that are
integral to the decision-making process. Students have an innate sense of their desires and
propensities. Parents have a perspective on the abilities and strengths of their children, adding
a degree of focus to the discussion. Faculty members have an understanding of the curriculum
and the academic aptitude of the student that will further enhance the evaluation process. A
combined effort will ensure the development of the wisest plan of attack for each student.
Grade Classifications
All high school students are classified by grade level according to the total number of credits
earned prior to the start of classes in the fall. Grade level classifications are determined using
the following number of credits:
Classification
Grade Level
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Credits
0.00 to 5.50
6.00 to 11.50
12.00 to 16.50
17.00 or More
Students must register for the grade in which they are classified. In order to be considered a
full-time student, a high school student must enroll in a minimum number of classes or credits
each semester as follows (not including WIAA considerations):
Minimum Enrollment Each Semester
Grade Level
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Classes
6
6
5
4
Credits
3.0
3.0
2.5
2.0
There are exceptions to these minimum enrollment requirements (e.g. Running Start). They will
be considered on a case by case basis.
Attendance
Regular school attendance is a prime ingredient for mastery of educational material. Classroom
interactions between student and teacher can enrich and clarify knowledge of subject matter
beyond the mere accumulation of factual data. Therefore, absences or tardiness may affect the
grade a student receives in courses taught at LCS.
High school students who are absent (excused and unexcused) 15 or more times in a semester
shall receive a failing grade and no credit for the class towards graduation. In the event of more
than 15 absences, an appeal in writing may be submitted to the principal citing the extenuating
circumstances that caused the absences. Upon review, the principal may grant credit for the
class or classes. Regular school attendance is a Washington State requirement.
Schedule Changes
Schedule or class changes will be considered on an individual basis for the first ten school days
of each semester. No changes will be considered after 10 school days unless a student is
inappropriately placed in a course. Classes dropped during the first 10 school days of the
semester will not be recorded on the transcript. Classes dropped after 10 school days but
before 45 school days from the start of the semester will be recorded on the transcript and a
withdrawal (W) grade will be assigned. Classes dropped 45 or more school days from the start
of the semester will be recorded on the transcript and a failing grade will be assigned.
Grading Policy
The following conversion of grade percentages, letter grade, grade definition, and grade point
average is as follows:
Definition
Honor Points
(GPA)
Percent Grade
Letter Grade
99.50, or higher
A+
93.50-99.49
A
89.50-93.49
A-
3.7
86.50-89.49
B+
3.3
83.50-86.49
B
79.50-83.49
B-
2.7
76.50-79.49
C+
2.3
73.50-76.49
C
69.50-73.49
C-
66.50-69.49
D+
4.0
Outstanding
Above Average
Average
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.7
Below Average
1.3
63.50-66.49
D
1.0
59.50-63.49
D-
Lowest Passing
1.0
00.00-59.49
F
Not Passing
0.0
Graduation Requirements
Students shall meet the following criteria in order to receive a High School Diploma from Liberty
Christian School:
 Take classes and earn credits to meet the minimum 21-24 credits required by LCS (19
credits minimum Washington state)
 Take and pass a Bible class for each semester enrolled at LCS (1-4 credits)
 Maintain a full-time enrollment status their senior year (4+ courses)
The following is a chart comparing the minimum credits for high school graduation required by
LCS along with Washington state requirements and suggestions for college preparation:
Graduation Requirement Comparison Chart
Subject
LCS
WA High School Diploma
WSU
Bible
4.0 (0.5 for each semester attended) 0.0
0.0
English
4.0 (includes 1.0 of composition
and 1.0 of literature)
3.0
4.0 (including 1.0 of composition and 1.0 of
literature)
Math
3.0 (includes 1.0 Algebra 1 and 1.0
Geometry)
2.0
3.0 (including 1.0 Algebra 1, 1.0 Algebra 2,
and 1.0 Geometry)
Science
2.0 (includes 1.0 Physical Science and2.0
1.0
another lab science)
2.0 (at least 1.0 must be a lab science)
Social Studies
3.0 (includes 0.5 WA History, 0.5 World2.5 (must include 0.5 WA History, 1.0 US
3.0 (including at least 1.0 of history)
Geography, 1.0 US History & Government,
History, and 1.0 World History)
and 2.0 World History)
Foreign Language 2.0 of a single language
0.0
2.0 of a single language
Arts
1.0 (visual or performing)
1.0 (visual or performing)
1.0 (visual, performing, or fine)
Occupational
1.0
1.0
0.0
PE/Health
2.0
2.0
0.0
Electives
2.0
5.5
0.0
TOTAL
24.0
19.0
15.0
Washington State History taken in the 7th/8th grade may be used to meet the high school
graduation requirement.
Classes that fulfill the Arts requirements:
Art, Band, Drama, Choir, Worship Team, Photography, Home Economics and
Yearbook.
Classes that fulfill the Occupational Education Requirement:
Teacher’s Aide, Office Assistant, Yearbook, Photography, Computer Applications and Home
Economics.
A CLASS CANNOT BE USED TO MEET MORE THAN ONE SUBJECT REQUIREMENT.
Extra-Curricular Activities:
Committed and dedicated involvement in a few activities is usually better than a little
involvement in numerous activities. Colleges know that students have limited time but like to
see involvement in school activities. Students should keep a portfolio of extra-curricular
involvement such as ASB, Key Club, community service, and athletics.
College Preparation
College entrance requirements differ depending on the institution and the field of study
chosen. Students should start preparing for college/university as early as ninth grade.
Parents/students should consult the College Planning Guide for Liberty Christian School
students in the planning process. The following represent the recommended minimum
course of study for college-bound students.
English: Four years of English study is required, at least one year must be in
composition and one in literature. Courses in yearbook and drama do not meet
this requirement.
Mathematics: Three years of mathematics are required at the levels of algebra,
geometry and advanced algebra (Algebra 2).
Science: Three years of science with one full year of the basic principles of
biology, chemistry, or physics completed with a laboratory experience.
Social Science: Five semesters of study are required in history or in any of the
other social sciences, (for example: contemporary world problems, economics,
geography, government, or political science.)
Foreign Language: Two years of study in a single foreign language.
Arts: One year of study is required in the fine, visual, or performing arts.
Occupational Elective: One year of study in the area of occupational study that
includes computer applications and other topics.
Courses in Bible
Gospels and Acts: Meeting Jesus, His Gospel and His Witnesses
1.0 Credit
This course surveys the life and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth and the origin and growth of the
early Church. The course begins by discussing the historical reliability of the Gospels and Acts.
It then explores the historical, cultural, religious and theological contexts in which Jesus and his
disciples lived. Students then refine biblical reading skills by analyzing the unique literary
structure, purpose and theological contribution of each Gospel. After these orienting activities,
the rest of the course engages in more detailed study Jesus and his church by working through
the two-part historical narrative of Luke-Acts. Along the way, we draw out the implications of
Jesus’ his ministry, teaching and passion for Christian life and spiritual formation. The course
concludes by summing up the theological and ethical teaching of Jesus and reviewing how his
life and mission were the climax to the saving mission of God.
This course will be taught primarily to students in grade 9-10.
Biblical Ethics
1.0 Credit
This course explores the Bible’s teaching about how to live rightly before God. The course
begins by explaining the difference between biblical and philosophical approaches ethics,
introduces students to the prevailing contemporary ethical systems in our world today, and
explains the Bible’s starting point and strategies for moral instruction. The course moves on to
examine some foundational principles in Biblical ethics as set forth in the Torah (the OT, esp.
the Pentateuch). Building on this foundation, the course explores some central ethical
instructions of the Bible.
This course will be taught primarily to students in grade 11-12.
Courses in English
Fundamentals of Literature and Composition
1.0 Credit
This freshman course addresses the analysis of conflict, character, theme, structure, point of
view, and moral tone. A rich variety of short stories, poems, essays, and plays and a good
balance of serious and humorous pieces from the greatest writers of America, England, and
Europe are used to explore these fundamentals. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is read
during the year. Grammar and writing skills are emphasized for approximately one semester.
Vocabulary and spelling are also taught.
Elements of Literature and Composition
1.0 Credit
The first semester of this course covers a breadth of literary thoughts and conventions such as
imaginative comparisons, sound and syntax, thought and time, allusion, symbol, irony,
biography, and lyric poetry taught through high interest and thought provoking literature.
Grammar and vocabulary are integrated throughout both semesters.
The second semester is devoted entirely to college composition. The three parts of the writing
process (prewriting, drafting, and revising) are given much time and practice in this class. Four
major categories of essays are explored with opportunities to write different kinds of essays that
fit into each category. This semester of writing is invaluable training for college bound students.
American Literature and College Composition
1.0 Credit
This course focuses on literature written by American authors. It examines short story structure
and style as well as an examination from a Christian perspective of the ideas the literature
contains. American poetry and novels as well as an examination of the history and growth of
American literature will be covered. The students write expository essays that deal with ideas
and themes presented in the material. The integration of higher level grammar and vocabulary
preparation for the SAT and ACT testing are practiced this year.
World Literature
1.0 Credit
Senior English consists of reading a variety of classical literature, review of grammar and
vocabulary, and refining of writing skills. Works including Beowulf, The Canterbury Tales, and
The Screwtape Letters will be read and analyzed. Other authors examined include
Shakespeare, Hawthorne, as well as some classical poets including T.S. Elliot. Writing will
focus on writing about literature and writing with research. The goal is to prepare students to be
able to read and write at a level which will be expected in college.
CC English and Composition
1.0 Credit
This course is designed to develop college-level writing skills in students and to stimulate them
to think critically, express themselves clearly, and develop an appreciation for the medium of
language through a variety of writing and reading experiences. For the course to count for NNU
General Requirements, a student must earn a grade of C or better.
Courses in Mathematics
There are two sequences of mathematics classes as shown in the following mathematics
sequence table. Both provide the necessary course work to prepare for the Scholastic
Assessment Test (SAT) that is normally taken at the end of the junior year.
Mathematics Sequences
Track 1
Track 2
Freshman: Algebra 1
Freshman: Geometry (Prereq:
Alg. I in 8th grade)
Sophomore: Geometry
Sophomore: Algebra 2
Junior: Algebra 2
Junior: Advanced Math
Senior: Advanced Math
Senior: AP Calculus
A minimum of three years of mathematics study is required to obtain a high school diploma from
LCS. Many colleges have entrance requirements of three years of mathematics study in the
areas of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Courses offered in mathematics are the following:
Algebra ½
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: None
This course covers all the topics normally covered in a pre-algebra course as well as additional
topics from geometry and discrete mathematics. This course is primarily designed for students
who intend to take Algebra 1 but need additional background and skill building. Students are
introduced to the evaluation of algebraic expressions, simplification of algebraic expressions,
and the solution of linear equations in one unknown; and geometric concepts such as area,
perimeter, surface area, volume, and classification of geometric figures.
Algebra 1
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: Algebra 1/2
This course covers the solution of equations in one unknown and solution of simultaneous
equations, the algebra of polynomials and rational expressions, word problems requiring
algebra for their solutions, solving systems of equations, and solutions of quadratic equations.
In addition, geometry lessons include problems computing areas, volume and surface areas of
regular and irregular geometric figures.
Consumer Math
1.0 Credit
The purpose of consumer math is to teach students to be wise consumers of the products and
services they purchase or the contracts they negotiate. During the course of the year, the
students learn how to purchase a car including loans and leases. They learn about various
types of salaries including commissions. Students are taught how to itemize a household
budget. They work with various types of loans, insurance rates, unit pricing, and English and
metric measurement. Students also learn about state and federal income taxes, banking
including loans, credit cards and checking accounts, life insurance, and related benefits. The
final unit prepares the students to set up a small business.
Algebra 2
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: B or higher in Algebra 1 or successful completion of Geometry
This course treats the topics traditionally covered in second-year algebra and a considerable
amount of geometry and trigonometry. Students completing the course will have studied the
equivalent of one semester of geometry. Applications to other subjects such as physics and
chemistry as well as “real-world” problems are covered including ideal gas law, vector forces,
chemical mixtures, set theory, probability, and statistics.
Geometry
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: Algebra 1
This course is a study of proofs in geometric settings, applications relating to areas, perimeters,
circumferences, and angle measures of various polygons and circles. Spatial topics such as
prisms, pyramid, spheres, cylinders, and cones are also included.
Advanced Mathematics
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: C or higher in Algebra 2
This course is a comprehensive treatment of pre-calculus subjects: trigonometric identities,
conic sections, graphs of sinusoids, rectangular and polar representation of complex numbers,
matrices, and the binomial theorem. The graphing calculator is studied and used to graph
functions and perform data analysis. Conceptually-oriented problems that prepare students for
college entrance exams (ACT and SAT) are also included.
AP Calculus
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: B- or higher in Advanced Math
This course is equivalent to a year of college calculus. It covers all the topics normally covered
in an Advanced Placement AB calculus program as well as many of the topics required for a BC
level program. Topics include derivatives, integrals, and their application, differential equations,
solids of revolution, analytical geometry, trigonometry, and numerous applications to physics,
chemistry, engineering, and business. Students may receive college credit by taking either the
AB Advanced Placement Exam (covers 2 college quarters) or the BC Advanced Placement
exam (covers 3 college quarters). The exam is given in May.
Courses in Health & Fitness
Health and Fitness
0.5 Credit
NOTE: Two years are required; however, students may substitute high school sports for
the second year of PE. (One completed sport equals one semester of PE.)
This course introduces the student to multiple forms of exercise and sports as well as basic
health education. This course must be taken for two semesters to provide a total of 1.0 credit.
Strength and Conditioning
0.5 Credit
This course provides the student an opportunity to learn basic strength training techniques and
improve individual performance of strength, flexibility, and endurance through weight lifting.
This is a performance course, it may be taken more than once for credit.
Performance PE
0.5 Credit
This course consists of granting credit for a student’s participation in a varsity sport at LCS.
One-half credit may be granted for each sport. This is a performance course, it may be taken
more than once for credit.
Courses in Science
Physical Science
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITES: None
This course introduces students to the Christian philosophy of science, the scientific method,
and basic chemistry and physics concepts. Major topics include classification of matter, atomic
theory and structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, energy,
mechanics, machines, electricity, and magnetism. Although this course is not a lab course,
many hands-on activities are included.
Biology
1.0 Credit
th
PREREQUISITES: Grade of B or higher in Earth Science if taking in 9 grade.
*Lab course
Instruction in botany, genetics, cell biology, human anatomy, invertebrate and vertebrate
anatomy, and physiology is provided. An understanding of the evidence presented for evolution
and creation will be woven into the course throughout the school year. Students will be
encouraged to solidify their belief in creation and will be prepared to answer questions posed to
them related to evolution. Class format will include lectures, speakers, discussions, hands-on
activities, dissections, and a short field trip.
Human Anatomy and Physiology
1.0 Credit
Prerequisites: Biology with at least a B grade.
*Lab course
Instruction in the 11 body systems is offered via lectures, field trips, speakers, laboratory
dissections, and hands-on activities. Microscopic (examination of tissues and cells) and
macroscopic (dissection of hearts, brains, and eyes) examinations will be incorporated into bimonthly laboratory activities. Recommended for students considering further study in
education, coaching, or health related-careers.
CC Introduction to Chemistry
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: Completion of or current enrollment in Algebra II; permission required
if grade is less than a B in Algebra I.
*Lab course
The focus of this course will be on major principles of general chemistry including atoms,
nomenclature, molecular structure, bonding, and stoichiometry. Completion of this course
serves as a prerequisite for enrollment in CC Advance Chemistry. This course may also be
taken for one semester of Concurrent Credit through NNU.
CC Advanced Chemistry
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: Intro. to Chemistry required with at least a B grade. Prior or current
enrollment in Advanced Math required.
*Lab course
This is an in-depth survey of the principles underlying chemistry, including solutions,
acids/bases, solubility, thermodynamics, kinetics, and electrochemistry. Emphasis is placed on
a quantitative understanding of chemical phenomena. An in-depth survey of the principles
underlying chemistry including atomic structure, period table and laws, bonding, chemical
reactions, stoichiometry, states of matter, pH, nuclear and industrial chemistry. This course
may also be taken for two semesters of Concurrent Credit through NNU.
Physics
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE: Completion of Algebra II required; prior or current enrollment in
Advanced Math required; permission required if grade is less than a B in Advanced Math.
*Lab course
Year-long elective course designed to study the physical laws of universe including: Newtonian
mechanics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, waves and optics, vectors and scalars.
Problem solving and experimentation will supplement the curriculum.
*Note: The state of Washington requires that each student complete two years of science to
meet the high school graduation requirements. Many universities (including Washington State
University) recommend that at least one of these science courses be a lab class. Three years
of science are recommended for students considering going on to a 4-year college after high
school graduation.
Courses in Social Science
Washington State History and Government
0.5 Credit
This course familiarizes students with the geography, natural environment, native cultures,
exploration, historical settlement, contemporary culture, demographic, and political background
of the state of Washington. Completion of this one semester course will enable the student to
understand the heritage and importance of Washington State. [Note comments under
“Graduation Requirements.”]
World Geography
0.5 Credit
This course provides a comprehensive survey of world geography from a Christian perspective.
Students will study the various cultures of the world as well as learn political and physical map
skills. Students will be required to learn the locations of countries, capitals, and physical
features on a map. The goal of this one-semester course is to provide students with a working
knowledge of geography as they move into World History in their sophomore year.
World History
1.0 Credit
This course gives a comprehensive history of the world with a concentration on Western
Civilization from a Christian perspective. Emphasis is placed on the importance of ideas and
concepts in world history as well as people and events. The Bible will be the source of
prehistory rather than evolutionary theory. The goal of this year-long course is to give students
a matrix in which to understand the world around them.
United States History and Government
1.0 Credit
This course provides students with an understanding of United States history from the preEuropean era to contemporary America. Particular attention is given to the Christian heritage of
the United States of America and the lasting effects upon our culture. Students learn what
freedom encompasses from a Christian and American perspective. A Christian perspective on
rights, liberty, patriotism, and responsibility is emphasized. The focus will be on the ideas and
concepts which distinguish America from the rest of the world as well as the key events which
shaped them.
United States Government
0.5 Credits
This one semester course is designed to give the student foundational knowledge of the
political, Constitutional, and governmental structure of the United States. The course will
familiarize students with our nation’s Constitutional republican form of government. The
concepts, ideas, philosophy, principles, and worldview undergirding the formation of U.S.
Government will be emphasized. Students will understand the proper role of statesmanship,
citizenship, and civic responsibility. Students will understand their rights and privileges as U.S.
citizens.
Economics
0.5 Credits
This course is intended to give the student a basic and working knowledge of fundamental
economic principles from a Christian perspective. It is issues oriented and will attempt to
prepare students for the economic reality of our world. Christian principles of economics are
integrated throughout the course so that students will understand how the bible should influence
every area of economic thought and practice. The goal is to equip students to discern,
evaluate, and apply Biblical principles to what they have learned. Economics is about making
choices, and students will gain valuable knowledge to making proper choices from a Biblical
perspective.
Elective Choices
Art
1.0 Credit
During the first semester, drawing, colors, pastels, charcoal, painting, and sculpture is
introduced. Various color combinations will be explored using soft, hard, and oil pastels.
Landscapes and still life drawings will be expressed in charcoal, watercolors, and acrylics. If
time allows, students will be introduced to oil paints. Students will use different methods to
sculpt, including Model Magic, air-dry terra cotta clay, and two types of paper mache.
The second semester art class students will use various mediums, including some of those
listed above to express still life, landscapes, and portraits. Established artists’ techniques and
styles will also be explored.
Band
1.0 Credit
Students will have the opportunity to develop and use their musical abilities in this course. Band
students are expected to participate in band for the entire academic year and are required to
attend certain performances. Students are encouraged to join the pep band.
Choir
1.0 Credit
Students will have the opportunity to develop and use their vocal musical abilities in this course.
A variety of musical styles will be learned, but the emphasis will be on Christian songs.
Attendance at performances will be required. No audition is required.
Computer Applications
1.0 Credit
This course is designed to introduce students with at least elementary computer skills to several
computer application programs. Topics will include keyboard review, file management, internet
basics, Word processing, PowerPoint, spreadsheets, databases, and web design. Students will
develop confidence, speed, and accuracy in computer use.
Drama
1.0 Credit
This course examines stage areas and direction, stage make up, sets, and costuming as well as
character development and projection. The students learn and reinforce their learning through
reading, writing and performing skits in chapel.
Teacher’s Aide / Office Assistant / Library Assistant
1.0 Credit
Teacher’s aides assist in grading papers, making copies, filing or working with students in lower
grades. Office assistants assist the office in making copies, sorting, stapling, filing, running
errands within the school, changing the reader board, and other miscellaneous office duties.
Library assistants assist the librarian in checking in books, putting books away, and other
miscellaneous library duties. May only be taken one year for credit.
Yearbook
1.0 Credit
Students design the yearbook portraying the history of our school. Students explore a variety of
methods of keeping records, taking photographs, setting up a yearbook page, cropping
photographs, placing digital photographs, writing captions, and preparing pages for submission
to the publisher. Students will also write short journalistic articles for pages which require it.
Home Economics
1.0 Credit
Home Economics is a year-long class designed to introduce students to life skills such as
cooking, sewing, budgeting, auto maintenance and planning get-togethers. Students will
participate in cooking projects such as appetizers, main dishes, breakfasts and baking. They
will learn to knit a scarf, sew on buttons, repair seams, and basic embroidery. Through the use
of Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University, students will learn the importance of budgeting
and how to set up a budget and savings plan. Students will also have the opportunity to obtain
the Washington State Food Handler’s card. Grading is based mainly on participation, along with
the notebooks they create and some testing.
Courses in Foreign Languages
Spanish I
1.0 Credit
This course covers the basics of the Spanish language, especially as it is spoken in Latin
America. The student should be able to meet basic survival needs and courtesy requirements,
such as greetings, asking and answering simple questions and giving name and age. They will
learn to perform functions such as ordering a meal, making purchases, following directions, and
creating small talk about family, church, sports and school. The students will be able to relate
events in present tense, future tenses, and to an extent, express preterite tense. They will be
taught gender, number and subject-verb agreement. A unit is taught to enable students to give
their personal testimony that can be used on mission trips.
Spanish II
1.0 Credit
PREREQUISITE:
Completion of Spanish I with C or higher
This course covers and reviews many concepts taught in Spanish 1 before introducing new
material. It continues to focus on practical functions and teaches grammar to improve
communication. Units include transportation, medical, hotel, store, and restaurant themes more
verb tenses are taught to enhance flexibility or in communication including imperfect, imperative,
future, present, and past perfect conditional written and oral communication.
AP & Concurrent Credit (CC) Information
AP: Advanced Placement courses. This program is owned by the College Board, which also
owns the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) taken for college admission.
How AP Works:
For the high school:
 Course outline is approved by College Board.
 Text must be selected from College Board’s approved text list.
For the student:
 The student usually takes the AP course at a high school, however, any student may
simply take the AP test without having taken an AP course.
 One test in May determines the student’s AP score. Score ranges from 1 through 5,
with 5 being the highest.
 Student makes application to a college or university and is accepted. That institution
determines what AP score they will recognize as equivalent to their program’s credit.
Most institutions grant credit for a 5, some for a 4, and fewer for a 3. Some
institutions do not grant credit for AP regardless of the score.
 Cost for AP: $65.00 test fee. Sometimes book fee which may be as much as
$200.00
 Risk:
o AP is a one-shot deal, it all rides on one test.
o Will the high school student actually attend a college that accepts AP and
grants credit at that student’s score?
CC: Concurrent Credit courses. Concurrent credit is a program available to any college or
university. There are national standards that must be met for a CC program to be accredited.
In the Pacific Northwest the first institution to establish an accredited CC program was
Northwest Nazarene University (NNU). University of Washington, Central Washington
University, and Boise State University have also developed accredited CC programs. Liberty
Christian School has chosen to work with NNU for concurrent credit.
How CC Works:
For the high school:
 Faculty member applies to NNU to be considered as an adjunct professor in the CC
program.
 Faculty member must meet the same qualifications as an adjunct professor on
NNU’s campus.
 NNU approves LCS faculty members to teach specific courses; approval is not a
blanket to teach all courses in a subject area.
 Approved faculty member submits a course outline and textbook proposal to NNU.
 Course outline and textbook are approved.
For the student:
 Enroll in LCS.
 Register for a class at LCS that is offered for CC.
 Register with NNU for the CC course by November 15, for fall semester courses, by
February 15, for whole-year courses.
 Pass the course at LCS with a grade of “C” or higher.
 Cost: $65.00 per semester credit (3 credits = $195.00, 4 credits = $260.00)
 Risk:
o Student might not pass the class.
o College or university the student actually attends might not accept CC credits.
(A few institutions do not accept any credits earned while a student is in high
o school. However, they often do acknowledge that the student that has some
CC credit has demonstrated the ability to succeed in college-level work and
that student is given an “edge” in the acceptance process.)
LCS Credit:


All courses taken at LCS, whether standard, AP, or CC, are recorded on the student’s
LCS high school transcript.
LCS does not grant AP or CC credit on behalf of the College Board or any postsecondary institution.
CC Credit:

Students who take CC courses must request a transcript from NNU. That transcript will
show any courses for which the student earned university credit.
CC Courses:
NOTES:
 NNU’s policy is that CC is only available to high school juniors and seniors.
 A student not in grade 11-12 may petition NNU for permission to take a CC course at
NNU.


Any student at LCS may take these courses for LCS credit without applying to NNU to
take them for CC.
NNU’s academic policies, e.g., grading scale, cheating, late work, etc., apply to any CC
course taught at LCS. Those policies apply to all students in the course whether they
are taking the course for CC or only for LCS credit.
Chemistry, direct instruction delivered by Mrs. Roberts. Student pays fees to NNU,
approximately $260.00 only if the student chooses to enroll in Chemistry CM1200, four
semester credits at NNU for concurrent credit. This is the standard introductory chemistry
course LCS has offered for many years.
Advanced Chemistry CC, direct instruction delivered by Mrs. Roberts. Student pays fees to
NNU, approximately $260.00 only if the student chooses to enroll in Chemistry CM2210 and
CM2210L, three lecture and one lab semester credit at NNU for CC. This replaces the AP
Chemistry course formerly offered at LCS.
English Composition CC, direct instruction delivered by Mrs. Ingram. Student pays fees to
NNU, approximately $195.00 only if the student chooses to enroll English Composition EN1020,
three semester credits at NNU for CC. This course replaces the AP English course formerly
offered at LCS.
Individual Growth Plan for
9th Grade
Fall
Spring
10th Grade
Fall
Spring
11th Grade
Fall
Spring
12th Grade
Fall
Spring