Holly Grove Christian School
7317 Mennonite Church Road, Westover, MD
410-957-0222 Fax: 410-957-4250
21871
Principal: Mr. Michael Rohrer
Assistant Principal: Stacey Johnson
Mission Statement
Holly Grove Christian School partners with families to provide excellence in Christcentered academics by preparing students to live God honoring lives.
Graduation Requirements
English
Math
Science
History
Bible
PE/Health
Electives
Totals
4
3
3
3
3
1
7
24
Promotion Guidelines
Sophomores: 5 credits, including English 9
Juniors: 12 credits including
English 9 and 10
1 Bible
1 Math
1 History
1 Science
6 other courses
Seniors: 18 credits including
English 9, 10, 11
2 Bible
2 Math
2 History
2 Science
7 other courses
Academic Courses: 2007-2008
Grades 7-12
The Curriculum Committee is dedicated to providing Holly Grove students
with the best texts and courses possible. Subjects are reviewed on a rotating basis,
assuring that our texts are up to date and in line with the scope and sequence for
each academic area. Elective courses (marked with *) may vary slightly from year
to year based on the faculty available.
English
God chose to communicate to us through the written Word, which makes the
ability to comprehend and communicate via language an important part of our lives.
HGCS English classes focus on the ability to evaluate literature according to literary and
Scriptural principles, and the ability to use language to express ourselves with clarity and
accuracy.
English 7
English 7 introduces the variety of genres in literature, dealing with fiction,
nonfiction, poetry and drama, introducing a variety of literary works from past and
present. Basic literary techniques such as mood and tone, character development and
setting are explored. Students learn to respond to the readings in a variety of written
assignments, including research papers and interpretive and narrative essays; they also
learn new vocabulary and grammar techniques to improve their writing skills.
English 8
Students in English 8 continue the study of genres begun in English 7, delving
deeper into the analysis of a variety of types of writing. Plot, theme and character are
focused on, leading to a deeper understanding of the selections read. Students respond to
literature through written and oral means, and explore the impact of visual and graphic
components of writing. Writing projects include cause and effect, character sketch and
comparison and contrast essays. Vocabulary and grammar continue to be developed as
an aid to more mature communication.
English 9
English 9 further develops the student’s understanding of literature, focusing on
point of view and perspective as literary technique. One of the main goals of the class is
to develop the student’s writing ability, preparing them for the variety of writing required
in their high school classes. The research paper, as well as personal writings such as
narratives, reflective essays and fiction writing, provide opportunities for the students to
learn to write with clarity and purpose. The theme of the text is the power of storytelling,
with the goal of teaching students to evaluate themselves and their world through the
medium of literature.
English 10
English 10 continues the exploration of literary techniques, introducing the
concepts of irony, symbolism, figurative language and realism. Students learn active
reading techniques, enabling them to closely examine the literary works and respond to
them in both written and oral presentations. They continue to develop writing
techniques, working on description, poetry, autobiographical incidents and multimedia
presentations, as well as continuing to develop techniques for research reports.
English 11
American Literature
English 11 focuses on the literary traditions of our nation, from Colonial times to
the current literary offerings. This includes selections from our historical documents, in
depth study of selected authors, and continued development of the vocabulary and
writing skills to enable our students to communicate effectively in written and oral
assignments.
English 12
British Literature
English 12 covers British Literature from the Anglo-Saxon period through
modern times including such classics as Beowulf, Macbeth, Gulliver’s Travels, and many
short story and poetry selections. Students also continue to develop reading strategies
and writing skills that will prepare them for college and career. Seniors also work on the
senior project, a comprehensive chronicle of their lives to this point in time.
AP Language and Composition: Offered 07-08 and every other year afterwards
(Available to juniors and seniors with the prerequisite of an A or B in English and the
recommendation of the teacher)
AP Language and Composition is a college level introductory composition class.
Students will learn rhetorical terms and analysis of texts in light of these concepts, as well
as the use of these concepts in their own writing. They will read a wide selection of nonfiction literature, responding to their reading with written and oral discussion, and learn
how writers use language to communicate effectively, the importance of style and
purpose in writing, and grammatical techniques to give greater impact to their writing. A
selection of visual arguments (advertisements, cartoons, art, etc) will be examined as a
part of the communication process. The MLA style of citing references will be taught.
The goal of the class is to prepare the students for future college level work as well as for
the AP Exam which some colleges use to grant college credit. (Seniors will also work on
their senior project as part of the course).
AP Literature and Composition: Offered 08-09 and every other year afterwards
(Available to juniors and seniors with the prerequisite of an A or B in English and the
recommendation of the teacher)
AP Literature and Composition is similar in many ways to the AP Language and
Composition course, with the focus switched from non-fiction to fictional works. The
genres of poetry, drama, short story and novel will be examined in terms of historical
periods and literary analysis. The students will learn to carefully read and evaluate texts,
analyzing their multiple meanings, the artistic use of language by the author, and the
social and cultural values communicated and responding to the readings in written and
oral arguments which strengthen the ability to develop and organize ideas clearly and
persuasively. A continued focus on the use of vocabulary and grammatical structures as
well as the development of a personal style through the use of a variety of rhetorical
techniques will lead to a greater maturity in writing style. Proper use of resources and
citation techniques will be practiced. The students will have the opportunity to take the
AP Exam towards the end of the course. (Seniors will also work on their senior project as
part of the course).
*Drama
Students in Drama will learn the process of putting together a dramatic production
from start to finish, including the selection of a play, the casting and rehearsing,
development of scenes, props and scenery, costuming and makeup, with the culmination
of the class being the public performance of a drama.
Journalism
Students will learn the basics of news writing and journalism, creating a school
newspaper regularly. Other writing activities will also be included.
Mathematics
Mathematics holds a central place in the academic tradition, being a major
component of science and technology and a basic tool for logical reasoning. It is the
common language in the global community and a factor in the advancement of
civilization. Through mathematics we see the beauty and intricacy of God’s creation as
expressed in nature’s symmetry and design, which affirms God’s awesome power.
Math 7
The goal of this course is to develop mathematical thinking skills and a
conceptual understanding of mathematics leading to a solid foundation for the study of
algebra and geometry. Basic math skills, ratios, measurement, graphs, geometric shapes,
problem solving strategies and number theory are all covered.
Algebra ½
Algebra ½ is the foundation course for further work in algebra and geometry.
Basic mathematical operations, graphs, exponential notation, English and metric
measurement conversions, algebraic expressions, number theory and multiple math
operations are covered, as well as the basics of geometry, such as calculating area,
surface area and volume. The focus is on the development of problem solving skills.
Algebra ½ is the prerequisite for Algebra 1.
Algebra 1 (Prerequisite: grade of C or higher in Algebra ½)
The Algebra 1 course is designed to give the students constant practice in
concepts introduced throughout the year. It covers such topics as number theory,
algebraic terms and equations, factoring, polynomials, graphing, systems of equations,
quadratic equations and other common first year algebra topics, as well as topics in
geometry, statistics and probability. The goal of the course is to develop mathematical
thinking skills needed for success in higher math courses.
Geometry (Prerequisite: grade of C or higher in Algebra 1)
The study of geometry deals with the relationships of points, lines and planes.
This course deals mostly with two-dimensional concepts, but includes some threedimensional concepts. The study of definitions, postulates and theorems lays the
groundwork for the development of proofs, which develops reasoning processes, leading
to valid conclusions. The course strengthens problem-solving abilities, which are useful
in many other subject areas.
Algebra 2 (Prerequisite: grade of C or higher in Algebra 1)
Algebra 2 continues the study of topics introduced in Algebra 1; it introduces
more advanced topics in geometric figures, graphing, equations, rate problems,
trigonometric functions, irrational numbers and functions. This course also introduces
concepts that will be helpful to students in more advanced math classes.
Advanced Math (Prerequisite: Algebra 2)
Advanced math integrates topics from algebra, trigonometry, discrete
mathematics and mathematical analysis. It covers such topics as systems of equations,
functions, rates, logarithms, permutation, complex numbers and much more. The skills
acquired in advanced math will help students on college entrance and placement exams.
Pre-calculus (Prerequisite: Grade of A or B in Algebra 2)
Pre-calculus is designed to prepare students for the advanced topics in calculus. It
covers a wide range of topics including functions, exponential equations, trigonometry,
vectors, matrices and analytic geometry. T
AP Calculus (Prerequisite: Pre-calculus and teacher approval)
AP Calculus covers calculus at a 1st year college level. The course utilizes
analytical, numerical and graphical methods of problem solving. The two main ideas
explored are the concepts of the “derivative” and the “integral”. Through real life
examples, the student should be able to appreciate the importance of higher level
mathematics. The course is designed to fulfill the requirements of the College Board so
the students will be prepared to take the annual AP Exams, which may qualify the student
for college credit.
AP Statistics (Prerequisite: Pre-calculus and teacher approval)
AP Statistics is a course which emphasizes data collection and the uses of data.
The importance of statistics will be seen by the many disciplines which rely on statistical
methods. The student will use mathematical and graphical methods to explore the
various approaches possible in the collection and analysis of data. This course is
designed to fulfill the requirements of the College Board and to prepare the students to
take the annual AP Exam, which may qualify the student for college credit.
General Mathematics
The four courses comprising general mathematics, taught in rotation, provide a solid
foundation in general math skills. Consumer Math, Practical Mathematics, and Business
Math I and II cover the mathematics that students will encounter on the job and in their
everyday life. Topics include problem solving strategies, the mathematics of consumer
decisions such as banking, installment purchases and investments, budgeting, business
analysis, etc.
Science
Life Science
Taught from a creationist science standpoint, this class introduces biology.
Topics include classification, cells, taxonomy and forensics. Scientific terms are learned
with an emphasis on Latin roots. The scientific method, genetics and the differences
between creation science and evolutionary theory are also covered. The class emphasizes
proper lab procedures through hands on labs (dissections, DNA, etc). Students keep lab
and homework logs, and are responsible for written reports and various projects.
Earth Science
Earth and space science from a creationist viewpoint is the subject of earth
science, dealing specifically with the materials and process of the planet we live on.
Topics covered include rocks and minerals, weather, natural disasters and the exploration
of space. Labs, including collecting weather data and rock classification help to reinforce
key concepts. Lab and homework logs are required, in addition to reports and projects.
The class also includes a brief refresher on anatomy and physiology to prepare students
for high school biology.
Physical Science
This course integrates accurate and comprehensive coverage of the basics of
energy, motion, electricity and matter. It provides critical-thinking opportunities, realworld applications, and technology resources to lead students to a deeper understanding
of physical science, while building science process skills.
Biology
The Biology course begins with an examination of the principles of ecology, then
examines the variety of life from the single cell to through the plant and animal
kingdoms. Students will continue to learn process skills through a variety of lab
activities, as well as real-world applications of biological concepts. The text explores the
secular view of evolution, which will be balanced with an exploration of creationism’s
answers to that theory.
Chemistry
Chemistry explores the variety and interactions of matter, with a focus on the
application of concepts to practical uses. Through lecture and lab, students will learn the
incredible intricacy of God’s creation, from the structure of the atom through the complex
interactions required for life to exist.
AP Physics (Prerequisite: Pre-calculus or Advanced Math)
This challenging course is designed to meet the requirements of the College
Board’s goals to provide systematic development of the main principles of physics,
emphasizing problem solving and helping the students to develop a thorough
understanding of physics concepts. Topics covered include mechanics, dynamics,
thermal physics, light and optics and some Modern physics. This is a rigorous course
preparing students to take the annual AP Exam, which may qualify the student for college
credit.
*Environmental Science
Environmental science focuses on ethics, energy and pollution, in addition to the
traditional ecosystem and biome studies. The focus is on our responsibilities as
caretakers of God’s creation. Students examine some of the controversies concerning the
environment, learning to defend their positions with sound scientific reasoning. An
emphasis is placed on the theoretical differences between creation science and
evolutionary theory.
*Botany
An in-depth exploration of the structure and functions of the plants is the focus of
this class. Students will explore the incredible variety of the plant kingdom, and the
importance of this kingdom in the sustaining of life on earth. Lab work will reinforce the
concepts taught.
*Human Anatomy and Physiology (Prerequisite: Biology)
This course will take an in depth look at the structures and functions of the human
body, recognizing that we have been “fearfully and wonderfully made” by our Creator.
The intricate interactions of biological and chemical process will be studied in detail.
This will be an excellent course for any interested in the medical profession.
History and Social Sciences
History courses are taught from a Christian perspective, recognizing God’s
sovereignty in the affairs of mankind. In addition to the basic course material, students
will develop skills in map reading, research writing, interpreting historical documents and
understanding current events. Students are challenged to become responsible citizens of
their country and loyal citizens of the Kingdom of God.
World History
Students in this course will investigate a variety of cultures and time periods, from
Creation to the present day, with an emphasis on the actions of God in human history.
The use of maps, timelines and other visual aids will help students to see the relationships
of events and the individuals who have shaped our world.
US History
American history from 1492 to the present is covered, with an emphasis on the
changes and challenges America has faced. The role of Christianity in the development
of our nation, and the individuals who have shaped our society, as well as the chronology
of events will be the focus of this class.
Civics/Geography
The first semester of 9h grade history focuses on our government, covering the
history and development of our government, the important documents including a
detailed study of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. National, state and local
governments are examined, as well as the political process. The free enterprise system
and the economy are also covered. The second semester takes a world tour, learning
about the geography of the earth, its resources and the cultural features of its inhabitants.
World History and Cultures
This course begins at the beginning, with a recognition that God has created this
world and its people and is constantly guiding the events that occur and that Jesus Christ
is the center-point of history. The content ranges from the first recorded civilizations up
through the current world situation. In addition to the secular people and events, the
history of God’s people and His Church is also studied. The course includes discussion
of current events and a research project.
US History
The study of US History covers our country’s historical, social, cultural and
religious development, with a special emphasis on our Christian heritage. Beginning with
the discovery of the New World, the course traces the development of our unique culture
and the increasing importance of America in the world, as well as our responsibilities in
light of our influence.
*Economics
This one semester course deals with the development of the field of economics
and the basic principles governing it, including production, supply and demand, the free
market, money and the government’s role in economics.
*Psychology
This one semester course introduces the field of psychology from a Christian
perspective, studying how human beings interact with their environment and each other
and how they view themselves. It includes topics such as biological basis if behavior,
motivation, learning, intelligence, personality, abnormal psychology and more. The
foundation of this study is a Biblical view of man in relation to the Creator.
Bible
At HGCS we believe Bible to be an integral part of the academic learning
experience. The emphasis of our Bible classes is to develop a firm basis for Christian
living both in school and beyond. We believe the Bible is the Word of God and the
handbook for all of our life. To this end, our classes take an in depth look at the books of
the Bible, teaching appropriate ways to study the Bible and promoting an understanding
of the authenticity of the Scriptures. Students are shown how to apply Biblical principles
to life choices and to understand the Christian worldview as it compares to the other
views of today.
Bible 7: Overview of the Bible
This course provides a thorough overview of the Bible, with students examining
each of the books in the Old and New Testaments. They receive a through grounding in
the structure and contents of the Bible, as well as focusing on personal application and
emphasizing the power and activity of God.
Bible 8: Life of Christ, The Early Church
8th graders will take a close look at the life of Christ shown in the Gospels and
other New Testament writings. The focus is on establishing the claims of Jesus as Son of
God and Lord of all through studying His ministry here on the earth and His eternal place
with the Father.
Bible 1: Mastering Bible Skills/New Testament
The first semester focuses on teaching the students the main steps of inductive
Bible study: observation, interpretation and application. These processes will be applied
to a group study of 1 Peter, then each student will exercise the skills they have learned
examining an epistle of their choice.
The second semester is a study of the New Testament books, providing detailed
background information leading to greater comprehension of God’s truth. The skills
gained in the first semester will be applied to provide a solid understanding of the New
Testament.
Bible 2: Theology/Old Testament
A basic overview of theology, investigating the character and attributes of God,
will begin the year, leading to a greater understanding of the God we serve. The course
translates this knowledge into personal application that will lead to developing or
reaffirming a close relationship with God.
Second semester is a book by book study of the Old Testament, emphasizing the
activity of God in dealing with His people and the preparation for the coming Messiah.
Maps and timelines will assist the students to understand the text.
Bible 3: Life Shaping Decisions/ Apologetics
This first semester course challenges students with a Biblical concept of career
stewardship, providing resources to help them build their own career plans wisely and
faithfully. The lessons will lead them to discover their talents, to understand important
principles of decision making, and to determine the will of God for their life.
Second semester the focus will be on the reliability, authenticity and authority of
the Bible, teaching students that what they believe about truth and what they rely on for
truth are crucial issues that will influence both their thinking and life decisions. The
topics covered will help students to be prepared to give an answer for the hope that is
within us. (1 Peter 3:15)
Bible 4: Understanding the Times
This video based course will help students to clearly understand the tenets of the
Christian worldview and how they compare with the leading worldviews of our day,
including Islam, postmodernism, Marxism, secular humanism, and New Age. Some of
the issues discussed are bioethics, cults, radical environmentalism, feminism, and art and
culture, preparing students for the ideas they will be confronted with as they continue
their education at college and in everyday life.
Foreign Languages
The ability to communicate with people of other languages and cultures is an
important skill in today’s world. Not only does the knowledge of a foreign language
increase job opportunities in the future, but it also enables us to share the gospel with
others both in our country and abroad.
*Spanish 1
With the increase of the Hispanic population in our country, knowledge of the
Spanish language is becoming more important. The first course in Spanish will introduce
students to the expression (speaking and writing) and comprehension (listening and
reading) of Spanish. Students will acquire basic Spanish grammar and the vocabulary
needed to speak about themselves, others and their environments. The course is designed
to increase knowledge, appreciation and awareness of Hispanic cultures.
*Spanish 2 (Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish 1)
The second course will continue to increase student’s abilities in the areas of
expression and comprehension. Students will acquire intermediate Spanish grammar and
a more varied vocabulary for greater communication.
*Spanish 3 (Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in Spanish 2)
Business/Computer Science
The Business Department is designed to provide students with practical hands-on
experience in the computer applications that are being utilized in the current business
community. The accounting and computer classes give students the opportunity to
explore careers in the business field, which will assist them in making decisions for their
future.
*Keyboarding: Grade 7
Keyboarding is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in typing
manuscripts and letters with the focus on proper typing technique and accurate results.
Students will work on developing skill in typing without watching their hands, and
developing speed in typing. The class will also introduce the students to business
environments and the appropriate behavior for those environments.
*Wordprocessing: Grade 8
This class provides students with hands-on experience in typing reports, business
letters and other business manuscripts. These skills will also assist students in their
school reports and projects. Students will be introduced to Microsoft Word and
Microsoft Excel, preparing them for various business applications of these programs.
*Marketing/Life Skills Grade 9 and up
This first semester of this course will look at the process businesses use to
develop and market new products and services. Students will apply their knowledge to
developing their own company and products. The second semester will deal with life
skills, focusing on preparing students to deal with the everyday problems life throws at us
all. These skills include employment skills in resume writing and interviewing, and
survival skills in first aid, basic sewing, etc.
*Business Computers: Grades 11 and 12
Business computers provides further development of computer skills, including
advanced Excel techniques, PowerPoint presentations and Access database management.
The skills mastered in this course should prepare students for entry level office
employment.
*Accounting
Students in accounting will learn the basics of accounting and the use of
computerized accounting programs. Automated Accounting software will be the main
platform used. Students will also cover personal finances, learning how to handle their
finances in various real world situations, focusing on the importance of avoiding debt.
Music
The ability to worship God through singing praise to Him is a gift of God. The
music program at Holly Grove is designed to take the beginning singer and sequentially
develop vocal skills, ear training, sight singing, academic comprehension and artistic
application though group performances of learned repertoire. The middle school classes,
Junior High choir and the High School auditioned choir provide opportunity for students
to develop their abilities to glorify God.
Physical Education/Health
The Physical Education/Health program teaches students to care for the temple of
God which is their physical body. The Phys Ed classes are designed to develop each
student’s knowledge and skills in a variety of sports and games, emphasizing physical
fitness. The Health classes will give students a basic understanding of their body and the
importance of the choices they make in its health and proper functioning.