Middle School
Middle School (5th-8th Grades)
Our private Middle School curriculum builds on the basics learned in Lower School and emphasizes more analytical thinking. This is the second phase of a classical education, what’s referred to as the logic stage.
Through a rigorous academic program, students develop independence of thought and, in partnership with parents, discover how to become self-directed learners. They’ll come to understand how to accept personal responsibility for learning, view problems as challenges, organize their time, and develop a higher level of curiosity. Balanced course offerings will support your child not only in achieving academic success, but also in building a strong foundation for spiritual formation.
Click below to learn more about the courses your son or daughter will take at our private Christian middle school in Bellaire, TX.
Fifth Grade
FIFTH GRADE
Biblical Studies
This course provides an overview of the early Old Testament through a study of the lives of the main individual characters in the Old Testament. These characters include Abraham, Noah, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Deborah, Samson, Ruth, and many other Biblical characters who followed God. The lessons mostly focus on the choices God’s people made, God’s grace and correction that followed, and how the Old Testament books fit into the greater Biblical narrative. Additionally, students learn about our responsibility to make the right choices and live in obedience to His word.
This course provides an overview of the early Old Testament through a study of the lives of the main individual characters in the Old Testament. These characters include Abraham, Noah, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Deborah, Samson, Ruth, and many other Biblical characters who followed God. The lessons mostly focus on the choices God’s people made, God’s grace and correction that followed, and how the Old Testament books fit into the greater Biblical narrative. Additionally, students learn about our responsibility to make the right choices and live in obedience to His word.
English
This daily course develops students’ reading skills and vocabulary through a traditional exploration of genres: novel, short story, drama, and poetry. Our solid Mosdos anthology textbook will be supplemented by outside works and supplementary handouts, particularly Pre-AP materials from Laying the Foundation, Inc. In addition to literary study, we will incorporate an ongoing spelling and vocabulary study of words by phonetic pattern. Students will read one or two outside works of their choice per quarter in the Accelerated Reader program.
Our main focus is learning more guidelines of English grammar in order to read, write, and speak more effectively. We will start with parts of speech and move on to phrases, parts of the sentence, clauses, kinds of sentences, and punctuation rules, moving as far as we can without leaving anyone behind. We will work through a grammar workbook but enhance it with creative writing, syntax analysis, and editing competitions. We will also organize, revise, and edit paragraphs and poems.
History
This course will emphasize the study of the five themes of geography (location, place, regions, movement, and human-environment interaction) and focus on the six essential elements of geography to help students understand the relationships among people, places, and environments. This course will focus on the physical aspects of the Earth and the study of worldwide cultures.
Latin
In Latin, students will discover that it is very easy to retain the vocabulary and grammar formation. Preparation for future studies will be accomplished through conversational text, memorization of vocabulary through chanting and singing, and translations of Latin prose, poetry, and Scripture. Students will experience that Latin is relevant, beneficial, and fun. They will contribute to keeping this modern-day language from the past alive.
Mathematics
The focus of this course will be to develop an understanding of mathematical reasoning and to connect mathematical concepts to real-world applications. The topics include integers, decimals, fractions, measurement, ratios, geometry, patterns, and algebraic thinking.
In Latin, students will discover that it is very easy to retain the vocabulary and grammar formation. Preparation for future studies will be accomplished through conversational text, memorization of vocabulary through chanting and singing, and translations of Latin prose, poetry, and Scripture. Students will experience that Latin is relevant, beneficial, and fun. They will contribute to keeping this modern-day language from the past alive.
Mathematics
The focus of this course will be to develop an understanding of mathematical reasoning and to connect mathematical concepts to real-world applications. The topics include integers, decimals, fractions, measurement, ratios, geometry, patterns, and algebraic thinking.
Science
This course is an introduction to many of the advanced sciences including chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, and geology. Units consist of hands-on activities and labs reinforced with the science textbook, handouts, technology, and United Streaming. Topics introduced consist of cell structure, photosynthesis, Newton’s Laws, forces, motion and energy, electricity, magnetism, physical and chemical changes, periodic table, bodies in space, and scientific measurement.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Curriculum Enrichment
- Band/Choir
- Cultural Expeditions Program: 5th Grade: Texas History Trip - San Antonio, Austin, and Fredericksburg
- Competitions: Art, Creative Writing, Math, Speech, Spelling and Science
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
- International Thespian Society (ITS)
- Local Field Trips: Theatre Productions, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Menil Collection, etc.
- National Elementary Honor Society (NHS)
- Physical Education
- History Fair
- Student Council
Sixth Grade
SIXTH GRADE
Biblical Studies
This course covers the Old Testament books and stories from Kings to Malachi. In the study of the Old Testament, the students will learn that God has revealed himself through His Word and that His desire is to have a relationship with every person. This can only be possible through the sacrificial blood of His Son Jesus, who bridged the gap between God and man.
English
This daily course develops students’ reading skills and vocabulary through a traditional exploration of genres: novels, short stories, dramas, and poetry. Our solid Mosdos anthology textbook will be supplemented by outside works and supplementary handouts, particularly Pre-AP materials from Laying the Foundation, Inc. In addition to literary study, we will incorporate a structured SAT-level vocabulary program based on Latin roots. Students will read one or two outside works of their choice per quarter in the Accelerated Reader program.
Sixth grade grammar builds upon knowledge previously learned and emphasizes applying the skills necessary to understand the nine parts of speech, constructs of a sentence, careful placement of words in a sentence as they pertain to meaning, and new and varied roles of the parts of speech in a sentence. Students write paragraphs, journal entries, essays and complete research in the class. Vocabulary is also included in this course. Students will learn vocabulary words that derive from classical roots. Students will study definitions, derivatives, origins, and analogous relationships of words as well as begin to use these words in their own speech and writing.
English
This daily course develops students’ reading skills and vocabulary through a traditional exploration of genres: novels, short stories, dramas, and poetry. Our solid Mosdos anthology textbook will be supplemented by outside works and supplementary handouts, particularly Pre-AP materials from Laying the Foundation, Inc. In addition to literary study, we will incorporate a structured SAT-level vocabulary program based on Latin roots. Students will read one or two outside works of their choice per quarter in the Accelerated Reader program.
Sixth grade grammar builds upon knowledge previously learned and emphasizes applying the skills necessary to understand the nine parts of speech, constructs of a sentence, careful placement of words in a sentence as they pertain to meaning, and new and varied roles of the parts of speech in a sentence. Students write paragraphs, journal entries, essays and complete research in the class. Vocabulary is also included in this course. Students will learn vocabulary words that derive from classical roots. Students will study definitions, derivatives, origins, and analogous relationships of words as well as begin to use these words in their own speech and writing.
History
This course will begin with the history of the early river valley civilizations such as ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China. With a great emphasis in the study of the political, economic, social, and cultural developments of these civilizations. Other topics include the Israelite Kingdom, the classical Greek Civilization, the Rise of the Roman Republic to the downfall of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Rise of Christianity, the Islamic Civilization, African Civilizations, Imperial China, Medieval Europe, Renaissance and Reformation, and end with the Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment time period.
Mathematics (normal mathematics track)
The emphasis in this class is on teaching students how to think and how to learn while equipping them with skills and tools to find the best solutions. The focus is on rational numbers and their operations, followed by equations and functions, geometry, square roots, and probability.
This course will begin with the history of the early river valley civilizations such as ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China. With a great emphasis in the study of the political, economic, social, and cultural developments of these civilizations. Other topics include the Israelite Kingdom, the classical Greek Civilization, the Rise of the Roman Republic to the downfall of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Rise of Christianity, the Islamic Civilization, African Civilizations, Imperial China, Medieval Europe, Renaissance and Reformation, and end with the Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment time period.
Mathematics (normal mathematics track)
The emphasis in this class is on teaching students how to think and how to learn while equipping them with skills and tools to find the best solutions. The focus is on rational numbers and their operations, followed by equations and functions, geometry, square roots, and probability.
Pre-Algebra (advanced mathematics track)
The course maintains a balance between mathematical concepts and procedures. Students will learn to identify and use geometrical shapes and equations. The textbook provides a variety of exercises ranging from basic exercises that will help students develop and practice skills to challenging exercises that involve logical reasoning and problem-solving. In 7th grade, students are taught how to think mathematically and work with variables to solve problems, and our students soon realize that success in mathematics is not simply learning, rehearsing, and memorizing procedures that somehow lead to the "right answer", but they see that the math they learn in school is highly correlated with the math they encounter in everyday life. With Bible integration, the aim is to help students see mathematics as part of the truth and order that God has built into reality.
The course maintains a balance between mathematical concepts and procedures. Students will learn to identify and use geometrical shapes and equations. The textbook provides a variety of exercises ranging from basic exercises that will help students develop and practice skills to challenging exercises that involve logical reasoning and problem-solving. In 7th grade, students are taught how to think mathematically and work with variables to solve problems, and our students soon realize that success in mathematics is not simply learning, rehearsing, and memorizing procedures that somehow lead to the "right answer", but they see that the math they learn in school is highly correlated with the math they encounter in everyday life. With Bible integration, the aim is to help students see mathematics as part of the truth and order that God has built into reality.
Science
Students study Earth Science in 6th Grade. Content includes Geology, The Dynamic Earth, Water and Water Systems, Meteorology, The Environment, and Astronomy. Students will develop science process skills, critical thinking skills, and scientific reasoning skills. Science process skills, such as observing, classifying, inferring, and experimenting, provide a framework in which ideas can be conceptualized, tested, and evaluated.
Spanish*
Students study Earth Science in 6th Grade. Content includes Geology, The Dynamic Earth, Water and Water Systems, Meteorology, The Environment, and Astronomy. Students will develop science process skills, critical thinking skills, and scientific reasoning skills. Science process skills, such as observing, classifying, inferring, and experimenting, provide a framework in which ideas can be conceptualized, tested, and evaluated.
Spanish*
During this first year of Spanish students will be learning about the present tense of regular, irregular, and stem-changing verbs. Students will learn 290 vocabulary words throughout the year in addition to the grammar lessons. This course emphasizes grammar and the parts of speech as vital tools for the correct speaking and understanding of Spanish. Students learn chants and songs to aid in memorization of grammar and vocabulary.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Curriculum Enrichment
- Band/Choir
- Cultural Expeditions Program: Washington, D.C. Trip
- Competitions: Art, Creative Writing, Math, Speech, Spelling and Science
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
- History Fair
- International Thespian Society (ITS)
- Local Field Trips: Theatre Productions, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Menil Collection, etc.
- National Junior Honor Society (NHS)
- Physical Education
- Student Council
Seventh Grade
SEVENTH GRADE
Biblical Studies
This Bible course will take us on a journey thru the life of Christ thru the Gospel of Matthew. Our 7th graders will understand how all four Gospels revolve around the story of redemption through Jesus Christ. Throughout this course, our 7th grade students will recognize that Jesus’s love for them has no limit and he seeks to have a personal relationship with each one of us.The students will also study the Acts of the Apostles and the life of the disciples and will conclude that the influence Jesus has on the lives of people throughout the ages has never been surpassed; no other great leader has inspired so many positive changes in the lives of his followers and those who allow him to transform their lives will experience fulfillment and joy as they follow His teachings.
English
History
This course surveys the American journey from the first Americans to the age of exploration, Colonial America, to the growth of the Thirteen Colonies, and the establishment of a new nation through the American Revolution. The course will also focus on the Federalist, Jefferson, Jackson Eras, the Age of Reform, and conclude with the history of the Civil War and Reconstruction.
This Bible course will take us on a journey thru the life of Christ thru the Gospel of Matthew. Our 7th graders will understand how all four Gospels revolve around the story of redemption through Jesus Christ. Throughout this course, our 7th grade students will recognize that Jesus’s love for them has no limit and he seeks to have a personal relationship with each one of us.The students will also study the Acts of the Apostles and the life of the disciples and will conclude that the influence Jesus has on the lives of people throughout the ages has never been surpassed; no other great leader has inspired so many positive changes in the lives of his followers and those who allow him to transform their lives will experience fulfillment and joy as they follow His teachings.
English
The seventh grade English program focuses on helping students develop strong reading, writing, grammar, and speaking skills. Students in this course strengthen their working knowledge of literary elements and devices; discuss Biblical, historical, and thematic connections to classic literary works; acquire more advanced vocabulary and grammar skills; and integrate an appreciation for classical authors with personal creativity as share their own ideas and pieces.
Seventh graders read several full works, including The Phantom Tollbooth, Animal Farm, and The Taming of the Shrew, as well as at least 50 AR points of independent reading. They write several short, analytical essays, a 1,000-word scientific research paper with a bibliography, and a 1600 to 3000-word short story or screenplay. And, in the spring, outside on the Green when the weather allows, they act out and discuss The Taming of the Shrew, scene by scene. By the end of the course, students will have completed half of a two-year grammar program and memorized over 200 vocabulary words and their Greek and Latin roots.
This course surveys the American journey from the first Americans to the age of exploration, Colonial America, to the growth of the Thirteen Colonies, and the establishment of a new nation through the American Revolution. The course will also focus on the Federalist, Jefferson, Jackson Eras, the Age of Reform, and conclude with the history of the Civil War and Reconstruction.
Pre-Algebra (normal mathematics track)
The course maintains a balance between mathematical concepts and procedures. Students will learn to identify and use geometrical shapes and equations. The textbook provides a variety of exercises ranging from basic exercises that will help students develop and practice skills to challenging exercises that involve logical reasoning and problem-solving. In 7th grade, students are taught how to think mathematically and work with variables to solve problems, and students soon realize that success in mathematics is not simply learning, rehearsing, and memorizing procedures that somehow lead to the "right answer", but they see that the math they learn in school is highly correlated with the math they encounter in everyday life. With Bible integration, the aim is to help students see mathematics as part of the truth and order that God has built into reality.
Algebra 1 (advanced mathematics track)*
In Algebra 1, students begin by reviewing basic algebraic concepts and properties of integers. This is followed by units on graphing equations, polynomials, radical and rational expressions, quadratic equations, and probability and data analysis.
Science
Students study Biology in 7th Grade. Content includes Life, Viruses, Bacteria, Protoctists, Fungi, Plants, Animals, The Human Body, Genetics and Heredity, and Ecology. Students will develop science process skills, critical thinking skills, and scientific reasoning skills. Science process skills, such as observing, classifying, inferring, and experimenting, provide a framework in which ideas can be conceptualized, tested, and evaluated.
Spanish*
We will be using Avancemos! 1A. Students will learn about various Spanish-speaking cultures. During the second year of Spanish, students will be learning about the present tense of regular, irregular, and stem-changing verbs. Students will learn an additional 320 vocabulary words.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Curriculum Enrichment
- Band/Choir
- Cultural Expeditions Program: New York/Boston Trip
- Competitions: Art, Creative Writing, Math, Speech, Spelling and Science
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
- International Thespian Society (ITS)
- Local Field Trips: Theatre Productions, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Menil Collection, etc.
- National Junior Honor Society (NHS)
- Physical Education
- Science Fair
- Student Council
Eighth Grade
EIGHTH GRADE
Algebra 1 (normal mathematics track)*
In Algebra 1, the students will begin by reviewing basic algebraic concepts and properties of integers. This is followed by units on graphing equations, polynomials, radical and rational expressions, quadratic equations, and probability and data analysis.
Geometry (advanced mathematics track)*
In Geometry, students will have a chance to develop their reasoning skills and problem-solving strategies. The students will learn to analyze geometric relationships in two and three dimensions and to make connections to algebra, probability, trigonometry, and discrete math.
Biblical Studies
As many belief systems are competing for the attention of teens, we believe it is vital to incorporate Apologetics and worldview content into the 8th grade Bible curriculum. This Bible course helps provide our students with a strong Christian worldview foundation, based on the infallible Word of God. Apologetics helps demonstrate to our students that our Christianity is credible, reasonable, and relevant. The Bible says that we're to always be ready to give a "defense" (an apologia) to people who ask us about the hope we have as Christians. Thus, our students will be equipped to answer questions as to why and what they believe in and will be able to defend their faith. They will also learn that Jesus cannot be equated with any person or power, for He is the supreme ruler of time and eternity, heaven and earth, humans and angels, and will come to realize that this King of Kings is to be given His rightful place as King of their lives.
Drama
William Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, "Though this be madness, yet there is method in't." The eighth grade theater arts program is an intense study of necessary skills needed to understand the theater and what is expected of actors. This study incorporates five-minute brainstorming drills to stimulate thought about setting the stage. Students will engage in acting exercises, from warming up their voices to determining the appropriate lighting for a production. A study of theater history will tie in their years of elementary study in history and literature to help understand the theater.
English
In Algebra 1, the students will begin by reviewing basic algebraic concepts and properties of integers. This is followed by units on graphing equations, polynomials, radical and rational expressions, quadratic equations, and probability and data analysis.
Geometry (advanced mathematics track)*
In Geometry, students will have a chance to develop their reasoning skills and problem-solving strategies. The students will learn to analyze geometric relationships in two and three dimensions and to make connections to algebra, probability, trigonometry, and discrete math.
Biblical Studies
As many belief systems are competing for the attention of teens, we believe it is vital to incorporate Apologetics and worldview content into the 8th grade Bible curriculum. This Bible course helps provide our students with a strong Christian worldview foundation, based on the infallible Word of God. Apologetics helps demonstrate to our students that our Christianity is credible, reasonable, and relevant. The Bible says that we're to always be ready to give a "defense" (an apologia) to people who ask us about the hope we have as Christians. Thus, our students will be equipped to answer questions as to why and what they believe in and will be able to defend their faith. They will also learn that Jesus cannot be equated with any person or power, for He is the supreme ruler of time and eternity, heaven and earth, humans and angels, and will come to realize that this King of Kings is to be given His rightful place as King of their lives.
Drama
William Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, "Though this be madness, yet there is method in't." The eighth grade theater arts program is an intense study of necessary skills needed to understand the theater and what is expected of actors. This study incorporates five-minute brainstorming drills to stimulate thought about setting the stage. Students will engage in acting exercises, from warming up their voices to determining the appropriate lighting for a production. A study of theater history will tie in their years of elementary study in history and literature to help understand the theater.
English
The eighth grade English program helps students pursue the skills needed for high school success, whether they choose on-level or Advanced Placement classes. Students in this course master a working knowledge of literary elements and devices, grammar rules, fiction and essay writing, and discussion skills. They continue to discuss Biblical, historical, and thematic connections to classic literary works; acquire more advanced vocabulary, including many terms from the legal and medical professions; and analyze what classical authors do in order to develop their own creative writing.
The Pre-Advanced Placement 8th grade English class offers an allusion series, advanced syntax practice, and more demanding reading and writing requirements for students wishing to take on an extra challenge. This is our first year piloting this course.
All eighth graders read several full works, including The Call of the Wild or Treasure Island, To Kill a Mockingbird, and Oedipus Rex. They write analytical and personal essays, a 1,300-word historical research paper with in-text citations and an annotated bibliography, and a 1600 to 3000-word short story or screenplay. They practice the Socratic Seminar and participate in a mock trial using textual evidence. In the spring, they act out and discuss A Midsummer Night’s Dream, scene by scene. By the end of the course, students have also completed their last two years of grammar study and memorized 200+ more vocabulary words and their Greek and Latin roots. These students enter high school more than prepared.
History
Students in grade eight study major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late eighteenth century through the present, including the cause and course of the two world wars. They develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues and relate them to their historical, geographic, political, economic, and cultural contexts. The course will cover 5 Units, key topics include Unit 1 Connecting Hemispheres, Unit 2 Absolutism, Unit 3 Industrialization, Unit 4 World Wars, Unit 5 perspectives on the present.
Logic
In Logic, students are introduced to formal elements of deductive logic. Students learn about statements and their relationships, syllogisms and validity, arguments in normal English, and informal fallacies. Students also work with truth tables and cover the translation and analysis of arguments into propositions. The primary concern of the student will be to determine the validity of those arguments and the importance of defining terms. Logic helps bridge the gap between simply memorizing or blindly accepting information and the greater challenge of critical analysis and clarity in the oral presentation of one’s thoughts. Specifically, this course is about how to think critically by exploring the components of arguments--issues, conclusions, reasons, evidence, assumptions, language, and how to spot fallacies, manipulations, and obstacles to critical thinking and how to present those findings.
Science*
IPC is a laboratory course designed to give students hands-on practical experiences and background in the structure of matter, atoms, the periodic table, acids, bases, and solutions, and chemical reactions (basic chemistry principles). Applications related to everyday occurrences will assist students in becoming a more scientifically aware citizenry.
Spanish*
During the third year of Spanish, students will be learning about the preterite tense of regular, irregular, and stem-changing verbs. Students will also be introduced to affirmative and negative words, pronouns after prepositions, present progressive verbs, and demonstrative adjectives. Students will learn an additional 320 vocabulary words.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Students in grade eight study major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late eighteenth century through the present, including the cause and course of the two world wars. They develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues and relate them to their historical, geographic, political, economic, and cultural contexts. The course will cover 5 Units, key topics include Unit 1 Connecting Hemispheres, Unit 2 Absolutism, Unit 3 Industrialization, Unit 4 World Wars, Unit 5 perspectives on the present.
Logic
In Logic, students are introduced to formal elements of deductive logic. Students learn about statements and their relationships, syllogisms and validity, arguments in normal English, and informal fallacies. Students also work with truth tables and cover the translation and analysis of arguments into propositions. The primary concern of the student will be to determine the validity of those arguments and the importance of defining terms. Logic helps bridge the gap between simply memorizing or blindly accepting information and the greater challenge of critical analysis and clarity in the oral presentation of one’s thoughts. Specifically, this course is about how to think critically by exploring the components of arguments--issues, conclusions, reasons, evidence, assumptions, language, and how to spot fallacies, manipulations, and obstacles to critical thinking and how to present those findings.
Science*
IPC is a laboratory course designed to give students hands-on practical experiences and background in the structure of matter, atoms, the periodic table, acids, bases, and solutions, and chemical reactions (basic chemistry principles). Applications related to everyday occurrences will assist students in becoming a more scientifically aware citizenry.
Spanish*
During the third year of Spanish, students will be learning about the preterite tense of regular, irregular, and stem-changing verbs. Students will also be introduced to affirmative and negative words, pronouns after prepositions, present progressive verbs, and demonstrative adjectives. Students will learn an additional 320 vocabulary words.
Visual Arts
Students will produce two and three-dimensional artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, fiber arts, clay, printmaking, and sculpture. We will explore both traditional art-making techniques and principles as well as contemporary modes of visual communication. In addition to hands-on art making, students will learn about art history as it relates to their history curriculum. We will use our critical thinking skills to assess and appreciate art from many different disciplines and genres. Elements of technology, math, science, and music will also be infused into the learning environment.
Curriculum Enrichment
- Band/Choir
- Art
- Cultural Expeditions Program: London/Oxford Trip
- Academic Competitions: Art, Creative Writing, Math, Speech, Spelling and Science
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
- History Fair
- International Thespian Society (ITS)
- Local Field Trips: Theatre Productions, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Menil Collection, etc.
- National Junior Honor Society (NHS)
- Physical Education
- Student Council
*High School Level Course - high school credits are given to students and are transferable upon graduation.