2024-2025 Jr/Sr High Classes

Advanced Cooking and Baking

Jennifer Ulven   --   Grades: 7th-`12th   --   Class Supply Fee: Cooking $15, Baking $10

This is a more advanced course for those who are mature in the kitchen. You do not need to have taken the Intro course but do need experience in the kitchen. We will be looking at harder techniques and have more ‘homework’, seeing as most of the techniques will be more time consuming. Homework will NOT be every week and  will still usually be up to the discretion of the student, e.g. make a type of gelatin dessert, either marshmallows or cream pie. They are responsible for taking a photo or posting a photo. Students will be given sourdough starter at the beginning of the year and will seek to keep it ‘alive’ until semester. We will be talking more in depth about international foods and techniques, more complex desserts, and the science behind the food. There will be times they may need ingredients for home use, but I always seek to use pantry staples and not incur extra costs to families. Students only need a set of recipe cards (index cards will work).

Algebra 1

Josh Jones   --   Grades: 8th-12th, who have completed Pre-Algebra.

Required materials: may need to purcahse a graphing calculator

This course will introduce students to a variety of Algebra I concepts, such as variables, algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, and all their multiple representations.

Applied Psychology

Becky Magill   --   Grades: 10th-12th 

Applied psychology is the application of psychological principles to everyday life. We all make choices in interacting with the world around us—and this class will teach students the underlying psychological principles used to influence our choices, beliefs, ideas, and purchases. Students will learn practical skills they can use immediately in their own lives to become better consumers of information and more informed decision makers.

In this course, we will explore topics in social, developmental, industrial/organizational, clinical, counseling, forensic, cognitive, cross-cultural. We will combine basic psychological principals with modern research data (and learn to read and apply statistics correctly!), along with common sense, Scriptural wisdom, and a healthy dose of critical thinking skills to learn such topics as:

• Advertising and what psychological tricks advertisers use
• Social media, and the ways creators overload your brain in all the wrong directions
• Habit formation, and why it’s not ACTUALLY 30 days to form a habit
• Language learning and how languages shape our brains to do things they couldn’t before
• Dopamine flooding, and how to (and why you should) teach your brain to do hard things
• Cults, charismatic leaders, and why people can’t seem to stop joining them
• Video game (or social media) addiction and how the designers actively try to addict your brain

All classes will be taught from a Biblical standpoint, but because of the sensitive nature of some topics (gender identity within social media, violence in video games, cult behaviors, etc.) it will require mental maturity and respect from all students.

Architecture

Josh Snodgrass   --   Grades: 7th-12th

A high school architecture class is a hands-on exploration of building design. You'll learn about famous structures, explore the building blocks (literally!), and get to design your own creation. Expect sketching, model building, and maybe even a field trip to see architecture in action!

It will be different than last year’s class so it will be new material. 

50% grade for participation 

50% grade for sketches and model building

Beginner Cooking and Baking

Jennifer Ulven   --   Grades: 7th-12th   --   Class Supply fee: Cooking $15, Baking $10

This is an introductory course for all skill levels. We will seek to make a wide scale approach to multiple types of cooking techniques: braise, grill, broil, boil, frying, steaming, etc. We will also talk about kitchen safety with tools and cleanliness. Students are responsible to take photos and either bring in or post when we have ‘homework’, which is usually something simple and with plenty of discretion, e.g., bake a pie of your choice, etc. We also cover the economics of cooking at home, whether it be saving over eating out or meal prep. We cover the basics of sourdough vs yeast breads, freezer meals, and hospitality.  Students only need a set of recipe cards ( index cards will work). 

Beginner Watercolor

Sara Burton Fees: $35

Exploring the genre of Watercolor. Learning techniques that will improve your painting skills.

Bible Journaling

Laura Bates Grades: 7th-12th

In class students will copy a Scripture verse or passage and use art and/or words to interact with Bible verses. The class will combine Scripture Writing with art, questions, and words. It is a way to interact with Scripture, hearing what is saying to us and helping us to remember and hear, and provide a way to record thoughts.  The students do not need to be great at art, it is for all skill levels and will be highly personal.

Biology

Dawn House   --   Grades: 9th-12th

Required book: ​Apologia Biology, 3rd edition textbook (Audiobook is very helpful), Test booklet

(Student workbook is optional)

Homework:​ Students should expect to have homework 45-60 minutes per day.

We will focus our class time on gaining understanding of what the students have read through lectures and labs. We will be using microscopes and dissections. 

Board Games

Emma Biedenbender   --   Grades: 7th-12th

In this elective class, 7th-12th graders will be introduced to and learn to play games of all types while focusing on the fruit of the Spirit and incorporating those characteristics into their sportsmanship and behavior, both in class and out. 

Bridge Design and Engineering

Josh Snodgrass   --   Grades: 7th-12th

In a high school bridge design class, get ready to become a mini civil engineer! You'll dive into the world of bridges, learning how these amazing structures handle weight and span distances
50% grade for assignments turned in

50% grade for hands on models and participation

Business Writing

Amber Anderson   --   Grades: 9th-12th

This class will cover topics such as business letter writing, learning about taking meeting minutes, writing a book review, a project proposal, writing a resume, writing a cover letter, and more. Class instruction will utilize the 7 Sisters Homeschool curriculum as a foundation with additional material brought in as needed. Students will be required to have a notebook (spiral bound is preferred) and pen/pencil. Assignments will be given and graded following a rubric. Students will receive ½ credit for this class. (1/2 ELA credit)

Chess/Checkers 

Triston Harness -- Grades 7th-12th 

Criminology

Jarrod Field   --   Grades: 9th-12th, 8th grade with permission

This course will cover the basics of criminal behavior, law enforcement, criminal justice systems and forensic science. Students may study theories of crime, types of crimes, investigative techniques and legal procedures. The curriculum may also include discussions on ethics, psychology, sociology and the role of technology in criminology. Activities such as case studies and guest speakers may be incorporated to enhance learning.

Crochet/Knitting

Abby Ellingsworth   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Required Materials: Yarn, crochet hooks, knitting needles, tapestry needles, scissors

Required Homework: 1 - 2 hours a week

Crochet and knitting are beautiful and relaxing crafts. We will start at the beginning with holding the hook or needles, how to make basic stitches, reading a pattern

As the students' skills develop, we will advance into more advanced techniques. No previous knowledge required, but if the students have previous knowledge we will build on it. My goal is to stretch them from where they are to trying something new.

DARE Class

Matt Dickens   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Course Description:
This course explores the complex issue of substance abuse among adolescents, emphasizing evidence-based prevention strategies. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors, protective factors, and socio-cultural influences that contribute to substance abuse in adolescents. Students will critically examine various prevention programs and policies, learn to design effective intervention strategies, and develop skills to implement and evaluate these programs in diverse settings.

Disaster Dynamics

Austin Arnold   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Explore the dynamic intersection of science and history through a comprehensive examination of significant natural and man-made disasters within the United States. This course delves into the various impacts of disasters on scientific understanding, technological innovation, historical narratives, and societal resilience. Through critical analysis of case studies and documentary film, engagement with primary and secondary sources, discussion and reflective journal entries, students will learn the causes, consequences, and broader impacts of historic disasters. There will be a mixture of lecture, discussion, hands-on learning, and independent work to help meet the needs of all learners in the class. This is a graded class with weekly homework. Students will receive ½ credit for Science and ½ credit for History. Students are expected to read/watch/complete assignments identified in class as they will vary from week to week. Students will be required to create journal entries about the disasters and their impacts and complete fill in the blank worksheets pertaining to that week’s independent study documentary, article, etc. Students will need access to the internet for this course. Most of the grading for this course will be participation points for discussions and assignments. Volunteer and Leadership Opportunities There will be opportunities to have hands on service experience in disaster preparedness and relief projects. The instructor is owner of Disaster Dynamics Media and is focused on creating a culture of preparedness among the next generation. He is also well-networked in the public safety industry and will be able to arrange field trips, volunteer opportunities, and leadership development opportunities that are generally unknown or seen as unattainable by many conventional methods. The majority of activities will be outside of LHE class time and optional but encouraged.

Drawing

Samantha Coombes   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Students will learn to draw using stills (props in the classroom), videos, and nature.  Students will need to purchase a sketch pad and drawing pencils.

Early Childhood Lab Hour

Angela Smith Grades: 9th-12th

This class will entail learning about early childhood development in a hands on format. There will be no instructional class time, only a lab hour in a preschool classroom, supervised by a class coordinator. They will engage, observe, and assist teachers with daily tasks. As the year progresses, the student will take on more responsibility until they are ready to begin preparing and presenting age appropriate lessons to the class they are working with. This class may require weekly check-ins with class overseers, as well as performance reviews from class coordinators. 

Earth Science-Jennifer Palmer

Jennifer Palmer   --   Grades: 7th-9th

Required materials - Apologia General Science 2nd Edition textbook

Homework - 1-2 hours weekly minimum

In this class we will learn about the history of science and scientific theory, then dive into geology. We will be using material from the first half of the General Science textbook. In class we will discuss the content of each module, do experiments from the book, and complete study guide questions. Homework will be weekly reading and studying for module tests. We will do module tests in class, grades will be given based on tests and participation in class.

Financial Literacy

Beth Styrcula   --   Grades: 9th-12th

A class to give a foundation for financial literacy for students as they move into more responsibilities and jobs. Topics covered will include setting financial goals, budgeting, saving, credit, insurance, financial institutions, careers, and taxes. Students will be required to participate, including many practice and study sheets. There will be suggested reading if more information is needed. Students will need a notebook, spiral or composition. Students will receive ½ credit for this class. (1/2 mathematics credit)

Gamer Basics
Angel Deines   –   Grades: 9th-12th
This course offers an in-depth exploration of gaming culture, history, and skills enhancement. It covers topics such as gaming history, genres, platforms, streaming, esports, and game analysis. Through discussions, gameplay sessions, and practical exercises, students will deepen their understanding of gaming and develop their skills as gamers.
*Games possibly discussed will range between E-M rating*

Health & Nutrition

Josh Jones  --   Grades: 9th-12th

A health and nutrition course to cover the physical, nutritional, emotional, social, mental, and spiritual aspects of growing into a healthy adult in the context of a biblical worldview.

Students will study the human body systems, senses, genetics, and temperaments. The course will give your student insight into how physical influences can have a profound impact on their thoughts and emotions as they enter young adulthood. The course respectfully covers relevant topics such as mental illness and emotional stability, the value of another human being, culture, biological sex as related to our gender roles, families, socialization, communication skills, and conflict resolution skills.

Students will also gain an in-depth knowledge of both macronutrients and micronutrients, including the importance of exercise and proper diet.

Improv

Brandy Berner   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Students will watch videos and engage in discussion about the history of theater. They will participate in ice breaker games, warmups, and mock auditions. At the end of the semester, they will present a small play for an audience. Homework will be preparing for class participation, researching characters and plots, memorizing lines, etc.

Intro to Gardening

Laura Bates   --   Grades: 7th-12th Fees: $15

Gardening Class

Learn the basics of organic gardening. We will be learning about types of gardens, how and when to plant, plant some seeds, learn how to create a bug friendly environment and protect your plants. We will grow some plants, create some bug habitats, planters, and gardencrafts and hatch mantises.

To make this class interactive, I will need about $110.

Perrenial and Annuals

-Plant Stakes

Grow Zones and Freeze Dates

- Green house

- Cold Stratif

- Create a Gardening

- Make a Gardening notebook

Types of Gardening

-Look for something from home that you can use as a raised bed

-3 liter soda container garden

Shade and Sun

-observe two parts of the yard and write down light and shade schedules. Pick three plants that could grow in each

Flowers

-plant

Strawberry Plants

-plant one

- strawberry rocks

Birds

Bad Pests/Good Pests

-Bee Hotel

-Butterfly and Bee water station

Insect Control

--Mantis Hatch

Costs: about $100

$35 Praying Mantis Hatch

$15 Soil

$15 Pots

$15 Plant Saucers

$5 Glass marbles

Approx. $10 notebooks (one for each student)

Intro to Public Speaking

Aryelle Arnold   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Required Materials: IEW Introduction to Public Speaking Student Packet LINK: https://www.christianbook.com/introduction-to-public-speaking-student-packet/andrew-pudewa/9781623413873/pd/413873?utm_source=google&kw=f-&mt=&dv=m&event=PPCSRC&p=1165907&snav=GSEARCH&oc=667750&gbraid=0AAAAAD_dTHbpyTcr5ACjHfjNRSjQ1rOcD&gclid=CjwKCAjwhvi0BhA4EiwAX25uj13Yp9QerU0NKig2h90fLTrdJYnbm1VPN-mJ3v_9IqBe-WQJN8X0BhoCtx8QAvD_BwE

Prepare your students to become confident public speakers. This course will be based off of the IEW model for public speaking. The Introduction to Public Speaking course teaches middle- and high-schoolers memory, delivery, and evaluation techniques as well as instruction on composing and presenting five different types of speeches: self-introductory, narrative, expository, persuasive, and impromptu. Students will also evaluate recorded speeches that model each type of presentation, and then take a couple of weeks to prepare and practice their own speeches. In the Student Packet, each week’s lesson includes weekly goals, a daily schedule of written, memorization, and oral work, and poetry and short prose source material.  This course is intended for credit and will take 2-4 hours of homework during the week

Life Skills

Tanya Pearson   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Class Topics will be chosen after the questionnaire results from the first day of class.  

These are skills that they will need now and as they plan for the next 5-10 years. Some topics could include:  Legal Aspects for Young Adults, Interpersonal Skills, Time Management Skills, Self Management Skills, Decision Making Skills, Money Management Skills (probably multiple weeks), Home Management Skills, Self Care Skills,  Interpersonal Skills, Car/Bicycle Skills, Nutrition & Healthy Eating

Modern Literature

Nancy Hoedl   --   Grades: 9th-12th 

Course Description: In this course, students will embark on a captivating journey through the key events, movements, and transformations that have shaped the modern world, from the injustice of slavery, the Civil War, the Goldrush, the making of labor laws, the Great Depression, the Holocaust, to the contemporary missionaries ministering to the Sawi, a tribe of cannibals. Through weekly discussions, we will analyze literary characters, settings, plots, similes, metaphors, themes, symbols, genres, etc.; participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the significant political, economic, social, and cultural developments that have unfolded over the past few centuries. After reading the assigned book, the student will write a persuasive essay. In the essay, the student will use the following literary devices: parallelism, precise & active verbs, antithesis, simile, alliteration, metaphor, and assonance.

Who this class is for: This class Is recommended for 8-12th graders. Each book has audio available for reluctant readers. Students should expect to spend at least one hour a day on reading & essay writing.

Class Credit: 1 Highschool Literature/Language Arts Credit:

Books and supplies needed: for the essay portion –

Lost Tools of Writing (student edition)

Uncle Tom’s Cabin

The Gettysburg Address - available online

The Red Badge of Courage Stampede for Gold:

The Story of the Klondike Rush Crime and Punishment

The Jungle A Brilliant Night of Stars & Ice

The Great Gatsby

No Promises In the Wind

The Hiding Place

Peace Child

A notebook for notes during class discussion.

Book suggestions are taken from Biblioplan Modern U.S. & World History, from 1850 -2000.

Mystery of History

Tracy Sayre   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Title: The Mystery of History Volume 1:(Creation – c. A.D. 33)

Homework: Weekly

Worldly taught history and science today leave little to no room for a Creator.  This class is where world history and Biblical history collide.  The curriculum we will be using teaches a “young world”, beginning with creation in the year 4,004BC.  We will jump back and forth between history pulled from our Bibles and people, nations, and events happening in other parts of the world around the same time.  For example - During the time the Israelites were in Egyptian slavery, China and Shang Dynasty were a fast growing nation, famous for silk.  And not long before Ruth and Naomi King Tut ruled as a young Egyptian king.  This will be a year long class and will end in the year 33AD with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  

Students taking this class will need a copy of the Mystery of History, Volume 1, a 1.5” binder, and something to write with.  There will be weekly homework.

Painting

Samantha Coombes   --   Grades: 7th-12th   --   special supplies may need to be purchased

Students will learn tips and tricks for painting techniques with acrylic paint.  Students will watch some videos. Students will learn about some artists and their techniques to get ideas for creating a painting of their own.  Students will need a few canvases.  

PE (Physical Education)

Triston Harness  --   Grades: 7th-12th

This Physical Education elective is open to all Jr High and Sr High Students. Students taking this course are required to participate in every activity we do each week. 

The goal of a physically educated student is to maintain appropriate levels of cardio-respiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition necessary for a healthy and productive life. This course will cover a range of lifetime sport and recreational activities. Each student will have the opportunity to work on their personal physical skills. We will do a variety of team sports that will allow students to learn teamwork, social behavior, leadership, and encouragement. My hope is for students to have fun, try their best, build confidence and to be encouraging and respectful to each person. This Physical Education course will be conducted both indoor and outdoor depending on the physical activity and weather. 

A primary goal of Physical Education is to promote a life of physical health, fitness, and enjoyment. Some of our Physical Education classes will be: Dodgeball, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Kickball, Ultimate Frisbee, Disc Golf, Croquet, 9 Square, 4 Square, Flag Football, etc 

Personality & Relationships

Tracy Sayre  --   Grades 9th-12th

Why is it harder to get along with certain people, much less work beside them?  In this class we will learn what it means to be created in God’s Image and will focus on 1 Cor. 12:12-27 (one body with many parts).  We will dive right into a few different assessments that will guide us as we get to know ourselves a little better; our unique personalities, abilities, and talents.  This will not only help us know how to use what God gave us, but also how to recognize the personality types of those around us and how best to work side by side for the glory of God.  

This will be a fun, interactive class for boys and girls 7th grade and up.  Students are asked to come to class with a 1” binder, something to write with, and a desire to grow.  There may be some light homework on occasion.  

Political Science/US Government

Nancy Hoedl   --   Grades: 7th-12th

In this timely class, we will discuss political labels, their meanings and economic policies, the plans their promoters have for your money, and the model they follow. We will look at these deep subjects in engaging and nonintimidating ways with the Uncle Eric books. Students should expect 1-2 hours weekly of work outside of class.

Resources Needed:

· Are you Liberal? Conservative? Or Confused?, 2nd Edition, by Richard J. Maybury and Jane A. Williams

· A Blue Stock Guide Political Philosophies., by Jane A. Williams and Kathryn Daniels · www.prageru.com

Credit: ½ Credit

Who should take this course: This course is recommended for 7th-12th graders. It will count for the MO, recommended credit for the government class.

Course Description: We will tackle the Constitution and structures of Government through these engaging books for teens. This will empower the student to understand why the Constitution matters today. Using critical thinking, we will judge real court cases involving the first 8 amendments to the U.S. Constitution and compare their ruling with the U.S. Supreme Court. Students should expect to work 2- 3 hours outside of class.

Resources Needed:

· Our Constitution Rocks, by Juliette Turner

· You Decide! Applying the Bill of Rights to Real Cases, by George Bundy Smith and Alene L. Smith

· www.prageru.com

Pre-Algebra

Jenny Adkins   --   Grades: 7th-9th

Required materials:  Math U See Pre-Algebra  Instruction Pack and Pre-Algebra Student Pack

Homework: 30-60 minutes daily

Basic pre-algebra concepts including negative numbers, exponents, factoring, and ratios. Includes rules for solving equations using the associative, commutative, and other properties; simple operations with polynomials. Also introduces some basic geometry concepts such as surface area, volume and Pythagorean theorem.

Reader's Theater

Brandy Berner   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Think of it as "read aloud" theatre class - no memorizing or costuming! Students will "perform" selected scripts while exploring different vocalization techniques and warm ups. Must come willing to participate (speak and listen), learn, grow, and have fun! 

Scripture Memory Challenge

Laura Bates   --   Grades 7th-12th

Students will memorize foundational Scripture verses and passages in a fun way.  We will write out Scripture memory cards and play memory games, races, and quizzes in class.

Sewing

Nancy Hoedl   --   Grades 7th-12th

Class Description: This class is for students interested in learning sewing and creative expression through material arts. It will cover machine sewing basics, reading patterns, and making projects. The class will be geared to the interests of the students. With each project, we will learn and practice a new skill.

Supplies Needed:

· A basic sewing kit.

· Materials as needed. We will work to keep the costs low and offer suggestions on where to buy materials.

Social Studies

Samantha Coombes   --   Grades: 7th-8th

Students will learn the history of the US from the Pilgrims to present day with a biblical worldview.  Using a chronological account of American history, the events and people who shaped our nation, students will learn what made our nation great.  Students will develop critical thinking skills. Students will use maps and other materials to complete projects and assignments.  Students will have homework and need internet access at home.

Sociology

Jarrod Field   --   Grades: 7th-12th

This course will explore the foundational concepts of society, culture and human behavior. Topics will include but not be limited to social institutions, deviance, gender and class in shaping societies. Students will gain a broad understanding of sociological theories and methods to analyze and interpret social behavior with an emphasis being placed on critical thinking.

Spanish, a Conversational and Fun Introduction

Krystal Dean  --   Grades: 7th-12th

Required materials: Students will need a notebook, either spiral or composition.

This class will incorporate some music, some games, and lots of conversation. Instruction will loosely follow the outline of EasyPeasy All-in-one-Highschool, including pronunciation, greetings, date and time, and other topics. There will be a cultural element incorporated and an end-of-year presentation. Students will be expected to listen, participate, and some homework will be occasionally given. 

Strength Training

Josh Jones   --   Grades: 9th-12th

An introductory course designed to help each student: improve muscular strength; improve mobility; gain knowledge and understanding of weight training theory and practice; benefits of strength training, including mental and physical components. May require purchase of $20-30 resistance bands

Student Council

Brandy Berner and Emma Biedenbender   --   Grades 8th-12th

What do you want to plan for this school year? How can you make a difference in this world? Do you want to grow your friend group while engaging in fun co-op activities? In this class, students will take on leadership roles while having the opportunity to plan events, serve the community, and foster a sense of belonging in their fellow co-op students. Some planned events will be outside of co-op days/hours as well!

Yearbook

Angel Deines   --   Grades: 9th-12th

Required materials: laptop, Canva app, internet access at home

Homework: Yes

In this course, you will gain, develop, and master skills in one or multiple areas of the yearbook

creation process. Whether you’re interested in page design or photography, copywriting or

marketing, or any other skill required to create a memorable yearbook, you’ll be able to come to class every day and learn by doing. Outside of developing these individual skills, we’re also

working towards a single, shared goal: to create the most memorable yearbook LHE has ever seen.

MORE TO COME...