Senior High School: Course Catalog

Introduction

Used in combination with a graduation checklist, this course catalog serves to help students and parents as they prepare for the upcoming school year and in planning their course of study throughout their career at Westlake Christian Academy.

Westlake Christian Academy’s high school program is primarily college preparatory. The academic emphasis is to provide educational experiences with the rigor, breadth, and depth necessary for graduates to succeed in whatever post-secondary pursuits they desire. Consistent with our mission of discipleship, it is also our desire that graduates will have embraced a Christian worldview through our academic program.

Every effort has been taken to ensure that this document is accurate and thorough. However, occasionally oversights do occur. Students and parents are asked to provide ideas for improvement and identify any mistakes needing correction to the office. Because of the size of our student body, Westlake may not offer every course in this catalog every school year.
We are glad to provide any help you desire in regarding to selecting courses or establishing a 4-year plan. Please contact the school office with your questions.

Graduation Requirements

1. Transfer credits (public school, home school, independent study, dual college credits) will be considered if documentation is credible and mastery is demonstrated.
2. To graduate from Westlake, a student must be enrolled full-time during their senior year.
3. A maximum of 4.0 PE credits may be applied towards graduation requirements.
4. 0.5 Bible credits are required for each semester of attendance at Westlake.

Courses in these specific categories are required for graduation.

*Bible credits are required for each semester of attendance. Students who transfer into WCA after their freshman year have this requirement reduced.
**US History and Government are required.
***Participation in complete sport season may be substituted for 0.5 PE credit.

DROPPING/ADDING COURSES

Students may drop or add courses after final registration subject to the following requirements:

• Drop/add request forms MUST be submitted on or before the fifth school day of the semester. Classes which are offered as full year courses (2 semesters) may not be dropped after one semester.
• All drop/add requests must be approved and signed by the student’s parent, the administration and by the teacher or teachers of the courses involved (in that order). Requests must be submitted to the administrator by the deadline date in order to be considered.
• Approval of drop/add requests is at the discretion of the administration after consultation with the student and teacher(s), and where appropriate, with parents. The student’s best interests will be the primary factor considered.

COURSE OFFERINGS

The following pages list the course offerings at Westlake Christian Academy and provide a brief description of each course. Every course at Westlake Christian Academy is taught from a Christian worldview. God’s truth is integrated into all facets of the student’s education. His beauty, grace and love are readily seen in the language and fine arts. His strength, order and exactness are easily witnessed in the sciences and mathematics.
Some courses are offered on a rotating basis (2 or 4 year cycle) which is why course descriptions may be listed but not available on a specific year’s master schedule.

EDITS

Westlake Christian Academy reserves the right to make corrections or changes in this catalog and in the master course schedule which are in the best interest of the school and/or students. This would include areas such as corrections of typographical errors, adding or withdrawing course offerings, substitution of courses, or waivers in unusual situations. Should any item seem in error or confusing, please contact the school office.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Secondary students can earn their required physical education credits throughout their high school years by taking physical education classes. However, Westlake Christian Academy may be able to accept these PE credits as alternates to physical education class:

• A varsity sport at Westlake. Full season participation is 0.5 credit.
• A club sport that practices and competes at an equivalent level and length of time as a varsity sport. A full season participation is 0.5 credits.
• A college PE course. Successful completion (for a grade or audit) will earn 0.5 credits.

It is strongly recommended that alternative PE credits be pre-approved. Recreational and church leagues cannot be accepted even at a reduced-credit level. Credits need to be confirmed within one semester of season or course completion and will not be awarded retroactively.

STUDY HALL

Study halls provide students with a time during the school day for them to study, complete homework assignments, or receive extra help. Study hall teachers have guidelines in place to ensure a quiet, productive classroom atmosphere so that class time can be utilized without disturbance from others. Study hall students must come prepared for each of these classes.
Students are urged to schedule the maximum number of academic classes that are available to them each year. Because of this, students may not schedule more than one study hall each semester regardless of how many credits the student has fulfilled for graduation.

TECH CAMPUS

Westlake makes allowances when possible for certain students to participate in the Lake County Tech Campus (T. C.) program. Those students must complete the WCA Tech Campus application in which the student will be expected to give specific reasons for wanting to participate in the T. C. program. Approved students must then make arrangements for joining the T. C. through their local public high school guidance department. They must also provide their own transportation. WCA juniors and seniors may only participate in the afternoon T. C. program (beginning 1:00). Arrangements to join the program must be made in March of the preceding year in order to be assured of space.

To be a full time WCA student taking Tech Campus:
Juniors and seniors enrolled in Tech Campus may maintain their full time status at Westlake by enrolling as full time WCA students and taking classes for each of the first five periods of the day, which allows time for lunch and travel to T. C. No more than one of those classes may be a study hall. As full time WCA students, they will be allowed the following:

• Participation in major trips, such as the DC and the senior mission trip
• Participation in HS retreat
• Participation in all class and student council activities
• Graduation from Westlake with WCA diploma

Tech Campus Credits:
Students who successfully complete Tech Campus work earn three credits per year which are transferred to their Westlake transcript and count toward their GPA. Most Tech Campus credits count as electives. However, in some instances, T. C. work may satisfy the Westlake requirement for technology credit.

Tuition Considerations for T. C. students:
Westlake students who are enrolled full time and are participating in Tech Campus receive a 20% discount on Westlake tuition. Students receiving WCA tuition assistance will receive no additional discount for T. C. All other fees remain the same. There may be fees associated with the T. C. program.

Attendance:
Westlake students who are enrolled in Tech Campus are expected to comply with attendance requirements of both institutions. This means that, when Westlake has a break (half or full day off) and T. C. does not, those students are expected to attend T. C. anyway, and vice versa. When there are conflicts, such as major Westlake trips, we will work with T. C. to arrange for those students to miss T. C.

Bible

Apologetics / 1 semester / ½ credit
Normally taken during freshman or sophomore year, in this course students start with an introduction to bibliology as the foundation for apologetics. They then explore several areas of apologetics (“the Big Questions”) including cults, reconciling science and Scripture, and the problem of evil.

Bible Study Skills / 1 semester / ½ credit
Freshman or sophomore year. Building on and expanding an understanding of bibliology from the Apologetics course, students develop personal Bible study skills. They come to see and understand the Bible as a whole and learn to interpret the parts in context using the grammatical-historical hermeneutical approach.

Theology / 1 semester / ½ credit
Freshman or sophomore year. Students develop a systematic understanding of six major doctrines: theology proper, anthropology, soteriology, ecclesiology, pneumatology, and angelology. Various evangelical viewpoints are discussed evenhandedly with supporting biblical texts.

Christology / 1 semester / ½ credit
Freshman or sophomore year. Two major areas of doctrine are covered: Christology and eschatology. Working primarily from the Gospel of John, students work to discover the nature and work of Christ. They conclude the course with an examination of Christ in end times from the book of Revelation.

Torah / 1 semester / ½ credit
The main goal of this course is for students to grow in their ability to responsibly and carefully read and interpret the Bible for themselves. This course emphasizes the interpretive process based on a literary approach to Scripture. Students will learn how to engage the unique genre and historical context of the Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. Bible memory work will also come from the first five books of the Bible.

The Prophets / 1 semester / ½ credit
In this course, students will continue to build on the goal and emphasis of the course on the Torah. They will learn how to engage the unique genre and historical context of some of the minor and major prophets (e.g. Hosea, Joel, Isaiah and Jeremiah). Our aim will be to put ourselves as much as possible into the position of those who first heard these scriptures. We will regularly ask in class, what did this mean for its first audience?

Luke-Acts / 1 semester / ½ credit
Students study through Luke’s two-part history. As they study his Gospel, emphasis will be placed on the Son of Man, His humanity, His crucifixion, and the implications of the Gospel for our lives. This is followed by, in Acts, Christ’s ascension, the birth of the Church, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the spreading of the Gospel. Open discussion, understanding, critical thinking, a vibrant faith, and unity in the Spirit will be encouraged and particular attention paid to personal Bible study skills. 

Romans & Revelation / 1 semester / ½ credit
Students do a systematic study in the most excellent treatise on the Gospel—Romans—surveying topics like sin, atonement, baptism, predestination, tolerance, authority and more. This will be followed by survey of the apocalyptic book of Revelation. They will explore different views of the book and their interpretations, ultimately coming back to how does the message of Revelation inform and shape our faith here and now? During this semester, students will write their own research paper on a theological issue or question.

Introduction to Life Calling / Dual Credit / 1 semester / ½ high school credit / 3 college credits
Open only to juniors and seniors, Introduction to Life Calling assists students in discovering the concept of life calling in a holistic and faith-based setting by focusing on one’s God-given design as a basis for this calling. Students are led to understand how vocation is best understood from a life-calling perspective. They will focus on more than just a career; they will evaluate their foundational values, unique design, and personal mission and be challenged to integrate this into their life. The fee for the dual credit option is about $200 (set annually by the university), which includes the text, the IMAGE spiritual gifting assessment, and a college transcript for three credits through Ohio Christian University.

English

English 9 Creative Writing and Storytelling: Tools for Understanding Stories / 2 semesters /  1 credit
This course creates a foundational understanding of the English language storytelling and poetic tradition through breaking down the components into manageable units on: Characters and Archetypes, Plots, Settings, Narrative structure, Dialogue, and Poetry. Throughout this course students will discuss, analyze, and compose stories and poetry that exemplifies different aspects of creative writing and ultimately they will compose their own collection of short stories, a short novel, or a portfolio of poetry based on what they learn throughout the year. They will also be exposed to the mechanics of grammar as a “tool” in their collection for composition. They will follow a process based structure for their compositions and be walked through all the steps of composing researched essays and projects; all through a Biblical lens that asks the question “Why and how do we tell stories?”

English 10 Genre Studies in Literature: The Types of Stories we Tell /  2 Semesters   / 1 Credit
This course expands on what was taught in 9th grade by using the different aspects of stories to discuss and analyze different genres of literature. Students will begin by defining the concept of “Genre” and then delving into specific types of stories such as Folktales (Legends, Myths, and Fairytales), Personal Narratives (Autobiographical, Biographical, and Testimony), Informational Texts, Historical Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Drama, and Poetry. They will contribute four major essays over the course of the year: Research, Cause and Effect, Compare and Contrast, and Analysis. As well as individual work, students will participate in group-based presentations and collaborative writing that responds to the overarching conversation that Literature invites us to have about morality, humanity, and what it means to communicate through the tools of stories, poems, and plays.

English 11 Semester 1 World Literature: Understanding Stories from Around the World / 1 Semester / 0.5 Credit
Students will engage with different stories from around the world that use similar narrative techniques in order to understand the cross-cultural value of storytelling and it’s worldwide effect on communication. They will be introduced to Joseph Campbell’s “Monomyth” and the idea of a universal story that can be found across national divides, along with the Christ narrative as the ultimate Hero’s Journey and seeing God’s story from a Literary perspective. Engaged learners will work on group presentations, creating a themed anthology, and analyzing literature through specific “lenses” to understand what components are shared cross-culturally and what components are unique to certain cultures.

English 11 Semester 2 British Literature I: The English Storytelling Tradition (Anglo-Saxon-The Restoration)/ 1 Semester / 0.5 Credit
This is course can be taken as a Dual Credit option with Colorado Christian University for a flat fee of $200/student. Students in this course must earn a C or higher to receive college credit. A grade of C or higher on CCU’s grading scale is a 73%.

The first course in a series, British Literature I offers the first half of an in-depth study of the English language’s history and traditions. This course surveys the history of literature in Britain until 1800 and representative works by influential writers of those time periods.This survey of early British texts will introduce you to key authors of British imaginative literature and texts that have survived through the centuries. You’ll become familiar with the craftsmanship of the Middle Ages, the renewed passions of the Renaissance, and the wit and wisdom of 17th and 18th century writers.This course seeks to engage students with the literature through lectures, oral presentations, videos, readings, memory work, and research. Students will demonstrate their ability to think for themselves by offering their own interpretations and analyses of a work of literature in clear, substantive prose. They will also express the ability to discern Christian elements and implications of literary works, including in student’s own creative writing.

English 12 Semester 1 British Literature II: The English Storytelling Tradition (Pre-Romantics to Modern) / 1 Semester / 0.5 Credit
This is course can be taken as a Dual Credit option with Colorado Christian University for a flat fee of $200/student. Students in this course must earn a C or higher to receive college credit. A grade of C or higher on CCU’s grading scale is a 73%.

The second course in a series, British Literature II surveys the history of literature in Britain from 1800 to the present and representative works by influential writers. Much as in the first portion of this course, students will demonstrate their ability to think for themselves by offering their own interpretations and analyses of a work of literature in clear, substantive prose. They will also be taught to describe the broad chronology of imaginative writing in Britain since 1800; have a perspective on the relationship between changing historical context and literary production; Be able to discuss the defining characteristics of British Romantic, Victorian, Modernist, and Postmodern Literature; Write precise interpretations of poetry and fiction; Recognize individual concerns and styles of particular writers within their frameworks of time and genre; and relate one’s own faith to the concerns expressed by British writers

English 12 Semester 2 Composition I: Telling Your Story to the Contemporary World / 1 Semester / 0.5 Credit
This is course can be taken as a Dual Credit option with College of Lake County. Students in this course must earn a C or higher to receive college credit. A grade of C or higher on CLC’s grading scale is a 73%.

The primary goal of this course is to help students become better writers. Writing is a continuing process of thinking, discovering, learning, communicating, and reflecting. Not only will students need these skills to succeed as an engaged citizen of Westlake Christian Academy, but also as an engaged citizen of the world. Composition I offers you the occasion to explore the purposes, intents, and audiences of expressive, informative, and persuasive writing, as well as the rhetoric of electronic communication. Students will become more conscious of strategies involved in shifting focus among the writer, message, audience, style, and medium.

Students will end the course with a portfolio of material that they will select and assemble to demonstrate the course competencies identified in the Composition I outcomes, to present to colleges as samples of their writing, and to express their own unique voices that contribute to engagement with the contemporary world through a Christian expression of self.

Math

Algebra I / 8th or 9th grades / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Pre-requisite – Pre-algebra
The course advances the student in working with unknowns in addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication. The student works with graphs in linear and linear inequalities, and furthers his skills with matrices, probability and statistics, transformation, exponents, polynomials and the quadratic functions. This course prepares the student for advanced algebra and geometry.

Geometry / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Pre-requisite – Algebra I
The geometry course topics include plane and solid geometry, properties of congruence, similarity, ratio and proportion, area, perimeter, and volume of basic figures. The student will write and make constructions of inductive, deductive, and indirect proofs.

Algebra II / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Pre-requisite – Algebra I
The course covers equations and functions, matrices, systems of equations, quadratic functions, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational functions, binomial theorem, and discrete mathematical concepts.

Pre-Calculus / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Pre-requisites – Geometry, Algebra II
Trigonometry topics include trigonometric functions and their graphs, identities, law of sines, law of cosines, trigonometric equations, complex numbers, conic sections, and practical applications. Calculus topics include problem solving with equations, functions, polynomials, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, systems of equations and inequalities, parabolas, ellipses, hyperbolas, sequences and series, mathematical induction, the binomial theorem, conic sections and polar graphs, complex numbers, matrix algebra, statistics, sequences, limits, and differential calculus. A TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator is required for this course.

Calculus (Dual Credit) / 2 semesters / 1 credit/4 college hours
Pre-requisite – Pre-Calculus; Dual Credit Fee = $200 (Charged by CCU)
This course is taught in partnership with Colorado Christian University. Students will work with functions represented in a variety of ways, understand the meaning of the derivative in terms of a rate of change and local linear approximation and use derivatives to solve a variety of problems, understand the meaning of the definite integral and use integrals to solve a variety of problems, understand the relationship between the derivative and the definite integral as expressed in both parts of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, communicate mathematics both orally and in well-written sentences and explain solutions to problems, model a written description of a physical situation with a function, a differential equation, or an integral, use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and verify conclusions, determine the reasonableness of solutions, including sign, size, relative accuracy, and units of measurement, develop an appreciation of calculus as a coherent body of knowledge and as a human accomplishment for God’s glory and the benefit of fellowman. A TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator is required for this course.

Statistics (Dual Credit)  / 2 semesters / 1 credit/3 college hours
Co-requisite – Algebra II; Dual Credit Fee = $200 (Charged by CCU)
This Statistics course, taught in partnership with Colorado Christian University, introduces students to the major concepts and methods for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data.  There is an emphasis on sound statistical thinking over routine formulas and procedures.  (Equivalent to a non-calculus-based college course in statistics). Students do significant technology-based analysis and independent projects.  Specific graphing calculator required for the class.

Logic I / 1 semester / ½ credit
Logic I studies the beginning laws of rational thought, the Syllogism, Venn Diagrams and informal fallacies. Both Logic I & II have the student apply the process to everyday situations around them.

Logic II / 1 semester / ½ credit
Prerequisite – Logic I
Logic II takes the student through conditional arguments, truth tables, and the theorems used in valid arguments. Both Logic I & II have the student apply the process to everyday situations around them.

Science

General Biology / 2 semesters / 1 credit / includes lab
This course is designed to give students an overview of the study of biology for an understanding of the living physical world around them. The course is foundational for further, more specific biology courses. The study includes the history biological science, the scientific method, basic chemistry, cytology, genetics, origins, and an examination of all five kingdoms. The subject demonstrates the design in the world and gives the student a sense of awe in the Designer. The course goals are to fulfill science requirements and to prepare students for upper level high school science courses.

Chemistry / 2 semesters / 1 credit / includes lab
Available as General or Honors Course
The course is inorganic chemistry, which covers the standards of high school chemistry. The topics in this class include atomic structure, periodic table, electron configuration, chemical bonding, chemical formulas, stoichiometry, chemical equations, phases of matter, solutions, chemical kinetics, acid-base reactions. The course goals are to fulfill science requirements and to prepare students for upper level high school science courses as well as college chemistry.

Applied Science / 2 semesters / 1 credit
This course is a project centered course that aligns with STEM objectives. Students will gain knowledge of science by building and applying scientific principles to the projects on which they will work.  The course is designed to study science as it is used in everyday technology around us.

Human Anatomy and Physiology / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Prerequisite – General Biology
This course follows the course in General Biology and focuses on the study of the human body. This study is more specific in the details (anatomy) and the function of the parts (physiology). Included are developmental, surface, regional, macroscopic, microscopic, systemic, and comparative anatomy. The course makes use of experiments, identification, memorization, and interaction of the various structural parts. This study shows the intelligent complex design of the human body.

Physics / 2 semesters / 1 credit / includes lab / extra honors course credit points
Prerequisite – Algebra I
This course in lab physics utilizes math skills developed in Algebra. Students study mechanics, forces, properties of matter, energy, heat, sound and light, electricity and magnetism, and the make up of atoms. Physics underlies all the other sciences and is foundational to understanding chemistry, biology, earth science, and astronomy.

Advanced Biology / 2 semesters  / 1 credit
Pre-requisite – General Biology and Chemistry
This course content is more in-depth and greater expectation is placed upon interpretation and analysis of information than in General Biology. In addition, statistical analysis of data and modeling of concepts are expected. A significant amount of studying must be completed at home to allow time for discussion, labs, and inquiry during class time. Advanced Biology curriculum encompasses 4 ‘big ideas’, with Essential Knowledge and Process Skills that support each one: Evolution (a thorough examination and understanding of the process of evolution from a Creationist viewpoint); Cellular Processes (Energy and Communication); Genetics and Information Transfer; and Biological Interactions.

Social Studies

Christianity in Historical Context  / 2 semesters / 1 credit
This class explores pivotal points in the history of Western civilization through the conversion stories of five individuals: Augustine of Hippo and the early Church in the late Roman Empire, Martin and Katie Luther and the Protestant Reformation, Nabeel Qureshi and the history of Islam in the Middle East as well as the United States, and Rosaria Butterfield and the history of Protestant Liberalism, Feminism and the gay rights movement. Students will learn to engage these individuals through their own written testimonies. They will also explore their unique historical contexts through the proper use of primary sources and artifacts. As part of this course, students will discuss and wrestle with questions like, how does God save us? In what ways has God been present and active in our history? Who or what is the Church and what is its significance in human history? Additional learning outcomes for this class include a deeper capacity to read and think contextually by entering cultures and mindsets different from one’s own as well as greater wonder, and confidence in God’s power to reconcile a people to Himself through his Son.

World History / 2 semesters / 1 credit
This one-year course outlines the major political, social, and cultural developments of our world, and particularly of Western civilization, beginning with Creation, and continuing to the present. Students are encouraged to examine cause-and-effect relationships, and to continue honing other analytical skills, as they explore the cultures of the ancient Near East and Mediterranean, Europe through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Reformation, and the increasing globalization of the modern world.

United States History / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Required for graduation, this is a one-year overview of the history of our nation from the Colonial period to the present, using a primarily chronological approach. Emphasis is placed on the political, social, and historical developments that have shaped our nation today. The course is designed to encourage thoughtful analysis of current policy challenges within the context of lessons that can be learned from our past national experiences. Classroom work is supplemented with, debates, research, and a primary source analysis project.

American Political Science and Economics / 2 semesters  / 1 credit/3 college hours
Dual Credit Fee = $200 (Charged by CCU)
Political Science – Introduction to American Politics – taught in partnership with Colorado Christian University, is about politics, its practice and its study, its universal character and its character within the American constitutional order. Politics exists wherever man exists, because man is the political animal. He alone exercises rule—and offers justifications for it. The study of politics is bound up, intrinsically, then, with the study of human nature and its place within creation. Included in this course is a study of macro-economics, the principles of the market system.  Beginning with the interaction of the factors of production and the laws of supply and demand, students explore the basic principles of the American economic system, including the various forms of business organization, money and banking, and the financial markets.  They also explore the role of government in the economy as the Congress and the Federal Reserve formulate and apply fiscal and monetary policies, and respond to the challenges of a global economy. The course includes the U.S. and Illinois Constitution tests, and is required for graduation.

Consumer Education / 1 semester / ½ credit
This is a multi-discipline class, functioning as both a consumer math and a micro-economics course. In this full-year course, Christian stewardship in the areas of time and money are the primary themes. Basic consumer skills such as income, budgeting, banking, borrowing, transportation, food, clothing, buying/renting/maintaining a house, choosing the right types of insurance and managing investments, income taxes, and providing for vacations are included. The course also offers a review of basic math skills and measurements.

World Civilizations to 1600 (Dual Credit) / 1 semester / ½ credit / 3 college hours
Dual Credit Fee = $450 (charged by TIU)
This college-level course, offered in partnership with Trinity International University, is a study of Western and non-Western cultures from antiquity through the Protestant Reformation. Emphasis on the development of the classical and medieval West and an introduction to major world cultures and religions.

World Civilizations from 1600 to Present (Dual Credit)  / 1 semester / ½ credit / 3 college hours
Dual Credit Fee = $450 (charged by TIU)
This college-level course, offered in partnership with Trinity International University, is a study of Western and non-Western cultures from 1600 through the present. Emphasis on the rise and decline of the modern West, its imperialism, and the emergence of modernized Western nations in the twentieth century.

Foreign Language

Spanish I / Pre-requisite – none / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Students learn the alphabet and will be able to greet and apply simple sentences on weather, school, home, family, and travel. Students also memorize simple Bible verses and learn songs.

Spanish II / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Pre-requisite – Spanish I
Students apply prior year’s knowledge of vocabulary and sentence structure. Students learn past tense and future tense. Memorization of Bible verses and prayers are learned; also students learn about Latin American countries and their cultures.

Advanced Spanish / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Pre-requisite – Spanish II or III (earning at least B) and teacher recommendation
This course uses Sevenstar Academy and is closely monitored by Westlake faculty
This course will expose students to a college level experience in language mastery. As they master this language at a higher level, students are encouraged and trained in aspects of biblical communication and godly relationships. College Spanish has been carefully designed to meet the standards of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). These standards call for a method of teaching that focuses on successful communication through speaking, writing, reading, and listening, as well as a thorough grounding in aspects of culture. Course strategies include warm-up activities, vocabulary study, reading, threaded discussions, multi-media presentations, self-checks, practice activities and games, oral and written assignments, projects, quizzes, and exams. Learning activities in each unit are focused upon a specific theme and point students toward the biblical foundation of that them. Through a partnership with Colorado Christian University (CCU), students who take this course are eligible to file for a CCU college transcript.

Technology

Computer Applications for Productivity / 1 semester / ½ credit
During this one-semester course, students are exposed to two foundational computer applications: word processing and spreadsheet. They begin with an introduction to word processing, using Microsoft Word™. Students learn basic formatting and editing skills, work with styles and themes, and practice enhancing documents with columns, art, text boxes, clip art, and photographs. In the second part, the basic structure and functions of spreadsheets are presented using Microsoft Excel™. Students learn basic spreadsheet formulas, and how to construct pivot tables and graphs to analyze and summarize data for presentation. Students also learn about the use of forms for more efficient and accurate data-entry.

Computer Graphics / 1 semester / ½ credit
This course introduces basic techniques used in creating and modifying images using Corel Paint Shop Pro™. Students master various graphics tools while creating, enhancing, and manipulating free-hand images and photographs in this project-based course.

Computer Aided Design / 1 semester / ½ credit
This course explores the use of CAD software for both engineering and architectural application. Students learn the basics of three-dimensional CAD while constructing a model of a mechanical device and a model of a house from a plan. Students incorporate pre-made symbols to create attractive presentation drawings similar to those produced by architectural firms for clients. The course introduces many of the principles of mechanical drawing, and reinforces concepts of plane and solid geometry.

Introduction to Programing / 1 semester / ½ credit
This one semester project-based course provides a solid foundation in basic programming concepts, using Python. These concepts are the same or very similar to those needed to work in almost any programming language, and include writing properly formatted code that stores and makes accessible to users collections of data in an efficient and user-friendly manner. In the latter part of the course, students will apply the concepts they have mastered to create a simple video game, to build a program that facilitates analysis and graphing of collected data, and to create a web app.

Tech and Production / 1 semester / ½ credit
Tech & Production is intended to be an entry level course into the philosophy, skills, and tools widely used in producing, recording, streaming, and sharing events. These would include chapels, assemblies, concerts, and more. Students will learn how to set up and operate basic tools for sound amplification, light production, video recording and editing, and discuss the philosophy behind their effective use. A significant portion of class time will be devoted to practicing with the equipment. It is expected that students will be available to participate in multiple events throughout the semester, including some in the evenings.

Fine Arts

Concert Band / 7th – 12th grades / 2 semesters / 0.8 credit
Prerequisite – Intermediate Band
Concert Band is for students having acquired the skills necessary to play music at an upper junior high to senior high school level, as determined by the director. Students through 8th grade will typically receive one group lesson per week. The band rehearses four mornings per week.

Honors Band / 9th – 12th grades / HS Honors Course / 2 semesters / 0.8 credit
Prerequisite – Intermediate Band and Private Instruction
Honors Band is for students who have qualified for and are members of the Concert Band and are taking private instruction, either on their band instrument or on piano, and complete extra requirements as assigned by the director. The Concert Band rehearses four mornings per week.

High School Vocal Ensemble / 9th – 12th grades / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Using a wide variety of musical styles from traditional to contemporary, students in our vocal ensemble develop their vocal skills while glorifying Christ and representing Westlake at school concerts and in a number of church and community activities.

Leadership and Worship / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Leadership and Worship course develops biblical understanding and skills in servant leadership, the theology and practice of worship, how to plan and prepare appropriate worship material, and the use of media and technology in worship. Students use their knowledge and skills while regularly leading worship in our weekly Upper School chapels. This course is normally restricted to juniors and seniors.

Music Theory / 1 semester / ½ credit
This course is a teacher-guided independent study course exploring basic pitch and rhythm notation through interval relationships, and from major and minor scales through basic functional harmony and part-writing. Students will be provided with materials for study and practice and given time to work independently and individually with the instructor. There is no prerequisite for the course.

Music Appreciation / 1 semester / ½ credit
Students will examine the relationships between major philosophical movements in Western Civilization (such as the Enlightenment) and their expression in music from a Biblical worldview. The course provides an overview of each main movement or period from the Middle Ages through the present day with major examples from the music of the period, examined through an understanding of Scripture and broader historical context.

Speech / 1 semester / ½ credit
Westlake desires its students to be prepared to articulate ideas, particularly their faith, with convincing conviction. This course teaches the student to speak clearly and concisely and to use speaking skills to honor Christ. Students study the fundamentals of public speaking from platform presence to persuasion. They learn to choose topics, research, organize, and communicate in the workplace. They are given detailed instruction about various types of speeches, including personal opinion, persuasive, devotional, demonstration, informative, job interviewing, personal experience, and declamation as well as speaking in special situations. This is an English elective and cannot be taken in lieu of a required English course.

Art Foundations / 9th – 12th grades / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Students start out with drawing and design exercises.

Drawing – line, shadow, isometric and perspective
Color Theory – color wheel, color schemes, affect of color
Illustration Styles – design, abstraction, pattern, printing, painting and 3-D
This flexibility of styles is applied to a variety of assignments, including Scripture illustration.
Class Projects – painting sets for the school play, hanging the art show
Creative Activities – explored to relax and balance the mind
Art History – of famous painters or sculptors, trying some of the styles
Advanced Art; prerequisite Art Foundations.

Students design their own program, setting goals for drawing, painting, illustration or 3-D. Guidance is given where needed. Art History is also studied.

Physical Education & Health

Physical Education / 1 semester / ½ credit
The high school physical education course is scheduled in the ninth grade. The course is designed to meet various needs of the students at this age as follows: physical fitness development, social interaction, and various other physical, mental, and psychological needs. To do this the course will include a variety of activities such as physical fitness testing, team sports and games, and various lifetime sports and activities. All of these are geared toward encouraging cardiovascular and respiratory improvement, improved fitness level, teamwork, competition, motivation, and rule knowledge.

Health / 1 semester / ½ credit
This course is offered in the ninth grade for one semester. The course is designed to train students in areas of total health: spiritual, mental, physical, and social. These include the life cycle of growth, development, heredity, environmental health issues, diseases, substance abuse, safety, fitness, nutrition, and sexual abstinence education. Some basic anatomy will be covered as it related to these topics. Also covered are methods of maintaining fitness levels to produce healthy cardiovascular and respiratory levels.

Secondary Physical Education Elective / 1 semester / ½ credit
This one-semester course covers seasonal fitness activities as well as fitness testing. Team and individual sports, rule knowledge, lifetime fitness and game development are a few of the areas covered. The course satisfies graduation requirements for those who do not qualify for sports participation credit.

Other Courses

College Preparation / 1 semester / ½ credit
This course guides students through the process of college planning by preparing them to take either the ACT or SAT tests as well as go through the steps necessary for college application and securing financial aid. Students receive an overview of entrance tests and their components. Different test taking tactics are learned as well as strategies to increase reading speed and comprehension. Each student takes a diagnostic exam at the beginning of the year to discover what aspects of the test most need to be studied for each individual student. Practice tests are also taken throughout the course for additional practice.

Yearbook/Journalism / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Participation on the staff of The Flight, Westlake’s yearbook, provides training in the tasks associated with print publication, including artistic and graphic design, layout, desktop publication, photography, copy composition, and advertising. Staff members learn to meet deadlines, contribute ideas, work independently and together on a team, and work behind the scenes on all school activities, giving them a chance to travel with school trips and sports events. The course is also designed for students interested in newspaper journalism and developing their skills as a writer. The course explores the contemporary media and the ethical responsibility issues inherent in the press today. Students will learn the fundamentals of news, feature, editorial and sports writing. Copy reading, news style and editing will be stressed. Students will create numerous original stories using varied structures and writing techniques. Students will also learn to create computer generated layouts and graphics which are used in an on-line school newspaper. Students interested in taking this course must have permission of the teacher.

Teacher Aide / 1 semester / ¼ credit
Being a teacher aide allows students to view school “on the other side” using a hands-on approach by actually working under the supervision of a teacher in a work environment. Students might be given a wide variety of duties which may include copying, grading papers, teaching lessons, tutoring students, running errands, etc. Teacher aides are very valuable to our teaching faculty. In addition to the responsibilities a student will daily log or journal the work they have done. At the end of each week their supervisor will review and initial their log. Grading typically covers six aspects: teaching, tutoring, tasks, punctuality, attitude and journaling. This aide opportunity requires a high level of confidentiality and trust. Students who choose this elective, along with their parents, will be required to sign a statement of understanding, expectations and confidentiality.

Special Services Internship / 2 semesters / 1 credit
Open to select juniors and seniors, this course provides aspiring educators an opportunity to work directly with elementary students who are receiving intervention and/or re-teaching support. Working under the guidance of the special services director and in conjunction with classroom teachers, students in this course study the philosophy and application of research-based interventions, encourage younger children by using those interventions, and monitor progress. This is an ideal course for students who have an interest in education as a career. Students must apply for the course and be interviewed.

Online Dual Credit Courses

Westlake has approved online dual-credit courses from Cedarville University

See the university website for details of enrollment and fees.