Course Descriptions - Electives


Language Arts | Mathematics | Science | Social Studies Physical Education and Health | Christian Foundations | Liberal Arts Languages | Computer Science | Business | College and Career

CHRISTIAN FOUNDATIONS

Bible 7 (BB7)

Prereq: None

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Daring Deliverers, O. Gibbs, ACSI Text Series

Description: This course challenges students through the lives of some of the most Godly characters of the Bible. This course is based on the Book of Judges and involves leadership studies.

Bible 8 (BB8)

8th grade students will take “Bible 7”

Prereq: None

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Let God Be God by Mark Eckel

Description: This class helps the student to establish a solid and personal Biblical worldview foundation by revealing, from the Word of God, the nature, character, and attributes of God so as to give teens a better grasp of who God is. It is based on the premise that the more we know and understand God through a careful study of His Word, the greater will be our personal challenge to maintain a right relationship with Him. More than simply a body of information, the course translates knowledge into personal applications students discover how an attribute of God applies to daily life.

Introduction to Biblical Studies (CHFD100)

Prereq: None

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Mastering Bible Study Skills workbook; God, Are You There? By Kay Arthur

Description: This course is designed for students in 9th grade and teaches such skills as observation, interpretation, and application skills so that they will become students of the Bible for a lifetime. This course is purposed to provide students with the needed foundation for future CHFD courses here in NorthStar Academy.

Old Testament Survey (CHFD200)

Prereq: The student should be in at least grade 10

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: More than a Carpenter, Bible

Description: Old Testament Survey provides the student with an opportunity to study the Bible with the aid of background research and history. Outside sources complement and support the lessons taught from the Old Testament Scriptures.

New Testament Survey (CHFD300)

Prereq: The student should be in at least grade 10, and is strongly urged to take the Old Testament Survey course prior to enrolling in the New Testament Survey course.

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Bible

Description: This course will seek to explore the New Testament books of the Bible in an overview fashion. During this exploration students will grow in their knowledge of these New Testament books. Along with this knowledge will come an emphasis on applying this Biblical knowledge in life.

The following “Worldview” classes comprise our Christian worldview studies, and students who desire to graduate from NorthStar Academy must earn a total of 1.0 credit of Christian world view class(es). Students may also take these classes as general elective classes.

Worldview (Christian) Foundations (CHFD110)

Prereq: For 11th and 12th grade students

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Unshakable Foundations by Geisler and Bocchino, and The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel, a Bible

Description: This one-year course will introduce supporting evidence for the Christian faith. During the first semester, students will develop an understanding of the contours of a worldview including components such as the nature of belief, faith, reason, truth, and the contours of a worldview in light of the Christian perspective. Students will be introduced to the Christian answers for the existence of God, miracles, and the problem of evil. During the second semester, students will investigate supporting evidence for the reliability of the Bible as well as the historical life of Jesus Christ.

Worldview (Christian) and New Religious Movements (CHFD230)

Prereq: Foundations for the Christian Worldview  (CHFD110)

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: The Challenge of the Cults by Ron Rhodes, a Bible

Description: This one semester course is an examination of the distinctive features of new religious movements (cults) with their significance in the development of religious thought. Students will be introduced to such groups as Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses, the New Age Movement, Moonies, Baha’i Faith, Mind Sciences, and Satanism.  Special attention will be given to the critique of the various belief systems compared to the Christian worldview.

Worldview (Christian) and Islam (CHFD310)

Prereq: Foundations for the Christian Worldview  (CHFD110)

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Unveiling Islam by E.M. Caner and E.F. Caner, a Bible

Description: A course focusing on the history, beliefs, and practices of the Islamic community. Special attention will be given to the life of Muhammad, Islamic history, understanding the five pillars of Islam, as well as Islamic beliefs and practices, the Islamic concept of jihad, and effective methods of communication and an awareness of the sensitivities of Muslims toward Christianity.

Worldview (Christian) and Fantasy Literature (CHFD320)

Prereq: Foundations for the Christian Worldview  (CHFD110)

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowlings, a Bible

Description: This course reviews distinct literary and cinematic influences from the realm of the fantasy genre from the Christian worldview. Special attention will be given the C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia, J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, and Joanne K. Rowlings' Harry Potter series.

Worldviews in Conflict (CHFD400)

This class may also count as a core Social Studies class, but it can not count as both a core social studies class and the required worldview credit.

Prereq: For 11th and 12th grade students

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: My Truth, Your Truth, Whose Truth? DVD, Understanding the Times textbook, student workbook, and audio presentations

Description: This one-year course is designed for high school juniors and seniors. The Biblical Christian worldview is presented in contrast to the humanist worldviews of Secular Humanism, Marxism/Leninism, and Cosmic Humanism throughout the following ten topics: Theology, Philosophy, Ethics, Biology, Psychology, Sociology, Law, Politics, Economics, and History.

LIBERAL ARTS

Greek Mythology in Literature (MYTH200)

Prereq: ENGL 100 or equivalent

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: None

Description: This course introduces the student to classical Greek mythology, Greek epic poetry, and culture. Connections are made between Greek mythology and poetry, and modern literature, Biblical accounts and New Testament culture.

Creative Writing (CRWR201)

Prereq: Language Arts 9

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Thesaurus

Description: This course is for anyone who wants to improve his/her writing skills by writing narrative and creative accounts. The course will cover such topics as Outlining using the Story Sequence, Creative Writing using Patterning, Critiques, Writing Stories from a Picture Prompt, and Non-Rhyming Poetry. This course is for students who are in grades 10-12. Check the semester schedule to see in which semester (fall or spring) this course will be offered.

Advanced Creative Writing (CRWR301)

Prereq: Creative Writing and ENGL100

Credits: .5(one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Writers, INC.

Description: This spring class is for grades 10-12 students who enjoy writing. Students will be challenged to compose different forms of writing. Students will be expected to take writing to the publishable level. Planning, writing, and revising will be the focus.

Expository Writing (EXWR202)

Prereq: Language Arts 9

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Thesaurus

Description: This course is for anyone who wants to improve his/her writing skills by writing expository accounts. The course will cover such topics as Notemaking and Outlining, Summarizing References, Reports, Basic Essays, and Advanced Essays. This course is for students who are in grades 10-12. Check the semester schedule to see in which semester (fall or spring) this course will be offered.

Humanities 1 (HUMN 210) Honors Level

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: The Creative Impulse

Description: This course introduces the student to the history of art, architecture and material culture from prehistoric times through the Renaissance. Students will study two dimensional representations, sculpture, fiber, architecture and other art forms from these time periods. Check the semester schedule to see in which semester (fall or spring) this course will be offered. For tenth grade students and older.

Humanities 2 (HUMN 211) Honors Level

Prereq: None (Humanities 1 is recommended)

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: The Creative Impulse

Description: This course introduces the student to the history of art, architecture and culture from Baroque styles through Post Modernism. Students will study two dimensional representations, sculpture, fiber, architecture and other art forms from these time periods. This segment of art history will also cover ancient and contemporary Asian, Native American, Latin American art forms. Check the semester schedule to see in which semester (fall or spring) this course will be offered. For tenth grade students and older.

Grammar and Style (GRAM220)

Prereq: ENGL100 or equiv

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: “Language Power G” workbook, Dictionary and Thesaurus

Description: How can a verb be turned into a noun or a adjective but never a preposition? If an event happens once in a blue moon should we worry? This (coarse, course) is for those (who, whom) wish to develop and refine grammar and sentence structure skills. The course will begin with a vocabulary unit where students will rediscover synonyms, homophones and homographs. Students will also learn and dissect idioms and will finish the unit by discussing the connotations and denotations of words. The course will end with an in depth study of sentence structures.

Logic 1 (LOGC200)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Introductory Logic, by Douglas Wilson and James Nance with accompanying DVDs

Description: As the description for the text states, this class will “cover logical statements, fallacies, syllogisms, and many other elements.” The class will serve as an introduction to the study of logic as well as serve as a foundation for future classes in logic and rhetoric that we plan to offer here in NSA.

Logic 2 (LOGC210)

Prereq: Logic 1

Credits: .5(one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Intermediate Logic, by Nance and DVDs

Description: Intermediate Logic is designed as a continuation to Introductory Logic by Douglas Wilson. Some of the topics covered are purposes and types of definitions, methods of defining, rule for defining, negation, conjugation and disjunction, truth tables, formal proofs of validity and truth trees.

Music Appreciation (MAPP100)

Prereq: CD player

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Music in Our World text and CD-rom

Description: During this class, we will learn active listening skills. We will also explore the elements of music, including rhythm, melody, harmony, form, dynamics, timbre and texture. We will examine historical aspects and developments in music. We will learn about performance practices and etiquette. To complete our music education, we will look at a variety of instruments and musicians. We will study a wide variety of styles, from Woody Guthrie to Vivaldi, from reggae to chamber music.

The Draw 1 & 2 and Paint 1 & 2 classes are high school credit classes that will be offered to students in grades 7 and 8 for high school credit.

Drawing 1 (DRAW101)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Art materials kit, A scanner and/or a digital camera

Description: Learn how to use a variety of drawing tools to define and interpret what you see in God's creation and in man's construction. Practical lessons in expressing light and shadow, tones and shades, as well as using shapes, textures, and space will provide studies for larger in-depth projects in pencil, charcoal, colored pencils, and pastels. Most lessons will require some online searching of historical drawings. Visits to museums or national art gatherings will be extra credit opportunities.

Drawing 2 (DRAW102)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Art materials kit, a scanner and/or a digital camera

Description: Continue your exploration of drawing tools with an emphasis on figure and perspective drawing. Projects in this course will include multimedia human and animal portraits as well as land/city/seascapes. This course will provide in-depth exploration of the human figure, the animal world, and the earth. Most lessons will require some online searching of historical drawings. Visits to museums or national art gatherings will be extra credit opportunities.

Painting 1 (PTNG 101)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: teacher created resources on NSA Resource DVD set, Painting supplies kit (liquid watercolor paint set, brushes, and paper), a scanner and/or a digital camera

Description: Learn how to do the basic techniques of watercolor painting: washing, spattering, and masking. Students will produce watercolor paintings of still life, animal studies, landscapes, cityscapes or seascapes, as well as portrait studies.

Painting 2 (PTNG 102)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: a teacher-created resource CD-ROM, Painting supplies kit (acrylic oil set, canvas, board, and brushes), A scanner and/or a digital camera

Description: Learn how to do the basic techniques of acrylic painting. Students will produce acrylic paintings of still life, animal studies, landscapes, cityscapes or seascapes, as well as portrait studies.

Advanced Drawing and Painting (DRAW300)

Prereq: at least two drawing or painting classes from NSA and teacher approval

Credits: 0.5 or 1.0 depending on the program set by the teacher for the individual student

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: to be determined by the teacher

Description: This advanced class is special project and an independent study class for advanced art students who wish to work on portfolio work for college entrance requirements. The student will work with Mrs. Townsend to set at least three technique/project goals. Topics that the student may explore include drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpture, clay, video production, etc. This class is not available to students of NorthStar HIS at this time.

Introduction to Linguistics (LING 200)

Prereq: Language Arts 9 or equivalent

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Understanding Language Structure, Interaction, and Variation by Brown and Attardo, Secret of the Wild Child DVD

Description: What do all languages have in common and how do they differ? This course introduces the student to human language: the miracle and the dilemma. Study units will examine human language as a unique form of communication, explore the anatomy of language (sounds and structure), survey varieties of human languages, their origin and changes, consider semantics (meaning), and pragmatics (how language is used), explore how a first language is acquired, investigate the language centers in the brain, and provide a general knowledge of the field of modern linguists.

Civil Rights and Slavery in the USA (CIVR200)

Prereq: for 10th grade students and older

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Same Kind of Different As Me, by Ron Hall and Denver Moore

Description: Slavery and its aftermath caused a great deal of pain and suffering for all United States citizens. By looking back at this time through the filter of God’s love and ways, we can become better conduits for God’s love to others. The first half of this course will look at the history of slavery in the United States, and the second half of the class will look at the Civil Right’s Movement and the events that led up to it.

Introduction to Psychology (PSYC 200)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: a Bible and Holt Psychology: Principles in Practice, Spencer Rathus, ISBN: 9780030777899, which is NOT available from the online bookstore but is available from www.half.com, www.amazon.com, or www.bn.com

Description: The course goal is to understand psychology in Biblical perspective. Readings and instruction focus on differentiating science from the psycho-babble of new age humanism. Specific essay writing skills are guided to meet detailed rubrics.

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LANGUAGES

Spanish I (SPAN100)

Prereq: None, but a computer microphone is required

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Rosetta Stone Level 1 (Homeschool Edition), Workbook, Computer microphone, Homeschool edition

Description: Spanish I provides instruction in the four basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing). Students are also introduced to the Hispanic cultures of the world, past and present.

Spanish 2 (SPAN200)

Prereq: Spanish 1 and a computer microphone

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Rosetta Stone Level 1 (Classroom Edition), Workbook, Computer microphone, Classroom edition

Description: Spanish II continues at the next level of instruction in the four basic language skills; listening, speaking, reading and writing. There will also be an emphasis on Hispanic culture and people.

Spanish 3 (SPAN300)

Prereq: Spanish 2, WINDOWS-only computer software

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: “Tell Me More - Spanish” CD, Computer microphone

Description: This course is for intermediate level Spanish students. Students will continue with vocabulary and grammar development and will focus on extensive reading, writing, listening, and speaking in Spanish. Students will continue exploring Spanish and Latin topics while receiving an emphasis in peninsular Spanish rather than in Latin American Spanish.

Latin 1 is a high-school credit class; grade 7 and 8 students may take Latin 1A or Latin 1B as a full year class, earning 0.5 high-school credit for each section taken.

Latin 1 (LATN100)

Prereq: Strong high school level English grammar knowledge

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Latin for Americans, Level 1, Voice in the Wind, Echo in the Darkness; Resource CD containing pronunciation of Latin vocabulary

Description: Latin I stresses the basic structure of Latin, including basic grammar, essential syntax, and the pronunciation, comprehension, and translation of simple and edited Latin. Basic Roman and Greek mythology, culture, and history are also introduced.

Latin 2 (LATN200)

Prereq: Latin 1 from NSA or Teacher Approval

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: textbook: Latin for Americans, Level II, novel Flames of Rome, Latin Dictionary

Description: Latin II stresses the review of Latin basics and includes the introduction of more advanced grammar and syntax. In addition, it allows students to delve deeper into Roman and Greek mythology, culture, and history through readings from actual Latin literature.

French 1 (FREN100)

Prereq: WINDOWS-only computer software

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Tell Me More-French CD, French/ English dictionary and French: First Year grammar book, computer microphone

Description: This course is for students with little to no previous French experience and is designed to give beginners an introduction to written and spoken French communication. Students will understand the meaning of written and spoken statements which consist of basic vocabulary and/or commonly used sentences while learning how to express themselves by producing, orally or in writing, simple messages in a structured context. Students will learn how to present information and ideas and ask basic questions on a variety of topics, using the present tense and immediate future tense. This class will also present topics related to the French culture.

French 2 (FREN200)

Prereq: French 1 and WINDOWS-only computer software

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Tell Me More-French, French/ English dictionary and French: Two Years grammar book, computer microphone; Recommended but not required: A verb conjugation text (such as Le Petit Bescherelle, The Big Blue Book of French Verbs or 501 French Verbs)

Description: French 2 builds on the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills and the basic grammar skills which the students learned in the French 1 class. Students will be required to understand the meaning of a series of interrelated ideas dealing with a familiar topic, to engage in short conversations, to express feelings and emotions, and to exchange opinions. Students will learn how to present information and ideas on a variety of topics using present, future, and past tenses and will continue to demonstrate an understanding of French culture.

COMPUTER AND ELECTRONICS

Introduction to Computer Programming Pascal (CPSC100)

Prereq: None

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: None, Pascal Compiler is freeware and lessons are on the NSA Resource DVD

Description: This first introductory course in computer programming is designed for the student who has no prior back-ground knowledge in computer programming. Topics covered are computer history, computer logic, programming strategies, algarithms and code development.

AP Computer Science - JAVA (CPSC500)

Prereq: CPSC100

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: None, Java Compiler is freeware and lessons are on the NSA Resource DVD

Description: This course teaches programming in JAVA while preparing the student for the Advanced Placement "A" exam. Students will need to locate an authorized AP testing center in May if they wish to take the "A" exam. Students who intend to take the AP test are strongly encouraged to begin this class on the first official start date in mid August because the AP test is normally offered during the first or second week in May, and student’s need to have completed the course and the case study BEFORE taking the AP test.

Computer Repair and Maintenance (ELEC200)

Prereq: Algebra 1; Windows Computer Only

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: COMPTIA A+ 2006 In Depth and LabSim for A+ Essentials CD, A computer running Windows 98SE, Windows 2000 or Windows XP with CD or DVD player

Optional Resources: Although hands-on repair work is not required to successfully complete the course, the author recommends working on actual computers during the course. The instructor recommends examining and working with a Pentium class or newer "scrap" computer.

Description: This class is designed to get the student “inside” a personal computer and understand how it really works, how to maintain it, and how to troubleshoot and repair it. Not only will you learn how to work with the hardware that physically makes up a personal computer, but you will also understand and learn to work with the major operating system software products that control the hardware of the computer. Ultimately you will cover all the material necessary to be prepared to take the nationally recognized CompTIA A+ certification test (http://www.comptia.org/certification/a/default.asp), the cost for which is not included in the tuition cost for this class.

Basic Electronics and Digital Logic (ELEC210)

Prereq: Algebra 1

Credits: 0.5 or 1.0

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: The RadioShack® Electronics Learning Lab (28-280), six AA batteries, Replacement AA batteries as needed

Description: Did you ever wonder how all the electrical equipment we use every day really worked? Well, anything using electricity relies on the same basic electrical components arranged in many different ways. How would you like to get your hands on some of these components and put them together to make some interesting electrical circuits and, in the process, learn why they function the way they do? No prior experience in electronics is needed, only a willingness to follow step-by-step instructions to put together some fascinating little devices. Students may enroll in this class as a one semester only or a full year student, and if as a one semester only student, may complete the first semester’s lessons during either the Fall or Spring semester.

BUSINESS

Learning Office ‘07 (BCOM100) (Windows only)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Microsoft Office 2007; Essential Concepts and Techniques, Edition 8, by Shelley, Gary

Description: This course teaches the basics of Office ‘03: Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. BCOM100 is NOT related to BCOM200. Check the semester schedule to see in which semester the course is being offered.

Introduction to Webpage Design (BCOM200)

Prereq: None; Windows 2000 or Mac OS X.2 or newer; 550 MHZ processor for both platforms

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Non-Designer's Web Book, Photo-editing software

Description: The course teaches the basics of web page design focusing on principles that make for more professional looking web pages. Being able to edit in HTML is not a prerequisite. BCOM200 is NOT related to BCOM100. Check the semester schedule to see in which semester the course is being offered.

Intermediate Webpage Design (BCOM210)

Prereq: BCOM200; Windows 2000 or Mac OS X.2 or newer; 550 MHZ processor for both platforms

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Non-Designer's Web Book, Photo-editing software

Description: Students will learn how to use one of the most widely used webpage design programs available, Dreamweaver, as they learn how to use themes, bullets; import text and images; create hyperlinks; move images and change their appearance; add text to images; create text animations, apply page transitions, add hit counters; compose marquee text; and create forms and tables.

Business Math (MATH210...also a core math course)

Prereq: Math 8 or equivalent

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Business Math, 15th Edition, Thomson/South-Western

Description: The purpose of this course is to develop computation skills that students will use in their roles as citizens, consumers, employees, and investors. We will cover topics like gross/net pay, banking services, loans and credit cards, comparative shopping, renting vs. owning a home, buying a car, taxes, insurance and investments. In addition to solving mathematical problems, students will analyze and interpret data, and apply sound decision-making skills.

Accounting 1 (ACCT200)

Prereq: Algebra 1, Office ‘03 (firm knowledge of Excel)

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Century 21Accounting, South-Western

Description: ACCT200 is an introductory study of the basic principles of accounting. Beginning with a proprietorship, students will be guided step-by-step through a complete accounting cycle: analyzing transactions, journalizing, posting, petty cash, financial statements, and adjusting and closing entries. Students will then complete the same cycle with more complicated business structures.

Accounting 2 (ACCT210)

Prereq: Accounting 1

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Century 21Accounting, South-Western

Description: Students will continue with their study of accounting as they cover topics such as dividend distribution, work sheets, revenue and expenses, inventory, assets, depreciation, accounts receivable, journals, and more.

AP Economics-Micro (ECON510)

Prereq: Algebra 1 (ECON 200 recommended)

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Principles of Economics

Description: Per the College Board website’s description of the course, Advanced Placement Micro economics is a course designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of economics as they apply to individual decision-making units, including individual households and firms. Students taking the course will spend time examining the theory of consumer behavior, the theory of the firm, and the behavior of profit-maximizing firms under various market structures. They will evaluate the efficiency of the outcomes with respect to price, output, consumer surplus, and producer surplus. NSA and many universities regard this course as a Social Science requirement.

Keyboarding 1 (KEYB100) (For Windows 2000 and XP only; Software not available for Vista at this time)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Software: Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing 16 Delux School Edition, English Language-based keyboard

Description: This course is offered to students in grades 7-12, and students in grades 7 and 8 will earn a high school credit for taking this course. Keyboarding 1 is for the beginner typist/keyboardist who wants to learn how to “type by touch” and not by the “hunt and peck” method! Students will learn proper hand and finger positioning, correct posture, key positions, and striking techniques. Speed drills, “games”, business writing, and formal tests are all part of the course’s assessments of student learning.

Yearbook Design (YRBK200)

Prereq: None

Credits: 1 (two-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Dreamweaver software and Gettin' Organized text

Description: Students will work with the NSA Faculty Advisor to create the annual NorthStar Academy online (web-based) yearbook. Activities will include layout design, content formation, interviewing, surveying, webpage creation, graphic design, and graphic creation.

COLLEGE AND CAREER

Students who do not choose to enroll in the following courses may still purchase the text resources and assessments (Strong Interest Inventory and Personality Indicator) used in these classes from NSA. Please see the following course descriptions for the listing of these items.

Career Planning (CLCR201)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: In Search of a Good Fit - Student's Guide to College & Career Planning; MBTI Personality Indicator; The Strong Interest Inventory

Description: This course seeks to remedy the misconception that one should prepare for college first and then select a career. Career Planning has the following three sections: Self-Identification, Evaluation, and Preparation. Once the student gets an idea of what his/her career interests and options are, he/she can then begin working on finding the right fit for pursuing those interests and options.

College Preparation (CLCR202)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: The Strong Interest Inventory; MBTI Personality Indicator; In Search of a Good Fit - Student's Guide to College & Career Planning; How to Stay Christian in College, Th1nk Edition

Description: This course will help the students in their college selection, preparation, and admission processes. Students will cover the following topics: 1. Setting Educational Goals and objectives - Time Line for preparing for college application and admission, 2. Review College Options - college selection process, and 3. Evaluating and making the final college/university choice.

SAT Preparation (CLCR203)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: the Official SAT Study Guide

Description: This course seeks to prepare students to take the SAT test which the College Board offers to students planning on gaining university admission. The course will focus on test-taking strategies while affording students with the opportunity to complete several practice SAT tests.

Learning to Learn (CLCR210)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: From Quantum: notes, memory, writing, pathway, and reading

Description: This course will provide students with new learning techniques to help process information and retain it in long-term memory. Each student will discover their own personal learning style, which will make them a strong student. They will also learn such techniques as mind mapping, effective textbook reading, note taking, and memory skills.

Life Management Skills (CLCR215)

Prereq: None

Credits: .5 (one-semester course)

Learning Resources Required for this Class Available for Purchase from our Online Bookstore: Money Matters for Teen (workbook and New Junior Cookbook)

Description: This course is intended to prepare students for life on their own as college students. Many students attend college without the necessary tools that they need for budgeting their money, balancing their study and social time, making simple meals based on sound nutritional choices, taking care of their clothes (i.e. laundry and even basic sewing), and organizing their “personal space”. This course is intended to help the students make a smooth transition into the college life that awaits them. Teacher created e-text lessons will contain most of the information that a formal text would present.

 
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