Curriculum

Our Commitment to Wisdom and Christian Values

At Grace Christian Academy (GCA), we are dedicated to delivering quality education through the guiding light of God's wisdom, as revealed in His Word. Our educational journey is anchored in the profound truths of Proverbs 1:2-3, emphasizing wisdom, insight, righteousness, justice, and equity. This scripture forms the bedrock of our approach, guiding us in nurturing wise, knowledgeable, and discerning individuals.

Educational Philosophy Rooted in God's Sovereignty
GCA firmly believes that all subjects taught within our walls offer students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of God's power and sovereignty. Our goal is to impart knowledge of each discipline through the lens of a Christian worldview, enabling our students to apply this wisdom in serving their communities. We strive to not only educate but also to disciple our students, encouraging them to reflect the Lord's wisdom, power, and glory in all their endeavors.

School-Wide Expected Student Outcomes (ESOs)
In alignment with our mission, GCA has developed a comprehensive framework outlining our expected student outcomes, all of which are underpinned by the pursuit of wisdom. Our core values are:

Fostering a Personal Relationship with Jesus Christ: We prioritize nurturing a deep, personal connection with the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Cultivating Wisdom for a Purposeful Life: Our aim is for students to acquire and refine wisdom — a blend of knowledge and skill — to lead lives of productivity and significance for God's glory.
Discovering and Developing God-Given Talents: We encourage students to identify, nurture, and responsibly use their unique talents as gifts from God.
Promoting Righteous Living: GCA is committed to instilling habits that lead to righteous living, encouraging students to embody honesty and justice in their lives.

Bible Department

Philosophy: Bible instruction provides an opportunity for students to study Scripture and apply the Word of God to their lives. Grace Christian Academy desires for students to grow in their understanding of Scripture but also in their relationship with Christ. As the students engage in their Bible classes, they are able to grow in their knowledge of God and understanding what God requires of them as a student and child of God.

Bible Expected Student Outcomes

Recognize the Bible is the authoritative source of information for the very nature of God
Develop a foundational understanding of human nature and our relationship to God and others
Identify God’s overarching plan through Christ and the forgiveness of sins
Apply concepts of a Biblical worldview to pursue wisdom and live consistently within the will of God

Early Education (Preschool and Prekindergarten)

Preschool and Prekindergarten: Emphasis on introducing young learners to the Bible through engaging and age-appropriate stories and activities. The curriculum aims to build a foundational understanding of Biblical narratives, characters, and principles, fostering early spiritual growth and character development in alignment with Christian values.

Elementary Curriculum (Kindergarten - 5th Grade)

Kindergarten: Comprehensive study of key Old and New Testament stories, with themes of creation, prayer, and missions.
1st to 5th Grade: A progressive study of the Bible, integrating doctrine and thematic Biblical exploration. Emphasis on understanding God's nature, human relationships with God and others, and applying Biblical worldview to daily life.

Junior High Curriculum (6th - 8th Grade)

6th Grade: An in-depth study of Biblical characters and concepts, focusing on God's communication, design, and purpose for humanity.
7th Grade: Exploration of the Old Testament narrative, focusing on the Major and Minor Prophets, and a comprehensive study of Christ's life.
8th Grade: A comparative study of Christianity with other worldviews, examining theology, philosophy, ethics, and history, emphasizing Christian apologetics.

High School Curriculum (9th - 12th Grade)

High School: The curriculum is centered around an in-depth, inductive exegetical study of the Bible, starting from Genesis and progressing through the Scriptures over the course of the high school years. This approach encourages students to engage directly with the biblical text, promoting critical thinking, interpretative skills, and a profound understanding of the biblical narrative and its theological significance.

Mathematics Department

Philosophy: Mathematics is the language God used to form His creation. Mathematics helps us see the order and beauty of God’s creation. Students should be taught how to think logically, creatively, and analytically in order to better serve Him.

Math Expected Student Outcomes

Comprehend how arithmetic processes demonstrate the infinite nature of God
Utilize various operations of arithmetic
Apply arithmetic concepts to think logically and critically in an effort to solve problems
Recognize and be able to use different expressions of quantity (fractions, decimals, percents, and wholes)
Comprehend, interpret, and display quantities of data (equations, data sets, graphs)
Make reasonable conclusions based on estimates
Compare measurements

Early Education (Preschool and Prekindergarten)

Preschool: Focus on number recognition, counting, simple shape identification, and introduction to basic concepts like size and patterns.
Prekindergarten: Expansion of counting skills, introduction to basic addition and subtraction, understanding of time and money (pennies, nickels, dimes), and further exploration of shapes and sizes.

Elementary Curriculum (Kindergarten - 5th Grade)

Kindergarten: Emphasis on counting, number recognition and writing, simple addition and subtraction, time and calendar concepts, and an introduction to measurements.
1st Grade: Building on number concepts, introduction to story problems, value of coins, basic geometry concepts, fractions, and simple graphs.
2nd Grade: Advanced place value, introduction to multiplication and division, complex addition and subtraction, and explorations of measurements, fractions, and basic geometry.
3rd Grade: Multi-digit arithmetic, introduction to Roman numerals, advanced measurement concepts (including weight and volume), fractions, and an introduction to order of operations.
4th Grade: Multi-digit multiplication and division, introduction to fractions and decimals, basic concepts of geometry including points, lines, angles, triangles, and polygons, and an understanding of perimeter and area.
5th Grade: Expanded concepts in fractions, decimals, and percentages, introduction to basic algebraic concepts, and further study of geometry including area, perimeter, and volume.

Middle School Curriculum (5th - 8th Grade)

6th Grade: Consolidation of arithmetic skills, introduction to ratios, proportions, and percents, and a deeper exploration of geometry and measurement.
7th Grade: Comprehensive coverage of whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percents, basic geometry, area, volume, and an introduction to probability and statistics.
8th Grade (Pre-Algebra): Introduction to algebraic concepts including integers, expressions, equations, inequalities, rational numbers, functions, basic probability, and geometry concepts.

High School Curriculum (9th - 12th Grade)

9th Grade (Algebra I): Focus on real numbers, variables, equations, inequalities, linear functions and systems, polynomials, and an introduction to quadratic functions.
10th Grade (Geometry): Detailed study of geometric principles, congruence, similarity, right triangles, circles, and trigonometry.
11th Grade (Algebra II): Advanced algebra topics including linear relations, matrices, quadratic equations, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and an introduction to trigonometric identities.
12th Grade (Elective Based):
- Pre-Calculus: Prepares students for calculus, covering trigonometry, polynomial functions, inverse functions, complex numbers, and an introduction to limits and calculus concepts.
- Calculus: Comprehensive study of calculus, including limits, differentiation, integration, transcendental functions, techniques of integration, and applications of calculus.

Language Arts Department

Philosophy: God created the use of language, both oral and written, as a means of revealing Himself and communicating with His creation. Students should be taught to listen, read, write, and speak with meaning to fulfill what it means to be made in the image of God and further bring Him glory. As these skills develop, students are able to better comprehend and defend Truth.

Language Arts Expected Student Outcomes

Students learn to communicate through written and oral communication, the same way God communicates to His children through stories and relationship
Incorporates Christian values to understand how language rules better allow us to express ourselves
Make inferences to be able to communicate and articulate better in everyday activities
Apply Christian values to develop written and oral communication skills

Early Education (Preschool and Prekindergarten)

Preschool: Introduction to phonics with a focus on recognizing letters and their sounds. Development of basic vocabulary and beginning reading skills, all presented in a Christian context.
Prekindergarten: Continuation of phonics education, including blending sounds to form simple words. Introduction to basic writing skills and further development of reading abilities, emphasizing Christian values.

Elementary Curriculum (Kindergarten - 5th Grade)

Kindergarten-2nd Grade: Progresses from basic phonics to more complex reading and writing skills. Emphasis on reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and Christian character-building through literature.
3rd-5th Grade: Advanced reading skills, including novel studies and literary analysis. Writing includes essays and research projects, with a focus on Christian worldview integration.

Junior High Curriculum (6th - 8th Grade)

6th Grade: Introduction to essay writing, literary analysis, and critical reading skills. Study of novels with a focus on integrating a Christian perspective.
7th and 8th Grade: Deepening understanding of literary analysis and essay writing. Reading includes classic and contemporary works, with an emphasis on Christian values and worldview.

High School Curriculum (9th - 12th Grade)

9th-10th Grade: Advanced literature study and comprehensive grammar usage. Integration of Christian principles in analyzing literature and developing writing skills.
11th/12th Grade Electives: Specialized courses in Speech, American Literature, British Literature, Shakespeare, and College Composition. These courses aim to prepare students for higher education and life, emphasizing Christian ethics and communication skills.

Social Studies Department

Philosophy: Studying history allows students to better understand the connection between the fall of humankind and our need for redemption. By exposing students to history, they are better able to grasp their need for a Savior. Students can see the thread of God’s hand throughout all history, and therefore see that same thread in their own lives.

Social Science Expected Student Outcomes

Identifies how key historical events and cultural movements are connected to discern God’s design for history, geography, and culture.
Incorporates Christian values to understand how psychology and sociology impact society.
Make inferences to be able to connect past national and international events to predict and infer potential current and future outcomes.
Apply Christian values to develop critical thinking skills that enable the ability to evaluate print and media sources to distinguish between fact and opinion.
Provide Biblical foundations that will lead to being an active and knowledgeable citizen.

Early Education (Preschool and Prekindergarten)

Preschool: Introduction to basic geography such as understanding simple maps and identifying countries. Early learning about significant historical events and figures, presented in an engaging, Christian context.
Prekindergarten: Expansion of geographical knowledge and introduction to key historical figures. Emphasis on Christian principles in understanding history and geography.

Elementary Curriculum (Kindergarten - 5th Grade)

Kindergarten: Study of the globe, maps, and introduction to ten countries. Early American history including founding of the United States and symbols of the U.S.
1st Grade: Beginning map skills, missions-focused world history, and study of early American history including Native Americans and early settlements.
2nd Grade: Communities and their development, early colonial life, and significant historical events such as the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.
3rd Grade: In-depth American history from Columbus to the Civil War, including government structures like the Electoral College and Branches of Government.
4th Grade: Geographical study of hemispheres, equator, latitude/longitude, and major wars including World War I & II, the Civil War, and the Revolutionary War.
5th Grade: Comprehensive study from AD 1400 to the present, including advanced geographical concepts and a chronological study of events and personalities.

Middle School Curriculum (6th - 8th Grade)

6th Grade: Study of ancient civilizations, climate, natural resources, topography, and ancient influences on American government.
7th Grade: Exploration of world history and geography, focusing on the development of civilizations and their impact on modern culture.
8th Grade (U.S. History): In-depth study of U.S. history, focusing on geographic development, government, and the influence of Christianity.

High School Curriculum (9th - 12th Grade)

9th Grade (Geography): Comprehensive study of world geography as created and shaped by God, including different global regions.
9th Grade (Modern Western Civilization): Exploration of key historical periods like the Age of Reason, Industrial Revolution, and World Wars.
10th Grade (Psychology): Introduction to various aspects of psychology from a Christian perspective, covering topics like biopsychology, learning, and personality.
10th Grade (Church History): Chronological study of the church from Jesus and the Apostles to modern times, focusing on major movements and global expansion.
11th/12th Grade (Economics): Detailed study of economics, market economy, production, supply and demand, and the global economy from a Christian viewpoint.
11th/12th Grade (U.S. History): Comprehensive survey of American history from European discovery to the present, with an emphasis on the Constitution and Christian heritage.
11th/12th Grade Elective (Understanding the Culture): In-depth exploration of various cultural aspects like technology, arts, and politics, from a Christian perspective.
12th Grade (American Government): In-depth exploration of the U.S. government system, focusing on the Constitution, political processes, and the integration of Christian perspectives in understanding civic responsibilities and contemporary issues.

Science Department

Philosophy: God’s creation reveals much about the Creator. Studying how things function allows students to understand their immense value and how to better fulfill God’s creation mandate by being good stewards of creation.

Science Expected Student Outcomes

Evaluate the origins of the universe, through a biblical worldview, by comparing creation to evolutionary theories.
Utilize the scientific method to examine questions, perform experiments, design and interpret models, in an effort to find solutions to problems.
Develop a foundation of scientific understanding in the realms of life, physical, and earth sciences in an effort to create a deeper understanding of God’s creation.
Apply concepts of scientific study to form rationale, responsible, and biblical conclusions as to what is occurring in the world and the universe.

Early Education (Preschool and Prekindergarten)

Preschool: Introduction to basic science concepts like health, plants, animals, and seasonal changes, fostering an appreciation for God's creation.
Prekindergarten: Expansion of scientific understanding with a focus on the natural world, including animals, weather, and basic physical sciences.

Elementary Curriculum (Kindergarten - 5th Grade)

Kindergarten: Exploration of health, seeds, animals, the seashore, weather, and seasons, emphasizing the wonder of God's creation.
1st Grade (Survey Science): Study of the Earth's parts, seasons, solar system, basic biology, and physics concepts, integrated with Christian values.
2nd Grade (Survey Science): Further exploration of the Earth, space, living things, human body systems, and basic physical sciences.
3rd Grade (Survey Science): In-depth study of geology, meteorology, astronomy, biology, and physical sciences, from a biblical perspective.
4th Grade (Survey Science): Advanced concepts in Earth science, biology, human anatomy, and physical sciences, relating to God's intricate design.
5th Grade (Survey Science): Comprehensive study of the Earth's layers, atmosphere, weather, and space technology, within a Christian worldview.

Middle School Curriculum (6th - 8th Grade)

6th Grade (Life Science): Foundations of life science, plant and animal biology, environmental interactions, and human anatomy, underpinned by Christian teachings.
7th Grade (Earth Science): Introduction to Earth science, geology, hydrology, and environmental studies, integrated with a biblical understanding.
8th Grade (Physical Science): Foundations in mechanics, electromagnetism, matter structure, and basic chemistry, with a focus on God's orderly creation.

High School Curriculum (9th - 12th Grade)

9th Grade (Biology): Study of life, organisms, and human biology, highlighting the complexity and wonder of God's creations.
10th Grade (Chemistry): In-depth chemistry concepts including atomic structure, chemical reactions, organic chemistry, and biochemistry, from a Christian perspective.
11th Grade (Physics): Exploration of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetics, optics, and modern physics, framed within God's physical laws.
12th Grade (Elective Based): Electives in Earth Science, Astronomy, and Anatomy & Physiology, providing specialized knowledge of God's universe and human body.

Electives

PE: Focus on physical fitness, team sports, and individual exercise routines, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the body as a temple of God.

Art: Exploration of various art forms and techniques, encouraging creativity and self-expression while appreciating the beauty of God's creation.

Orchestra: Comprehensive study of orchestral music, including playing techniques and musical theory, fostering teamwork and appreciation for God-given musical talents.

Choir: Vocal training and choral singing, focusing on a wide range of musical styles, to develop musical skills and a deeper appreciation for worship through song.

Band: Instruction in various band instruments and ensemble playing, emphasizing musical literacy and performance, while nurturing a love for music as a gift from God.

Digital Marketing: Introduction to digital marketing strategies, online branding, and communication skills, integrating ethical practices from a Christian perspective.

Home Economics: Practical skills in cooking, budgeting, and home management, teaching stewardship of resources and the importance of family life in Christian values.