Academics
Striving for Godly excellence
Check out what your child will learn!
OUR GOAL FOR JUNIOR HIGH
Developing a positive environment in which students are given opportunities to develop spiritually, academically, physically, and emotionally.
6th Grade Curriculum Overview
Language Arts: Reading
Discover how art and literature work together to communicate throughout time. Abeka’s refreshed sixth grade reading curriculum explores the works and the lives of renowned authors and artists throughout different literary time periods. Students will analyze the works of celebrated authors such as Robert Frost, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Laura Ingalls Wilder. They will also examine the works of beloved artists such as Garth Williams, Wesley Dennis, and others. This deeper look into literature and art will equip students not only for the next grade, but also for a lifetime of literary learning. Students will read a biographical novel and a Christian fiction novel and use them when writing language book reports. Two speed and comprehension readers contain challenging and interesting selections for the development of a wider range of comprehension and critical thinking.
Language Arts: Language
The sixth grader should be constantly guided to see how grammar applies to his writing and speaking. God’s Gift of Language C gives a thorough, systematic presentation of grammar, composition, and mechanics in a clear and appealing manner. Both the student and the teacher will appreciate the explanations and demonstrations of the writing process. Students who use this program are not “afraid of composition.” Creative Writing, a companion text to God’s Gift of Language C, helps students to think and to convey their thoughts more clearly, critically, and creatively. God’s Gift of Language C features a cumulative review section at the end of each unit and a Handbook of Rules and Definitions at the end of the text.
Language: Penmanship and Creative Writing
Creative Writing is a companion text to God’s Gift of Language C. This work-text develops students’ abilities to observe, proofread, think clearly, and use descriptive words. Students learn what characterizes good writing and how they can write more creatively as they study observation and creativity, poetry, and journal writing. The challenging Mind Stretchers provide lively openers for each creative writing class as students create anagrams, acrostics, and rebuses, and work with synonyms, connotation, and alliteration. Creative Writing features many examples for students to follow as they complete these exercises. Sixth graders will also review previously learned penmanship skills and concepts by completing practice exercises.
Language: Spelling, Vocabulary, and Poetry
Spelling, Vocabulary, and Poetry 6 teaches students the spelling and meaning of words through the study of prefixes, roots, and suffixes. They will be able to spell and recognize thousands of words after learning these common roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Sixth graders will appreciate the eight review lists and exercises that provide opportunity for spelling mastery. Three Spelling Challenge lists allow them to learn commonly misspelled words that pertain to a specific spelling rule. Students will also practice their proofreading skills while learning about the origin and development of the English language from a Christian perspective. Spelling, Vocabulary, and Poetry 6 contains eight delightful poems written by well-known poets; this recitation and memorization of poetry will further develop each student’s appreciation for good poetry.
Arithmetic:
The Arithmetic 6 work-text includes an abundance of practice problems and review exercises to help each student master important arithmetic skills and concepts. Almost daily story problems and frequent problem-solving strategies are featured, providing practical application for real-life situations. Arithmetic 6 takes students from the known to the unknown as they study fractions, decimals, proportions, percents, prime factoring, algebraic equations, measurement, basic geometry, and beginning banking.
History & Geography:
New World History and Geography offers a Christian perspective on the history and geography of North and South America. It includes a chapter on Canada and a chapter on the recent events in the United States and around the world. Important geographical facts and historical documents that should be given special attention throughout the year are highlighted and placed for easy reference. By reading special-feature articles found throughout the text, students will learn about the lives and contributions of great missionaries and other well-known Christian leaders.
Science:
Observing God’s World is an excellent bridge between elementary and junior high or middle school science. This memorable text presents the universe as the direct creation of God and refutes the manmade idea of evolution. Observing God’s World features photos, art, and charts that clearly illustrate the science concepts being taught. Students will apply what they have learned by doing projects and experiments both at home and at school. Some of the topics students will study include invertebrates, plants, forces of the earth, the universe, space travel, and matter and chemistry.
Health:
Choosing Good Health places special emphasis on the study of the endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. Students become familiar with major health concerns, such as drug abuse and AIDS, and discover the physical, mental, social, and spiritual effects of these problems on the individual and on the nation. A proper attitude toward safety is stressed in Choosing Good Health, teaching students personal responsibility for safety behavior. Students learn to recognize symptoms requiring emergency aid and practice basic first-aid procedures for minor injuries.
Bible:
Sixth graders are looking for heroes, and they will find many to pattern their lives after as they study such outstanding Old Testament figures as Daniel, Elijah, and Esther. They will also learn many important values by studying stories such as the parables of Jesus. These stories teach students about being compassionate, having faith in God’s provision, knowing that God still loves His wayward children, anticipating Christ’s return, and praying for specific things. Those attributes are just a few important truths that each sixth grader will learn and can apply to his life.
Physical Education:
At LBA, we recognize the vital role physical activity plays in the overall development and well-being of our students. This Physical Education is designed to provide students with opportunities to engage in various physical activities and develop motor skills.
6th Grade Weekly Enrichment Classes:
Students in 6th grade will experence weekly times in the Computer Lab, as well as STEM, Art and Chorus Class. 6th grade students will have an opputunity to participate in Winter and Spring Concerts, as well as annual state fine arts competitions.
7th Grade Curriculum Overview
English: Grammar & Composition
Grammar and Composition I's purpose is to emphasize the orderly structure of our language and to train students to use the English language effectively. The Christian perspective of this textbook promotes standards of correct grammar and usage, equipping students with the tools they need to become effective communicators in both speaking and writing. Students will learn to recognize the different parts of speech, fit these parts of speech together to form sentences, join sentences together to make paragraphs, and organize paragraphs into compositions. They will also learn to develop complete and orderly thoughts and to communicate those thoughts clearly and concisely, so that they can use God’s gift of language effectively.
English: Spelling, Vocabulary, & Poetry
Vocabulary, Spelling, Poetry I emphasizes the application of spelling rules to lists of challenging words and the utilization of an expanded vocabulary. All of the spelling words are practical, and many are words that are frequently misspelled. A majority of the vocabulary words are taken from the stories in Of People. The goals of poetry recitation and memorization are an enjoyment and appreciation of poetic beauty and excellence.
English: Literature
Of People features stories and poems that can help students increase their understanding of the world, man, and God from a Christian perspective. Students will gain exposure to people of different ages, nationalities, races, cultures, and economic levels to develop a better understanding of people’s motives and feelings and to recognize the consequences of particular actions. Students will also become familiar with classics such as A Christmas Carol, Robinson Crusoe, Don Quixote, and Of Plymouth Plantation.
History: World History
History of the World is presented from a conservative, Christian perspective as part of a well-rounded program designed to give students a better understanding and a working knowledge of the geography of the Eastern Hemisphere. The interesting narrative style of the text and the many illustrations, maps, and photographs invite students to explore the past and learn about the people behind the events of world history. The goal of the text is threefold: first, to show God’s hand in the history of the world; second, to emphasize the role of individuals in history; and third, to teach the many lessons that can be learned from history. Above all, History of the World emphasizes the providence of God in the actions of men. It provides students with heroes to emulate and goals to fulfill by focusing on the individuals whose character, initiative, and hard work have made a positive impact on world history.
Mathematics: Intermediate Math
Intermediate Mathematics gives a strong review of all arithmetic concepts with practical application to daily life. With solid skills in arithmetic, students have the confidence to advance to other branches of mathematics. Instruction in plane and solid geometry, probability and statistics, and algebra (four units) provides the foundation students need to enjoy success in future mathematics courses. Practice and review problems in each lesson give sufficient opportunity for students to develop and maintain their skills while learning to work quickly and accurately. Word problems and problem-solving strategies throughout the text ensure that students can apply their mathematical skills to everyday situations and encourage students to connect varying types of mathematical knowledge. Fast Fact opportunities allow for further expansion of the concepts covered.
Science: Order and Design
Many life science textbooks study the “simple” cell as the origin of life and discuss the “evolution” of life through the plant and animal worlds. Science: Order and Design uses a different approach. This life science text begins with the more complex plant world and human anatomy and physiology. Evolutionary hypotheses are discussed and discarded as unscientific. Similarities between man and animals are explored and proved to be the result of a common Designer, laying a biblical foundation of origins. A look at the complexity of the “simple” cell, the basis of all life, emphasizes the hand of the Creator in its design. A study of ecology shows God’s providential design in the relationships between living things and their environments.
Physical Education:
At LBA, we recognize the vital role physical activity plays in the overall development and well-being of our students. This Physical Education is designed to provide students with opportunities to engage in various physical activities and develop motor skills.
7th Grade Weekly Enrichment Classes:
In these engaging classes, students will immerse themselves in a variety of enriching activities designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each week, participants will engage in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classes, where they will explore hands-on projects and experiments that encourage innovation and problem-solving skills.
In addition to STEM, students will take part in chorus, where they will develop their vocal skills, learn about music theory, and enjoy the camaraderie of singing together. This component of the course will culminate in winter and spring concerts, providing students with the opportunity to showcase their talents and share their love of music.
Furthermore, students will have the chance to participate in annual state fine arts competitions, where they can demonstrate their skills in music, and art, and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment. These oppurtunities aim to inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts and sciences while fostering personal growth and teamwork among peers.
8th Grade Curriculum Overview
Language Arts: Grammar & Composition
Two vital abilities, the ability to express one’s ideas creatively as well as correctly and the ability to comprehend and interpret the written word skillfully, are built upon the elements which are included in English 8. Grammar and Composition II builds upon the skills learned in earlier grammar studies providing foundational practice of proper grammar and developing the basic composition skills used in outlining, summarizing, describing, researching, and creative writing. Students will also be introduced to new grammar rules and new writing techniques that will allow them to expand their writing skills.
Language Arts: Language
As well as providing a thorough review of capitalization, punctuation, and the parts of speech, God’s Gift of Language B deepens students’ knowledge of grammar and increases their writing skills. Students will be introduced to the four main types of complements and to additional rules for punctuation. They will learn how to diagram prepositional phrases and complements. Students’ writing skills will improve as they learn how to write effective topic sentences and paragraphs and how to use transitional words. Skills learned in outlining, note taking, and preparing a bibliography will aid fifth graders in writing an encyclopedia report and a library research report.
Language Arts: Literature
Of Places uses young people’s interest in other places to teach Christian character traits such as compassion, courage, and sacrifice. Not only will students gain exposure to people of different ages, nationalities, races, cultures, and economic levels through a variety of literary selections, but they will also learn to enjoy reading wholesome literature. Many of the selections in Of Places were written by famous authors and are well-known classics that are an important part of a student’s education. Of Places features excerpts from classics such as A Tale of Two Cities, The Jungle Book, Ben Hur, The Hiding Place, and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
Language Arts: Penmanship
Penmanship Mastery II concentrates on what fifth graders need most—practice with “trouble-maker” letters. Each week’s lessons provide practice with basic letter size and formation, correct pen grip, slant, and overall neatness. Students are given the opportunity to employ their skills through a variety of interesting activities such as word studies and creative writing exercises. Each week, students will also complete a creative writing assignment, including a biweekly journal entry.
Language Arts: Spelling, Vocabulary, and Poetry
Vocabulary, Spelling, Poetry II emphasizes using an expanded vocabulary and applying spelling rules when analyzing challenging words. The goals of poetry memorization and recitation are an enjoyment and appreciation of poetic beauty and excellence.
Arithmetic: Pre-Algebra
Pre-Algebra presents a brief yet complete review of arithmetic with applications to daily life. Once grounded in arithmetic, students can advance to other branches of mathematics. The topics of geometry, algebra, probability, statistics, and radicals are expanded, and trigonometry and systems of equations are introduced. These topics provide the foundation students need to enjoy success in future mathematics courses. Practice and review problems in each lesson give sufficient opportunity for students to develop and maintain their skills while learning to work quickly and accurately. Word problems and problem-solving strategies throughout the text ensure that students can apply their mathematical skills to everyday situations and encourage students to connect varying types of mathematical knowledge. Level Up sections allow for further expansion of the concepts covered.
History & Geography: U.S. History
America: Land I Love presents American history from a biblical perspective. This textbook uses biographical accounts to illustrate that history traces God's working through people to accomplish His will. As part of this course, students will also study the geography of the Western Hemisphere and the functions of the federal, state, and local governments.
Science: Earth and Space
Earth and Space lays a foundation for future study of the nonliving world. The text begins “from the ground up,” starting with soil science and geology. Students learn how geology and the fossil record support the biblical record of a worldwide Flood—not the hypotheses of evolution. The exploration of the seas includes studying currents, tides, and ocean floor. An investigation of the atmosphere and processes that cause weather includes overviews of several weather phenomena and of measuring and forecasting the weather. The solar system, stars, and galaxies are examined as the creation of God; evolutionary hypotheses of solar- system formation are briefly discussed and shown to be scientifically unsound. Students learn about man’s study and use of astronomy, including an overview of manned and unmanned spaceflight. The text concludes with a study of environmental issues, thus teaching students to be good stewards of the natural resources God has provided.
Physical Education:
At LBA, we recognize the vital role physical activity plays in the overall development and well-being of our students. This Physical Education is designed to provide students with opportunities to engage in various physical activities and develop motor skills.
8th Grade Weekly Enrichment Classes:
In these engaging classes, students will immerse themselves in a variety of enriching activities designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Each week, participants will engage in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classes, where they will explore hands-on projects and experiments that encourage innovation and problem-solving skills.
In addition to STEM, students will take part in chorus, where they will develop their vocal skills, learn about music theory, and enjoy the camaraderie of singing together. This component of the course will culminate in winter and spring concerts, providing students with the opportunity to showcase their talents and share their love of music.
Furthermore, students will have the chance to participate in annual state fine arts competitions, where they can demonstrate their skills in music, and art, and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment. These oppurtunities aim to inspire a lifelong appreciation for the arts and sciences while fostering personal growth and teamwork among peers.
