Our core curriculum at Impact Christian Academy is math, English language arts, science, and history. In addition, we offer instruction in logic, art, and physical education, as well as foreign language and Bible.
ICA schedules its coursework according to the academic proficiency and graduation needs of its students. Offered courses will vary from year to year.
Read below for more details on all our academics!
Bible: New Testament Survey (1 Cr)
Students learn the basic stories of the New Testament. They discover what they tell us about who God is, who we are as humans, and what they teach us about our relationship with God. Class activities include Bible reading, instruction covering the basic themes and concepts of each book of the Bible (could include media/videos), weekly chapel services, assessments including some essays communicating student learning, and opinions on each book covered.
English
Grammar and Writing (1 Cr)
Students work on achieving competency in writing, starting with basic sentence structure and moving to paragraph unity and stylistic variety, finally working towards putting together essays and a research paper. To achieve this purpose, grammatical concepts are reviewed and introduced, and reading assignments serve as a catalyst for many writing topics. Reading genres covered may include the short story, nonfiction, drama, poetry, the novel, and the epic. Outside reading is also assigned throughout the year-long course. Students will be introduced to public speaking.
Literature
Studying and discussing various literary works enables students to develop a biblical perspective as they interpret universal themes and struggles. Students also use literature to practice creative and critical thinking skills. These skills are then demonstrated through various classroom activities and assignments, including essay writing, discussion, and testing.
American Literature (.50 Cr)
This course provides a survey approach to selected short stories, poems, novels, and plays by American authors from America’s origin to the 21st century. Outside reading of novels is also required.
British Literature (.50 Cr)
In this course, students read, analyze, and interpret British literature from Anglo-Saxon to contemporary times.
Math
Impact Christian Academy assumes our students will have successfully passed Algebra I during their middle school experience. A math placement assessment will be required of all entering students. Accommodations will be made for students needing additional preparation for our math program.
Geometry (.50 Cr)
This course covers the definitions, properties, theorems, and proofs of geometry. Topics include inductive and deductive reasoning, quadrilaterals, angle and line relationships, congruent triangles, similar polygons, circles, area, volume, construction and loci, and coordinate geometry.
Pre-Algebra (1 Cr)
This course is intended for students who may profit from a comprehensive review of mathematical skills and have little background in pre-algebra concepts. Pre-algebra concepts are introduced in preparation for Algebra I.
Algebra I (1 Cr)
This course thoroughly presents the basic concepts of algebra. Topics include real numbers, linear equations and inequalities, graphing functions, linear systems, sequences, exponents, polynomials, factoring, quadratic equations, radicals, rational expressions, probability, data analysis, and problem-solving. Incoming freshmen may take a test out of this course.
Science: Physical Science (1 Cr)
An intro to physics and chemistry using various laboratory experiences, this course
investigates the behavior of the physical creation. Topics such as atomic structure, chemical reactions, motion, energy, and simple machines explore the nature and behavior of matter and energy.
Social Studies: US History (1 Cr) (AP options)
US History is a survey of the political, social, cultural, economic, and religious
development of the United States. Special emphasis is given to social, economic, and religious trends that unify and define the unique American experience.
Literature
Logic: Critical Thinking (1 Cr)
Impact Christian Academy teaches that we are created in God’s image to be intellectually rigorous in our views and opinions, knowing how to identify truth and fallacy. We believe that all truth is consistent with scripture and that creation provides us with additional evidence of God’s existence, His character, and His work in the world, with the goal of restoring lives to Him through Jesus Christ. This one-year course specifically challenges students to think logically as they formulate ideas and opinions and respond to the worldviews presented to them. Such things as understanding statements, defining terms such as “logical arguments,” identifying premises and conclusions in arguments, fallacies, and sound syllogisms will be taught in this course. The final objective is to develop students who can confidently and graciously respond to a fallen world from a position rooted in God’s truth.
Physical Education
PE 9 (1 Cr)
The Physical Education 9 curriculum introduces students to a lifetime of fitness through activity, sports, and weight training. Basic skills and knowledge of various sports games are taught. Students are introduced to the correct techniques of strength training as part of overall physical fitness. The curriculum includes lifetime fitness activities, cardio, and weight training. Sports activities include units on lacrosse, speedball, volleyball, team handball, floor hockey, eclipse ball, Ultimate Frisbee, pickle ball, badminton, various indoor games, rugby, disc golf, and whiffle ball. The class will meet three times weekly.
Health 9 (.33 Cr)
This course is an overview of health and wellness as it relates to an individual and
his/her personal choices and behaviors. Content is geared toward the adolescent and is designed to teach and promote effective and long-term healthy habits that can be carried through adulthood. The course will lead to a greater appreciation of the marvels of the human body and an understanding of how to treat those bodies as “temples of the Holy Spirit.” Students will explore the many issues facing them as young adults, which will impact them as they grow into adulthood. The importance of decision-making and responsibility will be discussed regarding unit topics, including general health and wellness, healthy living, mental health, stress, peer relationships, food and nutrition, alcohol and other drugs, sexuality, and tobacco.
Bible: Old Testament Survey (1 Cr)
Students learn the basic stories of the Old Testament. They discover what they tell us about who God is, who we are as humans, and what they teach us about our relationship with God. Class activities include Bible reading, instruction covering the basic themes and concepts of each book of the Bible (could include media/videos), weekly chapel services, assessments including some essays communicating student learning, and opinions on each book covered.
Grammar / Writing
English 10 (1 Cr)
Students learn to read literature carefully and closely from various sources: folktales, non-fiction, short stories, poetry, drama, and novels, including Western traditional classics, focusing on the relationship between writers’ lives, contexts, and writing. The use of literary terms and devices is refined. Outside reading is assigned. Writing emphasizes creating sound paragraphs and combining them into longer compositions. A research paper is expected. Grammatical concepts are reviewed throughout the semester, as students frequently respond to the literature in their writing. Introductory elements of public speaking are also covered.
Speech/Writing (.50 Cr)
Emphasis at this level is on the composition, stressing the unity of longer essay writing for various purposes. Some opportunity for creative writing is provided along with reading a non-fiction book and writing an essay response. Grammar principles and skills are further developed from previous levels. A longer, documented research paper is required.
Omnibus I (.50 Cr)
Recognizing that God created man in His image to communicate as exemplified by His spoken and written word, Impact Christian Academy seeks to teach the effective communication skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. We seek to emphasize Biblical discernment, holding the Word of God as the standard of truth against which all ideas and writings of man are evaluated. Omnibus fulfills this purpose as it presents classic pieces of literature in a manner that allows students to apply the logic skills taught in ninth grade to their reading. Questions and discussion encourage students to think Biblically and critically about each piece of literature meaningfully.
Math: Algebra II (1 Cr)
This course further develops the concepts of algebra with emphasis on linear functions, linear inequalities, quadratic functions, systems of equations, factoring, polynomial functions, rational exponents, radical functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational functions, conic sections, probability, data analysis, sequences, series, matrices, and problem-solving. The algebra portion of this course is designed to be 1½ semesters long. The ½ semester trigonometry portion includes the study of trigonometric ratios, functions, graphs, and identities. This course is required by some colleges for admission.
Science: Biology (1 Cr)
Biology provides an opportunity to develop an appreciation for and understanding of God’s living creation. This course covers numerous aspects of organisms in the biosphere. Specifically, the course focuses on the incredible diversity of known organisms as well as the function and interaction of these organisms. Stewardship concepts concerning living creation are stressed through an ecological, activity-based course, including many hands-on labs and dissection of selected organisms.
Social Studies
World History (1 Cr)
Our study of World History begins with a general survey of ancient civilizations that God used to preserve his chosen people and prepare the world for the Savior from sin. We later study those people and nations that have had the greatest impact on Western Civilization, with special attention given to the growth and spread of Christianity. In addition, modern-day world maps are learned to help students understand the world in which they live and to help them succeed in upper-level social studies courses in the future.
AP European History (1 Cr)
In AP European History, students investigate significant events, individuals, developments, and processes from approximately 1450 to the present. Students develop the same skills, practices, and methods historians employ to analyze primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and use reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time” (College Board). The coursework prepares students for the Advanced Placement Examination in European History administered by the College Board in May. There is an additional fee to take the exam. Most colleges and universities will issue college credit to those students scoring above a predetermined level on the AP exam. The homework commitment time exceeds the high school norm and is commensurate with college-level coursework.
Special/Service
Offerings may include Music, Art, Programming, and service opportunities within the community. The credits will depend on the number of class periods each week.
Physical Education
PE 10 (.50 Cr)
This course is designed as a co-ed activity/fitness-based elective physical education course. It is designed for both male and female students who enjoy being active and participating in a wide range of games and activities. Students will be exposed to various activities and team and individual sports that can be part of a healthy and physically active lifestyle. Each unit will incorporate activities to teach basic rules, terminology, and gameplay. In each unit, participants will learn the basic skills necessary to participate, become familiar with the equipment, and learn the strategy necessary to play modified games. Certain activities will be off campus (i.e., for bowling or golf). In addition, students will also work on personal fitness goals. Weightlifting and cardio fitness will be included at various times throughout the semester. Those students looking to have a weekly lifting class period should sign up for one of the other physical education electives. The class meets three days a week.
Health 10 (.16 Cr)
This course is an overview of health and wellness as it relates to an individual and his/her personal choices and behaviors. Content is geared toward the adolescent and is designed to teach and promote effective and long-term healthy habits that can be carried through adulthood. The course will lead to a greater appreciation of the marvels of the human body and an understanding of how to treat those bodies as “temples of the Holy Spirit.” Students will explore the many issues facing them as young adults, which will impact them as they grow into adulthood. The importance of decision-making and responsibility will be discussed regarding unit topics, including general health and wellness, healthy living, mental health, stress, peer relationships, food and nutrition, alcohol and other drugs, sexuality, and tobacco.
Foreign Language
Spanish I (1 Cr)
Students are introduced to Spanish through storytelling, listening, reading, and writing. Emphasis is given to listening and writing through different instructional resources and materials. By the end of this course, students will be able to understand simple texts and communicate basic ideas about themselves, their families, and their communities. They will also be able to handle short everyday social interactions and understand the main idea of a message. Students will be expected to meet a level of proficiency in accordance with national standards for this level.
Spanish II (1 Cr)
(Prerequisite: Spanish I) Spanish II continues to build on the language acquired in Spanish I with a greater emphasis on past and future tense. Students continue to learn Spanish through storytelling, listening, reading, and writing and will be expected to meet higher language proficiency standards. Students in Spanish II read short novels as part of their weekly work and will begin to speak with ease about topics that interest them. Students will be expected to meet a level of proficiency in accordance with national standards for this level.
Bible: Apologetics (1 Cr)
This class is an introduction to apologetics. The goal is to become better equipped to give an answer for the hope that we have in Christ (1 Pet. 3:15). Additionally, it is anticipated that the student's own faith will be strengthened as we explore positive reasons for belief. The first semester deals with the historicity of Jesus, reasons to believe in the resurrection, religious pluralism, reliability of the scriptures, good tactics to use while sharing our faith, and other relevant topics. The second semester deals with scientific reasons to believe in God. We explore discoveries that point to a Creator and discuss ways Christians have wed scientific findings with the creation accounts in the Bible.
Grammar/Writing
Speech/Writing (.50 Cr)
Speech fundamentals explore and practice the practical aspects of communication and its impact on everyday living. Emphasis is placed on organizing and delivering the speech. Students write and deliver seven to eight different speeches while also working to improve listening and interpersonal skills.
Omnibus II (.50 Cr)
Recognizing that God created man in His image to communicate as exemplified by His spoken and written word, Impact Christian Academy seeks to teach the effective communication skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. We seek to emphasize Biblical discernment, holding the Word of God as the standard of truth against which all ideas and writings of man are evaluated. Omnibus fulfills this purpose as it presents classic pieces of literature in a manner that allows students to apply the logic skills taught in ninth grade to their reading. Questions and discussion encourage students to think Biblically and critically about each piece of literature meaningfully.
Literature
World Literature (.50 Cr)
This course introduces students to authors and works from around the world, emphasizing works that are not American or British. The readings consist of novels, non-fiction works, and selected short stories. Attention is also given to the culture of the areas studied and these countries' current events/effects. Written papers or presentations accompany each major work.
AP Literature (1 Cr)
Aligns to an introductory college-level literary analysis course. The course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of literature to deepen their understanding of how writers use language to provide meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, themes, and use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works. The course prepares students to take the AP exam. Some summer reading may be required. GPA for AP courses receives a 0.333 grade boost. - Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation and an “A” average in previous English courses
Math: Pre-calculus (1 Cr)
The main purpose of this course is to help prepare students for college-level calculus. Several topics studied include linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, logarithms, trigonometry, parametric and polar equations, vectors, conics, and calculus.
Science: Chemistry (1 Cr) (AP Options)
A college prep course, chemistry provides an opportunity to study various aspects of the atomic nature of creation, such as atomic and molecular kinetic theory, gas laws, phases of matter, ions, and solutions. Concepts are reinforced through a variety of lab activities. – Prerequisites: Successful completion of Physical Science and Biology.
Social Studies
Sociology (.50 Cr)
This one-semester course examines how human behavior is influenced by our membership in groups and society by looking at how humans are socialized, and culture is transmitted from one generation to the next. Special attention is paid to examining significant social issues from a biblical perspective, including marriage and family, sex roles, social status, race relations, and poverty/wealth, among others.
Psychology (.50 Cr)
A college-level course designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of human and animal behavior and mental processes. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. This course prepares students to take the AP Psychology exam.
Special/Service
Offerings may include Music, Art, Programming, and service opportunities within the community. The credits will depend on the number of class periods each week.
Physical Education: PE 11 (.50 Cr)
This course will be offered in Semester I and is designed as a co-ed activity / fitness-based elective physical education course. It is designed for both male and female students who enjoy being active and participating in a wide range of games and activities. Students will be exposed to various activities and team and individual sports that can be part of a healthy and physically active lifestyle. Each unit will incorporate activities to teach basic rules, terminology, and gameplay. In each unit, participants will learn the basic skills necessary to participate, become familiar with the equipment, and learn the strategy necessary to play modified games. Certain activities will be off campus (i.e., bowling or golf). In addition, students will also work on personal fitness twice per week. The class will meet three days each week.
Foreign Language
Spanish II (1 Cr)
(Prerequisite: Spanish I) Spanish II continues to build on the language acquired in Spanish I with a greater emphasis on past and future tense. Students continue to learn Spanish through storytelling, listening, reading, and writing and will be expected to meet higher language proficiency standards. Students in Spanish II read short novels as part of their weekly work and will begin to speak with ease about topics that interest them. Students will be expected to meet a level of proficiency in accordance with national standards for this level.
Spanish III (1 Cr)
(Prerequisite: Spanish II) Spanish III builds upon knowledge gained in Spanish I and II. Students are introduced to more complex language structures and different tenses and are expected to use them naturally when writing and speaking. Students continue to learn Spanish through methods that encourage proficiency versus memorization of rules and vocabulary. These methods include reading and discussing novels, watching short films, and writing about or discussing them in class, reading about current events, etc. Students will be expected to meet a level of proficiency in accordance with national standards for this level.
Bible: World Views and Religions (1 Cr)
It examines various worldviews & religions from a Christian perspective. Special attention is given to helping students understand what it means to embrace a Christian worldview. Students are challenged to be able to explain not only what they believe but why they believe it. As the course examines other worldviews, the students focus on how our foundational presuppositions shape our lifestyle choices, beliefs, and answers to life’s major questions, such as “Where did I come from?,” “Where am I going?,” and “What is the meaning of life?” The second semester provides an overview of the major religions and sects stemming from these worldviews. Students should recognize how these religions function in the context of the cultures that they are part of. More importantly, students should gain a heart to pray for people with differing backgrounds and play a part in reaching them for Christ. In essence, this course is an aid to preparation for life after high school; because students will be confronted throughout life with individuals who hold radically different ideas from their own, this course will equip them to respond biblically while choosing to live out their faith in every aspect of their daily lives.
Grammar/Writing: AP Speech and Writing (.50 Cr)
For college-bound seniors, emphasis is placed on academic writing, modeled after the types of assignments students may expect in college. The course includes creative writing, completing a major research paper, a full lab report write-up, and a multimedia presentation.
Omnibus II (.50 Cr)
Recognizing that God created man in His image to communicate as exemplified by His spoken and written word, Impact Christian Academy seeks to teach the effective communication skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. We seek to emphasize Biblical discernment, holding the Word of God as the standard of truth against which all ideas and writings of man are evaluated. Omnibus fulfills this purpose as it presents classic pieces of literature in a manner that allows students to apply the logic skills taught in ninth grade to their reading. Questions and discussion encourage students to think Biblically and critically about each piece of literature meaningfully.
Math: AP Calculus (1 Cr)
This course is a Calculus AB Advanced Placement course. It may be taken for high school and college credit, intended for students with a thorough knowledge of college prep math, including algebra, arithmetic & analytic geometry, and trig. Prepares students to take AP exam. GPA for AP courses receives a 0.333 grade boost.
Science: Physics (1 Cr)
A college prep course, physics provides an opportunity to study various aspects of matter and energy, such as mechanics and kinematics, application of vectors, energy transfer, wave theory, sound, light, and relativistic effects. Problem-solving skills are developed throughout the course through a variety of lab activities. Significant work will be directed toward preparing for the AP Physics 1 exam. Prerequisites: Physical Science, Biology, and enrollment in or completion of Algebra II.
Social Studies
American Government and Civics (.50 Cr)
American Government surveys the institution of government from a Christian perspective. Focus is given to the form of American democracy as it has developed from 1776 to the present, with particular emphasis on examining the Constitution as the basis of our form of democracy.
AP Government (.50 Cr)
This course offers a college level of difficulty and sophistication in studying government and politics in the United States. Coursework prepares students for the Advanced Placement Examination in U.S. Government & Politics administered by the College Board in May. There is an additional fee to take the exam. Most colleges and universities will credit those students for scoring above a pre-determined level on the A.P. exam. Homework commitment time exceeds the High School norm and is commensurate with college-level coursework.
Finance (.50 Cr)
Financial Literacy is designed to equip and empower students with the necessary information to prepare them for a life of responsible Christian Stewardship in the 21st century. This course teaches students how to build a solid foundation for their financial future by exploring a basic foundation of “money matters” for students to use in money management and personal economics. This is a required Senior course. It is not part of the required Social Studies courses but is taught by the department.
Special/Service
Offerings may include Music, Art, Programming, and service opportunities within the community. The credits will depend on the number of class periods each week.
Foreign Language
Spanish III (1 Cr)
(Prerequisite: Spanish II) Spanish III builds upon knowledge gained in Spanish I and II. Students are introduced to more complex language structures and different tenses and are expected to use them naturally when writing and speaking. Students continue to learn Spanish through methods that encourage proficiency versus memorization of rules and vocabulary. These methods include reading and discussing novels, watching short films, and writing about or discussing them in class, reading about current events, etc. Students will be expected to meet a level of proficiency in accordance with national standards for this level.
Spanish IV
(Prerequisite: Spanish III) Spanish IV continues Spanish III. Students continue to become more proficient in the target language by reading longer novels and learning about important social and political issues in Latin America such as civil wars and immigration. Students learn more sophisticated terminology, complex grammatical structures and will be expected to use them in writing and speaking assignments.