Grade 7 | Grade 8 | English | Mathematics | Social Studies | Science | Technology

Wellness | Foreign Languages | Bible | Fine Arts | Other Courses

Grade 7

English 7 is based on grammar and literature. Grammar emphasizes spelling/vocabulary skills, understanding sentences, parts of speech, capitalization, punctuation, and basic writing techniques. Literature includes reading and writing about additional novels. A research paper is required.

Pre-Algebra is designed to help students in making the transition from elementary math to algebra. Previous skills, concepts and problem-solving processes are strengthened.

Algebra I Honors provides advanced math students an in-depth presentation of the prerequisite skills, concepts and problem-solving processes needed for success in algebra. Students are selected for this class on the basis of a pre-algebra test, achievement test scores, grades and teacher evaluation.

Life Science 7 presents a study of organisms in relation to their environment with special emphasis on the comparison of single-cell life and complex organisms. Hands-on lab experiences are utilized to teach basic concepts.

Geography 7 focuses on the basic physical geography of the world's regions and includes the important historical events in the development of countries of the world.

Physical Education 7/8 focuses upon physical fitness. Students are required to purchase and to dress in approved physical education uniforms.

Study Hall is a period of supervised study and library research during the school day.

Band 7/8 is the instrumental group for middle school students. This class may be substituted for Physical Education or Study Hall and meets at the same time as the Marching Band.

Bible 7 - Life of Christ: This course connects the Old Testament prophecies about Christ to the New Testament fulfillment of the prophecies in Jesus Christ. His life, miracles, parables, and character are taught with a personal challenge to grow in the likeness of Christ.

Chorus 7/8 is the vocal music group for middle school students. This class may be substituted for Physical Education or Study Hall.

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Grade 8

English 8 emphasizes basic grammar, beginning composition, remedial and developmental reading skills, and spelling and vocabulary development.

Algebra I introduces and refines algebraic problem-solving techniques. (one credit )

Algebra I Honors provides advanced math students an in-depth presentation of the prerequisite skills, concepts and problem-solving processes needed for success in algebra. (one credit)

Geometry Honors is a challenging course which moves at a faster pace towards comprehension and knowledge. The course utilizes more technology in the examination of geometrical concepts. (one credit).  (Pre-requisite - Algebra I Honors)

Physical Science is an introduction to physics and chemistry. Topics include motion, light, sound, energy sources, measurement, the classification of matter, and both physical and chemical changes in matter. Laboratory skills are introduced in this course.

History 8 provides a chronological study of America and its people from the exploratory period to the present, including a special study of the Constitution, and culminating in a trip to Washington, D.C., in the spring semester.

Computer Basics is a required semester course for eight- grade students. The students will gain an understanding of word processing, spreadsheets and multi-media presentation using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint. In addition, students will be introduced to integration methods, basic Internet utilization concepts, and other areas of enrichment. The emphasis of the course will be on practical applications. Additional topics will be included for enrichment purposes. The primary objective is to enable students to function effectively in the rapidly changing, technological environment that is prevalent today.

Bible 8 Life of Christ: This course focuses on the final year of Jesus' ministry, His death and resurrection, the spread of the Gospel, and His second coming.

Physical Education 7/8 focuses upon physical fitness. Students are required to purchase and to dress in approved physical education uniforms.

Study Hall offers a period of study during the school day.

Band 7/8 is the instrumental group for middle school students. This class may be substituted for Physical Education or Study Hall and meets at the same time as the Marching Band.

Chorus 7/8 is the vocal music group for middle school students. This class may be substituted for Physical Education or Study Hall.

Latin I introduces the student to the Latin language, Roman culture and history, and mythology. Vocabulary building is also emphasized. (One credit)

Spanish I emphasizes grammar, verb conjugation, vocabulary, and sentence structuring. These points are combined to develop communicative skills and a cultural awareness of the Spanish culture. (One credit)

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English

Davidson Academy requires four credits in English for graduation.

English I is a literature-based course which emphasizes literary and writing skills and vocabulary development. A research paper is required. (one credit)

English I-Honors is a literature-based course. Novels recommended by the College Board are read outside of class. Vocabulary, including the study of Greek and Latin roots, is emphasized. Critical thinking and writing skills are developed, and a research paper is required. (one credit)

English II emphasizes composition and literature while reviewing grammar and spelling skills. (one credit)

English II-Honors focuses on composition and literature and analysis of literature. Students are required to read additional novels and critical essays and to express their analyses in discussion and writing. (one credit)

English III is a study of the American literary heritage with a focus on the development of American culture, thought, and lifestyle as revealed in pertinent writings of significant American authors. (one credit)

AP English III/ Language and Composition is an Advanced Placement® course, for which many colleges and universities recognize credit with high test scores on the AP exam. (one credit)

English IV focuses on the writings of significant British authors. It should give students an understanding of our European literary heritage and prepare them for college English. Emphasis is on reading with understanding, improving composition skills, and developing a wider vocabulary. (one credit)

AP English IV/ Literature and Composition is an analytical study of literature. The course requires more in-depth reading and critical writing than College Preparatory English IV. It is designed to prepare students for the college credit examination offered by the College Board. (one credit)

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Mathematics

Geometry is an abstract subject which revolves around formal proofs and logical thinking. This course deals with both plane and solid geometrical concepts. (one credit)

Geometry Honors is a challenging course which moves at a faster pace toward comprehension and knowledge. The course utilizes more technology in the examination of geometrical concepts. (one credit)

Algebra II develops proficiency with mathematical skills and expands understanding of mathematical concepts. Topics include linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions. (one credit)

Algebra II Honors is a challenging course, moving at a faster pace toward comprehension and knowledge in the development of advanced algebraic concepts. (one credit)

Dual Enrollment College Algebra/Trigonometry is a course in which students have the opportunity to earn dual high school and college credit through Vol State Community College.  Topics include polynomials, factoring, radical expressions, rational exponents, complex numbers, linear and quadratic equations and their applications, polynomial and rational inequalities, functions and their graphs, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions and partial fractions. (Six college hour credits and one high school credit)

Pre-Calculus is designed to prepare for students for college-level mathematics as well as give students a thorough review for the ACT.  Topics include the study of functions, theory of equations, conic sections, exponents, radicals, rational expressions, and trigonometric functions and their applications.(one credit)

Pre-Calculus Honors is a challenging course designed to prepare students for further study in college mathematics. The course emphasizes intensive study of functions, the theory of equations, conic sections, sequences and series and trigonometric functions and their applications. Pre-Calculus Honors is a prerequisite for AP Calculus. (one credit)

Integrated Math is a review of key mathematics concepts and skills from previous math courses and the development of skills needed for college algebra. The course focuses on three main areas: ACT Exam Preparation, Introductory Statistics and College Algebra. (one credit)

AP Calculus (AB) is an advanced course designed to provide the high school student with an intensive study of basic calculus. It includes techniques and applications of differentiation and integration and emphasizes preparation for the Advanced Placement test in Calculus AB. (one credit)

AP Calculus (BC) is equivalent to a full year college calculus class and is designed to further the study of basic Calculus. The course includes the study of the derivatives and integrals of basic functions as well as parametric, polar and vector functions. It also includes advanced integration techniques and series and sequence analysis. The course emphasizes preparation for the Advanced Placement test in Calculus BC. (one credit)

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Social Studies

Davidson Academy requires three and one-half credits in social studies for graduation: World Geography or World History, U.S. History or U.S. History AP, Government, Economics, and Senior Research Project.

World History surveys events, people, and cultures from the Stone Age civilization through the Electronic Age. Emphasis is placed on geography, eyewitness accounts, vocabulary development, and critical thinking skills. (one credit)

World History Honors surveys events, people, and cultures from the Stone Age civilization through the Electronic Age. Emphasis is placed on geography, eyewitness accounts, vocabulary development, and critical thinking skills. (one credit)

U.S. History is a chronological treatment of the history of the United States from colonial times to the present.(one credit)

AP U.S. History is a college-level, full-year introduction to United States history from colonial times to the present. It culminates in a three-hour exam administered by Davidson Academy for the College Board. (one credit)

Survey of American History I - A survey of political, economic, social, cultural and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects up to 1877. (Dual Enrollment - 3 hours college credit from Volunteer State)

Survey of American History II - A survey of the political, economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic phases of American life in its regional, national, and international aspects since 1877. (Dual Enrollment - 3 hours college credit from Volunteer State)

Government is a fall semester course on the structure and function of the United States government. It emphasizes civic responsibilities. (one-half credit)

AP U.S. Government and Politics is an Advanced Placement® course. Many colleges and universities recognize credit for Advanced Placement® courses with high test scores on the AP exam. (one-half credit)

Economics will help students to focus on individual responsibility on personal finance issues, such as credit cards, debit cards, banking institutions, and factors that affect their credit history.  In addition, students are taught the basics of the global financial economy and how the US stock market works and how it is affected by foreign countries and their economic situations.  Finally, students are exposed to basic business practices and how decisions with within companies are made in relation to supply and demand.  (one-half credit)

Senior Research Project is the culminating activity of the Davidson Academy experience in which students apply the skills and knowledge gained throughout their school years to the development and presentation of an important project of their own design. Students work independently under the guidance of faculty and non-faculty sponsors. Students may indicate their preference of semesters on their registration forms, but the Guidance Office may need to change semesters due to class sizes. (one-half credit)

Psychology is a one-semester elective course offered in the fall or spring focusing on psychological concepts and their applications, including human growth and development, personality, learning, thinking, and perception. (one-half credit)

Sociology is a one-semester elective course offered in the fall or spring on the science of human society and of social relations, organization, and change. (one-half credit)

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Science

Davidson Academy requires three credits in science for graduation. Students on the Honors Diploma Track must earn five credits in science (excluding Physical Science) for the science track and four credits (excluding Physical Science) for the math track.

Biology I focuses on major life processes. Topics studied include those from the simplest to the most complex levels of biological organization. Methods of science, beginning chemistry, cellular biology, and genetics are presented. (one credit)

Biology Honors is a more challenging course focusing on major life processes. Topics studied include those from the simplest to the most complex levels of biological organization. Methods of science, beginning chemistry, cellular biology, and genetics are presented. With the course moving at a faster pace, more emphasis will be placed upon laboratory work. (one credit)

Chemistry Chemistry is the study of the structure and properties of matter. The course follows a sequential development of major chemistry principles, including measurement, chemical formulas and reactions, molarity, atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, solutions, acids and bases, and oxidation-reduction reactions. Students will perform experiments in which they collect and interpret data related to these topics. (one credit)

Chemistry Honors is a more challenging study of the structure and properties of matter. The course moves at a faster pace and includes measurement, chemical formulas and reactions, molarity, atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, solutions, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction reactions, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. Students will perform experiments in which they collect and interpret data related to these topics. (one credit)

Anatomy and Physiology Prerequisites for the class are Biology I and Chemistry. Students study in detail the structures of the human body and the physiological functions of these parts. Anatomical differences are compared between humans and other species. Special presentations by students are made on topics such as global warming, alternate fuel sources, and problems with “meth” addiction. Dissection labs are either done in class or virtually on the computer. Forensics labs are done on fingerprinting, DNA extraction, and simulated blood typing. (one credit)

Physics Honors is a survey of the basic concepts of physics, leading to an understanding of how the physical universe operates. The primary emphasis of the course is on problem-solving in a hands-on, laboratory setting. Students investigate concepts, including force, motion, waves, light, electricity, and magnetism. Physics Honors is a prerequisite for Physics AP. (one credit)

Physics AP examines the relationships of matter and energy in such areas as mechanics, heat, light, electricity, and the structure of matter. It culminates in a three-hour exam administered by Davidson Academy for the College Board. (one credit)

Environmental Science is an in-depth study of the earth and the interactions within the planet’s various ecosystems. Students will learn about environmental problems we face in trying to sustain the Earth’s resources.  Students will perform a variety of web based assignments to make them more aware of the issues we face now and in the future.  Students will work in teams to improve their data collection and general lab skills.  They will work with today’s technology to better prepare them for college and for life.  Prerequisite is Biology and Chemistry.  (One-half credit)

Forensics is an introduction to the fundamentals of forensic science.  Students will improve in their observational skills as well as their critical and analytical thinking skills.  Students will work together in hands-on, investigative science activities that relate to the real world.  The course integrates math, science, and history.  Students will be introduced to science careers, and they will improve their skills for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through web based assignments.  Prerequisite is Biology and Chemistry.  (One-half credit)

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Technology

Davidson Academy requires one credit in computer technolog.

Computer Basics is a required semester course for eighth grade students. The students will gain an understanding of word processing, multi-media presentation, and a basic knowledge of computer hardware and software concepts. Lab applications utilize the Vista operating system, Microsoft Word 2007, and Microsoft PowerPoint 2007. In addition, students will be introduced to integration methods, basic Internet utilization concepts, and other areas of enrichment. The emphasis of the course will be on practical applications. Additional topics will be included for enrichment purposes. The primary objective is to enable students to function effectively in the rapidly changing, technological environment that is prevalent today.

Computer Applications: This course is designed to build on the foundation created in the Computer Basics course. The student will improve his/her understanding of word processing, database, multi-media presentation, and spreadsheet concepts utilizing the Microsoft Office 2007 Suite. The course is designed to expose students to practical examples of the computer as a useful tool. Additional topics will be included for enrichment purposes. The primary objective is to enable students to function effectively in the rapidly changing, technological environment that is prevalent today. (one credit)

Media Applications This class will deal with both the creative aspects and social effects of the media. Emphasis is placed on basics of radio production, radio programming, impact on society and culture from radio and television, film as an art form, basic film production techniques, and live production of broadcast media and school events. Other areas discussed will be copyright issues, journalism, and ethics in media. (one credit)

Advanced Video Production This class will deal with the advanced techniques of production and editing. Emphasis will be placed on film production and editing, equipment repair and troubleshooting, programming criteria for radio and television, film styles and techniques, pre and post production of live broadcast media and school events. Other areas will be production planning, set up, live production staging plots, advanced career opportunities in media and production. Media Applications is NOT a prerequisite to this class. (one credit)

Graphic Design The student will gain an understanding of multimedia technology including desktop publishing, computer architectural design, photo manipulation, graphic/logo design, and audio editing. The course participants will utilize Photoshop CS, 3D Home Architect, Google Sketchup, PowerPoint, and various Freeware software programs. This is a semester course. Prerequisite: Computer Applications, either one-half or one credit.

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Wellness

Davidson Academy requires one credit in wellness for graduation.

Wellness combines physical education and health and emphasizes activities that involve sports and games, physical fitness, gymnastics, and rhythmic activities. Students are required to purchase and dress in approved physical education uniforms. One semester focuses on topics related to fitness, first aid, addictive behaviors, chronic and communicable diseases, dating, relationships, and human reproduction. The Bible is presented as the foundation for decision-making as students develop wellness lifestyles. Another semester emphasizes physical activities for maintaining wellness. (one credit)

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Foreign Language

Davidson Academy requires students to earn two credits in the same foreign language for graduation. Honors diploma students must take three years of a foreign language, including two years of the same foreign language for graduation. The Honors Committee recommends three years of study in the same foreign language.

Latin I introduces the student to the Latin language, Roman culture and history, and mythology. Vocabulary building is also emphasized. (one credit)

Latin II continues the study of language structure, grammar, and translation skills from Latin I. Mythology, Roman culture, and vocabulary are studied in-depth. (one credit)

Latin III is a close study of the orations of Cicero. The class continues the study of grammar and vocabulary through exercises and translation, examining also Roman history and mythology. (one credit)

Spanish I emphasizes grammar, verb conjugation, vocabulary, and sentence structuring. These points are combined to develop communicative skills and a cultural awareness of the Spanish culture. (one credit)

Spanish II focuses upon the continued study of grammar, verb conjugation, vocabulary, and sentence structuring to further develop communicative skills and cultural awareness of the Spanish culture. (one credit)

Spanish III is an advanced course for further development of conversational skills, advanced Spanish grammar, and cultural awareness. (one credit)

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Bible

Davidson Academy requires each student to complete two credits in Bible for graduation.

Old Testament The purpose and mission of Old Testament is to understand the magnificent picture and story of God, and of the faith in God as shown in the first 39 books of the Bible, with an emphasis on recognizing not only the promises of a coming Christ, but of actually seeing God the Son present in the Old Testament.  (one-half credit)

New Testament The purpose and mission of this course is to encounter the writings that comprise the New Testament in a systematic way that fosters an understanding of Jesus Christ as the ultimate revelation of God to the world and to better understand what it means to be one of His disciples in the World. (one-half credit)

Foundations of the Christian Faith The purpose and mission of this course is to understand the basic theological tenets that Christians believe. There is some discussion on how different churches teach the different tenets, but the central theme of the class is the unity and agreement that all Christians hold true. The primary emphasis of this class is for students to begin to gain an understanding of not only what they believe, but the theological foundations of why they believe what they believe in order to be better evangelists. (one-half credit)

Christian Worldview and Apologetics The purpose and mission of this course is designed to teach a student how to recognize and analyze major worldviews such as naturalism, humanism, existentialism, and post-modernism and then evaluate them from a Christian theistic worldview perspective. (one-half credit)

Christian Life and Ministry The purpose of this course is to provide the learner with one final opportunity to integrate all of the learning that makes up the Davidson Academy experience. It has its base and reason in that process by which we all become whole…that search for meaning by which we become whole in Christ, in the Church, and for the world. As a course, that is this process. This course also serves as an announcement and reminder of the invitation to adventure, to witness, to marvel, to be transformed, and to join one’s life into the life that is God’s in this world. This course integrates all previous Bible courses, Christian spirituality, life and ministry. Through a wide variety of readings and experiences, students are given the opportunity to evaluate the spiritual structure of the varying dimensions of life and to understand spiritual gifts, disciplines, and what it means for each individual to be a constructive influence in the Church and society. (one-half credit)

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Fine Arts

Davidson Academy requires one credit in fine arts for graduation.

Art I combines production of two- and three-dimensional artwork (drawing, painting, sculpture) with a survey of art history. (one credit)

Art II is for students interested in developing and improving their artistic skills on an advanced level. Art I is a prerequisite. (one credit)

Graphic Design The student will gain an understanding of multimedia technology including desktop publishing, computer architectural design, photo manipulation, graphic/logo design, and audio editing. The course participants will utilize Photoshop CS, 3D Home Architect, Google Sketchup, PowerPoint, and various Freeware software programs. This is a semester course. Prerequisite: Computer Applications, either one-half or one credit.  

Marching Band/ Concert Band. In the fall, this ensemble will serve as the Bear Pride Marching Band. Students strive for constant improvement as marchers and musicians through music of all styles and levels of difficulty. They play at football games, pep, rallies, and parades and compete at various marching festivals and competitions. At the close of marching season students will begin focusing on concert band repertoire and technique. As the DA Concert Band, they will perform in a winter and spring concert, have the opportunity to audition for All Mid-State band, and participate in honor bands and concert festivals. This is a year-round course and any exceptions must first be approved by Mrs. Evans. (one credit for high-school students only)

Audition Choir ( Schola Cantorum)- This course is admittance by audition only. This choir will perform in many different styles. The class will emphasize proper singing techniques, proper choral singing, intermediate music theory, intermediate ear training, and history of composers and background of the pieces we sing. (one credit)

Show Choir is the choral combination of song and dance generally centered around a specific concept or theme. It performs year-round as well as competes. (no credit)

Theatre - emphasizes performance in acting, oral interpretation, and radio and television. (one credit - open to everyone)

Advanced Theatre (one credit - teacher approval only)

Dance Students in grades 9-12 will receive an arts credit for taking the following dance classes. Seventh and eighth graders may take dance if they qualify for the following classes, but they will not receive an arts credit until their high-school years.

• Ballet -- This course is a serious traditional ballet class based on the Russian technique developed by Agrippina Vaganova. Students are taught a well-developed barre, center floor and across the floor combinations, as well as terminology and choreography study.
• Jazz -- This course provides continued study for dance to students who have mastered basic and intermediate levels of skill, technique, terminology and choreography.
• Tap -- This course provides continued study for dance to students who have mastered basic and intermediate levels of skill, technique, terminology and choreography.

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Other Courses

Poetry   An overview of the reading and writing of serious poetry.  Students will study the works of John Donne, George Herbert, Wordsworth, Coleridge, T.S. Eliot, Maya Angelou, Billy Collins, and others.  Students will also have the opportunity to model these poets through the creation of their own work in an effort to develop their own distinctive style.  The course is rigorous.  Prerequisite:  English G.P.A. or 3.0 or higher.  (one-half credit)

Creative Non-fiction and the Transformation of Contemporary Literature   Students will study the works of Oliver Sacks, Annie Dillard, Mary Oliver, Jon Krakauer, and others, in an effort to understand the role of non-fiction in the Western canon of literature.  The course is rigorous.  Prerequisite:  English G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher. (one-half credit)

College Essay Writing  This class is a semester class dedicated to helping students learn about themselves, brainstorm essay topics, and write and refine their essays for college applications.  It is designed to give students a period a day to consider colleges and write their essays.  Additionally, there will be time dedicated to peer and teacher review of essays, and, after the applications are completed, they will move on to seeking out and finding scholarships and writing the essays for the scholarships. 

Public Speaking is an introduction to preparing and delivering public speeches, including emphasis on informative and persuasive speaking. This course includes a service learning component. (one-half credit)  Dual Enrollment is available through Volunteer State Community College. (3 semester hours).

Yearbook is a full-year course for the production of the school’s yearbook. The Yearbook Staff is responsible for the complete production of the yearbook. To accomplish this objective, staff members devote their time to the following activities: Learning the rights and responsibilities of serious journalist students; gaining proficiency in Desktop Publishing using Adobe InDesign CS3 and PhotoShop CS3; learning and applying their knowledge of photo editing; incorporating current design principles; learning and using journalistic writing techniques; and developing student leadership and decision-making skills. Prerequisite: Computer Applications (one credit)

Study Hall is a period of supervised independent study (no credit).

Athletics/Study may be scheduled for student athletes in-season at the last period of the day.  If no practice or contest is scheduled, students may use this hour for supervised independent study. (no credit)

Physiology of Exercise and Lifetime Fitness Must be either a junior or senior to enroll and class may only be taken for credit once.  Course is limited to 20 students.  This course will combine both academic course work and physical activity in order to teach students how to make healthy fitness and nutrition choices throughout their lifetime. Topics of study will include but are not limited to: nutrition, different types of cardio activities and strength training for adult fitness and competition, a study of competitive events available to adults, the importance of adult fitness without competition, ways to measure physical fitness, and challenges to adult fitness activities.  One of the key purposes of this class is to help students deal with in a positive way the American Obesity Epidemic.  This class will be involved in active physical activity 4 days per week with one day of classroom work.  Most academic work will be self-directed and done outside of the classroom.  (One-half credit)

Music and Society is a survey of the relationship of history, society, and culture with the musical forms and genres that reflect these developments. The class explores the significance and changes in musical style, music-making, and uses in society from all periods of Western music into present-day popular music. Specific topics explored include: the practice and value of music in culture, music in worship, music and war, and African-American music. (one-half credit)

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