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

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

Grade 7

English 7 emphasizes dictionary and spelling skills, vocabulary building, understanding sentences, parts of speech, subject and verb agreement, capitalization, punctuation, reading skills, and basic writing techniques.

Fundamentals of Algebra provides a systematic analysis of important mathematical topics from number operations and measurement to basic geometry and algebra. The course offers students the chance to explore new uses of their math skills. (one credit)

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. Students are selected for this class on the basis of a pre-algebra test, achievement test scores, grades and teacher evaluation. (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. Students are selected for this class on the basis of a pre-algebra test, achievement test scores, grades and teacher evaluation. (one credit)

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.

Independent Study 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 Independent Study.

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 Independent Study.

Spanish 7 is a bridging course from sixth-grade Spanish to Spanish I.

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Grade 8

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

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. (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)

Earth Science 8 is a practical study of the earth (its features, its forces, and its place in the universe) offering a relevant introduction to the matter and processes of the earth.

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 eighth 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. (one credit)

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.

Independent Study 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 Independent Study.

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

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

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.

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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)

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

College Preparatory 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)

Advanced Placement 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

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

Algebra I Honors refines algebraic problem-solving techniques with a challenging curriculum at a faster pace. (one credit)

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)

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

Calculus AP 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)

Statistics AP is an advanced course introducing students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. The course emphasizes preparation for the Advanced Placement test in Statistics. (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 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 the settlement through the 1960s. (one credit)

U.S. History AP 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)

U.S. Government and Politics AP 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 is a spring semester course focusing on psychological concepts and their applications, including human growth and development, personality, learning, thinking, and perception. (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 nonfaculty 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.

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. Note: Beginning in August 2008, this course will be taught in the 8th grade, replacing Earth Science (Earth Science is now taught in the 6 th grade). (one credit)

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)

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)

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 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 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)

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Technology

Davidson Academy requires one credit in computer technology for the classes of 2001 and beyond.

Computer Basics is a required semester course for eighth 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. (one credit)

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 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. Class starts promptly at 7:45AM (8:45 on Thursdays) to prepare for an 8:00 AM Morning Show (9:00 on Thursday) (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)

Multimedia Technology The student will gain an understanding of multimedia technology including desktop publishing, computer architectural design, photo manipulation, graphic/logo design, audio editing, video editing, Web design, and html. The course participants will utilize Photoshop CS, 3D Home Architect, Movie Maker, FrontPage, and various Freeware software programs. The course will be instructed by a rotating team of teachers according to his/her special area of interest/expertise. Desktop Publishing/Home Architect/Photo manipulation and graphic/logo design will be taught during the fall semester. Audio/video editing, Web design, and html will be taught during the spring semester. Students may elect to take the course for one or two semesters.  Prerequisite: Computer Applications (ninth grade), 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 the two years of the same foreign language for graduation. The Honors Committee recommends three years of study in the same foreign language.

French I is an introduction to the study of the French language and the Francophone culture. We will be developing a foundation in reading, writing, speaking, and oral comprehension, so that effective communication in French is possible. Emphasis will be placed on aural comprehension, mastery of French grammar, and vocabulary applicable to everyday life, as well as correct pronunciation of the spoken language. French will be used in the classroom as much as possible. (one credit)

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)

Spanish IV is an advanced course for students to improve their Spanish language skills in conversation, reading and writing. The course will be conducted in seminar format and will include cultural and social components of the Spanish and Hispanic people of Spain and Latin America. The primary language of the course will be Spanish. (one credit)

French II is a continued study of the French language and the Francophone culture. Emphasis continues to be reading, writing, speaking, and oral comprehension. A deeper understanding of aural comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary, as well as correct pronunciation will be the focus of the class. French will be used exclusively in the classroom. (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 Holy Bible. Old Testament Theology is not about trying to reconstruct an ancient history; but it is about finding out why the pieces (People, Places, Actions) of this grand narrative are placed (originally told then written) the way they are and how they relate to and understand each other, and what all that reveals about the nature of God and God's relationship to His creation. (one-half credit)

New Testament is a study of the New Testament with emphasis on developing the skills necessary to personally study the Bible. Each book of the New Testament is addressed and studied through a series of Bible studies developed and presented by the students using the inductive Bible study method. The goal of the semester course is to establish the student in God’s Word as that which produces reverence for Him (Psalm 119:38). (one-half credit)

Church History An introduction to theology as it has developed in the history of the Church with a view to understanding the relationship between faith and life. This course is designed to acquaint the learner with the central beliefs of the classical Christian faith as expressed in the ecumenical creeds that underpin all interpretations of the Christian faith as it has developed through the critical moments of Christian and world history, and as it has been expressed throughout the Church's 2000 year history. (one-half credit)

Foundations of the Christian Faith is a look at 10 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 agreement that all Christians hold true, the person and work of Jesus Christ. The primary purpose 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. (one-half credit)

Christian Worldview and Apologetics 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)

Survey of the Postmodern Church is a nontraditional, independent study class. Students will meet with the instructor only 3 times during the semester, but will have weekly reading and written assignments that must be turned in for a grade and for feedback. The purpose of the class is to help students to identify and understand current trends in Christianity that are in our post-modern culture, literally changing the face of the church and Christianity in general. (one-half credit)

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.

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.

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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, calligraphy) 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)

Concert Band. This class works to improve the technical and ensemble skills of the instrumentalists. Using a variety repertoire and the nine national standards of music education, students will develop skills in intonation, tone quality, dynamics, phrasing, and ensemble playing. Concert Band performs in a winter and a spring concert each year. They are given the opportunity of auditioning for All Mid-State Band. Middle school students in this ensemble will not receive high school credit. (one Credit)

High School Marching Band/Wind Symphony. Acceptance into the band is by audition only. 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. At the close of marching season students will begin focusing on concert band repertoire and technique. As the DA Wind Symphony, 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. (1 Credit)

Chorale is a vocal musical performance group for high school students interested in singing, choreography, and performance. No audition is required. Out of this group, selected students make up the BEARiTONES, an audition-only performance ensemble. (one credit)

Middle School Chorus - by audition only.

Advanced Chorus - by audition only. (one credit)

Theater I/II emphasizes performance in acting, oral interpretation, and radio and television. (one credit)

Theater III/IV (one credit)

Dance Students in 9th through 12th 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 Nonfiction 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 nonfiction in the Western canon of literature.  The course is rigorous.  Prerequisite:  English G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher. (one-half credit)

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

Yearbook is a full-year course for production of the school's yearbook. The Yearbook Staff is responsible for the complete production of the yearbook. In order to accomplish this objective, yearbook students devote their time to the following activities: learning the rights and responsibilities of serious journalist students, gaining proficiency in desktop publishing with Adobe InDesign CS2, learning and applying their knowledge of Adobe PhotoShop CS3, incorporating current design principles into the yearbook, learning and using journalistic writing techniques and developing student leadership and decision-making skills. Prerequisite: Computer Applications. (one credit)

Independent Study 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)

Teacher Assistant

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