Twelfth Grade Course Descriptions
(Download Seventh Grade through Twelfth Grade Core Course Descriptions)
English: Twelfth Grade English
Students read, discuss, and interpret a careful selection of British novels, short stories, essays, plays, and poetry. Class work emphasizes close reading of each work to discover the worldview, theme, style, point of view, character development, mood, and imagery, then analyze each in light of Biblical principles. These works will be studied in chronological order beginning with the Anglo-Saxon Era and ending with the Modern Era. The students will interpret the possible influences of the historical context on a literary work. These readings serve as models of good literature and as subjects for the students' analytical writing. Among others, the works of Johnson, Chaucer, Donne, Milton, Shakespeare, Austen, Swift, Wordsworth, Dickens, Tennyson, Browning, and Lewis are studied. Students will receive instruction on composing essays that demonstrate mastery of various aspects of literary analysis and effective writing style. They will be required to complete assignments that stress a mastery of English vocabulary and grammar. Students will complete two significant research projects during the course.
Math: Algebra I
In this course, the student will move into algebra, learning linear equations in one variable, algebraic numbers, graphs, formulas, positive and negative numbers, fundamental operations, special products and factoring, fractions, ratio, and proportion. Additionally, the students will be exposed to variation, linear systems of equations, powers and roots, exponents and radicals, and quadratic equations and numerical trigonometry.
Course Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra
Math: Geometry
This course provides a standard sophomore level course in Geometry. Topics include a basic introduction to geometry; an introduction to proof including two-column proofs; the geometry of parallel lines and planes, congruent triangles, using congruent triangles with other figures, similarity, right triangles, circles, constructions and loci, area and perimeter of polygons, surface area and volume, transformations, and basic trigonometric relationships.
Course Prerequisite: Algebra I
Math: Algebra II
Course coverage includes real numbers, inequalities and problem solving; relations, functions and graphs; systems of equations and inequalities; polynomials and polynomial equations; rational expressions and equations; powers, roots, radicals, and complex numbers; quadratic equations and functions; polynomial functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; quadratic relations; sequences and series; probability.
Course Prerequisite: Algebra I
Math: Pre-Calculus
This course begins with a comprehensive exploration of trigonometry, including right triangle and periodic circular functions, inverse trig functions, trig identities, parametric functions, properties of combined sinusoids, the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines. It finishes with discussion of polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, different forms of data regression, sequences, and series.
Course Prerequisite: Algebra II and Geometry
Math: Calculus
This course begins with the study of limits, differentiation, and definite and indefinite integration. The calculus of logarithmic, exponential, and other transcendental functions are included. Students will study the calculus of growth and decay, solution of differential equations including the use of slope fields and Eulers Method, LHopitals Rule, the calculus of plane and solid figures, solids of revolution, and polar coordinates.
Course Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus
Math: Consumer Math
This course covers numerous topics in personal finance as well as the Biblical view of work, wealth, and stewardship. Personal financial topics covered are budgeting, stocks, bonds, banking, savings, loans, credit cards, vehicle purchase and financing, housing acquisition and maintenance, and vacation planning. Beginning with the understanding that God owns everything, the student will explore Gods word as it pertains to financial concepts including prayer, giving, honest labor, cosigning for debts, minimizing debt, trusting God, paying taxes, and wise counsel.
Course Prerequisite: Algebra I
Social Studies / History: World Geography
World Geography & Cultures is a comprehensive study that examines the eight culture regions, the physical geography aspects (physical features, physical location, climate) and the human geography aspects (government, economy, religion, people groups, cultures) of each region. There is a focus on modern history and current events and a development of a biblical worldview of how humanity interacts with each other and the world.
Students will use textbooks, activity books, & the Internet for research, study, and online work as well as map work and people studies. Students will interact with each other and develop and understanding of the distinctive of different cultures, locations and develop ideas and their own worldview.
Social Studies / History: World History and Cultures
This course is a historical study of significant developments in western civilization from the ancient near eastern civilizations to the present. We will look specifically at selected influential personalities as well as intellectual, political, cultural, and religious trends interpreted within a Christian conceptual framework. To gain a better insight into the perspectives of the personalities studied, we will also be reading various selections from the different time periods. The writing within this course will be coordinated with their English course in order to develop the students ability to produce quality, written essays expressing their knowledge of the subject matter. This class is structured as a prerequisite to the Worldviews, Faith and Cultures class offered the senior year.
Social Studies / History: American History and Cultures
This second class in our worldviews sequence covers our nations history beginning with the 1920s up to the present. Special attention is given to Gods providence and the nations Christian heritage. Students will investigate selected influential personalities as well as intellectual political, cultural, and religious trends interpreted within a Christian worldview. This course is structured as a prerequisite to the Worldviews, Faith and Cultures class offered the senior year.
Social Studies / History: Biblical Worldview / Faith in Culture
This is a senior level class where students will learn to recognize the major worldviews and world religions that have influenced the current cultural trends of our age. Students will learn how to develop a consistent Christian worldview, and how to engage the world as a thoughtful witness for Christ.
(Semester 1) Worldviews will serve as an introduction to philosophy and theology proper. Here students will gain a clear definition of a Christian worldview. This class will consist primarily of reading, writing essays, and classroom dialogue.
(Semester 2) Faith in Culture will help students learn how to thoughtfully discern and respond to the ideas and values that come from cultural arts, media, technology, and social trends. There will be a number of books read and a Cultural Journal kept throughout the semester. The final portion of this class will strive to help students learn the importance of discovering their calling so that they will be more efficient and strategic in their service to Jesus Christ in this world.
Social Studies / History: Economics
Economics is a broad focused course looking at the history of modern economics, different economic philosophies and a study of the U.S. economic system. Interwoven in the course work are personal finance elements, such as understanding credit and planning a budget, which will be tools for the students to use throughout their lives.
Students will use textbooks, assigned readings, internet elements and their organization skills to understand that economics is much more about choices made rather than finances. Students will develop and understanding of wealth, poverty and a biblical worldview of money.
Social Studies / History: Government
Government is a study of the government philosophy and system of the United States government working through the history and development of the U.S. government and working towards an understanding of how the history and philosophies are still being applied to day as well as how they have adapted to the needs of the U.S. over time.
Students will use textbooks, assigned reading, videos and government related documents and exercises to develop their understanding of the U.S. government. Research and writing are both integral elements to this class.
Science: Twelfth Grade Science (Anatomy & Physiology)
This course is a comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, and pathology. Students will use microscopes and dissections in their investigations of the following systems of the human body: integumentary, skeletal muscle, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive. Students will also study the topics of histology & movement and dermatology. Students taking this course will be better prepared for careers & college courses related to health professions, science technology, science education, and physical education.
Course Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry
Science: Twelfth Grade Science (Advanced Plant and Soil Science)
Students in this course will investigate the importance of plant and soil science and its relationship affecting the production of food & fiber in industry. Students will assess the plant ecosystem, erosion processes, petroleum energy, crop production, and genetically engineered plants and their importance to solving world hunger. This class will have 40% of its instruction dedicated to conducting experiments and investigations. This class is open to 12th grade students & counts as a 4th-year science credit. Students in this class will be eligible to participate in the Wylie Prep FFA activities, competitions, & awards program.
Seniors who participate in the Wylie Prep FFA may also apply for scholarships through the Texas FFA & the National FFA Association.
Course Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra 1; Recommended prerequisite is a minimum of one credit of an Agri-science course
Computer Applications
Students will learn the basics and intermediates skills needed to use Microsoft Office. They will learn to work with Word, Excel, Power Point, Publisher, and have exposure to Access Databases. Students should have a working knowledge of the keyboard, mouse pad and basic computer skills. This course may be taken in 8th grade for high school credit if space allows.
Health / Life Skills
This course will be addressed from a Christian philosophy and is designed to embrace, in view of Gods Word, the many fields found under the Family and Consumer Services umbrella and to help in preparation of transitioning to post high school. Topics to be covered will include the family, physical growth, dating, courtship, marriage, and preparing for the future. Students will be required to complete projects, such as preparing a budget that will provide current and relevant information.
Spanish I
Spanish 1 is a comprehensive standards-based college-preparatory Spanish curriculum that balances grammar and communication. Students learn simple, relevant vocabulary and grammar, including sentence formation, regular, irregular, stem-changing, and reflexive verbs. Students also learn about the use of direct and indirect objects, and begin to learn about some preterit forms of certain verbs.
Spanish II
The course is comprehensive, standards-based, and college preparatory. The content balances grammar with oral and written communication and vocabulary. The course also combines learning the Spanish language with an appreciation for various aspects of Hispanic cultures around the world. Students will also improve their fluency in speaking Spanish, while they learn how to conjugate irregular & reflexive verbs, possessive adjectives and pronouns, and will be able to use both the preterit and imperfect tenses while describing action in the past.
Speech
The goal of WPA is to shape culture through authentic communication and equip students with both the competence and character they need to influence culture for Christ. This speech class aims to go alongside classroom instruction to engage peers in relevant discourse on faith and world events.
Upper School (7-12) Elective Course Descriptions
(Download Upper School Elective Course Descriptions)
Art 1
This course introduces and reinforces a simplified artistic vocabulary and builds a greater understanding of how to compose a successful piece of art. Students will be exposed to a variety of media and techniques including drawing, painting, and 3-Dimensional art. Students are challenged to grow and develop their individual artistic ability. History is introduced through artists and art period studies relating to the art elements being taught. Through this class, students begin to discover their unique talents and interests and how to use them to glorify the Master Creator.
Art 2
Students will take basic art skills and grow them into advanced skills. The students start with pencil and move into more advanced mediums while building a portfolio. All work is original. Photography is often used to begin the creative process. This class explores different artists, their work, and how to build a concept from start to finish. Students continue to discover their unique talents and interests and how to use them to glorify the Master Creator. Instructor approval may be required.
Computer Explorers
This computer course introduces students to basic keyboarding and computer skills. During the first semester, students will concentrate on learning how to type correctly and become comfortable with the computer. In the second semester, they will continue their knowledge of basic keyboarding and discover how to apply this knowledge through exposure to various computer applications.
Computer Pathways
This class is for those students with basic typing skills. Students will be exposed to a variety of common computer applications including: word processing, spreadsheets, and power point. Students taking this class must be able to type accurately and consistently.
Creative Writing
This creative writing course focuses on a study of various forms and genres of prose and poetry apart from, though not excluding, expository and persuasive essays. Literary works will serve as models through analysis, application, and imitation. Composition exercises will reflect an understanding of studied forms and an application of creative techniques. A primary goal of this class is for the student to gain confidence and control as a fiction writer and practice applying stylistic techniques via short exercises.
Home Economics
This course is divided into separate themes for each semester. The first semester begins with the students learning about personal finances. They not only learn about writing checks and balancing a checkbook, they learn about making a personal budget and experiencing an employment-type position to earn wages. They move to the cooking portion of the class, where they learn about appliances, reading recipes, and hands-on cooking! The second semester concentrates on sewing with a machine and hand-stitching. They will create two sewing projects that are sure to be a hit! The semester culminates with a unit on childcare (from infancy through preschool age). They receive hands-on experience working with pre-school age children.
Introduction to Robotics
Using an interactive, hands-on approach, students will study, design, build and control a VEX robot, integrating science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts. The course will introduce the engineering design process, applied physics, prototyping, and integrated problem solving, providing challenging teamwork and leadership opportunities. In cooperation with Carnegie Mellon University and requiring no previous programming experience, this course will also teach students how to program a VEX robot using ROBOTC, a C-based programming language. Course information will be tied to lab experiments; students will work in teams to build and test increasingly more complex mobile robots, culminating in an end-of-semester robotics contest.
Musical Expression
In this small ensemble, we will explore choral arrangements of various musical genres, both classic and contemporary. The students will receive foundational instruction in musical theories and principles, as well as vocal and instrumental coaching. The semester will culminate in a full-length performance preceded by various short samplings throughout the year.
SAT/ACT Prep Class
In this class, students will learn skills that will enable them to perform on the SAT or ACT College Entrance Test. They will be given efficient and effective procedures that will maximize their score on either exam. The instructor in the class will work on identifying each SAT prep class participants unique deficiencies and problem areas in order to be able to bring each participant up to the required level of SAT test-competency. This class is for students who would like to develop the conceptual understanding of the three different assessment areas and hone their reasoning skills in order to shoot for and achieve a desirable SAT or ACT score.
Strategy Games
Strategy Games allows the students to experience many different types of games that require more than just luck to win. For each game, the students will learn the rules and basic strategy to help them be more successful. We will play paper and pencil games, board games, and card games throughout the year.
Yearbook
Students in this class will be members of the yearbook production staff. The course is designed to expose the student to the skills of photography, journalism and page production, and to assist him/her in acquiring the responsible attitude necessary to meet the demands of a production schedule and a publication deadline. Students will work in teams to complete a 75-page yearbook ON TIME!
Study Hall
Each day during regular school hours, a study hall area will be open for students remaining on campus but not enrolled in a class. Students may register for any hour of study hall during this time frame, but may not register for more than two periods on the same day. Registration in a study hall is required for any students expecting to be on campus but not in class during school hours.