Biblical Studies

Philosophy

Bible is the study of absolute truth. God’s special and general revelations to mankind are contained in this timeless and unchanging document. Students are taught that all subjects and areas of life are dependent on and balanced by the holy, infallible Word of God. The application of Biblical stories, parables, commands and instructions lead to the development of each student’s character. The facets of prayer are taught and discussed during Bible and integrated throughout the day. Use of these Biblical tools fosters a direct relationship between the students and their Savior, Jesus Christ.

Instructional Goal for Bible

The students will survey the entire Bible, memorize selected Scripture, participate in a detailed study of selected passages at an age–appropriate level, and engage in activities to help them apply the scriptures to important issues encountered by students. The materials are designed to capture the students’ interest and encourage them to think and become more Christ-like as they prepare for their future. The focus is on personal Bible study, character development, and understanding the Truth which guides all of life’s decisions.

Language Arts

Philosophy

Language Arts is based on the truth that God is Supreme Communicator. He has shown the power, importance, and variety of language usage throughout the Bible. He, in His goodness, presented us with the great gift of communication and so allows us to hear, listen, speak, write and read. Our great God wants us to communicate with Him and with each other; thus every utilization of Language Arts should reflect our recognition of the pattern and principles of communication He has communicated to us. As we prepare our students to engage in a world with very different views and beliefs, we desire to equip students with the ability to communicate His message clearly in a variety of ways.

Instructional Goals

The students will read various forms of literature including fiction, non–fiction, poetry, and drama and will be able to recognize the author’s purpose and design for writing. In addition the students will write responses to their reading and will demonstrate their understanding of literary elements such as character relationships, point of view, and mood. Students will also understand related story vocabulary. Reading aloud will further enhance reading for enjoyment and strengthen listening skills.

The students will clearly and correctly express themselves in all forms of writing, including journaling, summaries, essays, letter writing, book reports, and research reports. They will understand and correctly use punctuation, parts of speech, applied spelling, and legible handwriting. Public speaking will be enhanced through oral presentations, speech meet and sharing the Word of God.

History

Philosophy

History is really His story. From Creation to present time, God is writing History through the obedience and life of believers. We desire to prepare our students to avoid the failures of our past as they prepare to lead our country’s next generation. Mankind is fulfilling the creative mandates of establishing dominion and inhabiting the earth and reflects the characteristics of God as he seeks to gain knowledge and live within a social system.

Instructional Goals

The students will explore the history, culture, and geography of the United States of America through the use of reading, research, discussion, and participation in individual and group projects. Students will also study the history, societies and cultures of ancient civilizations from the standpoint of how empires have come and gone over times throughout the world.

Mathematics

Philosophy

In mathematics, God has blessed His creation with the ability to calculate which is a reflection of God’s orderliness. As students study mathematics, they will learn to appreciate God’s gift of numbers, observe symmetry in nature, see patterns in the universe, and use mathematical operations within a universal language. They will concurrently develop a sense of awe and wonder through discovering the gift of mathematics. The student will see the order and truth that God has created, and gain an understanding of God’s purpose of mathematics. Just as the Bible says precept upon precept, line upon line (Isaiah 28:10), students will build concept upon concept in mathematics.

Instructional Goals

The students will progress from number concept and recognition to algebra and geometry. Concept, process and automaticity will be focused at each grade level along with problem solving and real life application.

Science

Philosophy

The study of science is the exploration of God’s amazing creation. By exploring this subject, the students discover the many facets of science. In studying science, one develops an understanding and appreciation of God’s handiwork as we experience His infinite power. This process involves investigating, questioning, discovering, and contemplating the structure and function of the three main branches of science (life, physical, and earth). The study of science is necessary to become better stewards of God’s creation.

Instructional Goals

The study of life, physical and earth science gives students a firm foundation of how science is related to God’s world via reading, discussing, experimenting, and completing projects. Students in grades one through five study science from a Biblical perspective. In junior high, secular ideas are introduced and students are taught to defend God’s creation with Biblical truth.

Mr. Ehrheart is our current JH Science teacher and encourages everyone to visit his website (mrescience.com). His site contains EVERYTHING you could image that helps his students succeed!!

Technology

The students use a state of the art computer lab with curriculum supplied by Beyond Technology. This subject area is taught using themed projects. For example, our first quarter was themed Goals, Etiquette, and Manners, and our second quarter was themed My Family and Relationships. We use these themes to focus the students on Christ–like behavior and respect for others. We also use these themes to help the students focus on personal improvement by developing such things as personal goals and mission statements.

Spiritual growth is fostered by the need to look inward at what their priorities and desires are and how that fits in their ability to create goals and a personal mission. They are also encouraged to look to their parents for assistance with their family project for pieces like a significant events timeline. This promotes an awareness of the need for parental assistance in some tasks.

Music

Music is taught to the Junior High students during their elective schedule. Music courses include Beginning and Iintermediate Guitar, Praise Band, Vocal Ensemble, and multiple stage activities and productions.

Spanish

Students are instructed how to use the Bible in Spanish, to pray in Spanish, to sing worship and praise songs in Spanish, and to memorize bible verses in Spanish. Culturally, the students compare and contrast their faith ,Christianity, with the Latin American Catholicism. The students also participate in local city and Mexico outreach projects.

Students are required to pray in Spanish and to think about the Great Commission in terms of reaching out to Latin American cultures and sharing their faith. Comparative religion; the difference between Roman Catholic and Christian faith is taught.

Curriculum instruction is focused on increasing the overall achievement in the areas of fluency, vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and writing skills, and grammatical structure. Students are taken from first grade through eighth grade through a systematical curriculum that builds upon the previous instruction.

Physical Education

Physical Education is an integral part of the total educational program at Mission Viejo Christian School. Physical activity is a catalyst for learning in all content areas. Through the mediums of sport and movement, all students participate in a program that fosters each student’s physical, mental and spiritual well being. Through exposure to a wide variety of activities, students gain the necessary knowledge to understand the importance of and make educated decisions in regard to achieving and maintaining a healthy physical and spiritual lifestyle. Social skills which include respect, cooperation, communication, teamwork and sportsmanship are important aspects of the Physical Education curriculum.

1 Corinthians 6:19 — Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?

Instructional Goal of Physical Education

The physical education program at MVCS will provide exercise for the body, mind and spirit. Our goal is to encourage a lifelong healthy lifestyle. Student’s will improve on skills in sports, strengthen muscles and improve aerobic fitness. They will also developing social skills through partner games, teamwork and applied lessons. In a fun, safe and structured environment students will become healthier individuals who can better serve our Lord.