2010-2011 CHESS Class Schedules

Last Updated 8/25/2010

Click on the class in the schedule below to get the Class Description and Prospectus information

Wednesday Classes
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CHESS 2010-2011 Class by Subject

Class Title-Instructor-Week day if known (M = Monday W= Wednesday M/W Monday & Wednesday)
Click on the name of the class to select the class description and prospectus

English

American Literature - Jenkins – 1:50 – W
Effective Writing 101 w/SAT Essay - Jenkins – 3:00 - W
English 8 - Powell – 1:50 - M
English 9 - Powell – 12:40 - M
English 10 - Powell - 10:20 - M
English 11 - Powell – 11:30 - W
Intro to Effective Writing - Jenkins - 12:40 - W
Joy Writing - Dill - 1:50 - W
The Published Student - Jenkins – 12:40 - M
SAT Verbal Prep - Powell – 11:30 – M - spring

Fine Arts

Discover Art - Kintzing - 11:30 M
The Creatives - Dill - 3:00 - W
3-D Art - Dill – 4:10 – W
Drawing in Depth - Dill – 12:40- W
Drama Production – The Miracle Worker - Fite – Both 1:50 – M and W
Yearbook (Art/Photography, Writing, & Layout) - McFarland - 4:10 - W

Foreign Language

French I - O'Donell - 11:00 M / 11:30 W
French II - O'Donell – 12:40 - M/W
Spanish I - Dellinger – 11:30 - M/W
Spanish II - Dellinger - 1:50 - M/W
Spanish III - Dellinger – 12:40 - M/W

Speech

Mock Trial (Speech & Civics) - Jenkins – 4:10 – W
The Prepared Student - Jenkins – 11:30 - M
Standup! A Case for Comic Intelligence - Jenkins – 10:20 - M

History/Social Studies

Economics - Lyon – 12:40 – W
History of Freedom - Lyon – 3:00 – W
Virginia History - New World to Old Dominion - Lyon – 1:50 - W
U.S. Government: The Words We Live by - Lyon – 4:10 - W
World Geography - Powell – 3:00 - W

Math

Algebra I - Kuhl - 12:40 - M/W
Algebra 2 - Capen – 11:30 - M/W
Geometry - Kuhl - 11:30 - M/W
Pre-calculus - Capen – 12:40 - M/W
SAT/PSAT Math Prep - Capen - 1:50 - W

Science

Advanced Biology - Human Body - Capen - 3:00 - W
Biology Lab - Rivera – 10:20 – M and 1:50 – M
Chemistry Lab - Rivera – 12:40 - W
Chemistry Lecture - Rivera - 12:40 - M
General Science - Rivera – 11:30 - W
Physical Science - Capen – 10:20 M and 4:10 W
Physics - Capen - 1:50 - M

Classes, Descriptions, and Prospectus

Download a copy of the CHESS class Descriptions to browse later: Class Descriptions Word Document or Class Descriptions PDF File


3-D Art: For the Hands-On Artist
Instructor: Betsy Dill
Day: Wednesday
Time: 4:10 - 5:10
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times

Three-dimensional objects are not flat. They can be measured in three different directions (height, width, and depth). In this course, they will be hand-made objects or spaces that communicate or explore ideas and/or emotions. Subtractive and additive figures (clay/wire), nature mosaics, linoleum block cutting/printing, clear tape casts, papier-mâché sculptures, stabiles (like a mobile that moves but it has a base and is not suspended from the ceiling), soft sculpture, masks, etc. Once a year, your choice: (1) reenactment of a scene from a famous sculptor's or architect's life (friends welcome in the "cast"), or (2) teaching some 3-D technique not covered in the class, to peers --with How-To paper for the teacher.

3-D Art Prospectus

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Advanced Biology: Human Anatomy
Instructor: Laurie Capen
Day: Wednesday
Time: 3:00 - 4:00
Grade level: High school
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisite course is Biology

This class is intended to be a second biology course. We will be using Apologia's text, The Human Body: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made. The course's focus will be on lab with homework and tests being completed at home. Topics covered include: Histology (study of tissues), Integumentary and Skeletal Systems (skin and bones), Skeletal System Histology and Movement, Muscle Histology and Physiology, Skeletal Muscle System, Nervous System, Central Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System, Endocrine System, Circulatory System, Lymphatic System, Digestive System, Respiratory System, Urinary System and the Reproductive System. Kapit/Elson's Anatomy Coloring Book will supplement the text. There will be a lab fee for this course.

Advanced Biology: Human Anatomy Prospectus

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Algebra I
Instructor: Kathy Kuhl
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: 8-12
Class meets 66 times

Algebra I is the foundation of high school mathematics. Topics covered include basic operations, functions, graphs, integers, rational numbers, equations in 1 and 2 variables, simultaneous equations, polynomials, factoring, algebraic fractions, square roots, and quadratic equations. Typically we will cover two lessons per class; homework should be about 4 hours/week. Text is Elementary Algebra by Harold Jacobs, (Freeman, 1979). ISBN: 0716710471. For review of Jacobs' books, see Review of book. To purchase, see the CHESS book sale page, the link above, or other vendors. Parents should contact the instructor to request a placement test to be graded by the teacher before the student is accepted to the class. Copy/materials fee is $12.

Algebra I Prospectus

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Algebra 2 - Honors option
Instructor: Laurie Capen
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 11:30 - 12:30
Class meets 66 times

Prerequisite: Algebra I

There will be two levels in this important high school course. All students will use the Sabouri brothers’ Teaching Textbooks-Algebra 2 as a base text for this course. It allows independent work on the days class does not meet and is an excellent foundation. We will work the more difficult problems in class and review the tougher parts of the lecture. Students do not need to purchase the CDs for this course. The second level of this class will be an honors option. Honors students will complete additional work from a supplementary text provided by the instructor. The honors option is for very strong math students or those who intend to pursue a college major in math or the sciences. Instructor will provide a weekly schedule and grade all tests and labs. Parents are asked to ensure homework is completed and proctor tests.

Algebra II Prospectus

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American Literature - Honors Option
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Wednesday
Time: 1:50 - 2:50
Grade level: 9-12
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisites: Appropriate reading speed and comprehension skills for age level, ability to write complete sentences and paragraphs using basic grammar, spelling, capitalization rules, and formatting rules. Can use Microsoft Word or equivalent, and conduct computer research and typing.

Reading and understanding American Literature not only prepares students for college, but for life as adults. Drawing from sources like the Norton Anthology and American Literature: Encouraging Thoughtful Christians To Be World Changers, this class will explore a broad range of genres, in each major literary period. Students will learn 1) the historical context of American Literature from the pre-Columbian era to the 20th century, 2) the thematic or worldview focus of the authors, 3) the fundamentals of literary analysis (including literary devices) and apply their knowledge through class discussions/presentations, basic and advanced essay writing, and literary vignettes/poems, and 4) how to understand and analyze poetry and the use of figurative language.

American Literature Prospectus
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Biology A or B, lab only (choose one)
Instructor: Camilla Rivera
Day: Monday
Time: Class A 10:20 - 11:20
Time: Class B 1:50 - 2:50
Grade level: High School
Class meets 33 times

Exploring Creation with Biology is designed to be the student’s first high school science class. During the weekly class, the main focus is to conduct experiments, but some review and discussion will take place. Students are expected to read/study the material on their own. This book is written in lecture format, it is designed to be learned at home. Parents should expect to help their students learn new science specific vocabulary and to help them learn how to study. The instructor provides daily reading and homework assignments, and grades all tests and labs. Exploring Creation with Biology 2nd edition Textbook and Solutions Manual are required. Note: A Lab fee is required.

Biology Prospectus

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Chemistry, Lab
Instructor: Camilla Rivera
Day: Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: High school
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisite: Algebra I

Exploring Creation With Chemistry is a college-prep chemistry course, which gives students a rigorous foundation in chemistry. Students need to have completed Algebra I. During class the main focus is to conduct experiments, but some module review and discussion will take place. Students are expected to read/study the material on their own. The required book is written in lecture format, and is designed to be learned at home. Parents are expected to help the students with any insufficient math skills. The instructor provides daily reading and homework assignments, and grades all tests and labs. Both Exploring Creation with Chemistry 2nd edition Textbook and Solutions Manual are required. All students interested in Chemistry must take this LAB only class. Those that think they might need extra help should consider also taking the extra Lecture course. Note: There is a lab fee for this class.

Tuition Cost: If both the Chemistry lab and lecture are taken, the rate will be discounted, and the combined classes will be considered one class meeting 66 times.

Chemistry Prospectus

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Chemistry, Lecture
Instructor: Camilla Rivera
Day: Monday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Class meets 33 times
Grade level: High school

Prerequisite: Students must also be enrolled in Chemistry Lab to attend this class.

Chemistry is not always the student’s favorite class, nor is it the parent’s favorite. At least 50% of the students taking chemistry can learn everything from the book. Where does that leave the other 50%? Perhaps in the Chemistry Lecture class. This extra lecture class is suggested for: students that are weak in math; students that have a difficult time learning new concepts from reading a book; and for parents that know there is no way they, or someone else in the family, could possibly help their student with chemistry concepts. Additional lectures, extra practice problems, and discussion will occur in this class to help give the student that extra boost to get through chemistry. All lectures will follow the same schedule as the Chemistry Lab class. This class is not required for the Chemistry Lab. Not all students in Chemistry Lab need to take the Chemistry Lecture. Note: There will be a copying fee for this class.

Tuition Cost: If both the Chemistry lab and lecture are taken, the rate will be discounted, and the combined classes will be considered one 66 week class.

Chemistry Lecture Prospectus

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The Creatives
Instructor: Betsy Dill
Day: Wednesday
Time: 3:00 - 4:00
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times

Studio art with introduction to, and mastery of, classic techniques in different media. Most classes self contained and do not require prior training. Included in this course are composition and design, drawing, painting, a touch of art history (only the interesting parts), classic portraits, animal art, still lifes, landscapes/seascapes, sculpture. Media includes acrylic paint, watercolors, oil pastels, pencil, India ink line work, Japanese Sumi brush paintings, and children’s book illustration. Sculpey and air-dry clay, weaving. Once a year your choice: (1) reenactment of a scene from a famous artist’s life (friends welcome in the "cast") (2) teaching some art technique not covered in the class, to peers--with How-To paper for the teacher (3) Classic report on an artist with a poster or PowerPoint presentation.

The Creatives Prospectus

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Discover Art
Instructor: Dee Dee Kintzing
Day: Monday
Time: 11:30 – 12:30
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times

This High School Level Art Experience is for Homeschooled Artist grades 7th-12th. Students will explore classic and contemporary artists through studio projects related to a specific theme around an art history lesson which offers essential context, insights, and perspectives on a wide range of artists and movements. For a full credit option students will complete a research paper, conduct an oral class presentation, and complete all at home reading of provided material. There is a $40 materials fee for this class.

Discover Art Prospectus

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Drama Production
Instructor: Bonnie Fite
Day: Monday @ 1:50 - 2:50 and Wednesday @ 1:50 - 2:50
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times (fall semester only)

The Miracle Worker tells the true story of Anne Sullivan and her famous student, Helen Keller. The heartwarming story will inspire all with its message of hope and perseverance. Come and be part of the cast and or crew as we perform excellent theater with a purpose! This fall semester class will meet twice a week. Our performance will be at the end of January 2011. Students will audition for all cast parts. We will also need students to serve on the following crews: Costumes, Set, Props, Light & sound, Publicity.

Drama Production Prospectus

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Drawing in Depth
Instructor: Betsy Dill
Day: Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times

Student maintains a portfolio and either turns in one detailed sketch each week or continues work begun in class as homework. Includes in-depth study in realism, finishing techniques, shading and highlighting, simple anatomy, composition, elements of design, simple perspective, color theory. Emphasis is on developing a personal style. Line work with pencils, charcoal, pen & ink, Egyptian reed pens, markers,etc. Human & animal portraits, Cartooning/caricatures, personal still lifes, logo design, projects, more. At this level, students may choose individualized study plans if approved ahead of time.

Drawing in Depth Prospectus

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Economics: Work and Prosperity
Instructor: Jody Lyon
Day: Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: 11-12 (younger students by permission)
Class meets 33 times

Economics is seen by many students as a subject that is only for those with a particular aptitude or interest – not the average student. They don’t realize how much they already know about the subject. Therefore, first this class will supply the language and the depth to what students already know about economics. The goal of the course is for the student to realize the connection between economics and government, economics and freedom, and economics and their lives. This is not an accounting course, nor will it require math. This class can be counted as social studies or social science. Based on the Abeka course of the same name (with supplemental material). The course will cover the history and principles of economics and then move to the specifics like the factors of efficient production, the laws of supply and demand, competition and monopoly, types of governments/ economies, the global movement and end with a personal look with money, banks and savings. But all is not dry – we will use familiar stories to highlight the concepts, learn to chart and graph personal habits/goals, and play an ongoing game of monopoly.

Economics Prospectus and Economics First Day Homework Assignment

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Effective Writing 101 w/SAT Essay – Honors option
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Wednesday
Time: 3:00 - 4:00
Grade level: 8-12
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisites: Introduction to Effective Writing or ability to write complete sentences and paragraphs using basic grammar, spelling, capitalization, double-spacing, indents and formatting rules.

To write well requires that we know what we’re going to write before we write it! The result: reduced stress, expanded creativity, and improved grades. This class incorporates both academic and professional techniques that develop a student’s critical thinking, organizing skills, and effective communication through essays, including writing about literature. In addition, this class prepares students for SAT timed essays, including evaluation and scoring.

Effective Writing Prospectus

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English 8
Instructor: Theresa Powell
Day: Monday
Time: 1:50 - 2:50
Grade level: 8
Class meets 33 times

This course will be comprehensive covering grammar skills, vocabulary building and usage, writing skills, and reading comprehension. We will read four fun and exciting novels throughout the course year. We will review and develop paragraph writing skills. Grammar will be covered in depth. Fun and creativity will also be incorporated into the curriculum. Approximately four hours of homework will be required each week.

English 8 Prospectus

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English 9
Instructor: Theresa Powell
Day: Monday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: 9
Class meets 33 times

Students should be ready to read and review four novels throughout this course. We will learn how to compare movie adaptations scripted from novels. Grammar review will be covered at each class meeting. Five paragraph essay writing will be introduced during the spring semester. Vocabulary building will be part of the weekly schedule. Fun and creative activities will abound. Approximately four-five hours of homework will be needed to gain the most from the course.

English 9 Prospectus

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English 10
Instructor: Theresa Powell
Day: Monday
Time: 10:20 - 11:20
Grade level: 10
Class meets 33 times

This course is designed to review and fine tune four areas of English: grammar, vocabulary, reading for content and comprehension, and writing skills development. Students will be required to read and critique four novels throughout the course year. Writing a five paragraph essay will be reviewed in detail in preparation for college SAT essay writing. We will incorporate games and creative activities throughout the course year. Five to six hours of homework per week should be the anticipated investment into this learning experience.

English 10 Prospectus

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English 11
Instructor: Theresa Powell
Day: Wednesday
Time: 11:30 - 12:30
Grade level: 11
Class meets 33 times

English 11 will help students fine tune their skills and expand their knowledge in vocabulary, grammar, and literature. The vocabulary curriculum supports the SAT prep. Students will read a few classics as well as study a unit of Greek Mythology. Writing an effective five paragraph essay will be covered in preparation for college entrance exams, and five short (five-paragraph) essays will be assigned. We will incorporate creative activities as the course unfolds. Fun will be had by all. Parents may want to supplement with additional writing assignments.

English 11 Prospectus

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Intro to Effective Writing
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: 7-9
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisites: Appropriate reading speed and comprehension skills for age level. Basic computer/typing skills with Microsoft Word or equivalent.

Prepare your students for the rigors of Effective Writing 101. This class incorporates the same academic and professional techniques that develop a student's critical thinking, organizing skills, and effective communication through essays. From Sep-Dec, students will learn how to take notes, conduct research on the internet, organize information and document sources including footnoting, write effective sentences and paragraphs using basic grammar, spelling, capitalization, paraphrasing rules, plus formatting skills such as double-spacing, indents and setting margins. From Jan-May, students will use their skills to plan, write, and rewrite four complete essays. For additional questions about class content, email john@reconciliation.com

Into to Effective Writing Prospectus

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French I
Instructor: Mary O’Donnell
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Grade Level: 8-12 (7th by permission)
Time: Mon 11:00 - 12:30, Wed 11:30-12:30
Class meets 66 times

Prerequisite: purposed review of English grammar before classes begin (specifics available)

This comprehensive Christian based French course taught by a native speaker uses BJU French I materials and will include additional reading assignments, activities, and simple book reports. My goal is to equip students to communicate clearly and effectively to those in francophone countries (FYI: there are 50+ countries where French is spoken and 7 continents!), to give them an appreciation for the French language and culture, and to improve their English vocabulary and language skills in preparation for the SATs. (60% of our own language comes from French!). I provide almost all the books needed for a rental fee of $5 per item or you may purchase them all on your own for about $180 (first come basis). This is a FUN, interactive class with many games and oral exercises to encourage memorization and oral fluency, BUT it is also faced paced and academically rigorous. For this reason, this first level French class needs 2.5 hours/week of class time and a minimum commitment of five hours per week of homework time. Material fee of $40.

French I Prospectus

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French II
Instructor: Mary O’Donnell
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Grade Level: 9-12
Time: Mon 12:40 - 1:40
Class meets 66 times

Prerequisites: French I or instructor’s permission, purposed review of English grammar before classes begin (specifics available)

This comprehensive Christian based French course taught by a native speaker uses BJU French 2 materials as a base and will include additional reading assignments, activities, scripture memorization and simple book reports. This is a slower paced class than French I in order to meet my goal to equip students to communicate clearly and effectively to those in francophone countries. Beginning with the summer before class, I will be encouraging the students to communicate more fluidly in French. Students will complete half of the BJU French 2 book, and additional material I provide to supplement and complement the material. The second half of the book is covered in French 3 (students are often able to get credit for 2 years of college French at the end of French 3). I provide almost all the books needed for a rental fee of $5 per item, per year, or you may purchase them all on your own for about $180. Due to the immense amount of extra material provided, there is a copy fee of $50. There will be ten hours of summer work to be completed before classes begin.

French II Prospectus

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General Science
Instructor: Camilla Rivera
Day: Wednesday
Time: 11:30 - 12:30
Grades level: 7-8
Class meets 33 times

Exploring Creation with General Science is a first “real science” course for junior high students. It is an excellent preparation for high school work. The course is well laid out and encourages good reading comprehension and study skills. It is also an introduction to simple lab work. Students will be expected to read the material and answer the questions on their own. Class time will be used for short labs and class discussion of the material. The instructor provides daily reading and homework assignments, and grades all tests and labs. Parents will be asked to monitor homework completion and proctor tests. Topics include: scientific inquiry, analyzing and interpreting experiments, archaeology, geology, paleontology, DNA, human body (class does NOT include reproduction) and energy. There will be a lab fee for this course.

General Science Prospectus

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Geometry
Instructor: Kathy Kuhl
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 11:30 – 12:30
Class meets 66 times

Prerequisite: Students must have passed Algebra I with at least a C to take this course. Parents must submit via e-mail to the teacher the student’s Algebra I grade, text or program used, and date completed.

Geometry is the first true mathematics of a student's career. Like mathematicians, we complete direct and indirect proofs and build on them to prove more. We study and prove theorems about lines, angles, congruence, inequalities, parallel lines, quadrilaterals, transformations, area, similarity, right triangles, circles, concurrence, regular polygons, and geometric solids. We have regular algebra reviews and problems taken from the SAT. We typically cover two lessons per class; homework averages 5 hours per week. Required texts are (1) Geometry: Seeing, Doing, Understanding by Harold Jacobs, 3rd ed., (Freeman, 2003) ISBN 0716743612, and( 2) Enhanced Teacher Guide for Geometry: Seeing, Doing, Understanding. (ISBN: 0-716-75607-2).(Students are expected to check homework at home and bring their questions to class. Copy fee is $12. To read more about the books, see Review of book. Books are available at the link above, through the CHESS web site book sale pages, and from various online vendors.

Geometry Prospectus

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The History of Freedom - Honors option
Instructor: Jody Lyon
Day: Wednesday
Time: 3:00 - 4:00
Grade level: 10-12 (younger students by permission)
Class meets 33 times

Liberty is something that Americans take for granted, but it is something that must be understood and cared for in order to keep. It is important to uncover where this idea of freedom was born, when it flourished, and to recognize when it might be in danger. This course will examine the idea of “freedom” in Western civilization. The foundation of the course is Dr. Rufus Fear’s treatment of the idea of freedom. We will build on his structure by bringing in other interpretations of freedom from variety of viewpoints. We will start in Ancient Greece, move to Rome, 1st century Christianity, the Middle Ages, the Reformation, Anglo-American concepts of freedom & tyranny and the French Revolution. We will look at individuals: e.g. Alexander & Socrates, Jesus & Paul, Machiavelli & the Divine Right of Kings Robert E. Lee & Abraham Lincoln, FDR & progressivism, and Churchill & Hitler. Finally we will address freedom in the modern world. We will read original texts, debate modern commentary and discuss historical lessons. This class is most appropriate for upper level high school students, however any interested CHESS student will benefit and is welcome to join us. Philosophy, history, civics and critical thinking are integrated in History of Freedom. Projects are individualized and therefore, can be designed to accommodate the needs of the student’s transcript or academic level.

History of Freedom Prospectus

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JoyWriting: Creative Writing for the Right-Brained Student
Instructor: Betsy Dill
Day: Wednesday
Time: 1:50-2:50
Grade level: 7-12th
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisite: Sample of writing emailed to betsydill@verizon.net

Primarily fiction. Purposefully fun! The emphasis is on creativity. Writing short stories, responses to prompts, children's board books, nonsense poetry, script writing--performing a one-act play with friends and simple props and/or costumes, reading from your script! (The script is more important than the performance in this case). Develop gift book and greeting card ideas, optional submissions to national contests and children/teen anthologies of short stories and poetry, more. Using all the senses to write from what you know (or can imagine). Computer-generated homework required. (Bring your laptop to class if you like.) The emphasis is on fun, but homework must be completed on time.

JoyWriting Prospectus

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Mock Trial
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Wednesday
Time: 4:10 - 5:10
Grade level: 8-12
Class meets 33 times

Prequisites: Appropriate reading speed and comprehension skills for age level, can use Microsoft Word or equivalent, and conduct computer research and typing, has a willingness to speak publically to small groups and student/parent juries.

Using a courtroom backdrop for civil, constitutional, civil, and/or criminal cases, this highly interactive and team-oriented class integrates all of the basic academic skills needed to succeed in both college and life. Less formal and structured than organized speech and debate classes, Mock Trial uses drama and an introduction to our court and legal system to create a thoroughly compelling academic elixir that will help your students develop competence, confidence, and collective creativity – the interactive power of teams.

Mock Trial Prospectus

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Physical Science
Instructor: Laurie Capen

Class A
Day: Monday
Time: 10:20 - 11:20

Class B
Day: Wednesday
Time: 4:10 - 5:10

Grade level: 8-9
Class meets 33 times

Exploring Creation with Physical Science is a “real science” course for junior high students. It is an excellent preparation for high school work. Think physics without the math! The course is well laid out and encourages good reading comprehension and study skills. It is also an introduction to simple lab work. Students will be expected to read the material and answer the questions on their own. Class time will be used for short labs and class discussion of the material. The instructor will grade tests and labs. Parents will be asked to monitor homework completion and proctor tests. Topics include: atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth, environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics. There is no prerequisite. There will be a lab fee for this course.

Physical Science Prospectus

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Physics
Instructor: Laurie Capen
Day: Monday
Grade level: 10-12
Time: 1:50 – 2:50
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisite: Completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2

Exploring Creation with Physics is a college prep physics course. Students should have a strong algebra and math background. Completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 is required. The focus of this class is lab work but extra class time will be devoted to class discussion and/or problem review. Students will be expected to do the reading and problem sets on their own. The instructor will provide a weekly schedule and will grade all tests and labs. Parents are expected to ensure homework is completed and proctor tests. Topics include: motion, Newton’s laws, work and energy, momentum, periodic motion, waves, optics, electrostatics, electrodynamics, electrical circuits and magnetism. Guest visits will include the instructor’s husband, a physicist working on new technologies. There will be a lab fee for this course.

Physics Prospectus

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Precalculus
Instructor: Laurie Capen
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Class meets 66 times

Yes, your student can succeed in pre-calculus! This class has the premise that all students can be successful in pre-calculus...not just those pursuing math/science careers. Pre-calculus will strengthen previous math study as well as be extremely valuable for SAT prep. Students will use the Sabouri brothers’ Teaching Textbooks-Pre-Calculus as a base text for this course. It allows independent work on the days class does not meet and is an excellent foundation. We will work the more difficult problems in class and review the tougher parts of the lecture. Students do not need to purchase the CDs for this course. Instructor will provide a weekly schedule and grade all tests. Parents are asked to ensure homework is completed and proctor tests.

Precalculus Prospectus

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The Prepared Student
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Monday
Time: 11:30 - 12:30
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisites: Appropriate reading speed and comprehension skills for age level, can use Microsoft Word or equivalent, and conduct computer research and typing, has a willingness to speak publically to small groups and student/parent juries.

Gear-up your student for high school, college, and young adulthood! This upbeat classroom setting focuses on developing critical thinking and successful leadership with proven academic and real-world communication skills that last a lifetime. First semester, students will learn: 1) notetaking, listening, and reading skills, 2) problem solving tools, and 3) effective writing skills, but no formal essays or papers. Second semesters, students will learn 1) leadership and teamwork skills, and 2) verbal presentation skills integrated with first semester skills.

The Prepared Student Prospectus
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The Published Student - Honors
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Monday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level:
Class meets 33 times

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Master StoryTeller class, and teacher approval required

This unique writing class builds on the foundation of The Master StoryTeller class and is an honors-level class that unites professional fiction writing skills with the express purpose of helping a student successfully submit their work to a publisher. Students will use their existing skills to plan, draft, edit, and proofread a story from beginning to end, including how to format and edit a story for publication. Students will also learn how to contact a publisher, write a query letter, submit a story for publication, and see their story in a completed, published form. Students must bring a completed story utilizing the requirements of the Master StoryTeller class to the first class in September.

The Published Student Prospectus

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SAT/PSAT Math – fall/spring
Instructor: Laurie Capen
Day: Wednesday
Time: 1:50 – 2:50
Class meets 16 times, choose fall/spring semester

This will be a review of mostly algebra and geometry in preparation for the SATs. I believe strongly that while the verbal section of the SAT represents a lifetime of reading and can be difficult to prepare for, the math section represents a limited set of material that can be systematically reviewed and mastered. What is tough about the math SAT is many of the questions are asked somewhat different than in your standard high school text. That is where this class comes in. We will review material needed for the questions and practice, practice, practice the types of questions commonly seen on the SAT. Students must have completed algebra and geometry for this course to be of benefit. Completion or current enrollment in at least algebra 2 is recommended. Student will be provided a study plan and there will be regular homework to include practice tests.

SAT/PSAT Math Prep Prospectus

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SAT/PSAT Verbal Preparation
Instructor: Theresa Powell
Day: Monday
Time: 11:30 - 12:30 in the spring
Grade level: 9-12
Class meets 16 times: spring

Students will prepare for the 2010/2011 SAT/PSAT exams. We will cover Vocabulary Building, Word De-Coding, Sentence and Paragraph analysis, and how to prepare for the more recent Writing Portion of the SAT. An ability to self-schedule and be motivated at home will greatly enhance your student's outcomes from this course. Readable handwriting/spelling is required, and reading skills must be at 10th/11th grade levels for participation. Book to purchase: The Official SAT Study Guide by the College Board. Copy fee.

Prospectus is not yet available.

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Spanish I
Instructor: Karen Dellinger
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 11:30 - 12:30
Grade level: 9-12
Class meets 66 times

This class is for students in grades 9-12, or those in grade 8 who have studied some Spanish or who excel in English language study. Students in seventh grade may also register, but will be put on a waiting list and notified by the CHESS administrator if space is available in the class. We will be using a new curriculum this year, Holt McDougal’s ¡Exprésate! program, including the text, videos, audio CDs, workbook, and assessment. The course covers listening, speaking, reading and writing skills as well as study of Hispanic culture.

This class requires a minimum time commitment of five hours per week. Classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays, and students must also spend one hour every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday completing written assignments and reviewing. Students should also understand that regular class attendance and classroom participation in oral exercises are essential. Quizzes and oral evaluations are given in class and chapter tests are administered by parents at home. One class project with a short oral presentation is done in the spring. Students need the 2008 edition of the ¡Exprésate! Level One text, ISBN # 0-030-45204-X and the corresponding workbook, Cuaderno de vocabulario y gramática, ISBN # 0-03-074496-2. Parents may order materials directly from the Holt McDougal website. Materials may also be available from other online sources or bookstores; use the ISBN number to be sure you are purchasing the 2008 edition. If purchasing used materials, check carefully to see that no pages are missing. There is an $8.00 copy fee to cover handouts, quizzes and tests for the year.

Spanish I Prospectus and Textbook Ordering Information

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Spanish II
Instructor: Karen Dellinger
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 1:50 - 2:50
Grade level: 9-12
Class meets 66 times

Prerequisite is successful completion of Spanish I or acceptable placement test score.

In this course, we review material covered in Spanish I and continue our study of language and Hispanic culture using the ¡En Espanol! second-year materials. Spanish II is an intensive verb-study year. This class requires a minimum time commitment of five hours per week. Classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays, and students must also spend one hour every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday completing written assignments and reviewing. Students need the 2000 edition of the ¡En Español! Level Two text, ISBN # 0-395-91083-8 for hardcover or 0-618-01795-X for softcover, and the corresponding workbook, Más Práctica, ISBN # 0-395-95809-1. Parents may order materials directly from Holt McDougal using this link and making sure to go the 2000 edition listing: Spanish II book order page. When purchasing used materials, check to be sure that no pages are missing. It is also strongly recommended that students purchase a good-quality Spanish/English dictionary and a verb handbook, such as Barron's 501 Spanish Verbs or The Everything Spanish Verb Book. There is an $8.00 copy fee to cover handouts, quizzes and tests for the year.

Spanish II Prospectus and Textbook Ordering Information

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Spanish III
Instructor: Karen Dellinger
Day: Monday/Wednesday
Time: 12:40 - 1:40
Grade level: 9-12
Class meets 66 times

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish II or acceptable placement test score.

In this course, we review material covered in Spanish II and continue our study of language and Hispanic culture using the ¡En Español! third-year materials. Students will prepare a research paper in Spanish on a cultural topic in the spring. Conversation skills are particularly emphasized in this class, using Schaum’s Communicating in Spanish: Intermediate Level. This class requires a minimum time commitment of five hours per week. Classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays, and students must also spend one hour every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday completing written assignments and reviewing. Students need the 2000 edition of the ¡En Español! Level Three text, ISBN # 0-395-91085-4 for hardcover and 0-618-01796-8 for softcover, and the corresponding workbook, Más Práctica, ISBN # 0-395-95810-5. Parents may order materials directly from Holt McDougal using this link and making sure to go to the 2000 edition listing: Spanish III book order page. A good-quality Spanish/English dictionary and a verb handbook, such as Barron's 501 Spanish Verbs or The Everything Spanish Verb Book, are also required. There is an $8.00 copy fee to cover handouts, quizzes and tests for the year.

Spanish III Prospectus and Textbook Ordering Information

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Standup! A Case for Comic Intelligence
Instructor: John Jenkins
Day: Monday
Time: 10:20 - 11:20
Grade level: 7-12
Class meets 33 times

This class is all about developing natural voice, personal confidence, listening and observation skills, creativity and purposeful thinking, and verbal communication techniques. Students will write scripts, extemporize, and ad lib, learning how to analyze and create comfortable, conversational connections to a variety of audiences. Students will master key vocal techniques such as force, pace, enunciation, presence, pacing and pauses, gestures and a skillful use of props to deliver humorous and insightful storytelling. Students will learn how to move emotions, stir minds, and touch hearts as they examine and explore the idiosyncrasies in their own lives and human nature, in real-life situations with their family, school, and neighborhoods, as well as religion, culture and current events. The closing line? Fulfill Prov. 17:22, “A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing.”

Standup! A Case for Comic Intelligence Prospectus
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U.S. Government: The Words We Live by - Honors option
Instructor: Jody Lyon
Day: Wednesday
Time: 4:10 - 5:10
Grade level: 11-12
Class meets 33 times

In this class, students will be presented with the origins, meanings and application of our form of government. We will first focus on philosophy and history, placing the formation of our nation in context. Students will research philosophers who influenced our founders and look at documents in place before the Constitution. Next we will study the Constitution. As we look at each Article/section/ amendment, the class will address history, personalities, present day issues, court interpretations, and implications for the future. The Constitution Project (the student’s “personal” U.S. Constitution) will reflect their personal insights and understanding of “the words we live by.” This usually results in the students being more familiar with this document than most adults - even Congressmen! The course will wind up with a study of the Bill of Rights and corresponding Supreme Court decisions. Now familiar with the nature of our government the students will become Supreme Court justices making their own rulings on past cases. The class will end with a Who wants to be a Millionaire? game. This class can be counted as social studies or as social science. Younger students may be admitted at the permission of the instructor.

The Words We live by: U.S. Government Prospectus and First Day Homework Assignment Part 1 and Part 2

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New World to Old Dominion - Virginia History - Honors option
Instructor: Jody Lyon
Day: Wednesday
Time: 1:50 - 2:50
Grade level: 7-12 (younger students by permission)
Class meets 33 times

Our area is rich with opportunities to experience Virginia History. This is a plus for home-schooled students and can be taken advantage of to bring learning to life. The primary goal of this class is for the student to discover Virginia. We will begin with the "idea" of Virginia - from the perspective of the original Virginians and those who planned to venture here from Europe. Next we will discuss pre-colonial Virginia and the institutional developments e.g. religious, slavery, agricultural, philosophical. Colonial Virginia informed much of what America was to become and Virginia’s role in the Civil War as home to the Capital of the Confederacy as well as Robert E. Lee cannot be underestimated. Finally, as Virginia moves into the modern era we will discuss persons and events that are unique to Virginia in the context of American history. This class can be counted as one year of Virginia or American History. There is no text book to be purchased. The class is research, discussion and long-term project based.

New World to Old Dominion--Virginia History Prospectus

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World Geography
Instructor: Theresa Powell
Day: Wednesday
Time: 3:00 - 4:00
Grade level: 9-12
Class meets 33 times

Using the Mapping the World by Heart curriculum, students will learn how to research and present information using a tri-fold format, develop a vocabulary of geographic terms, and map the world. Our objective is to have a productive and memorable class experience each week and to become more knowledgeable about our world.

World Geography

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Yearbook
Instructor: Carol McFarland
Day: Wednesday
Time: 4:10 - 5:10
Grade level: 9-12 (by application)
Class meets 33 times
Class size is limited to 10

Prerequisites: Approved application, laptop, digital camera and thumbdrive

In this class, students will learn necessary skills for, and take the lead on the creation of the 2011 CHESS yearbook: basic desktop publishing, general design and layout, digital photography, photo editing and manipulation, caption writing, teamwork, and meeting deadlines. Students are REQUIRED to bring a laptop with the necessary software, digital camera, thumbdrive, and a class notebook with hard copies of assignments to each class, AND have access to an email account for communication and transfer of files. Note: An application is required for this class. The application is attached to the Prospectus. To download the application with the prospectus, go to the prospectus section of the CHESS website, www.chessclasses.org, or pick up a copy from the CHESS Administrator.

Open the Yearbook Prospectus and Application PDF in a seperate window or Yearbook Prospectus and Application in a Word Document

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Download a copy of the CHESS class Descriptions to browse later: Class Descriptions Word Document or Class Descriptions PDF File