Christian Education must develop not only cognitive knowledge and the accumulation of facts, but must involve the internalization of God’s truth. It is our aim in every subject area to teach truth and to teach students to evaluate facts in the light of truth. This is accomplished through the following steps:

        * Researching God’s Word to discover basic principles of life and of every

          academic subject. A principle is the source, origin or cause of a thing; the

          foundational truth upon which all the facts rest.

        * Reasoning from these principles to identify the proper interpretation of

          facts.

        * Relating of Biblical principles to each student’s personal life.

Once a week, the faculty and student body in grades 6^th though 8^th grades together to express devotion to our Lord through praise and worship. Biblical truths and principles of life are taught by our staff, pastors and guest speakers. Students also have opportunity to participate in sharing God’s Word with their peers in a variety of ways. We welcome parents to attend with their children and worship with us.

Bible study is an integral part of the school curriculum at Willamette Christian School. The Scriptures are studied in such a way that a child will discover and be able to apply the relevance of the Bible and its principles to everyday situations and experiences. Students study in a classroom environment where a variety of approaches and techniques are used to discover Biblical meanings and principles. Interwoven into the curriculum is a Godly character application designed to stimulate character development within each student.

Middle School students are enrolled in Bible every year in multi-graded classes on a three curriculum cycle: (1) Old Testament Survey – They will read through Old Testament in its entirety as well as engage in a focused study on the history of the nation of Israel; (2) New Testament Survey – They will read through the New Testament in its entirety as well as engage in a focused study of the Gospels and the Epistles. Special focus will be spent on Jesus Christ and His saving work of salvation; (3) Topical studies – Search For Significance: To learn about their own significance and self-worth in order to escape society’s traps of performance, approval, blame, and shame and to know "who they are in God" and "who they are in grace." – Making Right Choices: To learn how to determine right from wrong in their everyday lives based on Biblical principles – An Introduction to Christian Theology and World-View Interpretation: To learn how to integrate Scripture into their thinking as they face questions about God through a careful study of His Word.

The Middle School English program is designed to increase competency in reading comprehension, composition, grammar, vocabulary, spelling and oral skills and to cultivate a solid foundation for a lifetime love of literature.  The development of the writing process is a key element of the English class.  Writing takes the form of book reports, journals, personal narratives, essays, speech writing, critical analysis, persuasive writing, poetry, creative writing and research papers.  Traditional grammar and writing work texts emphasize the fundamentals of grammar and develop students' ability to think critically and to write clearly and effectively.

The Middle School literature curriculum includes an anthology of quality literature from authors around the world while introducing students to literary criticism in small doses, preparing them for an in-depth critical study of literature utilizing selected classic novels each year.  The novels are covered in-depth in order to teach  elements of literature (plot, character development, theme setting, etc.), and godly character.  Themes such as conflict and triumph are studies.  We teach that all communication is evaluated in the light of God's Word as it alone is absolute truth and the greatest work of literature ever produced.

To help each student cultivate a love for reading, several novels are selected from a variety of genre and are studied in detail. Students learn to identify elements such as plot, character development, theme and setting. In addition, the Bob Jones University Press reading curriculum for sixth grade is utilized providing an innovative developmental reading program accenting teaching, practice, application and assessment of essential reading skills in a unique way. Each student receives a reading text as well as workbook to provide further practice, application, and assessment skills. As the student advances through the Bob Jones University Press curriculum, reading becomes an enjoyable skill, cultivation a solid foundation for a lifetime love of literature.

A Beka’s Read and Think 6 skill sheets cover a wide variety of interesting subjects developing implication and reasoning comprehension skills. A variety of novels will be interwoven through the year to develop discussion and critical thinking skills. They are "The Bronze Bow", "The Witch of Blackbird Pond", "A Wrinkle in Time" and "A Father’s Promise" and "Cricket in Times Square." WCS employs a biblical based curriculum to go along with these books.

The ability to communicate with one another and with God is part of His plan for our lives. The written form of our language requires accurate spelling. It is an important part of the communication process. Writing allows the transfer of information over space and time. This is unique to humans and is a clear reflection of the nature of God.

Willamette Christian School works to create lifelong spellers. Students need to have a grasp of spelling rules as well as a knowledge of how to spell basic to advanced words, jot just for Friday tests, but in everyday work. We use a variety of methods to accomplish this. The main resource being Rebecca Sitton’s Sourcebook Method. This method is based on the top 1,200 most frequently used words in the English language. The program uses a wide variety of interesting games and lessons to practice synonyms, homonyms, and other word groups. Words are graded in context taken form everyday writing, "cloze" tests and dictation. We also use the ACSI Spelling Bee lists in the first semester.

Each day, two sentences from Daily Oral Language are presented. The sentences contain errors in punctuation, capitalization and usage. Through class discussion, previously learned skills are reviewed and new applications are taught. A the sixth grade level, students learn to think creatively, develop problem solving skills and use both the dictionary and the thesaurus effectively through the use of weekly analogies. The sixth grade A Beka Language 6 book provides a thorough, systematic presentation of grammar, composition and writing mechanics. Listed below are a few of the skills your child will learn in sixth grade:

Writing Process Grammar

        * Writing, comparison/contrasts, poetry

        * Recognizing, diagramming and using outlines, library research paper, all

          eight parts of speech narration, journal

        * Sentences and sentence parts

        * Fragment, run-ons

        * Punctuation and capitalization rules

        * Dictionary, thesaurus and library skills

        * Student writers’ handbook

On a weekly basis, students receive mini-mental exercises where they need it the most: number sense, patterns, estimation, mental mathematics and geometry through the Daily Mathematics series. Critical thinking skills are incorporated into daily problem solving, helping students see the connections among a variety of math topics. Problems emphasize real-world situations, reinforcing the importance of mathematic in students’ daily lives. Students are taught that there are different methods for solving all problems, including drawing a picture, guess and check, making a table or chart, looking for a pattern, working backwards, writing equations, etc.

Students may qualify for Honors math based on the WRAT Arithmetic Level I and II test scores, SAT math scores, previous math grades and previous teacher recommendation. Students in the honors Math program are advanced to the next grade level, thus ensuring a more challenging program that motivates them to work at their ability level.

The A Beka math curriculum is used for Math I and Pre-Algebra, while Merril Algebra I is the core textbook. This is a complete math program that provides daily activities including oral drill, the teachings and practice of new material and review of basic facts. Games are used to reinforce skills learned during lessons. Besides training students in the basic skills that are needed in life, the mathematics curriculum teaches students to believe in absolutes, to work diligently to get right answers, and to see the facts of mathematics as part of the truth and order that God has build into the real universe.

Basic Mathematics I:

        * Maintaining skills in fundamental operations

        * Basic geometric concepts

        * Fractions and decimals

        * Development and use of formulas

        * Factoring

        * Reading and constructing graphs

        * Ration and proportion

        * Introduction to algebra

        * Application of percent

        * Negative numbers

        * Personal finances

        * Powers and roots

        * Metric system

        * Time zones, latitude and longitude

        * Introduction to plane and solid geometry

Pre-Algebra (Grade 7 Honors Math)

        * Maintaining skills in fundamental operations

        * Statistics and probability

        * Business Math

        * Principles of mathematics

        *English and metric measures

        * Earning income

        * Basic algebraic concepts

        *  Banking

        * Signed numbers

        * Stocks and bonds

        * Powers and roots

        * Insurance

        * Like and unlike terms

        * Basic plane and solid geometry concepts

        * Properties of geometric figures

        * Constructing geometric figures

        * Multiplying and dividing monomials

        * Graphical scale drawings

        * Problem solving strategies

        * Pythagorean rule

        * Word problems solved algebraically

        * Sine, cosine, and tangent

        * Perimeter, area, surface area and volume

        * Reading and constructing graphs

        * Scientific notation

Honors Algebra (Algebra I - traditional approach)

Students must pass twelve competency tests (+,-,x, ) of whole numbers, fractions and decimals and have a "B" average in Pre-Algebra to be advanced to Algebra I.

        * Algebraic properties and real numbers

        * Algebraic fractions

        * Linear equations in one variable

        * Solving quadratics and applications

        * Ploynomials

        * Writing, applying formulas and solving variables

        * Relations and functions

        * Systems of linear equation including graphing and slope

        * Factoring - includes solving quadratics by factoring

        * Inequalities in one and two variables

        * Irrationals - includes solving formulas of second degree for variable

Science is the study of God’s order, provision, and general revelation as discovered in His physical creation. The Middle School science curriculum at Willamette Christian School  presents science in the perspective of the founders of modern science: the belief that God is the Creator of the universe and the Originator of its order, reason and reality, and that science is one way for man to control and master the physical world for the benefit of mankind.  Science units are developed to give students a solid foundation in the areas of earth and physical science - a foundation firmly anchored to Scriptural truth.  Science versus the false philosophy of evolution is carefully presented to give students a clear understanding of God's truth.  Specialty science teachers augment the regular science program providing expertise in the teaching of astronomy, chemistry, physics and various topics in the physical sciences.

Willamette Christian School’s history program is presented with the firm conviction that "the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof." History, therefore, is a revelation of God in His dealings with man and the universe. Students need a realistic view of history, government, geography and economics based upon the foundational truths of the Scriptures.

7th Grade History

History of the World presents an up-to-date account of World History from a conservative, Christian perspective.  This core textbook is a part of a well-rounded program designed to give students a deeper understanding of world history and a working knowledge of world geography.  The goal of this text is fourfold: (1) to show God's hand in history, (2) to teach the history of mankind from a Biblical perspective, (3) to emphasize the role of individuals in history, and (4) to teach the many lessons that can be learned from history.

World Atlas and Geography Studies: Eastern Hemisphere gives students a clear picture of the setting of the events of hte past.  This material broadens the student's understanding of history by providing geography studies, map projects and activity sheets.

8th Grade History

The American Republic presents the history of America from the 1490's to the 1990's with special emphasis on personalities and events that shaped the American character.  A variety of illustrations, maps and photographs invite students to explore the past as they study a narrative account of U.S. history.  Through the story of America's rise to greatness, students learn to recognize the hand of God in history and to appreciate the influence of Christianity in government, economics and society.

A variety of map projects involve the students in learning important geographical information.  A Civics Activity Notebook leads students in a study of national, state and local government with a brief overview of the Constitution and a variety of interesting activity sheets.  In addition to government, students also study the history, geography and other characteristics of their state and local area.  Profiles of each state are given to highlight key facts about each.

The entire history program is designed to develop good reading and study skills including note-taking, indentifying cause and effect, critical thinking and test taking.

We offer three levels of Spanish learning development: Spanish Pre-I, Spanish IA, and Spanish IB. Students who do not elect to enroll in Band II (advanced) will be enrolled in the Spanish program at a level determined by a placement test. Students who are successful in the Spanish program will complete the requirements of first year high school Spanish. The main objectives in our Spanish program guide students through the development of listening, speaking, reading and practical uses of the language. While learning Spanish, students also explore the cultures of the Hispanic world. The program makes learning Spanish fun and creates a positive attitude toward learning languages and experiencing a different culture.

Students enrolled in Band II are required to take 4 credits of Conversational Spanish as an elective which emphasizes the common interactions of language that travelers to Spanish speaking countries could utilize. This program provides students with a foundational experience in a foreign language before entering high school.

Middle School students are required to take Computer I and II. In the first semester, the basics of computer terms and keyboard navigation are covered. A typing program, Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing 5, is the primary teaching tool by which students are taught correct finger placement and usage for the keyboard. In the second semester, students learn a word processing program, Microsoft Word, and how to it for school assignments. Computer III is an optional elective where students can creatively explore other computer programs and develop their own individual projects with desktop publishing and Power Point presentations.

Fitness and skill development are the primary goals of the program. Students participate in exercises to promote cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and flexibility. Basic motor and manipulative skills are sequenced or combined for greater movement challenges. Games, relays and drills ane designed to enhance skill related fitness or specific sport skills. Partner and group activities are used to meet growing social needs while emphasizing individual development.

Throughout the year there are opportunities for students to participate in various ASCI sponsored academic competitions with students from other Christian schools. Competitions at the classroom level select student representatives from WCS for the ACSI Spelling Bee, Speech Meet, Science Fair and Math Olympics.

Our students at Willamette Christian School have been uniquely and individually endowed with natural gifts from their creator, God. It is our desire to develop these gifts through special classes that enhance the foundational courses and develop multiple skills. A variety of electives will be offered throughout the school year. Students will select their elective classes at the beginning of each term. Of the 24 credits of electives in which Middle School students can enroll in while in grades six through eight, 14 credits are from a list of required courses:

• Ministry Outreach  - 4 credits

• Computer I & II -  4 credits

• Performing Arts* -  4 credits (2 semesters of Band II fulfills this    requirement)

• Conversational Spanish  - 4 credits (2 semesters of Spanish I meets this  requirement)

• Visual Arts** 2 credits

        *Performing Arts elective choices: Band I, vocal class, drama, music   

         appreciation, guitar, dance

      **Visual Arts elective choices: Clay, drawing, woodcarving, stamping,

         scrapbooking, painting

Students may also choose from these optional electives when offered:

       * Student Council                                *Mosaics

       * Woodworking                                   * Sewing

       * Cooking                                            * Speech

       * Photography                                     * Yearbook

       * Tennis                                                * Worship Band

       * Computer III                                       * Cake Decorating

       * Rocketry                                            * Wrestling

       * Journal                                               * Student Newspaper

       * Swimming                                         * Physical Conditioning

       * Puppetry                                            * Espresso

       * Quilting                                              * Dissecting

       * Camping/fishing                               * Models

       * Self-Defense                                     *Sign Language

       * Business Principles

God created music as a gift for us. In turn, we must use it for Him. Music is a skill that must be trained and developed, and in doing so, students will learn music as an avenue to praise and worship God. Sixth through eighth grade students may participate in a music in the following areas of study:

        * Vocal Music                                        * Piano

        * Strings                                                 * Music Appreciation

        * Band (beginning and advanced)      * Guitar

Many of our students began taking band and violin classes in the elementary grades. Middle School students can continue or begin participating in band or violin as part of their class schedule. Other music options are available through the elective program.

Our athletic program is designed for those students who have an interest and ability for advanced levels of sports competition. Students will receive training in sports skills, strategy, etiquette and character development with an opportunity to represent Willamette Christian School in a variety of sports such as soccer, basketball, track and field and girls’ volleyball.