JH - Writers WorkshopGet ready to write! Designed for parents and students, Writers Workshop explores different writing styles and techniques, including a wide variety of essay styles, non-fiction narratives, and fiction with plenty of student-choice writing. Parents and students learn how to give meaningful feedback and how to conference among themselves inside and outside of class. Instructors discuss grammar and mechanics as they apply to the essays and stories, and, although the second semester inclues a grammar review in preparation for English 1, we recommend parents implement a grammar program at home. By end of this course, students are familiar with writing and supporting a thesis in a five-paragraph essay. This non-graded course includes a unique parent component requiring parents to attend class with their student for at least the first semester in addition to giving year-long oversight. Students and parents use the forum to interact outside of class time. Note that the first two class meetings comprise a two-part workshop just for the parents. Please read the detailed information and syllabus before registering. Click here for this information and click here for the placement test.
Target Grades: 6-7
Prerequisites: Successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Wed | 2:00 am | - | 3:30 am | Closed | Diana Thomas |
| Section 13 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Stephanie Rathbun |
JH - English 1Fluency in any language includes reading, speaking, and writing with skill and ease. Mastery of the English language begins with a strong foundation in the parts of speech and continues developing through diagramming/grammar exercises and writing assignments. Students taking this course will receive a practical knowledge of the parts of speech and a relational understanding of the function of each part. Students will learn to build strong sentences and develop strategies to organize their thoughts into paragraphs and essays. Study of literature and poetry will help ignite creative expression in the students' writing. Working with vocabulary, grammar, exciting stories, and beautiful poetry will give students fluency with finesse. Click here for the course overview and click here for the placement test.
NOTE: Do you want more grammar instruction? If you are enrolled in TPS English 1, please consider also enrolling in the TPS English 1 Grammar Supplement.
Target Grades: 7-8
Prerequisites: Recommendation of a TPS Writer's Workshop instructor, or successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 6 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Ruth Ann Frederick |
| Section 12 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 6:15 am | - | 7:45 am | Closed | Abigail Nusbaum |
GS - English 1 Grammar Supplement (1st Sem)Would you like your student to gain an even stronger foundation in Grammar while taking TPS English 1? Because English 1 students vary in how much Grammar they have had and how much they still need to cover, we offer this TPS English 1 Grammar Supplement as an optional added live class session each week, to provide additional instruction, reinforcement and practice in Grammar. The TPS English 1 course provides solid Grammar teaching already, and for those who want more dedicated Grammar teaching and practice, you can get it in the English 1 Grammar Supplement offered in the first semester. If you are enrolled in TPS English 1, please consider also enrolling in the English 1 Grammar Supplement.
Target Grades: 7-8
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in TPS English 1.
Tuition: $50
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) | Thu | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Kristy Massie |
JH - English 2The English 2 course offers an engaging approach to writing and literature and encourages self-expresssion and creativity while maintaining our TPS hallmark of high compositional excellence and critical thinking. Students explore a wide variety of composition writing, including several essay styles, research, fiction, and poetry. With a strong emphasis on the process of writing as well as the product, students practice more advanced compositional techniques, including supporting a thesis, organizing information, developing ideas, crafting transitions, and writing with style and vivid description. As part of this process, students analyze their compositions through a detailed self-assessment. Our goal is to create self-aware writers who not only know how to write well, but also learn about themselves as writers. Students also learn how to give encouraging, thoughtful feedback to each other as a community of writers. What about grammar? Our incoming English 2 students already have a solid foundation in grammar. Instructors continually review grammar and editing concepts in response to student writing; however, the TPS English 1 course provides the intense grammar instruction of our JH English sequence. Literature selections emphasize critical analysis of literary elements, and we engage in spiritual discussions raised by themes, characters, symbolism, and authors' lives. Please click here to read the overview, syllabus, and parent responsibility agreement before registering.
Target Grades: 8-9
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS English 1, or successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 2:00 am | - | 3:30 am | Closed | Diana Thomas |
| Section 7 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Ruth Ann Frederick |
JH - General ScienceThis exciting introductory science course for junior high students has been enhanced to include even more interactive and engaging activities to encourage students to dive deep into General Science! Students will approach each week’s topic by first taking a systematic look at the subject matter through reading in the text, but their study won’t stop there! During class, students will enhance and build on this systematic knowledge by examining and discussing new scientific discoveries that have been made in the area they are studying, what current impact this has on our culture and world, and briefly look at scientific career fields pertaining to the week’s topic. Although this course is “introductory” in that it is many junior high student's first methodical study of science, General Science is not amateur in the breadth of topics to be covered. The scientific method, designing experiments, simple machines, archaeology, geology, paleontology, biology, and human anatomy and physiology are just some of the important topics covered. Assignments and homework will be targeted to challenge and equip junior high students to read with comprehension and study and take tests at a more advanced level, giving them ample opportunity to see improvement and success in reward for their hard work. This course will require the text Exploring Creation with General Science, 2nd Edition, by Dr. Jay Wile, in which students will read 20-25 pages per module. In addition to this reading, the homework for each module will include completion of a Module Study Guide to help students prepare for the module test, one typed and other hand-written experiment reports to be compiled in the student’s lab notebook , and an end-of-module test. Students will show their knowledge on two semester exams, to be taken at the end of the first and second semesters. During class, bi-weekly ungraded “quiz bowls” will help students get excited about what they’ve learned and review for the module tests by dividing into two teams for a friendly competition.
Target Grades: 7-8
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Thu | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Bob Lemon |
JH - Physical SciencePhysical Science excellently prepares students for high school biology, chemistry, and physics. Students will study topics such as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth, environmentalism, the physics of motion, gravity, Newton's laws, light, sound, and astrophysics. This course will also guide students through learning a vital skill that will be required in high school and college science courses: writing lab reports. Students will learn to compose a proper lab report, including the purpose section (with hypothesis), list of materials, procedure steps, data and observations, results and conclusions, and bibliography. This experience will give students of Physical Science a jump-start on the rigorous requirements of the formal lab reports in high school Biology. This course will require the text Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 2nd Edition, by Dr. Jay Wile (the first edition of the text will not be compatible with this course), in which students will read 20-25 pages per module. In addition to this reading, the homework for each module will include completion of a Module Study Guide to help students prepare for the module test, thorough lab reports to be compiled in the student’s lab notebook, and an end-of-module test.
Target Grades: 7-9
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Cheryl Garmong |
JH - World of GeographyHistory and Geography are just like bacon and eggs -- they naturally compliment each other. Understanding physical geography allows students to comprehend the importance of natural resources, relative location, and something as simple as availability of water. Why did Russia ally with Fidel Castro of Cuba? Perhaps because Cuba is only 99 miles off the Florida coast? Why are we allies with Canada, with whom we share the longest undefended border in the world? Why do we share so many cultural traits, manufacturing and trading patterns? Why do we have strained relations with our neighbor to the South? Combine geography and history and you will have the answers to these questions and more! In this course, students will learn to mentally map all the countries of the world, putting them in their absolute and relative locations. Imagine yourself driving down the road in any country. What kind of climate is here? How does one region change into another? How has the land changed to meet the needs of the people? Are farmers trying to grow a crop here that really doesn't belong? Is the land being eroded because of agricultural or industrial use? How has this road changed the lay of the land? How has it changed the character of the community around it? Why is this town at this particular location? Why did this city thrive and the one down the road become a ghost town? Is there a regional architecture? Geography is intricately woven into the tapestry that is the story of our world, so if we are to understand ourselves we must understand the complex but fascinating topic of Geography. This is the world of geography. Come join us and form a firm foundation that will help you to truly understand history! The text for this course is Welcome to the Wonderful World of Geography, authored by the instructor of this course, Brenda Runkle. A globe, atlas, and almanac are recommended resources, but not required.
Target Grades: 7-8
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 4 (2011 Overseas) | Thu | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Vince Monfreda |
JH - History of the WorldThis course is based on the ABEKA text History of the World. It leads students on a journey through time from Creation to the late twentieth century. The course's biblical perspective connects the past with the present, teaching junior high students to recognize the hand of God in human events. History of the World studies "His Story", considering the rise and fall of nations and individuals as they respond to God's truth. A study of geography will interlace all historical material, providing students with a geographical setting for historical events. Time lines will help students properly place events in the full scope of God's plan.
Target Grades: 7-8
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $420
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Thu | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Bob Lemon |
HS - English 3This course lays a solid foundation in grammar, writing skills, and literature comprehension to ensure academic excellence and success in life. The students will develop an understanding of the importance of words and effective communication from a biblical perspective. Students will learn to implement the steps of the writing process and develop strategies for mastering effective written communication by practicing a variety of writing styles, including narrative, expository, compare-contrast, and literary analysis. Special projects include service writing and publishing. This course utilizes the 6+1 Writing Traits: content, organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, conventions, and presentation. We teach a full grammar program using Analytical Grammar; sentence diagramming is required. The literature studies include King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table by Howard Pyle, Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, Hinds' Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard, classic poetry, and various short story selections. Click here for more information.
Target Grades: 8-10
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS English 2, or successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 7 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Janis Gaines |
HS - Advanced CompositionDo you need solid composition instruction along with constructive feedback before you tackle your SATs for college entrance or before you enter courses with major writing components? In this course, students will study approximately 20 styles of composition and will gain skills necessary to write solid, clear, and effective compositions, providing them a strong foundation for SATs or any upper-level course with a strong writing component. Students will also receive some weekly grammar notes and instruction relevant to their writing assignments. This demanding course requires students to write a composition of approximately 500-1200 words per week. Click here for more information.
Target Grades: 9-11
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS English 3, or successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 13 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Melissa Barnes |
HS - Grammar Review (1st Sem)This supplementary, one-semester course provides students with comprehensive instruction in grammar, mechanics, punctuation, usage, and diagramming to enable students to achieve a solid understanding in these areas and prepare them for the SAT and other high school and college English classes. Students will apply their acquired knowledge weekly through grammar and diagramming homework and SAT-style writing assignments. In addition, students will learn to use the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th Edition and the Basic Worksheets on Style, Grammar, and Usage to accompany the Gregg Reference Manual, Tenth Edition--the primary texts in this course--as valuable tools in their writing and understanding of grammar. Students will also look for punctuation and grammar errors in the world around them. They must complete a midterm and final exam to test comprehension on all topics covered in the class. Although targeted toward tenth grade students, Grammar Review will benefit most any high school student in need of grammar improvement if the student meets the entrance requirement. This course is recommended to take concurrently with a 10th grade or higher composition or literature course but not with English 3 (which has its own grammar component). Click here for more information.
Target Grades: 9-11
Prerequisites: Successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Stephanie Rathbun |
HS - Creative WritingThis Creative Writing course introduces students to different types of creative writing. Students will discover their voice and imagination through story prompts, literary devices, word play, and more! Guided writing assignments allow students to experiment with various genres, including fables, fairy tales, poetry, myths, and legends. Literary classics, such as The Tales of Uncle Remus and Aesop’s Fables, serve as models of analysis and application. This course also highlights selected works from American folklore and beloved children’s authors like Rudyard Kipling (How the Leopard Got His Spots) and Shel Silverstein (The Giving Tree). Students will learn to critique compositions for elements of style, form, and creativity. Weekly class time focuses on instruction and discussion and will allow opportunity for peer editing and collaboration. Writing is evaluated using the 6+1 Writing Traits method of assessment. Students will have weekly writing challenges and maintain an interactive online portfolio of their best work. During the second semester, a guided novel project component will be incorporated, where students can work with the concepts of character, plot, dialogue, theme, and setting. Throughout participation in this course, students will be encouraged to showcase their talent and pursue various publishing opportunities. REQUIRED: Parents must approve of students using a Word Press blog, which can be set to private at the individual's discretion.
Target Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS Advanced Composition, or successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Janis Gaines |
HS - 19th Century Literature (1st Sem)Literature both shapes and is shaped by our culture. Familiarity with the classics helps a student not only understand the impact certain writings have had on the world, but also how world events influenced the authors and their writings. This course introduces students to several nineteenth century authors, their works, and their impact on our culture. Selected readings include Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice; Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn; and some Romantic, Gothic and Victorian poetry pieces and short stories. This course will further develop a student's understanding of literary concepts while encouraging a lifelong enjoyment of literature through a Christian worldview. Each week, students will complete written assignments that may include short answer questions, essays, and creative writing responses. These assignments will run two or more pages on average, and require approximately two to five hours a week, depending on student ability. Click here for the booklist.
Target Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS Advanced Composition or a TPS Grade 10 or above literature course, or successful completion of a placement test.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 11:45 pm | - | 1:15 am | Closed | Heather Yost |
HS - BiologyWe are pleased to offer this high school Biology course with lab that starts with Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Biology text and enhances it with additional material and activities to give students a college-preparatory level course that will prepare them for success in upper-level science courses later in high school and beyond. Students will thoroughly study the basics of the five biological kingdoms as in a standard biology course, and then continue beyond this study to address other important topics such as new scientific discoveries, the history behind current scientific theories and the scientists who developed them, major events in the history of biology, the Latin and Greek roots of vocabulary words to help them understand and more easily memorize these important terms, and introductions to pertinent career fields. Classification, definition of life, features of the organisms in each kingdom, an introduction to biochemistry, cell structure and function, cellular reproduction, DNA, protein synthesis, cellular respiration, and genetics are just some of the topics that will be thoroughly explored. This engaging study will be enhanced with hands-on experiments designed to be effectively completed at home, allowing students to engage first-hand with the science they’re studying and giving the student a more effective and well-rounded Biology experience. Students will be required to complete approximately twenty lab activities of varying kind to fulfill the lab requirement for this course. The scope of these lab activities and experiments is broad, ranging from basic experiments using household materials, to online worksheets which use the internet to engage in the modern world of scientific research, to hands-on dissection of four specimens, to intricate microscope experiments (strongly recommended, but not required). This course will require the text Exploring Creation with Biology, 2nd Edition, by Dr. Jay Wile, in which students will read 20-25 pages per module, enhanced by additional brief reading assignments provided by the instructor from other sources. In addition to this reading, the homework for each module will include completion of a module study guide to help students prepare for the module test, lab reports to be compiled in the student’s lab notebook, and an end-of-module test. Students will show their cumulative knowledge on two semester-end exams. A vital skill in any upper-level science course, students will be instructed in the process of writing, revising, and producing a formal lab report and guided through writing four formal lab reports of their own, for which the instructor will provide feedback and grade and return to the student for use in future portfolios. In some cases, sudents will be asked to "present" one of the approximately twenty labs once per semester through developing a power point presentation or some other creative media. During class, bi-weekly ungraded “quiz bowls” will help students get excited about what they’ve learned and review for the module tests by dividing into two teams for a friendly competition.
Target Grades: 8-10
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 9 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Lori McKeeman |
HS - ChemistryThis course is a first-year high school course that gives students a rigorous foundation in chemistry, preparing them for college-level work. The class covers the following topics: nomenclature, significant figures, units, classification, molar calculations, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, acids and bases, redox reactions, solutions, atomic structure, Lewis structures, molecular geometry, gas laws, and equilibrium. The course contains thirty-one experiments which can all be performed at home with household chemicals. Formal lab reports will be required. This course requires the second edition of Apologia's Chemistry text (the first edition will not be compatible with the class). Click here for more information on Rachel Arney's, Adele Weeks's, Susan Habacivch's, or Lelah Selby's chemistry classes.
Target Grades: 9-11
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS Algebra, or permission of the instructor.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 5 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Rachel Arney |
HS - PhysicsThis college-preparatory physics course offers a detailed introduction to the methods and concepts of general physics. It provides the student with a strong background in units, measurement, one-dimensional and two-dimensional motion, Newton's laws and their application, gravity, work and energy, momentum, periodic motion, waves, optics, electrostatics, electrodynamics, electrical circuits, and magnetism. The course includes approximately 30 hours of laboratory work, including the study of velocity, acceleration, free fall, two-dimensional motion, torque, Hooke's Law, periodic motion, and the Law of Reflection. The lab work also includes making and using an electroscope and determining the period of a mass-spring system both theoretically and experimentally. A biblical perspective to science is also discussed. The text for the course is Exploring Creation with Physics, Second Edition (the first edition will not be compatible with the course) from Apologia Ministries.
Target Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS Advanced Algebra, or approval from the instructor.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 5 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Justin Myrick |
HS - Asia Survey (2nd Sem)China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Pakistan, India. These Asian nations and others strongly influence world events. They also influence our lives every day in the West. But very few westerners know much about these countries. This course will study the geography, history, religious, socioeconomic, and political development of Asia. It is a one-semester course designed to give the student an overview of the current status and historical development of the Asian nations.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Tuition: $233
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Bob Lemon |
AE - Latin American History (1st Sem)NEW! Come discover what has happened in the jungles and mountains of Latin America. Although this course begins with native cultures of pre-colonial America, the emphasis is on the most recent 500 years of history. From Spanish conquistadors of the 16th century, to Independence movements of the 19th century, Latin America has struggled under a hierarchy of religion, politics, and economics. The post-colonial shift from dictatorships and democracies was influenced by interventions from the USA and elsewhere. World Wars and Cold War pulled 20th century Latin America toward competing interests and opportunities. Within this context a major goal is to learn about the history of Mexico and the the history of Christianity in Latin America in order to better understand current affairs in relation to Christians in the USA. Click here for course details.
Target Grades: 8-10
Prerequisites: None.
Tuition: $200
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Brent Nichols |
HS - Economics (1st Sem)In this one semester economics class we will compare and contrast the market economy that we enjoy with the command economies commonly found in countries with a communist government. We will study how and why the Law of Supply and Demand works in both economic systems. With respect to the market economy we will study the role competition plays, the role of savings and borrowing, the role of government, as well as what makes up the money supply and how it is controlled. We will study money--what it is and is not, what functions it serves, and why all money is not equal. Toward the end of the semester we will look at the supposed benefits and possible perils of a global economy, along with the past, present, and possible future roles of the United Nations. We will also briefly review NAFTA and GATT, treaties which have affected our economy. In the final weeks of course we will talk about savings and investing on a personal level and the problems associated with being in debt. There will be a semester-long project to track and graph the stock market, then invest an imaginary $100,000. You will also have the opportunity to play a currency exchange game with an imaginary $300,000. These projects are not hard - they are fun and take very little time. Part of the final class will be spent discussing your stock market and currency exchange experience. The textbook, Economics: Work and Prosperity (#61263), must be purchased directly from Abeka. Click here for more course information.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 6:30 pm | - | 8:00 pm | Closed | Don Rucker |
HS - Economics (2nd Sem)Please see description for Economics (1st Sem)
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Don Rucker |
HS - PsychologyThe goal of this course is to understand psychology in Biblical perspective. Readings and instruction focus on differentiating science based on biblical truth from the psychobabble of new age humanism. Students will be required to demonstrate a biblical worldview in all their assignments. Detailed essay rubrics will help guide specific writing skills, and creative projects will help clarify the influence of psychology in student experiences. Quizzes over the readings and course supplements are accessed at the publisher's and instructor's websites. With the Honor's option, this course is specifically designed to increase student readiness for success on the Advanced Placement exam in psychology and uses a college level textbook (Exploring Psychology in Modules, David Myers).
Target Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) | Thu | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Brent Nichols |
HS - Gospels and the Life of Christ (1st Sem)Much of the world understands Jesus as a flat, two-dimensional rendering that bears little resemblance to reality. The real Jesus is surprising and, at times, shocking. Throughout the Scriptures, He evokes reactions in people ranging from unbridled devotion to murderous hatred. There is little room for the tepid reaction to the bland image that most people envision. The short life of this Jewish carpenter who lived 2,000 years ago in the Middle East affects virtually every aspect of our lives today, yet many downplay His significance. In this course, students will examine the popular conceptions of Jesus including Jesus in media, art, and literature; the historicity and reliability of the accounts of the Gospels; and, most significantly, will delve into the pages of Scripture to understand more of this Messiah, His miracles, His teachings, and His call on our lives. Students in this course will gain a new depth of understanding for Christ, who was prophesied from the beginning of time and who has changed our world and our eternity.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) | Wed | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Daniel Wiiki |
HS - Microsoft Office Applications 1MS Office is the standard for almost all corporate, government, and military environments, making a working knowledge of the MS Office products a valuable skill and often even a job prerequisite. This course will focus on the requirements to pass the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exams in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These are the basic skills sought by employers, and they will also provide a strong foundation for Microsoft certification exams. Students will learn Level 1 in both Word and Excel. Level 2 will be covered in MS Office Applications II. After completing this course, students whould be well prepared to take the Specialist level exams in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Students will be required to have MS Word 2010, MS Excel 2010, and MS PowerPoint 2010 (earlier versions of these applications will not suffice). This course is specifically for PC users. If you have a Mac, you will need to obtain the PC version of MS Office 2010, which will require software to allow the Mac to emulate a PC. (Click here for more information regarding the required software and text.) This class will be smaller that the average TPS class in order to provide individual assistance during class time.
Target Grades: 7-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Mon | 10:00 pm | - | 11:30 pm | Closed | Bob Madison |
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) P | Tue | 6:30 pm | - | 8:00 pm | Closed | Bob Madison |
HS - Microsoft Excel (2nd Sem)See course description for Microsoft Excel (1st Sem).
Target Grades: 7-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Bob Madison |
HS - Microsoft Word (1st Sem)This intensive one-semester course will introduce students to the world of document creation and customization, giving them working knowledge of how to organize and format content in an efficient and engaging way. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have covered all of the topics tested on the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Exams in Word 2010. After completing Level 1 of Word (first eight weeks), students will have learned the objectives for the Specialist Level MOS exam. At the end of the semester, we will have covered the objectives for the Expert Level MOS exam. For course material requirements and more specific information, click here. In order to provide maximum individualized assistance during class time, this class will be limited to fewer students.
Target Grades: 7-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Bob Madison |
E8 - Microsoft Power Point (8 week - 1st Sem)This intensive eight-week mini-course will introduce students to the world of dynamic presentations and give them working knowledge of how to assemble and manipulate slides and make an engaging presentation. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have covered all of the topics tested on the Microsoft Office Specialist Exam in PowerPoint 2010. For course material requirements and more specific information, click here. In order to provide maximum individualized assistance during class time, this class will be limited to fewer students.
NOTE: Section 1 of this course meet during weeks 1-8 of the first semester. Section 2 of this course meets during weeks 9-16 of the first semester.
Target Grades: 7-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $117
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) P | Thu | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Bob Madison |
HS - Basic Web Design 1Web design is an exciting confluence of techniques and technologies that enable a designer to bring a rich internet experience to users. This Web Design 1 course is the first in a unique, multi-year Web Design track and is designed to introduce students to the fundamental techniques and technologies involved in creating attractive and effective web pages. Students in this course will learn the basic elements of web page structure (HTML markup), style (Cascading Style Sheets), and behavior (JavaScript). Web forms (interactive web pages) are introduced together with the client-server paradigm. The TPS web development server, on which students are given accounts, facilitates CGI scripting in Python, allowing the student to build dynamic web pages, responding to user data and navigation requests from web forms and navigation. In order to complete this aspect of the course, students will be introduced to the Python programming language to the extent necessary to build basic CGI scripts. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be capable of developing a fully functional web site and be adequately prepared for TPS Web Design 2.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Prior successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in TPS Computer Programming in Python (Level 1) is recommended, but not required.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Thu | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Mark Connor |
HS - Basic Web Design 2This second course in the TPS web design track expands and builds on the topics introduced in Web Design 1. Students will be introduced to the MySQL database management system (DBMS) and learn fundamental Structured Query Language (SQL) to interface with the DBMS. Then students will learn to program Python to utilize SQL and interact with MySQL database files. JavaScript will be formally taught from primitive variables through Object-Oriented code design, facilitating student's learning of many new JavaScript techniques, from custom pop-ups to animation to manipulating style sheets. As Regular Expressions in JavaScript are introduced, students will be able to improve their form validation techniques significantly. Images, their formats, and optimization schemes will be discussed together with common software tools used for image manipulation, like Adobe Photoshop and Fireworks. Once students in this course are introduced to jQuery, a cross-browser compatible JavaScript framework, they will be able to easily manipulate the Document Object Model and add web effects. Asynchronous JavaScript and XML will be introduced, allowing the web page to maintain its own state and retrieve information/HTML from the server without ever submitting the web form. If time permits, a brief introduction to HTML 5 web design concepts will be provided. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to create professional-looking, fully functional web sites, integrating the latest JavaScript techniques and database interactions.
Target Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion of TPS Basic Web Design 1, or approval from the instructor.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Mon | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Mark Connor |
HS - Computer Programming in Python (Level 1)Python is a complete object-oriented programming language, quickly becoming the language of choice for many companies. Python is free, ubiquitous, and combines the best characteristics of compiled and scripting languages, such as being easily coded and maintained, yet fast. In this introductory course, students will learn the language syntax, how to write code, how to code an object-oriented design, and how to solve a variety of real world problems with Python and utilize design patterns, such as a Singleton. Students will also be introduced to multithreaded coding development and techniques in inter-process communication, such as the use of FIFOs, queues, and files. Creating Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) with Tcl will be explored and, if time permits, CGI scripting with Python for web servers, and network programming with sockets. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have coding experience, have mastered many aspects of coding with Python to solve real-world problems, and be able to take this skill and employ it in to other courses, such as math, physics, and web design.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS Algebra, or approval from the teacher.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Mark Connor |
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) P | Wed | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Mark Connor |
HS - Computer Programming in Game Development (Level 2)NEW! Computer Programming in Game Development is for the student that has some experience with Python and is interested in developing 3D computer games. No prior game development experience is necessary. This course is for both PC and Mac platforms. Computer Programming in Game Development will be taught through the Python language with the module Pygame. PyOpenGL will also be integrated. Nevertheless, the ideas presented will be, in general, applicable to other languages. Pygame is a Python application that binds the Python language to the game creation library called Simple DirectMedia Layer, or SDL. SDL handles the lower level tasks of interfacing with the specific video, sound, and input devices across various platforms. SDL also works seamlessly with Open Graphics Library, called OpenGL (via the Python binding PyOpenGL). OpenGL is a cross-platform application programming interface (API) permitting applications to write both 2D and 3D computer graphics. More specifically, OpenGL offers over 250 function calls used to draw complex 3D scenes from simple geometric primitives. These function calls interact with the graphics processor on your video card through the drivers supplied by the video card manufacturer. As a student in this class, these will be your tools. You will spend your time programming Python and learning to call Pygame functions to build your scene. Major topics you will learn include: Introduction to Pygame; Creating visuals; frame rate and exploring vectors; keyboard, mouse, and joystick control; exploring artificial intelligence (AI) and implementing state machines; Matrices and OpenGL; and working with textures and models.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion (B or higher) of TPS Computer Programming in Python (Level 1), or approval from the instructor.
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Wed | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Mark Connor |
HS - Contemporary Music HarmonyIf you want to understand how harmony and chord progressions work in today's popular praise and worship music, then this one-year course is designed with you in mind! Although primarily aimed at keyboardists, guitarists, and bassists, this course will benefit any musician who aspires to compose, arrange, lead, or perform popular contemporary music. Students will thoroughly explore major and minor scales, modes, keys and key signatures, intervals, triads, four- and five-part chords, upper-structure chords, chord extensions, chord-scale relationships, voice-leading principles, and harmonic analysis of popular tunes. Assignments will include written exercises in interval-building, scale/mode-building, chord-building, chord-voicing, and voice-leading, as well as other assignments. We will pay particular attention to interpreting chord symbols from "lead sheet" notation. Furthermore, students will then apply this knowledge in a stylistically appropriate manner to whatever instruments they play. The course will even include a significant ear-training component. This class is intended for high school students comfortable with reading standard music notation. Plug in your axe, turn on your amp, crank up the volume, and get ready to make a joyful noise!
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Potential students should be comfortable reading standard music notation.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 6:30 pm | - | 8:00 pm | Closed | David Hammer |
AE - PhotographyPhotography is an exciting, year-long course that introduces students to all things photography: composition, exposure, light, camera controls, photo gear and equipment, developing creative vision, and more. Thorough class critiques, consistent shooting, and skill-building assignments with evaluation and feedback from the instructor to assist students in applying techniques to their images. The first semester of this course focuses on camera operation, composition, and basic reciprocity (the rule of thirds, depth, aperture, shutter speeds, ISO, etc.), light, and camera equipment, with an introduction to portraiture and photojournalism. In the second semester, students dig deeper into more advanced techniques of composition and exposure (color/shape theory, exposure systems, lines and angles, etc.), work with concepts, expand their creative limits, hone their photographic eye, and practice the basics of digital post-production. Upon successful completion of this course, students have a portfolio of images, ability to evaluate/critique their own work, and a firm foundation in the fundamentals photography. A digital SLR with owner’s manual and compatible lens/es (or instructor approval of camera) are required for this course.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $400
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | Brianna Tittel |
HS - Introduction to BusinessHow does the economy affect your family? How does your family affect the economy? This class will look first at the big picture economy and then consider how individuals interact with the economy. It will compare and contrast our economy with other economic systems, such as command economies found under Socialism and Communism as well as traditional economies found in lesser developed countries. Then students will study banking, credit, insurance, property ownership, employment, and business ownership. There will be some outside reading and year-long projects, including stock market tracking and analysis. These projects are not hard - they do not take too much time, and they are fun! Upon completion of this course, students will have a practical understanding of different types of insurance, checking and savings accounts, credit and credit cards, the fundamentals of the stock market, and the relationship between risk and return in an investment. This class will be practical and fun! Click here for more information.
Target Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $466
| Section 1 (2011 Overseas) P | Tue | 6:30 pm | - | 8:00 pm | Closed | Don Rucker |
AE - Study Skills (2nd Sem)Please see course description for "Study Skills (1st Sem)".
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $200
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) | Mon | 6:30 pm | - | 8:00 pm | Closed | Todd Frederick |
HS - Career Planning (1st Sem)Selecting the right career for which to prepare in college is one of the most important decisions a student faces! What makes this decision critical are the economic, educational, and technical changes taking place in today’s rapidly changing and competitive marketplace. Along with these changes, escalating college costs have made it essential for students and parents to begin thinking, planning, and preparing systematically in advance for this important decision. The objectives of this course are to guide and teach students in (1) discovering their God-given unique personality and its potential influence on their career options and selection, (2) exploring realistic and rewarding career options, and (3) selecting and preparing for a satisfying and God-honoring career that makes the most of your personality and its unique characteristics. The goal of this course is to enable students to identify their career options and select the college major that fits. Click here for more information about the course.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Sample class: View
Tuition: $233
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) P | Tue | 8:15 pm | - | 9:45 pm | Closed | John Schwaiger |
HS - College Preparation (2nd Sem)Among the most confusing, complicated, and costly tasks facing today’s high school students and their parents are selecting the right college for a student to attend and paying for it. This course is designed to help students and parents clear potential confusion surrounding the college preparation process and gain clear insights into the processes for college selection, application, and admission. Topics covered in this course include reviewing a sound college selection process, evaluating the question of a gap year, identifying financial aid and scholarships, understanding credit and money management, and preparing for the changes and challenges of college life. Students will also be taught and encouraged to think about and articulate credible reasons for wanting to go or not go to college, explore and evaluate realistic college options, and plan and prepare financially for college expenses. The goal of this course is teach students and parents to begin planning and preparing for a rich and rewarding college experience. Click here for more information.
Target Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None.
Tuition: $233
| Section 2 (2011 Overseas) P | Tue | 6:30 pm | - | 8:00 pm | Closed | John Schwaiger |
SJ - Grammar Foundations for EnglishNEW! Grammar can be fun! Designed for students needing an extra boost to prepare for English courses in the core curriculum, Grammar Foundations explores the parts of speech in a creative format, crafting sentences with the building blocks of language. Highly visual methods, using color coding and simple explanations, provide the student a fun and easy approach to learning. We will learn the basic sentence patterns and build increasingly sophisticated sentence structures with phrases and clauses. Students will learn to analyze sentences by breaking down the parts, understanding the components, and rebuilding stronger sentences with a better understanding of mature sentence structure; diagramming sentences has never been so easy to understand. Students will take one mid-term and one final exam. Parents will need to check work for which answer keys are provided.
Target Grades: 7-9
Prerequisites: None.
Tuition: $210
| Section 105 (2011 Summer Overseas) | Tue+Thu | 8:00 pm | - | 9:50 pm | Closed | Ruth Ann Frederick |
