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The Reformed Bible Church Home Educators' Academy
2008-09 Calendar

$1.00(per week) CLASSES OFFERED TO HOME SCHOOLING FAMILIES ONLY

All $1.00 classes are offered on Fridays only, beginning October 3rd and continuing until the end of May. A student will only pay $1.00 whether he or she is registered for one or more classes. The full day of classes offered on Friday is below, at the end of the class descriptions.

Orientation Day: Friday, September 26th  This is a very important half day! Students meet the teachers and other students, as well as receive important instructions.

IMPORTANT: Anyone wishing to be part of a Friday class MUST pre-register.

No walk-ins please, since space & supplies are limited. Students attending any of these classes must agree to appropriate dress and behavior as outlined in the Covenantal Agreement, given upon inquiry. Contact information is below, after class descriptions.

Some courses are also offered separately from Fridays in evenings or other time slots, for different fees. Please inquire if interested.

 ABOUT THE TEACHERS: All teachers have been teaching for the past 8+ years in the subjects they are offering, except for the “Boomwacker” class. Some have been (and still are) professionals in their respective fields of study. Some also have college degrees in those areas. All teachers are wholly dedicated to the preservation of the Christian faith, and hold a strong commitment to educating their students with the understanding that Christ is the center of all knowledge

For more information, or to register: call (434)352-2667 or email Eccl3@earthlink.net
 


THE MEANING OF HISTORY AND THE CHAIN OF LIBERTY: A STUDY IN EXPLORATION HISTORY (Approx. age: 8-10)

TEACHER: Pastor Paul Michael Raymond, M.A.C.S.               TIME: 10:05-10:55 weekly

DESCRIPTION: This course begins with the meaning, philosophy and interpretation of history from a Biblical World View. It sets forth the overall plan of God for advancing His Law (Bible) and His Gospel into the entire world, and begins with some of the more pertinent events such as the flood, the dividing of the continents, the Tower of Babel,  then continues through the study of Egyptian exploration through to God’s continued plan for Lewis & Clark’s explorations and discoveries.

  

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: IT’S HISTORY AND INTERPRETATION (Approx. age: 10-13)

 TEACHER Pastor Paul Michael Raymond, M.A.C.S.                TIME: 11:00-11:50 weekly

DESCRIPTION: This course looks at the development and philosophy of politics and government from the beginning of time to the American Republic. It includes a study of the Hebrew Republic, the Greek & Roman views of government & politics, as well as the Medieval, Renaissance, Reformation, Puritan & Enlightenment influences upon our American system. This course will build upon past information about the Classical, Medieval & Renaissance Ages (taught in Pastor Paul’s previous courses). This course is designed for students in middle school age, approx. 10-13, who can comfortably take notes, however, all ages welcome.

  

THEOLOGICAL INTERPRETATION OF AMERICAN HISTORY (Approx. age: 13+)

 Teacher: Pastor Paul Michael Raymond. M.A.C.S.     
TIME: 12:50-1:35 weekly, Oct.-Dec. /
1:40-2:30 weekly, Jan.-May

This course reviews some of the political philosophies of the previous courses and shows how they have affected our own American system of Constitutional Government. Throughout the course, references will be made to the Puritans and the era of the Protestant Reformation. Mostly, this course study will center on the 1600s through WWII, and how the various theological ideals & philosophies throughout history have influenced & shaped the economic & political structure of America. In-depth discussions and evaluations. Course is designed for older high school level students, 13+. Adults welcomed as well!

 

NOTE ABOUT ART TRAINING: The modern “art world” has redefined the original meaning of art as God has intended it to be. The Visual arts have become so disconnected with anything pertaining to Godliness, that in many cases, it has been an outright offense to the Christian, and in turn, many see no need for art in a child’s studies.  In a world where there is so much sin, anger and fear, it is up to the Christian artist to help others to “see” what is good, and help give them hope. I am convicted that the Christian artist must strive to regain the lost territory of the art world, bringing to light the beauty, harmony and order that are hidden in an apparently chaotic world. The language of Art is vital in sharing the Gospel, but it is also important to the student who will learn to see what they otherwise may miss if they don’t learn the patience, peace, perception and imagination that comes with a study of art that begins with the True Master Artist Himself.   Jane Raymond

  

THE VISUAL ARTS: The Creation of the Principles of Art (Basics)

 OVERSEER: Mrs. Jane Raymond                                          TIME: 12:50-1:35 weekly

TEACHER: Desiree Page

God has created all the basic building blocks for fine art, as students will learn from His Bible and the world He made. These principles of art, line &texture, value, color, shape/form, and space, are introduced and practiced in this level. Students will enjoy learning the principles of art through experimentation with a variety of mediums, such as pencil, markers, paints, oil pastels, clay and other materials. But, more than a common art class, they will also be shown the amazing handiwork of the TRUE Master Artist Himself, as they learn to observe and appreciate the beauty in God’s world all around them.  Simple art history will be touched upon, as well as the understanding that the visual arts is an important language to share. This course on Fridays is designed for students, approximately ages 7-9.

  

THE VISUAL ARTS: Building Upon the Principles of Art (Level 2)

 TEACHER: Mrs. Jane Raymond               
TIME: This course begins in January: 1:40-2:30, weekly, till end of May

Attention to detail is stressed at this level, as students review the basic principles of art through their projects & interaction. Using Scripture references, historical biographies and events, students will begin to connect the reasons for the visual arts. They will be encouraged to reflect what they know of the true Master’s character, beauty and creation. They will be exposed to different kinds of artwork, such as mosaics, reliefs, frescoes, sculptures, life drawing, still life, calligraphy,  architecture, and more. In the past, students have been involved with this class level for 2-3 years, but typically in a year’s course, each student produces 3-4 completed art projects. Students are also encouraged to participate in a student art exhibition in the spring. Hopefully, as the students enjoy learning various ways of expression, they will begin to understand that the gift of art is yet another tool God has provided to “speak” to the world about Truth. This class is designed for ages 9-12, but others are welcome.

  

THE VISUAL ARTS: Putting It All Together (Level 3)

TEACHER: Mrs. Jane Raymond  TIME: This course begins in January:11:00-11:50, weekly, till end of May                                                                                     

Assuming the principles of art are understood at this level, students will focus more on compositional work, bringing together various techniques and details learned in the other levels. Emphasis will be on spatial relationship and perspective drawing, in order to fine-tune the student’s overall art abilities. They will study the biographies of master artists, critiquing and learning from their works, as well as each other’s in the class. At this level, students may also learn of modern art/artists, and art from different parts of the world, realizing the affects of art on a culture, and when appropriate, some of these art techniques will be duplicated by students, If time permits, trips to local museums are organized. These older students will learn of ways they may use their God-given talents, not merely to “express THEMSELVES”, but to honor & express the Glory of God within the world around them.

 

A NOTE ABOUT THE PHILOSOPHY OF MUSIC: Music instruction is taught with a view that God has commanded the use of music to glorify Himself and that children can and should learn to make music. As Martin Luther was quoted regarding music: “…The art of the prophets, the only art that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.”  

 

MUSIC: Primary Class: (Approx. age: 7-9)

TEACHER: Mrs. Meghan Coviello          TIME: 10:05-10:55, weekly

 Basic musical skills are focused on at this level, with an emphasis on the joyful production of music within a disciplined setting. These young students are exposed to various styles of music, as well as basic terms and music notation. While rhythm instruments are used throughout the year, a strong focus is placed on the accurate and healthy use the young singing voice, as it is the one instrument that God gives everyone! Approx. ages: 7-9

 

 MUSIC: Middle and Older Levels: (Approx. ages: 10 +)

 TEACHER: Mrs. Meghan Coviello 
TIMES:Middle Level: 12:50-1:35/weekly
Older Level: 11:00-11:50, Oct.-Dec./ 12:50-1:35, Jan.-May 

These levels are traditional choral classes, which focus on the works of the major composers of the past 1500 years. Students learn advanced part-singing and the basics of choral technique, and a portion of the classes is spent learning music theory and reading. A special effort is made to present the Providential historical setting of each piece that the groups study. After the 2 levels study separately, they are later, in January, joined together to prepare themselves to perform a spring concert presentation, usually presented in April. 

  

MUSIC: Learning Percussion with “BOOMWACKERS” (Approx. age: 9-14)

TEACHER: Jessica Raymond TIME: 1:40-2:30, Oct.-Jan. / 2:45-3:25, Jan-May

This unique hands-on class focuses on the basics of percussion. Using pitched plastic tubes, known as “boom-whackers”, each student must coordinate with his group to create a musical ensemble. Through this course, the students learn basic music rhythm, notation, melody, and harmony, as well as teamwork, cooperation and hand-eye coordination. At the end of the school year, usually in the spring along with the choral music groups, the students of the Boomwacker’s class perform what they have learned. This class is specifically designed for 9-14 year-olds, however, younger students will be welcomed, provided they can control themselves and listen to instruction. Older students may be included if they are interested.

 

A NOTE ABOUT THE THEME COURSES: Each year, our theme classes strive to incorporate a wide range of learning, which may include some math, science, literature, and/or history, woven into the subject of the theme. This year, the theme was encouraged by Psalm 104, which mentions a wide variety of God’s majesty and creation.

 

Level 1 Theme Class: The Wonders of Creation (Approx. age: 5-7)

TEACHER: Laura Molluzzo                                  TIME: 11:00-11:50

The students in this class will be in awe of the many wonders in the world around them, created by our Great God. They will be inspired to continue learning as they grow, while they discover about the earth and creatures big and small; the sea and creatures of the deep; mountains & canyons; the moon, planets and space, through the inspiration of Psalm 104. Children will enjoy working together with their classmates with hands-on activities and visuals. They will be encouraged to ask questions and share thoughts. Reading will be encouraged, but these students are not required to read in class. Very little writing will be expected by students. It is important that the students in this level have good listening skills.  Approximate ages: 5-7

 

 Level 2A Theme Class: STUDIES IN GOD’S PROVIDENCE (Approx. age: 8-10)

TEACHER: Mrs. Connie Raymond                         TIME: 10:05-10:55, weekly

 Encouraged by Psalm 104 and Genesis, students will be amazed as they learn of some very interesting animals, as well as earth science, including waterfalls, canyons, mountains, fish, insects, and amphibians. This class is designed to teach students who may be yet struggling with their abilities to read and write, and are of the ages (approx) 8-10 years old. The teaching approach in this class uses much interaction, discussion, hands-on, visuals, and movies, with minimal student reading and note taking.   


 

Level 2B Theme Class:  THE MIGHTY WONDERS OF GOD’S CREATION (Approx. age: 10-12)    

TEACHER: Mrs. Marlene Page                              TIME: 11:00-11:50, weekly  

This class will be studying God’s creation from a scientific perspective, drawing from the truths of Scripture. Topics that will be covered will include: light, the elements of water, land & air, trees, birds, the moon & its effect upon the seas & life therein. The goal in this class is to teach the students how the physical things seen in creation point us to the Lord Jesus Christ, and strengthen our faith in the things unseen. (Ro 1:20) Students in this class are expected to be proficient in reading and writing, and there will be some personal research by students, using outside sources such as current events, library, periodicals and/or the internet (if permitted at home) as well as much interaction and discussion. Approximate age: 10-12.                  

 

Upper Middle/High School Level:  CRITICAL THINKING CLASS (Approx. age: 13+)

TEACHER: Mrs. Debra Dupont                            TIME: 10:05-10:55

 This class is a continuation of a study on formal logic and common fallacies, with an emphasis on forming stable and relevant arguments. (If you are new to the class, please contact the teacher to update you with some of the main points from previous classes.) The class will also examine fallacies closely, and how they can manipulate one into faulty thinking. The entire course will be taught in the context of the Bible, so any letters or debate would have to use the Word of God as the Standard. Students will examine advertisements, news articles, speeches, etc. according to that Standard.  Students will be encouraged to write their opinions and comments to editors, congressmen, and others. This class is very interactive, and students are expected to participate in class, take notes, maintain & organize hand-outs, and keep a journal of news stories or pertinent research information. There will be assignments with deadlines, that need to be completed worked on outside of class. Students will work in teams, of at least 2, for some assignments.  Student age should be at least 13. Adults also welcomed in this class. 


2008-09 Calendar

CLASS SPACE IS LIMITED
STUDENTS MUST REGISTER PRIOR TO ATTENDING.

Ω ALL CLASSES OFFICIALLY BEGIN ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3RD, AND END AT THE END OF MAY WITH A GRADUATION CELEBRATION.

Ω THERE IS A ˝-DAY ORIENTATION ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26TH.

Ω STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE COMMITTED TO THE CLASS(ES) WHICH THEY ARE REGISTERED. 

Ω WORK IS PERIODICALLY TESTED BY TEACHERS FOR ALL FULL DAY STUDENTS.
(If others are interested in testing, please inquire.)

Ω FULL DAY STUDENTS ARE ALSO GIVEN A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION DIPLOMA AT THE END OF THE YEAR.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR A COMPLETE INFORMATION PACKET SENT TO YOU,

call 434-352-2667, or e-mail: Pastor@HisGlory.us,
or write to us:
The Reformed Bible Church |
PO Box 2397, Appomattox, VA 24522

Live sermons – 11:15 a.m., and Bible studies  – 10:00 a.m.,  every Sunday on the Internet:

www.HisGlory.us / www.ReformedBibleChurch.com 

2008-09 Calendar

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