Ascension Christian is the first, and currently the only, Certified S.T.E.M. school in Louisiana
2017 ACT SCORES
2015 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
State Approved and Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
ACADEMIC PHILOSOPHY OF ASCENSION CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
Ascension Christian High exists to reach the youth of Ascension Parish for Christ through education. Ascension Christian High accommodates the required number of credits for students to attain TOPS Core Curriculum courses and scholarships. In addition ACH offers electives that may include dual enrollment options with four year colleges and local community and technical colleges. With a simple 7 period schedule, Ascension Christian High offers students the opportunity to acquire up to 8 total credits per school year. All core courses (Math, English, Science, Social Studies) are taught throughout the year, August-May. Electives are scheduled by the semester (August – December or January – May). Our commitment is to maintain small classes, a low student to faculty ratio, and the hiring of the best and brightest Christian teachers who are prepared to lead and serve in a fast changing world. College courses, honors and non-honors courses are available. ACH, in partnership with Southeastern Louisiana State University, offers options of over 40 college courses to its students whose scores and work ethic indicate college readiness. ACH through community partnerships provides welding certification courses for students 16 and older. Scholarships may be available. For more information about college and/or technical school classes offered as part of the routine curriculum at ACH, please contact the Guidance Office at 225-622-2800. ACH is registered with the College Board and is an official ACT Testing Center. ACH offers students the opportunity to take the ACT on campus for every scheduled testing date. Space is limited and students are encouraged to register as early as possible.
Ascension Christian uses the ACT Aspire Test for grades 8-12.
Benchmarks for All ACT Tests Preparation for the ASPIRE Registration and Study Preparation for The ACT ACT Suggests How to Improve Your Current Scores. Ascension Christian teachers use these strategies in the classroom routinely to assist students in improving their testing performances. Strategies to improve in each subject area are listed on this link under “View or Print the Standards”
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- Mathematics
- Science
- English
- Social Studies
- Foreign Language
- Fine Arts
- Health and P.E.
- Bible Classes
- Electives
To call the office, dial 225-622-2800.
Thank you.
ALGEBRA I
Grade: 8 or 9
Prerequisites: Math 8 or Pre-Algebra
Course Description: This course is the foundation for high school mathematics courses. It is the bridge from the concrete to the abstract study of mathematics. Topics include simplifying expressions, evaluating and solving equations and inequalities, and graphing linear and quadratic functions and relations. Real world applications are presented within the course content and a function’s approach is emphasized.
ALGEBRA II
Grade: 10-11
Prerequisites: Geometry or Algebra I Recommendation
Course Description: Utilizes a functional approach that serves as the organizing principle tying concepts together. Functions are introduced early in most chapters and later in others in various formats. This approach supports the Rule of Four, which states that functions are represented symbolically, numerically, graphically, and verbally. In chapters where a new function is introduced, all concepts pertaining to that function are fully developed. The solutions of equations and inequalities pertaining to that particular function
GEOMETRY
Grade: 9-11
Prerequisites: Algebra I Recommendation
Course Description: This course develops a structured mathematical system employing both deductive and inductive reasoning. It includes plane, spatial, coordinate, and transformational geometry. Algebraic methods are used to solve problems involving geometric principles.
FINANCIAL MATH
Grade: 10-12
Course Description: This course is designed to give students expanded knowledge of mathematic applications for personal use and business applications. The curriculum for personal use applications includes financing costs and loan procedures, as well as major consumer expenses and earnings—auto/housing/insurance/wages/benefits/banking/investing. The curriculum for business applications includes the cost of recruiting, hiring, training, maintaining employees; manufacturing/production costs; purchasing/selling/marketing costs; transportation/warehousing/inventory costs; and financial management and planning. The use of the calculator is integrated throughout the course and computer applications are introduced.
PRECALCULUS (Advanced Math)
Grade: 11th -12th
Prerequisites: Algebra II and Teacher Recommendation
Course Description: This course extends and integrates concepts from algebra and geometry. It includes a study of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions, inverse and second degree relations and their graphs. Other topics include complex numbers, polar coordinates, vectors, sequences and series.
CALCULUS AB/AP
Grade: 12th
Prerequisites: Precalculus or Precalculus Honors (Advanced Math)
Course Description: This course includes differential and integral calculus with applications of previous math courses. The intent is preparation for college and/or one or more semesters of advanced placement calculus. Topics include: limits of a function, continuity, maxima and minima, area, volume, and other applications. Students will prepare to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam.
SLU Duel Enrollment Courses
Grade: 11th & 12th
Prerequisites: Math Standardized Test Score 19 and Composite 18, honors math classes and teacher recommendation
College Algebra: Math 161
Course Description: Math 161 is a study of families of functions and their graphs. Topics include linear, polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions. Functions will be used to model and solve application-based problems.
College Trigonometry: Math 162
Course Description: Topics include the trigonometric functions and their graphs, inverse trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities and equations, and vectors. Trigonometry and trigonometric functions will be used to model and solve real world applications.
Business Calculus: Math 163
Course Description: Math 163 is an introduction to differential and integral calculus designed for students majoring in business, biology, psychology, industrial technology, economics and other social sciences. Topics include limits, the first and second derivative, the first and second derivative test for relative extrema, the definite and indefinite integral, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Calculus will be used to solve real world applications.
EARTH SCIENCE
Grade: 8
Course Description: Earth science course provides students with an understanding of the general concepts of earth science. Students will learn the structure and composition of the earth including the earth’s atmosphere, oceans, surface waters, landmasses and interior. Students investigate the dynamics of the earth’s changing surface and the role that energy plays in earth systems. Students learn how the earth’s ecological systems support life through environmental relationships and natural cycles. Students develop an understanding of ecological resources and wildlife conservation. Students relate the flow of matter and energy within an ecosystem. Through “hands-on” investigation, students learn to conduct scientific investigations, think scientifically, and use scientific tools and technologies. Students learn to communicate scientific information and processes, and understand how developments in science and technology affect society and the environment.
BIOLOGY I
Grade: 9-10
Course Description: The biology curriculum can be broken down into two components: microbiology and zoology. Students will learn about biochemistry, a comprehensive unit on cell structure, function, homeostasis, and cell division. Current cutting edge topics and bioethical issues such as stem cells, cloning, and cancer will be touched upon. Studies will continue with a detailed understanding of DNA, basic genetics, human genetics, and biotechnology and its impact on society. These units lead into a study of viruses and bacteria. Natural science and the theory of evolution are introduced. The course concludes with a survey of the animal kingdom incorporating aspects of all other units covered. Lab work is presented to reinforce concepts taught in class.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Grade: 9-10
Course Description: This course explores the physical world. The interaction of matter and energy is the foundation for this hands-on, discovery based course. Extensive lab work, student centered activities, real life applications, utilizing the scientific method and the process of science will be the focus throughout the course. The student will gain the invaluable skills needed to be successful in Chemistry and Physics.
CHEMISTRY I
Grade: 11
Prerequisites: Biology I and Physical Science
Course Description: Chemistry is organized around major concepts of matter, structure, energy, and change. This course will emphasize the principles and laws that describe the conservation of matter, changes in the structure of matter, and changes in energy. Substances can be described by their chemical structure or properties. Substances can be made of molecules and these molecules are made of atoms. The properties of water are very different from the properties of hydrogen or oxygen of which it is composed. When parts come together, the whole often has properties that are very different from its parts. The formation of compounds results in a great diversity of matter from a limited number of elements. When matter combines, energy is absorbed or released and matter is rearranged to make new substances with new properties.
COLLEGE CHEMISTRY I & 2 –Southeastern Louisiana University Early Start
Grade: 11-12
Perquisites: Biology I, Physical Science and Teacher Recommendation
Course Description: The first of a two semester sequence covering the following general topics: metric and temperature conversions, density, calorimetry, mixtures/compounds/elements, chemical and physical properties, structure of the atom and electron configuration, periodic table, bonding, chemical formulas and nomenclature, moles, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, gas laws, and properties of gases, liquids and solids.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Grades 11-12
Course Description: Environmental Science is a science course that enables students to develop an understanding of natural and man-made environments and environmental problems the world faces. Students explore environmental science concepts through an inquiry-based approach.. Topics covered: The Living World, Human Population, Water and Land Resources, Energy Resources and Consumption, Pollution and Waste Production, Global Change, and Civic Responsibility.
BIOLOGY II
Grades 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology I, Chemistry I
Course Description: Biology II is a laboratory – based course that continues the study of life. The units studied will include biochemical life processes; molecular basis of heredity; natural selection and populations; behavior patterns; and advanced classification and organism studies. Critical thinking skills, projects, research, and group laboratory activities will be emphasized in each unit.
COLLEGE BIOLOGY – Southeastern Louisiana University Early Start
Grades 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology I, Chemistry I, Teacher Recommendation
Principles of biology from the cellular level including biochemistry, cell biology, metabolism, photosynthesis, molecular biology, and genetics. This course is designed for students planning to major in biology or related discipline
PHYSICS
Grades 11-12
Recommended pre-requisites: Physical Science, Algebra II or Pre-Calculus
Physics is a laboratory science course that examines the relationship between matter and energy and how they interact. This course will have a strong emphasis in the mathematics of physics. Students explore physics concepts through an inquiry approach. Embedded standards for Inquiry, Technology & Engineering, and Mathematics are taught in the context of the content standards for Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Waves and Sound, Light and Optics, Electricity and Magnetism and Atomic & Nuclear Science
ELA
Grade 8
Course Description: English 8 is designed to involve the student in applying reading, writing, listening, speaking, and viewing skills in an independent manner through meaningful interdisciplinary tasks. Students will continue to develop an appreciation for literature through the study of literary elements in classic and contemporary selections. Emphasis is placed on moving from the literal to the abstract in the students’ critical thinking skills and in the use of language.
ENGLISH I
Grades 9
Course Description: This course will focus on a concentrated review of traditional English grammar with a goal towards writing and will introduce students to literature in the form of novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. Instruction will center on preparing the beginning high school student for the more advanced levels of high school English.
ENGLISH II
Grades 9
Prerequisites: English I
This course engages students in an extensive study of the short story form, helping them to acquire a critical vocabulary and learn specifically about the literary elements of Plot, Character, Setting, Theme, Style, Tone, and Point of View. The writing component focuses on literary analysis and interpretation, with an emphasis on organization, structure, and thesis statement development. Regular vocabulary study is required. Students study multiple or longer works by major authors as well as literary criticism. The writing component focuses on research, with students preparing a major documented research essay on a literary topic.
ENGLISH III
Grades 11
Prerequisites: English I & II
English III focuses on an understanding of the works of major American writers. The literature units are studied in chronological order, beginning with the Colonial Period and ending with the Modern Period. Through an analytical study of literature, using essays, articles, short stories, and poetry, studies concentrate on historical influence, author’s purpose, and literary devices for various literary genres. A review of traditional grammar is emphasized throughout the course, especially those units that will enhance students’ writing skills. Major selections include The Crucible, The Testament by John Grisham, and The Great Gatsby.
ENGLISH IV
Grades 12
Prerequisites: English I, II, III
Course Description: English IV uses analysis and evaluation of drama, novels, poetry, short stories, and nonfiction essays as the foundation of the course. The main focus of the course is a survey of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon Period to the Modern Period. Each unit contains, in addition to representative literary works, an emphasis on historical events, religious developments, and cultural context that influenced the writers of each period and their readers. Major selections include Beowulf, The Canterbury Tales, Macbeth, and the works of classical poets of the different periods. Outside readings are chosen from British novels, most notably Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, and Charlotte Brontë.
ENGLISH IV Honors (Southeastern Louisiana University Early Start)
Grades 12
Prerequisites: English I, II, III, Teacher Recommendation
Course Description: uses analysis and evaluation of drama, novels, poetry, short stories, and nonfiction essays as the foundation of the course. The main focus of the course is a survey of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon Period to the Modern Period. Each unit contains, in addition to representative literary works, an emphasis on historical events, religious developments, and cultural context that influenced the writers of each period and their readers. Major selections include Beowulf, The Canterbury Tales, Macbeth, and the works of classical poets of the different periods. Outside readings are chosen from twentieth-century novels. Also offered for Honors credit.
LOUISIANA HISTORY
Grade 8
Course Description: Louisiana History is the study of how our state is an integral part of the United States. Through studies in Geography, Economics, Government and History, students learn about Louisiana and its role in United States History. The major goal of Louisiana History is for students to connect what they are learning in the classroom to what is happening in the world around them. Also students will make a deeper connection to how our state operates and why it is a unique place to live.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY
Grade 9
Course Description: This course emphasizes the interdependency of the world community and the role that geography plays in the study of all histories. The course provides the student with knowledge of the physical geography through the study of landforms, features and the location of significant places on earth and why they are in that location. Human geography is stressed though the study of social, cultural, economic and political interactions among countries and peoples.
CIVICS
Grade 10
Course Description: Through the study of Civics and Free Enterprise, students will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to become responsible and effective citizens in an interdependent world. Students will need a practical understanding of these systems of civics and economics that affect their lives as consumers and citizens. Furthermore, this course serves as a foundation for American History.
COLLEGE US HISTORY – Southeastern Louisiana University Early Start
Grade 11
Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation
Course Description: This course is a survey of American History from the age of discovery to 1877. There are four units on the Colonial period (1492-1763); the Revolution and early national period (1763-1816); the age of compromise (1816-1850); and the Civil War and reconstruction (1850-1877.)
AMERICAN HISTORY
Grade 11
Course Description: The blessed state of freedom that we enjoy in the United States of America is maintained by a self- governed people who cherish their nation and the principles upon which it is built As students study United States History from colonization of America to present, they will consider geographic, cultural, economic, and governmental changes that have occurred. Students will develop a deeper understanding of their role as a citizen and continue to expand their command of social studies skills and methods. Topics to be covered include early life in America, war for Independence, westward expansion, the progressive era, the Roaring 20s, World War I and II, Vietnam era and the end of the 20th century
AMERICAN HISTORY (Honors)– Southeastern Louisiana University Early Start
Grade 11-12
Course Description: This course is a survey of Western Civilization from prehistoric times to 1500. There are four units on the Ancient Near East, the Ancient Greeks, the Ancient Roman World, and the Middle Ages. These units will include in-depth coverage of the role of women.
Honors courses are available in all the above Core Curriculum Courses. Past grades, standardized tests scores and teacher recommendations are considered for Honors placement.
SPANISH I
Grade 10
Course Description: In this course students will explore the basic grammar and vocabulary of the Spanish language. They will be able to recognize the language in spoken and written forms. Students will be able generate oral and written products. Throughout the course a survey of various Spanish speaking countries will allow students to make comparisons of cultures.
SPANISH II
Grade 10-12
Prerequisites: Spanish I
Course Description: In this course students will explore advanced levels of grammar and vocabulary of the Spanish language. They will be able to synthesize and understand different tenses in spoken and written forms. Students will be able generate oral and written products. Throughout the course a survey of various Spanish speaking countries will allow students to make comparisons of cultures.
ART I
Grade 9-12
Course Description: Students will be exploring the visual arts, with the 7 elements and principles of design. Art benchmarks are reached through a variety of media. Critical thinking is developed through aesthetic perception in order to extend communication through visual art works. An important component of this course is learning the art of creating a working sketch diary that can be used as a future reference of their ideas and planning.
ART II
Grade 11-12
Prerequisites: Art I
Course Description: Students extend and refine the use of visual arts elements, principles of design and arts benchmarks though a variety of media. They develop collaboration and cross cultural skills while developing communication through visual arts. They will refine their skills and aesthetic perception to guide further studies. An important component of this course is learning the art of presentation of their work through a portfolio.
MEDIA ARTS
Grade 11-12
Prerequisites: English II and Speech I recommended
Course Description: Provides a unique experience in teamwork and learning. In this course you will learn television broadcasting, news production, digital media, yearbook design, photography, and much more. You will learn how to use Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Premier Pro (video editing), Microsoft Publisher, and much more. This course is project-based, which means that you will not complete work in this class like you’ve done in most of the other classes you’ve taken. As a project-based learning environment, students are busy with multiple projects and need to be self-directed to be most successful. This course is loads of fun, but it does require students to meet deadlines routinely.
ORCHESTRA I-IV
Grade 9-12
Course Description: Orchestra is a music course open to students with previous music experience. Class activities emphasize the development of string instrument technique, tone production, tuning, fundamentals of music theory, music reading, and listening skills.
THEATER
Grade 10-12
Prerequisite: Speech I
Course Description: Theatre is an introductory course designed to teach students the various elements of the theatre and to encourage students in further participation. Students will examine and study the role that acting, directing, sound, lights, set, costume, make-up, and publicity play in the creation of a production. Students will be required to participate daily in activities through rehearsal, discussion, projects, and one professional production during the semester. Students will also learn the basic approach to working comfortably on the stage through warm-ups, monologues, scene work and improvisation. Basic techniques of movement, voice projection, character development, and performance will be taught.
CHOIR
Grade 10-12
Course Description:The Music Department at ACH is offering full academic credit for the ACH Choir. This course emphasizes voice building, music reading and concert performances. We will explore many different musical styles ranging from classical to contemporary. Students will BE given the opportunity to compete in District and State-wide competitions, Solo and ensemble festivals, and the annual choir festival as well.
HEALTH
Grade 9
Course Description: This course focuses on giving students accurate information on the following topics: Physical, mental, emotional, spiritual and social health as well as community and consumer health, nutrition, substance use and abuse, diseases (communicable and non-communicable), safety and first aid. This course is designed for students to help improve their quality of life and learn to make good choices. An emphasis is placed on decision making skills and cooperative learning.
PE
Grade 8-12
Course Description: This course will focus on the concept of ‘Fitness For Life’ designed to help students identify the what, why and how of exercise, and to guide them toward personal lifetime exercise and fitness. In addition, a variety of activities will be provided including: team games, individual sports, fitness training/testing, aerobics, and adventure learning skills.
BIBLE
Grade 8
Course Description: This course’s units include: Introduction to the New Testament, the Gospels (special focus on Matthew), the Life of Jesus, the Acts of the Apostles, how to Share Christ with your Friends, and God’s Will for your Life.
NEW TESTAMENT SURVEY
Grade 9-12
Course Description: A survey through the books of the New Testament, emphasizing their historical, theological and thematic connections as well as the message of each individual book. The books are viewed both individually and collectively. Students will explore and discuss bible doctrine, personal and practical applications, and the Christians life. Students will gain a clearer understanding of and become more enthusiastic for biblical doctrine, theology, salvation, and the life of the believer.
OLD TESTAMENT SURVEY
Grade 9-12
Course Description: A survey through the books of the Old Testament, emphasizing their historical, theological and thematic connections as well as the main meaning and message of each individual book. The books are viewed both individually and collectively. Students will be introduced to and acquire a clearer understanding of Old Testament Character’s, prophecies, types and shadow’s and their place and part in God’s plan for man and His preparation for the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ.
LIFE OF CHRIST
Grade 9-12
Course Description: Life of Christ will help students become familiar with the background, events and chronology of the life of Christ. Students will get to know Jesus by considering His attitudes, actions, emotions and teachings. The theological, spiritual and practical elements of his life and ministry are emphasized. His goals, motivations and methods in fulfilling His Father’s will. In “Life of Christ” our goal is to know Christ and make Him known.
SPEECH I
Grade 9-12
Course Description: Students develop an understanding of both basic communication principles and public speaking. In this introductory course, students have an opportunity to gain skill, confidence, and fluency in public speaking strategies through their application of these principles to a variety of speaking assignments. Students will learn about the role of communication in their lives, the communication model, delivery styles, and the effectiveness of language, gestures, and organization techniques
IBCA (Computer)
Grade 8-12
Course Description: In this Introduction to Business Computer Applications course you will expand your skills in the use of the computer. Through hands-on projects and assignments, you will learn how to efficiently use common software applications such as MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint as well as basic computer and software maintenance and keyboarding.
BCA (Computer)
Grade 10-12
Prerequisite: IBCA
Course Description: Computer terminology, hardware, software, operating systems, and information systems relating to the business environment will be covered. The main focus of this course is on business applications of software, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation graphics, and business-oriented utilization of the Internet.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Grade 11-12
Course Description: While focusing on the student’s role as citizen, student, family member, consumer, and active participant in the business world, Financial Planning informs students of their various financial responsibilities. This class provides opportunities for self-awareness, expression, and satisfaction in a highly technical and competitive society. Students discover new ways to maximize their earning potential, develop strategies for managing their resources, explore skills for the wise use of credit, and gain insight into the different ways of investing money. Students will inquire principles of managing finances according to Biblical principles.
PSYCHOLOGY
Grades 10-12
Course Description: Introductory Psychology is a beginning study of the subject of psychology. Some of the topics studied are principles of learning, types of personality, understanding human behavior, patterns of behavior, emotional and behavioral adjustments, group influences, and psychology and society. This is an elective course.
SPORTS MEDICINE
Grade 9-12
Course Description: This course is designed for students interested in the career of athletic training. The primary focus will include, but not be limited to, the following topics: The Sports Medicine Team, organization and administration, injury prevention, physical training and conditioning techniques, Nutritional considerations, Protective sports equipment, Psychology of sport injury/illness, mechanisms and characteristics of sports trauma, tissue response to injury, human anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, CPR/bloodborne pathogens, injury assessment and evaluation, environmental concerns, basic taping and bandaging, explanations of therapeutic modalities, basic exercise rehabilitation, drug use/abuse in sports, and skin disorders. Students may be required to engage in practical experience outside of class for the purpose of applying knowledge and techniques learned in class.
FOOD & NUTRITION
Grade 9-12
Course Description: This elective course focuses on the development of skills needed to select, prepare and serve foods which meets nutritional needs of individuals and families. Emphasis of this course is given to the development of competencies related to nutrition, weight control and the food consumer, the effect of technology on food and nutrition, kitchen organization and equipment, safety and sanitation, menu planning, serving and eating food, food preparation, eating away from home and jobs and career opportunities in the field of food and nutrition. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to apply sound nutritional practices which will have a positive effect on their health.
EDUCATION FOR CAREERS
Grade 9-10
Course Description: Students learn skills to make informed choices in school and develop career plans. Course work includes, discovering their strengths, skills, values, and passions, development of a self-profile, creating a budget for a desired life style ,and career exploration with application to future career planning and decision making. Activities include: Internet research, guest speakers, mock job interviews, etc.