Horizon Christian School - private, Christian school, Hood River, Oregon

Horizon Christian's elementary school provide the basic foundation for a solid academic education. Each elementary grade has daily classes in Bible, math, phonics/language, spelling, writing, as well as health, history, and science. First graders learn sentence structure and basic math, while second graders learn more indepth skills. Fifth grade students are involved in their first heavily researched science projects in preparation for Horizon's Science Fair.

Horizon elementary students also take part in field trips that enhance learning arts and nature.

Teaching elementary subjects are geared for preparing students for the middle school years, spiritually, academically, and socially. To download the complete Grade Course Descriptions, click here.

Kindergarten Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

Student/Teacher Ratio: Maximum 20:1

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
Selected truths and stories are presented from both the Old and New Testament, from Creation on through the prophets and the birth, life, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Bringing children to the saving grace of Jesus Christ and living their lives for him and others, are major themes presented as students memorize scripture and learn about the one true God of the universe.

Phonics
A Beka Phonics begins with the vowels, introducing the short sounds first. Phonics continues by teaching blends (for example, “ba”), beginning with “Bb” and progressing through “Zz”. Silent “e” and double vowels making the long sounds are also introduced, along with special sounds, (for example, “th” and “sh”). Comprehension and demonstration are achieved by marking the vowels and special sounds on daily assignment papers as well as hands-on activities.

Numbers
Basic mastery of the A Beka concepts are taught, practiced, and encouraged throughout the year by: hands-on, board, group, and teamwork, involving number recognition of 1-100 by 1’s, 2’s, 5’s, and 10’s. Time, money, shapes, and patterning are also thoroughly explored using various manipulatives.

Reading
Students are divided into reading groups by ability, and work through the A Beka Readers in a “reading circle.” Students are taught to follow along on the page with their finger. At different times, students will be asked to read a whole page by themselves, or each student will take turns line by line. Each book is taken home upon completion.

Art
Students are taught the fundamentals of art (line, shape, color, texture, and pattern) using a variety of media.

Social Studies
Students are introduced to world geography and children who live in other countries. The goal is to encourage students to want to learn more about other people and places. The curriculum also teaches that God loves not just them, but children all over the world. Students are also exposed to the history and geography of America in order to lay the foundation for further study. The curriculum uses workbooks with colorful pictures and age appropriate stories. Murals, projects and activities are explored with each lesson.

Science
The A Beka “God’s World” science program is a basic introduction to the plan God has had for the world since he brought it into being. Colorful workbooks, projects, and field trips explore the five senses, the weather, the four seasons, and God’s plan for plant growth, seeds, animals, insects, and the seashore.

Handwriting
Proper formation of manuscript writing as well as whole word writing are introduced, followed by punctuation and sentences with comprehension. Colorful and interesting text is used to engage the students’ imagination as well as teach the mechanics of handwriting.

Music
A general program exposes children to a variety of musical styles through listening, singing, movement, rhythm instruments and games. Students participate in two musical performances a year and occasional “mini” performances for parents. The major units taught are: following instructions, singing, movement, worship & prayer/praise, cooperation, rhythm recognition, note values and performance.

First Grade Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

Student/Teacher Ratio: Maximum 20:1

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
Familiar Bible stories are expanded into a theme of “God’s Gifts to Me” as children study how God gives the gifts of the world, families, friends, leaders, salvation, the church, and a way to live. Students learn to pray for each other through a prayer request format.

Reading
The foundation of reading is established by teaching skills and strategies that lead to early independence in decoding and comprehension. The primary objective is to equip students to read (especially the Bible) for themselves, to have a love for reading, and to be literate. Phonics instruction is emphasized as well as kinesthetic approaches to learning letter sounds and blends. Students are exposed to a variety of literature (fiction, non-fiction, poetry, etc.) and participate in small “guided reading” groups. The curriculum also includes a read-at-home program.

Spelling
Through daily lessons, challenge words, and other word forms, spelling focuses on high-frequency words that are used in daily writing. Sight word memorization is also included for reading fluency.

Math
Instruction focuses on mathematical concepts, skills and facts, and review and expansion of these skills throughout the school year using hands-on activities, manipulatives, and math games.

Writing
Students gain skills in writing for a variety of purposes (journaling, writing fiction, expository writing, and sequential writing). Students also participate in a “writer’s workshop” where they write numerous stories and are exposed to the writing process.

Handwriting
Letter formation (alignment, size, shape, and spacing) and the correct handling of pencils and scissors are taught.

Heritage Studies
Students study the history of North America before and up through the arrival of Christopher Columbus. The curriculum includes instruction on Native Americans, pilgrims, and communities through a variety of hands-on projects and activities.

Science
Students explore God’s creation by observation, discovery and hands-on activities. The major units covered are health, the five senses, the ocean, plants, spiders, penguins, and apples. Units are integrated into other content areas, such as writing and math.

Music
A general program exposes children to a variety of musical styles through listening, singing, movement, rhythm instruments, and games. Students participate in two musical performances a year and occasional “mini” performances for parents. The major units taught are: following instructions, singing, movement, worship & prayer/praise, cooperation, rhythm recognition, note values and performance.

Art
Students are introduced to the fundamental elements of art (line, shape, color, texture, and pattern) and will create their own pieces using a variety of media (paint, clay, chalk, and pencil). They will learn to share their works and appreciate other’s works.

Second Grade Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
Students study the character traits demonstrated by individuals in the Bible whose lives are studied in two to three week increments. Traits are studied using the scriptures and doing various activities so that these traits will be emulated in the students’ daily lives. Students will memorize weekly scriptures related to the character trait being studied. Daily prayer is emphasized at the group and individual level, focusing on worship and requests.

Reading
Students develop skills and strategies that emphasize strong phonetics, fluency, accuracy, and comprehension. Students meet in small groups regularly within their reading level to practice these skills and are regularly assessed for individual progress.

Spelling
Spelling focuses on mastery of many high-frequency words in the context of grouping according to phonetic patterns. Spelling is taught using weekly spelling lists with challenge words, a variety of writing activities, games, homework, and centers geared at mastering the words and applying spelling skills in practical ways (writing).

Handwriting
Students continue to develop correct Zaner-Bloss printing. D’Nealian cursive is introduced in the third quarter, practiced intensely, and reviewed throughout the remainder of the year. Handwriting is taught using demonstration, individual practice, individual assessment of correct and incorrect letter formation, and practical usage as handwriting is applied to most subject areas.

Math
Math focuses on the mastery of basic computations to 20, regrouping, numeration to 10,000, addition and subtraction facts through 10 and beginning multiplication. Skills are taught using a combination of short lecture, demonstration, individual and group practice, and a variety of supplementary materials. The introduction of new concepts is regularly combined with continual review of previously learned concepts.

Language
Students develop knowledge of correct sentence structure, basic grammar skills, phonics skills, word rules (suffixes, homonyms, etc.), and beginning dictionary skills. Creative writing and writers’ workshop are a regular part of practicing the concepts learned. Language is taught using a combination of short lecture, demonstration, and individual and group practice.

Social Studies
Students study American history between the time of early colonization through the Revolutionary War, with an emphasis on the cultures, traditions, and global influences that played a part in America’s development. Course is taught using short lecture, discussion, reading, and activities (including theme folders) related to the subject matter.

Science
Science is taught through observation and interaction with God’s creation using various materials and a guess-test-conclude model of learning.

Music
A general program exposes children to a variety of musical styles through listening, singing, movement, rhythm instruments, exercises, and games. This course also introduces beginning recognition of band instruments. Students participate in two musical performances and occasional “mini” performances for parents. The major units taught are: following instructions, singing, movement, worship & prayer/praise, cooperation, rhythm recognition and creation.

Art
Students are introduced to the fundamental elements of art (line, shape, color, texture, and pattern) and they will create their own pieces using a variety of media (paint, clay, chalk, and pencil). They will learn to share their works and appreciate other’s works.

Third Grade Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

Student/Teacher Ratio: Maximum 20:1

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
The life of Jesus is studied through focus on his teachings, the beginning of the church, and Paul’s ministry, with an emphasis on building a relationship with Jesus and learning to pray.

Reading
Third grade Reading emphasizes material that expresses Biblical truths, and expands reading skills already learned with an increased emphasis on comprehension and enjoyment of reading.

Spelling
Students learn proper spelling of commonly-used words using phonics rules, writing activities, dictation, and games.

Handwriting
The cursive writing program is designed to teach students to write legibly, focusing on correct alignment, slant, size, shape, and spacing. Regular daily practice is done to bring about effective results using weekly scriptures as content.

Math
Third grade Math teaches multiplication and division facts to 12, multiplication and division problems up to 4 digits, story problems, converting measurements, and solving measurement equations and fractions using hands-on activities, songs, chants, and games.

Language
Students study nouns, verbs, adjectives, punctuation, capitalization, and word usage. Students apply these skills in many creative writing projects.

Heritage Studies
Students study American history from the formation of the new nation and its form of government through the settling of the land, the movement across the continent, and the Civil War. Course includes a study of folk and tall tales as well as the importance of music during this period of history.

Science
Students gain knowledge of God’s creation using information, observation, classification, and experimentation. Study areas include sound, animal groupings, body cells/ tissues/ organs/ skin, plants, birds, minerals/rocks/ soil, and the solar system.

Music
A general program exposes children to a variety of musical styles through listening, singing, movement, rhythm instruments, bells, games, and performances. Students are taught to read music, use musical terms, and play rhythm instruments (bells). Students participate in two musical performances and occasional “mini” performances for parents. The major units taught are: following instructions, singing, movement, worship & prayer/praise, cooperation, rhythm recognition and creation, note values & recognition, reading music, playing bells, and performance.

Fourth Grade Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

Student/Teacher Ratio: Maximum 20:1

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
Bible instruction begins with developing tools for Bible study, followed by the study of traditional doctrinal subjects prepared for grade level, and the application of those doctrines to students’ personal lives.

Reading
Students apply varied reading exercises including practice in oral reading in groups, silent reading, and choral reading. Comprehension is reviewed regularly through questions answered following silent timed reading and listening to oral reading. Students write reports based on books of their interest.

Spelling
The correct spelling and use of many words is taught through speech and writing. Students learn to apply phonics rules, increase their vocabulary, write sentences from dictation, identify misspelled words, and pronounce new words. Course emphasizes reading and listening to classic poetry.

Handwriting
Handwriting focuses on legible cursive writing including correct alignment, slant, size, shape, and spacing using a different scripture verse each week as content. Weekly course work is completed with a formal page of the entire verse written in the student’s best cursive writing including a colored illustration, first and last name, date, and verse reference.

Math
A variety of new and review material is taught including recognizing place value to millions; multiplication and division facts to 12; converting measurements; fraction terminology and relationship to decimals; finding factors and multiples; calculating money and temperature; using graphs and shapes; and application of mathematical concepts to the world around them.

Language
Course focuses on mastery of subjects and predicates, recognizing and using all eight parts of speech, and expanding diagramming skills, with a continued emphasis on capitalization, punctuation, plurals, and word usage. Students use the writing process to complete an encyclopedia report, multiple book reports, and other creative writing assignments.

Social Studies
An overview of American history is given, from the time of the early explorers to the present, and includes geography and map study skills. Periodic open books tests help evaluate each student’s listening skills and ability to find information in the text. Activity pages are done together in groups.

Science
Students learn science based on God’s word and His creation using hands-on experiments and field trips. Periodic open book tests are used to evaluate listening skills and the ability to find information in the text. Activity pages are done together in groups.

Music
Class focuses on musical and performance skills. Students are taught to read music, use musical terms, play recorders and express themselves on stage, musically and dramatically. Students have lead roles in two musical performances a year and occasional “mini” performances are given for parents and the community. The major units taught are: following instructions, singing, movement, worship & prayer/praise, cooperation, rhythm recognition and creation, note values & recognition, musical terms, reading music, playing the recorder, musical theater and performance.

Art
The students will continue developing their skills as designers and their knowledge of varying mediums, and will keep journals to record their growth and thoughts. Students participate in one “public” show and several competitions where their work is judged and displayed.

Fifth Grade Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

Student/Teacher Ratio: Maximum 20:1

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
Students study God’s word to know the truth, hope, healing, and the salvation Jesus Christ offers all people. Develop-ment of inductive Bible study methods encourages students to understand for themselves what God’s word says.

Reading
Students read grade-level anthologies and timed reading selections to further develop rate, accuracy, and comprehension skills. Independent book selections are required for monthly book reports to introduce genre and creative presentation opportunities.

Vocabulary
Course will enhance student vocabulary through the introduction of new words and definitions. Daily exercises build familiarity and knowledge of synonyms and antonyms, as well as spelling accuracy. Examinations require an understanding of definitions and content.

Handwriting
Handwriting includes daily exercises requiring practice of proper formation of cursive letters. These skills attend to the disciplines of proper positioning, size, shape and spacing of handwriting form.

Math
Presentation and practice of mathematical concepts develop mastery of manipulation of whole number functions, decimals, fractions, graphs, basic geometry, and algebra. Course uses A Beka math curriculum as well as weekly tests and interactive classroom activities.

Language
Utilizing an interactive grammar program, students develop a solid understanding of the English language usage, including identification of parts of speech, paragraph formation, supported compositions, and various writing styles. Students will become familiar with narrative, expository, and persuasive writing modes.

Social Studies
Students study American history from 1900 to 1960 focusing on the industrial advances that introduced the automobile and airplane, World War I, the Depression, and events leading to World War II. Also included is research of United States geography, cartography, and cultural, political, and natural boundaries found throughout the world.

Science
Course develops from a scientific study of God’s world focusing on the ocean, fossils, atmosphere, sun, atoms, flight, the nervous system, plants, and animal reproduction. Through the use of guided experimentation, students develop an understanding of the scientific method of research. Field trips to relevant locations reinforce concepts.

Music (Jubilee Choir) (required for all 5th and 6th grade students)
Jubilee Choir offers students the experience of singing in a choir. Students learn music notation, different styles of music worldwide, music history, form and content, music theory and terminology, and music fundamentals and principles. Worksheets are given and may be taken home as homework. Periodic theory tests will be given as well. Concerts provide students with opportunities to demonstrate learned skills and artistic development.

Beginning Band (offered to all 5th grade students)
The class provides students with the opportunity to experience being part of a full band. Daily rehearsals and sectionals contribute to technical and artistic development, while consistently working through the band methods textbook. School concerts provide the students with opportunities to perform. Daily practice at home is required.

Art
Students continue to develop their skills as designers and their knowledge of varying mediums, keeping journals to record their growth and thoughts. Students participate in one “public” show and several competitions where their work is judged and displayed.

Sixth Grade Overview

Classroom Structure: Traditional single classroom schedule Monday through Friday.

Student/Teacher Ratio: Maximum 20:1

School Day:
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
Start: First Tuesday following Labor Day
End: Mid-June
Major Breaks: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring

Bible
Course emphasizes the knowledge and understanding of the truth of God's Word. Course uses the Field Guide to God's Promises, and the Bible to discover His promises and to learn about historical and present-day examples of the fulfillment of those promises. Each student is equipped with the tools needed to develop Godly character and make a difference in their everyday choices. Students are encouraged to see themselves and others the way God sees them, with the goal of increasing self-confidence and improving interaction with others.

Language Arts
Course is a combination of reading, writing, and language study. Students are encouraged to read a variety of genres. Class book sets are used to teach students reading strategies, increase comprehension, and to learn about life from a Biblical perspective. Students write detailed explanations and complete book projects to show their understanding. Students use informational texts (encyclopedias, web pages, etc.) for research on various topics.

Math
Starting with basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of multiple digits, students build understanding of the logical processes one step at a time. Students learn to solve problems using strategies, factoring, fractions, decimals, percents, ratios and proportions, graphs, geometry, and algebra, and learn to convert measurements, both Standard and Metric.

Science
Course teaches students through observation, prediction, experimentation, and drawing conclusions. Different areas of science are explored including earthquakes and volcanoes, respiratory and circulatory systems, laws of motion, chemistry, stars and space exploration, and animal behavior. Students will discover a problem, make a hypothesis, gather materials, and create a procedure to conduct an experiment, and then draw conclusions from the data collected during their experiment. Students then design a display board to communicate their project and enter it in the Horizon Science Fair. Throughout the course, the emphasis is on God as creator and sustainer of all things.

Social Studies
Course includes the study of cultures & geography, government, economics, and history. Students study the early inhabitants of the Columbia River Gorge, basic map skills, and the rights of United States citizens, providing a foundation for further study of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Israel, India, China, Greece, Rome, and the Mayas. Throughout the year students read newspapers and grade-appropriate magazines, writing summaries and opinions about the articles read.

Music (Jubilee Choir) (required for all 5th and 6th grade students)
Jubilee Choir offers students the experience of singing in a choir. Rehearsals expose students to basic music notation, music history, form, and content. Concerts provide students with opportunities to demonstrate learned skills and artistic development.

Intermediate Band (offered to all 6th grade students)
Students further their understanding and experience of instrumental music within a concert band setting. School concerts provide students with opportunities to perform. Daily practice at home is required. Prerequisite: Beginning band.