9th-12th
UPPER SCHOOL
9th-12th
At Coram Deo Classical School, the 9th-12th grade years represent the culmination of the classical education journey, known as the “Rhetoric Stage.” During this period, students focus on mastering the art of persuasive communication, both in writing and speech, applying their knowledge to complex subjects across the humanities, sciences, and the arts. Critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of ideas are emphasized as students engage in deeper exploration of philosophy, theology, literature, and history, always within a biblical framework that reinforces a Christ-centered worldview. With small class sizes promoting close mentorship, students are challenged to defend their beliefs, articulate their ideas with clarity, and engage in thoughtful, respectful debate. Character development and leadership are central, preparing students not only for academic success in college but also to be thoughtful, responsible, and faithful individuals in their communities and future careers. These high school years are designed to equip students with the intellectual and spiritual tools needed for lifelong learning and discipleship.
Ninth Grade
The recommended courses for Ninth grade are:
Ninth Grade Literature
Literature and Composition will be an in-depth study of literature and will focus on examining the literary elements of fiction, author background, historical context, and worldview analysis. The literature for this class will include works from Doyle, Defoe, Conrad, Shakespeare, Dickens, Lewis, Bradbury, and Austen. The writing focus of this class will be preparing students for college essays and research.
Ancient History
Ancient History will be an in-depth study of ancient history from Creation to Christ from a biblical worldview.We will focus on Creation, the Fall, the Flood, Mesopotamian Dynasties, the Egyptian Kingdom, Israelite Kingdoms, Assyrian Empire, Babylonian Empire, Persian Empire, Greek Empire, Roman Empire, and Early Christianity. Students will also gain a deeper understanding of the historical background of the Old and New Testaments.
Biology
Biology at Coram Deo Classical School is an engaging exploration of life sciences from a Christian perspective. This course covers foundational topics including cell biology, genetics, ecology, microbiology, and human anatomy. Through hands-on labs, dissections, and interactive projects, students gain a deep understanding of biological processes while learning to observe and analyze God’s creation. Emphasizing critical thinking, scientific methods, and ethical considerations, this course equips students with the skills needed for further study in the sciences and an appreciation of the complexity and design of life.
Algebra 1
“The chief aim of all investigations of the external world should be to discover the rational order and harmony which has been imposed on it by God and which He revealed to us in the language of mathematics”
-Johannes Kepler
In this course, students will build a strong mathematical foundation as they explore the principles of algebra through logical reasoning, problem-solving, and application. This course emphasizes the development of logical reasoning skills, clear communication, and a biblical perspective on the order and beauty of creation. The course will guide students step by step through key algebraic concepts, while also fostering a love of learning and a deeper understanding of the world through mathematics.
Students will learn how to represent relationships between quantities using variables, work with linear equations, and apply algebraic principles to solve real-world problems. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the underlying principles of algebra, rather than just memorizing formulas, so students can confidently approach more advanced mathematical concepts in future courses. The course will also integrate classical methods of instruction, including class dialogues, to facilitate deeper understanding.
Electives
We recommend that at least one elective be a foreign language in order to complete the minimum language requirement to graduate.
Tenth Grade
The recommended courses for tenth grade:
British Literature
In this course, students delve into the beautiful and complex world of major literary works of the British tradition. Beginning with Beowulf and ending with Frankenstein, we hit the highlights of each era of British Literary history while unpacking the themes and morals of some of the greatest works ever to be penned! Students are taught how to use their writing and comprehension skills to read these great works, develop insights into them, and engage in fruitful discussion and debate about them.
European History
European History at Coram Deo Classical School offers a comprehensive survey of European civilization, exploring key events, figures, and cultural developments from ancient times to the modern era. Students study major periods such as the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Reformation, and Enlightenment, examining how each shaped the continent and influenced the world. Through primary sources, historical analysis, and class discussions, students learn to critically engage with Europe’s complex history and consider it from a Christian perspective. This course builds historical knowledge, analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of the foundations of Western culture.
Chemistry
Chemistry is a dynamic, two-day-per-week course that introduces students to foundational chemistry concepts through Dr. Jay L. Wile’s Discovering Chemistry textbook. This class combines direct instruction with hands-on labs, projects, and collaborative problem-solving to reinforce key principles such as atomic structure, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and the periodic table. Students actively engage in experiments and real-world applications, developing critical thinking and analytical skills as they explore chemistry from a Christian worldview. Designed to provide both theoretical understanding and practical experience, this course offers a comprehensive and interactive approach, preparing students for college-level chemistry and encouraging them to see God’s design at the molecular level.
Geometry
This high school Geometry course provides a thorough foundation in essential geometric concepts and reasoning. Students will study triangle congruence, learning about key postulates and theorems that define the relationships between angles and sides within triangles. The course also covers surface area and volume, exploring the calculations for various three-dimensional shapes and enhancing spatial understanding. A significant emphasis is placed on two-column proofs, where students learn to logically organize statements and reasons to prove geometric concepts. Additionally, vector addition introduces students to both magnitude and direction, preparing them for applications in physics and advanced math. The course also includes an in-depth study of slopes and equations of lines, teaching students how to analyze and interpret linear relationships on the coordinate plane. With these topics, students develop strong analytical and deductive skills essential for success in advanced mathematics.
Electives
Click here for a list of electives.
Eleventh Grade
The recommended courses for eleventh grade:
American Literature
American Literature at Coram Deo Classical School is a comprehensive course that explores the rich tapestry of American voices and perspectives from colonial times to the modern era. Students read and analyze works by authors such as Hawthorne, Twain, Fitzgerald, and Morrison, delving into themes of identity, freedom, morality, and the American Dream. The course emphasizes literary analysis, critical thinking, and effective writing, helping students to appreciate the historical and cultural contexts that shaped American literature. Through essays, projects, and discussions, students develop their ability to interpret complex texts and express their insights, fostering a deep understanding of America’s literary heritage and its impact on contemporary thought.
Modern History
Modern History at Coram Deo Classical School examines key events, ideas, and movements that shaped the world from the late 19th century to the present day. Students explore significant topics such as industrialization, world wars, the rise and fall of empires, the Cold War, and the globalization of the 21st century. Emphasis is placed on understanding the political, economic, and social changes that have influenced modern society, as well as the impact of ideologies like nationalism, communism, and democracy. Through primary sources, critical analysis, and class discussions, students gain insight into the complexities of the modern world and learn to think critically about current events in light of historical patterns. This course equips students with a deeper awareness of global history and the tools to analyze contemporary issues.
Physics
This high school physics course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of physics, emphasizing both conceptual understanding and practical application. Using Exploring Creation with Physics by J. Wiles as the primary textbook, students will investigate the foundational concepts of kinematics, mechanics, dynamics, electricity, and more. The course integrates a Christian worldview, encouraging students to explore the wonders of creation through the lens of physical laws and natural phenomena.
Students will learn to think critically and analytically as they investigate how the world around us functions, from the smallest particles to the largest cosmic structures. Hands-on experiments, engaging demonstrations, and real-world problem-solving exercises will help solidify concepts and make abstract ideas more tangible. Topics addressed include motion, forces, energy, momentum, and electricity, along with an introduction to scientific inquiry and measurement.
Algebra 2
This college-prep Algebra 2 course provides students with a robust foundation in algebraic and trigonometric concepts, designed to prepare them for the rigor of precalculus and calculus. Students will dive into complex topics such as quadratic functions, polynomials, logarithmic and exponential functions, and systems of equations, gaining essential skills for higher-level mathematics. The course also introduces key trigonometry concepts, covering functions, identities, and applications that lay the groundwork for future studies in trigonometry and calculus. Additionally, students explore foundational statistics, learning to interpret data, calculate probabilities, and apply statistical reasoning. Practical applications are emphasized throughout, especially in physics and chemistry, where algebraic concepts are frequently used to solve real-world problems. This comprehensive approach equips students not only for advanced math courses but also for success in STEM fields that rely on algebraic and analytical skills.
Electives
Click here for a list of electives.
Twelfth Grade
The recommended courses for twelfth grade:
English 101/102
English 101/102 at Coram Deo Classical School is a foundational course in college-preparatory composition and literary analysis. In English 101, students focus on developing essential writing skills, including crafting clear, well-structured essays, building persuasive arguments, and refining grammar and syntax. They explore a variety of texts and learn how to interpret and respond to literature analytically. English 102 builds upon these skills by introducing more advanced research and composition techniques, including citation and source integration, while deepening students’ understanding of literary genres and themes. Together, English 101 and 102 foster critical thinking, effective communication, and a strong foundation for advanced academic writing, preparing students for success in future humanities and social science courses.
Government/Economics
Government will be an in-depth study of the biblical view of government, a survey of classic political texts and of various forms of government, an in-depth analysis of American government and the Constitution, and a biblical evaluation of ethical issues addressed in the political arena. Students will participate in a mock congress debate and a mock supreme court trial.
Economics will focus on the biblical view of economics, a survey of classic economics texts and various economic systems, and an in-depth analysis of free market capitalism and communism. We will study production, money supply, inflation, economic policies, taxes, and alleviating poverty.
Advanced Science
Chemistry 2, AP Physics, or Anatomy & Physiology
Precalculus/AP Calculus AB/BC
Precalculus:
This advanced mathematics course covers essential high-level concepts, preparing students for collegiate math and real-world problem-solving. Topics include a detailed study of functions—such as inverse, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic—along with triangle trigonometry and trigonometric identities. Students explore sequences and series, systems of equations, matrices, and determinants, enhancing their algebraic and analytical skills. Analytic geometry introduces spatial concepts through conic sections, while an introduction to calculus provides a foundation in limits and the basics of derivatives. Together, these topics equip students with a strong mathematical base for future studies in STEM and beyond.
Calculus:
AP Calculus at Coram Deo Classical School is an intensive course designed to prepare students for the AP Calculus AB exam, covering essential concepts in differential and integral calculus. Students will explore limits, continuity, derivatives, and applications of differentiation to analyze functions, optimize values, and solve real-world problems. Integral calculus topics include antiderivatives, definite integrals, and applications such as area under a curve and volume of solids of revolution. Emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding, problem-solving, and analytical thinking, providing students with a robust foundation in calculus principles. This course equips students for success on the AP exam and future studies in mathematics, engineering, physics, and related fields.
Electives
Click here for a list of electives.