Academic Departments
Click on a department to view the class listings.
- Theology
- English
- Fine Arts: Music
- Fine Arts: Visual Arts
- Foreign Language
- Math
- Physical Education & Health
- Science
- Social Studies
- Technology
*Highlighted courses are offered on personnel availability and student interest.
Theology
051, 061 - Old Testament, 1 credit
This survey course covers the history of God’s chosen people from creation through the rebuilding of Jerusalem, including a study of the major and minor prophets. Emphasis is placed on the fulfillment of God’s covenant with Abraham, both in the Old Testament and today, through Christ. The course also includes a review of the Six Chief Parts of Martin Luther’s Small Catechism.
052, 062 - New Testament, 1 credit
An in-depth study of the life of Christ, the history of the Apostolic Church, and the Pauline Epistles is made to help students grown in faith and understanding as they apply the Holy Scriptures to daily living.
004 - The Church & Its Story, ½ credit
This course is a study of the early history of the church including persecution under the early emperors, how the church grew after Constantine and some of the early church fathers. Students will learn about the various parts of a church santuary. They will also learn about the parts of a worship service and find out how various Lutheran churches in San Antonio use parts of the service in different styles by inviting different pastors to speak. Students will learn about the idea of Christian vocation and service and explore ways that the students have been gifted by God to serve. Other topics covered will be the church's mission in the United States and the world and the church in the end times.
005 - Comparative Religion, ½ credit
This course provides a detailed examination of Lutheran religious beliefs. These beliefs are then compared to those of other denominations found within the United States. During the second part of the course students will participate in a survey of major world religions.
006 - Christian Ethics, ½ credit
This course is designed to help students become more aware of the life God calls each of us to live, individually and in our relationships with others, as revealed in His Word, the Bible. To accomplish this, the course material reflects four central themes: An Introduction to Ethics, The Character of a Christian, Building Better Relationships and Dating.
010 – Gospels, ½ credit
This course is a study of the four gospels. It will cover Jesus' teachings and ministry on earth. This study of Scripture will also guide students into God's Word to learn what God says about a variety of issues and how to apply this Word, God's truth, to their lives.
008 - Letters of Paul, ½ credit
This course traces the life and work of the Apostle Paul. From his own conversion through his missionary journeys, Paul's life and writings will be explored in depth. Particular attention will be paid to what Paul's letters mean for us today and how we can apply his message to our lives as we live out the Christian life.
Prerequisite: Junior/Senior standing.
009 - Peer Ministry, ½ credit
The focus of this class is learning how to share God's love with the people in our lives. Specifically, students will discover how to use their personal gifts to help others gain a sense of belonging and being cared about. Topics covered will include leadership skills, active listening skills, problem solving, mediation techniques, crisis intervention, and current issues.
Prerequisite: Teacher approval
English
151, 161 - English 1, 1 credit
In this course, the student will be exposed to many literary genres, including the novel, short story, poetry, nonfiction, and drama. Grammar is emphasized in daily oral language practice, creative writing and exposition. An informative research paper is required.
171, 181 - English 1 Honors, 1 credit
This course exposes the student to many literary genres, including the novel, short story, poetry, nonfiction and drama. Grammar is reviewed in daily oral language practice. Students focus on skills such as diction, figurative language and sound devices in order to determine tone. Advanced Placement preparation begins with an introduction to timed writing. Honors students are required to read four additional novels during the course of the year. An informative research paper is required.
152, 162 - English 2, 1 credit
This course continues study of all genres, focusing on the short story, poetry, the novel and nonfiction. Grammar review via daily oral language is a continued emphasis. A persuasive research paper is required.
Prerequisite: English I
172, 182 - English 2 Pre-AP, 1 credit
This course continues the study of all genres, focusing on the short story, poetry, the novel, and nonfiction. Grammar review via daily oral language is continued. Skills in recognizing rhetorical strategies to determine tone continue to be developed. In preparation for Advanced Placement exams, students also begin to master an evaluation of themes, the interpretation of symbolism, and an understanding of the differences between fiction and nonfiction styles. One Advanced Placement prompt (timed writing) is administered per semester. A compare and contrast research paper is required.
Prerequisite: 90% or higher in English 1 or 91% or higher in English 1 Honors
153, 163 - English 3, 1 credit
Students will continue to study all genres, focusing on the novel, nonfiction and all types of American literature. Grammar review via daily oral language is a continued emphasis. Skills in recognizing rhetorical strategies to determine tone and interpretation of writing style are further developed. An American novel literary criticism research paper is required.
Prerequisite: English 2
173, 183 - AP American Literature, 1 credit
Students will continue to study all genres, focusing on the novel, nonfiction and all types of American literature. Grammar review via daily oral language is continued. Rhetorical strategies are reviewed; syntax analysis is developed. Students master Advanced Placement prompt timed writings, completing a minimum of three writings per semester. An American novel literary criticism research paper is required. College credit is possible through the AP English Language Exam offered in May; this test is optional.
Prerequisite: 90% or higher in English 2 or 95% or higher in English 2 Honors (after 6 points)
154, 164 - English 4, 1 credit
Students will continue the study of all genres, focusing on drama, novels and poetry. Emphasis will be on British and World Literature as well as literary history. Grammar review via daily oral language is a continued emphasis; editing mastery is desired. Students will also master effective interpretation of literature through exposition, which will prepare the student for college level work. A college research paper and a British novel literary criticism research paper are also required.
Prerequisite: English 3
174, 184 - English 4 AP, 1 credit
Students will continue the study of all genres, focusing on drama, novels and poetry. Emphasis will be on British and World Literature as well as literary history; some American literature will also be reviewed. Grammar review via daily oral language is a continued emphasis; editing mastery is desired. Students will learn to effectively interpret difficult types of poetry, practice rhetorical and syntactical techniques and evaluate writing style. Students continue AP prompt timed writings in preparation to earn college credit through the optional AP English Literature in May. A college research paper and a British novel literary criticism research paper are also required.
Prerequisite: 90% or higher in English 3 or 95% or higher in AP English 3 (after 6 points)
105 – Speech, ½ credit
A focus on public speaking helps students develop fundamental skills such as organization and delivery through the preparation and presentation of a variety of speeches.
155, 165 - Journalism, 1 credit
This course will enable students to improve writing skills, use creative talents and learn to work with others. The class will work toward publishing the school yearbook. Yearlong dedication is expected.
Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
Fine Arts: Music
856, 866 - Band, 1 credit
Band provides an ensemble experience for wind and percussion players. The course includes technical study, theory, performance of music in many styles and solo opportunities. Two school concerts, district and state music contests and other performances are presented each year. Students participate in Sunday morning church services at area Lutheran congregations and play in pep band for various athletic events. Attendance at all activities is required.
Prerequisite: At least one year experience with a band instrument.
857, 867 - Music Theory/Appreciation, 1 credit
Music Theory/Appreciation is a survey course that covers musical styles, historical periods, composers, performers, terms and basic elements of theory. Instruction makes use of written materials, audio and video recordings and live performances both in and out of the classroom.
858, 868 - Choir, 1 credit
This is a performance musical group. Basics of vocal technique and music theory are discussed as they relate to the music performed. The group performs two school concerts each year, competes at the district and state music contests and participates in Sunday morning church services at area Lutheran congregations. The group also leads chapel at local grade schools. Attendance at all activities is required.
Fine Arts: Visual Arts
851, 861 - Art 1, 1 credit
This introductory course will provide a general overview and basic background in as many areas of art as time will permit. Topics covered will include drawing, perspective, color, painting, art history, sculpture, ceramics, design and printmaking. This course is a prerequisite for all other art courses.
803 - Two-Dimensional Design and Drawing, 1/2 credit
This course will expand on the skills and techniques learned in Art I. The basic principles and elements of design and advanced drawing skills will be studied.
Prerequisite: Art 1 and departmental permission.
805 - Painting, 1/2 credit
This course will expand on the skills and techniques learned in Art I. Watercolor, acrylic painting and collage will be explored in depth.
Prerequisite: Art 1 and departmental permission.
806 - Sculpture, 1/2 credit
This course is designed to apply the basic principles and elements of design in a three-dimensional work of art. The history of sculpture and various techniques will be explored.
Prerequisite: Departmental permission.
808 - Ceramics, 1/2 credit
This course is designed to explore the history and techniques used to create ceramic pieces of art.
Prerequisite: Departmental permission
871, 881 - Portfolio, 1 credit
This course is intended to provide the student who is seriously interested in pursuing an art-related career time within the daily schedule to produce professional quality work for his or her portfolio. The art student will learn about preparing and preserving work, and the quality and quantity of artwork that is needed. This course is graded on a contractual basis.
Prerequisite: Art 1 and at least two other art classes, and departmental permission
Foreign Language
951, 961 - Spanish 1, 1 credit
This introductory course will acquaint the student with the standard dialect of the language in its spoken and written forms. This course is intended for the student who is new to the language.
952, 962 - Spanish 2, 1 credit
A continuation of Spanish 1, this course will introduce students to the present, preterit, imperfect and future tenses. It provides opportunities to use simple conversation for everyday events and to begin reading short stories.
953, 963 - Spanish 3, 1 credit
This course is designed to improve students’ conversational skills, including the use of the subjunctive tense and introduction to compound tenses. Students will be provided opportunities to read and discuss Spanish literature. Projects of different types will be required.
Prerequisite: Spanish 2 and permission of the instructor
954, 964 - Spanish 4, 1 credit
This course combines the elements of Spanish 3 and a variety of studies to advance in Spanish. Students will have opportunities to read and discuss Spanish fairy tales, prose, novels, and poetry, and also to study idiomatic language. Projects of different types will be required.
Prerequisite: Spanish 3 and permission of the instructor
971, 981 - German 1, 1 credit
This introductory course will acquaint the student with the standard dialect of the language in its spoken and written forms. This course is intended for the student who is new to the language.
972, 982 - German 2, 1 credit
A continuation of German I, this course will introduce students to the present, preterit, imperfect and future tenses. It provides opportunities to use simple conversation for everyday events and to begin reading short stories.
973, 983 - German 3, 1 credit
This course is designed to improve students’ conversational skills, including the use of the subjunctive tense. Students will be provided opportunities to read and discuss German literature. Projects of different types will be required.
Prerequisite: German 2 and permission of the instructor.
Math
611, 612 and 613, 614 - Algebra 1A and 1B, 1 credit each
This two-year course covers the syllabus of Algebra 1, but with more time devoted to each topic. Regular problem solving activities improve students’ skills in traditional and non-traditional problem solving situations. Topics from basic mathematics are reviewed.
Prerequisite: Departmental recommendation or placement exam
651, 661 - Algebra 1, 1 credit
This foundation course includes study of the real number system, algebraic expressions, polynomial expressions, equations, inequalities, factoring and functions. Algebra 1A and 1B may be substituted for Algebra 1.
Prerequisite: Departmental recommendation based on placement exam
652, 662 – Geometry, 1 credit
Geometry explores the mathematical foundations of the world around us. Euclidean geometry, coordinate geometry, transformations, basic trigonometry and practical geometry are covered with an emphasis on logical problem solving and proof using deductive reasoning.
Prerequisite: Algebra I; for freshmen, departmental recommendation based on placement exam and previous records.
672, 682 - Geometry Honors, 1 credit
Geometry Honors covers all the topics of Geometry, with more difficult problems required at each step. A project or presentation is required during each grading period.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or Algebra 1B and departmental approval. For freshmen, departmental recommendation based on placement test and previous records.
653, 663 - Algebra 2 & Trigonometry, 1 credit
This course reviews and extends the topics taught in Algebra 1. Topics covered include functions, the real number system, complex numbers, quadratic equations, coordinate geometry, logarithms and trigonometry. Use of a graphing calculator is required.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry
673, 683 - Algebra 2 & Trigonometry Honors, 1 credit
This course includes all the topics of Algebra 2 and Trigonometry, with an emphasis on problem solving at a higher level. Additional topics may include sequences and series, probability and more in-depth study of trigonometry.
Prerequisite: At least 90% in Algebra I and Geometry, and departmental approval.
654, 664 - Pre-Calculus, 1 credit
A foundation of Pre-Calculus concepts, techniques, and applications prepares students for more advanced mathematics courses. Reasoning and problem solving skills are emphasized while covering topics such as functions, graphs, trigonometry and limits. Mathematical modeling using polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions will be included.
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and departmental approval.
656, 666 - Math Models, 1 credit
The material of this course is divided into independent parts. The first semester covers the mathematics of social change and management science. The second semester covers growth, symmetry and statistics. The course involves more discussion and exploration than a typical math course. The style of the course emphasizes mathematical modeling and making mathematical connections to real-life situations.
Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra 2
675, 685 - AP Calculus AB, 1 credit
A foundation course in the Calculus, this course will cover limits, derivatives and integration techniques. Emphasis will be placed on theoretical understandings, applications of theories and use of technology. The Advanced Placement exam will be offered at the end of the course, and students may earn up to one semester of college credit based on their exam score.
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus and departmental approval.
Physical Education & Health
703 - Health, 1/2 credit
Since health is so critical to the quality of life, the focus of this class is on learning how to become healthy and stay healthy. The class provides information to influence student's attitudes so that they take positive action about their health. Areas of study include: mental health, stress, marriage and parenthood, development in the life cycle, reproductive systems, getting and staying fit, diet, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, sex education, STDs, AIDS, first aid, and handling emergencies.
NOTE on Physical Education classes: A total of 1.5 PE credits are required for graduation, and can be earned with any combination of the following courses, including repeating a course. However, no more than two credits of Physical Education / Athletics may count toward graduation requirements.
705 - Physical Education, 1/2 credit
This course is designed to increase the level of physical fitness of the individual. Since physical fitness affects all aspects of life, it is important to be active. The course will challenge the student's motor skills, muscle endurance, strength and tone, flexibility, agility, coordination, respiratory system and cardiovascular system. This will be achieved through aerobic and anaerobic exercises and in different team sports and conditioning programs. See not above for credit limitations.
701 - Athletics, 1/2 credit
Students participating in a sport may earn 1/2 credit for each season completed. Grading is based on participation, attitude, written exams and skills testing. See note above for credit limitations.
709 - Advanced Athletics, 1/2 credit
This class provides an intense conditioning workout designed to make participants better athletes. Activities will include long distance running, weight lifting, agility and quickness drills and skills work for in-season sports. Grading will be based on participation, improvement in skills and some testing. See note above for credit limitations.
Prerequisite: Athletics or departmental approval.
Science
351, 361 - Biology I, 1 credit
This course will cover the study of living organisms, specifically the cell and the chemistry of living organisms, the five kingdoms and the diversity of life, and the relationship and processes that govern life, such as genetics and ecology. God's gift of life is the basis for learning terminology, understanding processes, developing lab skills and becoming scientifically literate.
352, 362 - Integrated Physics and Chemistry, 1 credit
This course is intended for students with varied backgrounds and abilities. Students will study matter and energy through everyday applications of physical laws. Technology is studied as a simple application of basic scientific principles. Topics covered will include energy, matter, stability, change, structure and interactions. Skills are developed in organization, thinking, and experimentation.
Prerequisite: Biology I and teacher approval. May not be taken by students who have completed either Chemistry or Physics.
353, 363 - Chemistry, 1 credit
This course is designed to give students a solid background in the basic chemical principles and skills required for college science courses. This course includes lecture, problem solving and laboratory experiences. The wisdom and power of God are appreciated in the order found in atomic structure, the mole concept, organic chemistry and energy.
Prerequisite: Biology I and departmental approval.
373, 383 - Chemistry Honors (Adv), 1 credit
This course will cover the same basic topics as Chemistry. A more formal approach is taken toward lecture, problem solving and laboratory work. The connection between the microscopic and macroscopic worlds is stressed as well as the use of models and symbolic representations.
Prerequisite: Algebra I, Biology I and departmental approval
354, 364 - Physics Principles, 1 credit
This course will tie physics concepts to everyday life. Problem-solving strategies stress visualization as well as computation. Labs will focus on common misconceptions found in physics. Some experiments will be created and set up solely by the students. Real-world connections will be used to reinforce the concepts covered.
Prerequisite: Biology I and Chemistry
374, 384 - Physics Honors, 1 credit
Physics is the study of the way nature behaves and the development of natural laws. These laws and the math skills necessary to support them will lead students to relate physics to the world around us. Topics covered include mechanics, materials, waves, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics. Problem solving is addressed throughout the course.
Prerequisite: 80% or better in both Chemistry and Algebra 2
355, 365 - Biology II, 1 credit
Basic biological concepts are explored in greater depth and detail through the study of human anatomy and physiology, genetics and microbiology. Lab activities, reading science periodicals, visual literacy and critical thinking skills are emphasized.
Prerequisite: Biology I and Chemistry Honors
305 - Ecology & Environmental Science, 1/2 credit
The main emphasis of this class will be finding and organizing relationships. Everything in nature and in our world has a cause and effect relationship with all things around it. Also included in this course will be a study of how better to preserve this world in which we live.
Prerequisite: Biology I.
307 - Earth & Space Science, 1/2 credit
There will be four main units in this class: geology, oceanography, meteorology and astronomy. Topics to be addressed within these units will include rock types, land formations and their origins, theories of the age of the earth, bodies of water and tides, weather patterns, clouds, storms, planets, galaxies, the universe and constellations. The course will also address how we as humans fit into all this vastness.
Prerequisite: Biology I and departmental approval.
Suggested Prerequisite: Ecology & Environmental Science.
Social Studies
251, 261 - World Geography, 1 credit
In this course, the student will survey the political, cultural and physical characteristics of the nations of the world. Students will learn basic geographical and social studies skills and how to apply them in the world of today.
252, 262 - World History, 1 credit
This course examines the development of man's cultural, social and political achievements from the earliest civilizations through the modern age. The class will study both western and non-western cultures, with a major emphasis on western civilizations.
272, 282 - World History Honors, 1 credit
In addition to the topics covered in World History, this course will require the use of higher level thinking skills in relation to cause and effect relationship of important world events. Skills necessary to be successful in Advanced Placement US History will be taught and reviewed. Additional outside readings and projects will be required.
Prerequisite: 90% in World Geography and departmental approval.
253, 263 - US History, 1 credit
This course covers the political, social, and cultural foundations and developments of the United States from the colonial age to the present.
273, 283 - AP US History, 1 credit
AP US History is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college course. Solid reading and writing skills along with a willingness to devote considerable time to homework and outside study are necessary to succeed. Emphasis is placed on critical and evaluative thinking skills, essay writing, interpretation of original documents and historiography.
Prerequisite: 90% in World History Honors (before 6 points) and departmental approval.
204 - Economics, 1 credit
Fundamental concepts of economics and personal finance management will be introduced in this course. Topics will include market forces, contemporary issues and government economic policy.
205 – Government, 1 credit
Foundations of our national, state and local governments will be explored in this course. An overview of alternative systems of government will also be included. A special focus will be placed on the citizen's involvement in politics.
234 - Economics Honors, 1 credit
In addition to the topics covered in Economics, this course will compare political and economic theories that have affected the 20th Century. Several papers and outside reading will be required.
Prerequisite: 90% in previous Social Studies course and departmental approval.
235 - Government Honors, 1 credit
In addition to the elements of Government, this course covers the opinions of historians as they look back on events that helped to form our government. A more in-depth study of the workings of the national government will also be included.
Prerequisite: 90% in previous Social Studies course and departmental approval.
205 – Psychology, 1 credit
An exploration of various areas of psychology, such as personality theory, abnormal and developmental psychology, and the history of the discipline is provided in this course. Applications covered will be designed to develop self-awareness, self-acceptance, and the building of positive personal relationships.
207 – Sociology, 1 credit
Sociology is the study of individual and group relationships. Topics covered will include cultural and social norms, the history and systems of sociology, race relations, socioeconomic issues and structure and geography's effect on social skills and values.
200 - History Through Film, 1/2 credit
This class will study various historical events and eras, comparing the presentation of the event in film with the actual occurrences. We will view movies that span the history of the film industry, from silent films to the most recent releases. The historical events covered in this class might come from any historical era and from any area of the world. Students will be required to complete outside reading and analyze the movies in terms of historical accuracy, bias and flaws.
Prerequisite: World History and departmental approval.
Technology
451, 461 - Computer 1, 1 credit
This course gives students an introduction to computers. Basics of computer structure and use are covered. Students learn keyboarding and Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Current trends and issues in computers are explored. Students also learn appropriate and effective uses of the Internet. In addition, students will learn multimedia programs such as Photo Story and Movie Maker. Emphasis is placed on using the computer for academic and personal growth. Credit for this course may be earned by examination as arranged with the instructor.
452, 462 - Computer 2, 1 credit
This course is an extension of the Computer 1 applications course. Students learn advanced Microsoft Office applications and work through Adobe Creative Suite 2. Students will learn and work in web applications such as Adobe Go Live and Microsoft Expression Web. Students will also get a brief introduction to Visual Basic programming as well as more visual programming languages such as Alice or Scratch. Some course content may be tailored to individual student interest depending on resource availability. Students in the course may also assist with special projects related to the school such as video, layout and design, and Adobe Photoshop projects.
Prerequisite: Computer 1 and instructor permission.
456, 466 - Video, 1 credit
Video is a project centered course in which students will explore planning, shooting and editing videos. Students will be expected to complete several short videos representing different filmmaking genres such as interviews, documentaries, music videos, montage and other video formats. Students will use Microsoft Movie Maker and Sony Vegas software to complete the editing of their video.
Prerequisite: Computer 1 and 2 or departmental approval.
457, 467 - Advanced Computing (Programming), 1 credit
This is a project centered course in which students will learn and write computer programs. Students will learn and write computer programs. Students will work in Visual Basic, Alice and Scratch to set a background for the introduction into Java programming language.
Prerequisite: Computer 1 and 2 or departmental approval.
472, 482 - Work Experience, 1 credit
This course is designed to provide practical experience in an unpaid work environment. Special approval from the administration must be obtained for this course.
Prerequisite: Senior standing and approval from the Guidance Counselor and Principal.
990 - College, Careers and Financial Peace, 1/2 credit
This course consists of three parts: preparing for college, matching careers with personality and learning styles and planning for financial peace. The first section of the class will focus on preparing for the SAT and ACT tests, searching for colleges that meet the academic and career goals of the student and finding scholarships and financial aid. The second part of the course will cover most aspects of planning for life after high school: the world of work, beginning to select a career field, higher education opportunities and writing a resume. Finally, the last section of the course centers around the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace for the Next Generation curriculum, designed to help students handle money properly by learning how to set a budget that allows them to pay bills, give and save.
