Portland Christian Senior High School exists to provide a distinctively Christian academic environment for its students. It is our purpose to provide a program, which will direct each student toward spiritual growth in all areas of life. We strive to provide a challenging and supportive setting that fully integrates faith and knowledge.
The philosophy of Portland Christian states that there is an important difference between approaches to Christian and secular education. Education must be God-centered, and therefore knowledge our students acquire will only have significance and meaning when it is related to God's Word. Thus our programs and teaching methods must be dependent on a Biblical philosophy to provide viewpoint, general background truth, and principles for interpreting facts in the study of any given subject. (Courses subject to change for enrichment)
Bible Department
At Portland Christian, we believe that "the Bible is the greatest of all books, to study it is the noblest of all pursuits, to understand it, the highest of all goals." As Christians, we must base everything that we think and do upon the Word of God. We must start with the inerrant Word of Creator God and compare all other thoughts to it. "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen" (Romans 11:36). We are committed to teaching fundamental truths that are clearly Bible-based and set forth in Scripture and integrating them into all areas of life, thus enabling students to develop a proper Biblical world and life view.
Bible - 9
This course includes an apologetics unit centered around Paul Little's book, Know Why You Believe, followed by a study of the doctrinal foundation and importance of Genesis 1 - 11 taken from The Genesis Solution by Ken Ham.
Bible - 10
Students are led through a systemic study of the uniqueness of the Bible, canonicity reliability, Bible study methods, cults and their refutation, Old Testament prophets, and the wisdom books.
Bible - 11
Curriculum focuses on New Testament concepts and basic Bible doctrines. Starting with the Intertestament Period, students are led through the Gospels, Acts, Pauline and General Epistles, ending their course in a study of the Book of Revelation.
Bible - 12
Curriculum includes studies in worldviews, cultural values versus Biblical absolutes and decision making. Students are taught to make Biblically based decisions in light of the prevailing attitudes and beliefs of the day. This class will examine difficult cultural issues from a Christian perspective in the attempt to learn how to apply God's Word to their everyday lives.
Business And Computers
Business and computer knowledge and skills are tools to communicate words and to record and analyze financial information. They allow the "earth to be subdued" orderly and efficient as God has commanded us to do (Gen. 1:28).
The Business and Computer classes have two main objectives: to expose students to a variety of tools so that they may develop basic skills to be used either personally or vocationally, and to emphasize the uniqueness of each student as God's special creation (Ps. 139:14) so that they can develop and utilize their God-given talents, abilities, and interest as they do His "...work heartily as for the Lord..." (Col. 3:23).
Keyboarding/Computer Literacy
(May take challenge test for Keyboarding only)
Students in Keyboarding will master: letter keyboarding techniques, word-processing, figure-key operations, symbol-key operations, word skills, correspondence formatting, and speed building techniques.
Computer Literacy
In Computer Literacy, students will be given experience in several applications including graphics, database, spreadsheet, multimedia and desktop publishing. (Windows 2000)
Advanced Computers
The students are given the opportunity to further their knowledge of Microsoft Office by working on projects in Word, Access, Excel, and Power Point. These skills are vital for any college bound student.
Web Design/Graphics
Using Macromedia Studio 2004 the students develop skills in making web pages. They have exercises in Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Flash, and Freehand. Using these skills the student will be able to develop and maintain their own web page.
Creative And Performing Arts
At Portland Christian High School we recognize that the individual bears the image of our Creator. One characteristic implied by this is human creativity: the capacity to envision new possibilities in all areas of endeavor. In the unified Christian view of reality, "glorifying God in our bodies" must encompass all intellectual and creative activity. We acknowledge our responsibility to challenge students to recognize and aspire to integrity and excellence and to make highest use of the talents and resources available. This is paramount to the Christian, because the manner of singing, writing, entertaining, sewing, cooking, drawing, building, displaying, and sharing reflect the individual's beliefs about life and reality (Col. 3:23). Since a particular creation embodies something of its Creator's personality, it is especially important for a young person to explore avenues of creativity as a means to better know and understand themselves and their values. With such awareness the individual can more fully engage in communion with our Creator.
Art 1
This course is an elective, which may be taken by any student, grades 9-12. In this class the student is exposed to various art forms using both the tools and materials of the artist. Knowing that art closely reflects an artist's worldview; students will gain foundational art skills and knowledge in order to become more visually discerning.
Adv. Art - Drawing and Painting
Prerequisite: Art 1 and 2
The second year art student should be reasonably comfortable with basic art techniques and tools. They should become more visually aware and increasingly capable of meeting standards of quality in their own work. Students will be expected to execute more complicated forms, in two-dimensional media. In general they should be able to build on basic drawing and painting skills to develop and communicate individual themes and ideas.
Adv. Art Ceramics & Sculpture
Prerequisite: Art 1 and 2
The second year art student should be reasonably comfortable with basic art techniques and tools. They should become more visually aware and increasingly capable of meeting standards of quality in their own work. In general students will be asked to build on basic ceramic skills to create more complicated forms with a greater degree of craftsmanship and the integration of personal themes. Other three dimensional media will be explored as an extension of the understanding of form and space.
Chess Strategies
King of Games and Game of Kinds! This course offers tools, skills, principles, and practice opportunities to improve the student's chess game. Enjoy chess more by learning to win more games. Learn to appreciate the art and strategy of chess.
Advanced Chess: Creating a Team
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval Only
The advanced student is given the opportunity to join the Portland Christian Chess Team and is trained to participate in local and national tournaments.
Home Management Cooking or Quilting/Sewing
Prerequisite: None
This course may be taken by any student grades 9-12. It is designed for students who have little or no skills in sewing or cooking. It will also benefit those who have skills in those areas. The first half will be an intro to home cooking, menu planning, shopping, nutrition, cleaning and a section on "life" skills. We will prepare and eat many varieties of foods. The second half will be an intro to sewing skills. It will include hand and machine sewing, pattern layout and garment making. You will also learn pressing skills.
Shop/Woodworking
Prerequisite: None
This first course in woodworking is open to students, grades 9-12. It is designed to give a general understanding of woodworking tools and processes. The correct and safe operation of hand and power tools will be stressed. The students will apply learned skills in the construction and completion of a required major project and two minor projects.
Guitar Class
Class guitar teaches fundamentals of guitar playing and note reading. Students with little or no experience will learn to play most common chords and read three different kinds of guitar notation. They will also perform at least once in public. The class is open to all high school students. Students must provide their own guitars and will purchase a book.
Concert Band
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval
In concert band, open to students in grades 7 - 9, focus is placed primarily on improving existing basic technical skills and beginning levels of performance. Students will learn how to play in concert band as well as compete at competitions at the district and state level. In addition to technical and musical skills, students will learn about music concepts and gain an understanding and appreciation for the music from centuries past to the present age.
Pep Band
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval
In Pep Band, open to students in grades 9-12, a balanced emphasis on technique and musical performance is sought. Students will further their technical skills and concentrate on advanced musicianship. All students will partake in all performances of the band as well as have the opportunity to perform in ensembles. The band participates in competitions, band tours, etc.
Concert Choir
Prerequisite: Audition
The Concert Choir is available to students in grades 9-12. Acceptance in Concert Choir is by audition and at the discretion of the choir director. Due to the performance nature of choir, membership is considered to be a yearlong commitment. Auditions are usually held the first week of May. The Concert Choir's performing schedule runs from December into June. The choir participates in regional and state competitions, choir tours, etc. Over the last three decades Portland Christian High School has consistently produced award-winning choirs.
Ensemble
Prerequisite: Audition
The Portland Christian High School Ensemble is composed of eight men and eight women chosen from the Concert Choir. The expectations for this singing group are the most rigorous of all performing groups at Portland Christian. While participating in the regular performing season of the Concert Choir, the Ensemble is generally scheduled to perform at additional concerts throughout the year.
Yearbook
Students will work together as a team to design, create and publish the high school yearbook.
English Department
The English program is designed to improve students' awareness of the important role language and literature plays in their lives. Students are challenged to recognize that all truth is of God and that language itself is a gift from God and is a powerful means of exploring, discerning, and communicating truth. Students are also encouraged to recognize literature as the reflection of the values and beliefs of their own and other cultures, to realign their assumptions and thoughts with the mind of Christ, to understand the destructive qualities of sin, and to increase their sensitivity, concern and compassion for mankind.
English and Communications 9
Prerequisite: None
English 9 focuses on the basic elements of communication. Students will learn to consider purpose, structure, and audience when interpreting and composing speech, media, and writing. Their study of literature will include selections from the nonfiction, poetry, mythology, and drama genres. Students will also further their understanding and application of correct grammar and basic composition skills.
Honors English 9/English 10
Prerequisite: Recommendation by English Faculty
Honors 9 students will join the sophomores in their study of the basic and advanced literary techniques found in poetry, short stories, drama, and novels. The class will emphasize the importance of assessing the values and worldviews presented in literature. Students will also further their understanding and application of correct grammar, mature their basic composition skills, and incorporate clarity, form, and organization in various types of writing.
English 10
Students will identify and understand the advanced elements of literary analysis through reading poetry, short stories, drama, and novels. English 10 will highlight the importance of assessing the values and worldviews presented in literature. Students will also further their understanding and application of correct grammar, mature their basic composition skills, and incorporate clarity, form, and organization in various types of writing.
Honors English 10
Prerequisite: Honors English 9, Recommendation by English Faculty
Honors 10 students will continue their study of advanced elements of literary analysis with a wide variety of literature. Honors English 10 will stress not only the development of independent literary analysis and critical thinking skills, but also the importance of testing an author's values against God's truth. Students will also continue to mature their composition skills.
English 11
In Junior English, students will take a historical approach to their study of American literature by correlating their English studies with their American History course. Students will examine each piece of literature as a reflection of the cultural background and value system of the author. Through the use of integrated curriculum and assignments, students are challenged to discover the unity inherent in knowledge.
Honors English 11
Prerequisite: Honors English 9 - 10, Qualifying GPA, Recommendation by English Faculty
As in Junior English, students in Honors English 11 will take a historical approach to their study of American literature examining each piece of literature as a reflection of the cultural background and value system of the author. Because Honors 11 English is designed to prepare students to excel in Advanced Placement English during their senior year, students will experience a larger variety of American literature with greater depth of analysis. Students must participate in a summer reading program.
English 12
Students will examine English literature, and its historical background as a reflection of English society and its values. This survey will be the focus for developing the students' abilities to read independently and write effectively. Students will also gain experience in writing effective college-style essays.
Advanced Placement English
Prerequisite: Honors English 9 - 11, Qualifying GPA, Recommendation by English Faculty
AP English is designed to offer students a college-level English course during their senior year. Through the study of literature works normally studied at the college level, the course will emphasize the development of independent thought, practical literary analysis, and mature habits of critical thinking, Summer reading, class discussion, outside reading, and frequent writing assignments provide the basis of the curriculum. In the spring, students MUST take the Advanced Placement Examination in Literature and Composition. This test has a fee and gives each student an opportunity to earn college credit.
Foreign Language Department
Portland Christian High School offers French, Spanish and Japanese as foreign languages (two years of a second language are required for graduation). The Foreign Language Program is designed to give the student an awareness of the importance of the nature, significance, and purpose of language. The goal, in each of the languages, is to bring students to proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing, and to understand various cultural aspects related to the language.
Spanish, Level 1
This course, open to students, grades 9-12, provide a first year introduction to understanding, reading, writing, and speaking in a modern foreign language. Basic language skills, along with cultural awareness, will be emphasized through various classroom activities.
Spanish, Level II
Prerequisite: Level 1
This course of study will continue to build upon the foundation established in the first level of the course. Students are encouraged to begin speaking only that language in the classroom.
Spanish, Level III
Prerequisite: Level I & II
This course of study will continue to build upon the previous levels. Students speak only that language in the classroom.
APEX French, Level I, II, & III
French courses are offered on an independent study basis through an internet-based program that is facilitated by a teacher who is always present and is fluent in French.
Mathematics Department
At Portland Christian High School we assume that mathematics is an entity, which always exists in the mind of God. For us, it is the universal expression of His creative and sustaining Word of power.
If mathematics is God's thought, then the beauty, order, infinitude and power mathematics exhibits arc reflections of God's "power and Godhead". (Rom. 1:20) The student, beholding the glory of the Creator, is changed into Christ's likeness (2 Cor. 3:18), thus fulfilling his destiny as a Christian (Rom. 8:29, 1 John 3:2). This is a theoretical, abstract, structural aspect of mathematics.
We show the students also that they need mathematics to obey God's command to subdue and replenish the earth and take dominion over it (Gen. 1:28). This is the vocational, scientific, and applied aspect of mathematics.
Pre-Algebra: 7th and 8th graders
This course is open to any student in grades 9-11 whose ability in math is average or below. The course provides a full year of practice in the fundamentals of arithmetic, while basic abstractions of Algebra are introduced and practiced.
Algebra 1: 8th and 9th graders
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or teacher approval
Three levels of ability are represented. (1) We aim to nurture the slower students through another year of math: (2) We aim to strike a few sparks in preparing them for geometry and (3) We aim to provide opportunity for the math gifted to stretch their thinking and gain the confidence to plunge into new ideas.
Geometry
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
This course is for any student who has completed Algebra 1 with a grade of C or above. It will cover concepts of geometry integrated with algebra and trig. It will include analyzing and evaluating geometric problems constructing proofs and deductive and inductive reasoning.
Algebra 2
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 and Geometry or teacher approval
In Algebra 2 students are introduced to trigonometric and vector formulas and functions, logarithms, and set algebra, including absolute value inequalities.
Pre-Calculus
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or teacher approval
In this course, students will study coordinate geometry, review exponential, logarithmic and trigonometry functions, and complex root and factoring. Students will also study matrices and determinants, law of sines and cosines, binomial expansion, trigonometry identities and equations, including the graphing of trigonometry equations. Probability, sequences and series is taught, followed by a unit on solid geometry, circle geometry, rational root theorem, and matrix algebra.
AP Calculus
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or teacher approval
Calculus, a unique reflector of the power and infinity of the Creator, is a college - level, Advanced Placement course. Students who have earned grades of A or B in Pre - Calculus are invited to participate. MHCC credit is available.
Physical Education/Health Department
In Health and PE, students will gain the knowledge necessary to function in the world around them, revealing God's plan for their personal development and the environment in which they live. They will experience the use of the body as a creation of God through the variety of activities to develop muscle coordination, agility, cardiovascular endurance, and mental alertness.
Health 9
This course is generally taken by all 9th grade students, and is designed to help them understand that total health involves the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of their lives.
Physical Education
All 9th grade students take this course. The principles of winning and losing are taught such that the student can apply the principles of sportsmanship and cooperation in competitive situations with their classmates. Students will gain self-confidence through course activities, while maintaining a state of physical fitness suitable for normal participation in the class.
Weight Training
This course is open to all students, grades 9-12. Each student is taught the principles of elementary weight lifting. They are instructed how to correctly perform a minimum of 12 lifts to build strength as well as develop character.
Recreational Fitness
This class, open to all students, grades 10-12, focuses on the development of cardiovascular, respiratory, physical and spiritual fitness through continuous movement of the body. Throughout the course, instruction is given in warm-up, stretching, aerobic activity, games and sports.
Competitive Sports
This course is designed for the serious athlete who wants to participate in a competitive environment focusing on aggressive physical training and sports that involve competition.
Science Department
The Science Department at Portland Christian accepts the Bible as the inerrant Word of God. Students are taught that true science is the study and investigation of the universe that God has created. The objective of the Science Department is to teach students how to fulfill their responsibility to "subdue the earth and rule over it" and to draw them into a deeper relationship with God by revealing God's attributes to them through His creation.
Biology
In this course, each student is provided the skills necessary to understand and be responsible for the three important areas of biology: 1) The theory of biogenesis, the basis of God's "Intelligent Design" which can be seen in all facets of life, 2) Man's responsibility to His Creator, God. The goal of this approach is to reveal more about God to the students, assisting them in understanding who God is and what His purposes are for each individual as well as for all mankind. In addition to teaching this class from a Christian perspective, students are taught the fundamentals of Biology to prepare them for college-level classes.
Anatomy
Prerequisite: Biology (C or better)
This non-math based course will introduce students to the study of the human body while focusing on the structures and functions of tissues, organs, and systems. Engaging topics will be explored such as: DNA fingerprinting, stem cell research, tattoos, anabolic steroids and obesity. Rigorous laboratory activities and dissections of mammalian organisms will be a required component of this course.
Advanced Placement Biology
Prerequisite: Biology (A- or better) and Chemistry (B- or Better)
AP Biology is a course designed to give students an opportunity to earn college credit while still attending high school. The class consists of studies in each of the major fields of biology that are taught in a college first year biology course. At the conclusion of the class students take an exam to determine their qualification to receive college credit. Regardless of the exam results, students who complete the course will be well prepared for college courses in biology.
Chemistry
Prerequisite: B- or better in Alg 2 or demonstrated mathematical ability
Chemistry is central to all of the sciences. The course requires a great deal of memorization and an excellent grasp of mathematics, especially the manipulation of algebraic equations and the interpretation of word problems. Chemistry is the science that tries to understand the properties of substances and the changes that substances undergo. It addresses appropriate use of the scientific method to gather data and legitimate use and interpretation of the resulting statistics.
Conceptual Physics
Prerequisite: Biology
The course will guide students in making connections between the concepts of physics and the real world. Topics that will be studied are: mechanics, properties of matter, heat, sound and light, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics. "Conceptual" refers to "concepts before computation," and so gives all students the opportunity to explore physics without the rigors of math.
Physics
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or teacher approval
Physics is the study of the relationship between matter and energy. Energy drives all systems in the universe from a simple bouncing ball to the complex dynamics in the structure of an atom. The study of the laws of physics is not only a conceptual pursuit, but also intensely mathematical because the language of physics is mathematics. God has revealed part of His nature to us in the orderly, complex, and beautiful universe He created. We can enjoy all He has made, and study it with wonder and humility.
Social Studies Department
The department of social studies encompasses a broad range of course work. In the history classes the student is exposed to the revelation of God in time, space and human events. History is the realm of unrepeatable phenomena, with certain consequences for human knowledge and understanding. In history dwells the unveiling of the personal God - His character, His attributes, and His nature. Through the study of the past and God's clarification of that past we also come to grips with man.
Modern World History 9
The 9th grade Modern History class is designed to show God's hand in all of history. The students experience history from the beginning of Democracy to the 20th century. They will explore how man's worldviews often had a great impact on the world, and how those worldviews have helped shape the world we live in.
Contemporary Culture/Logic 10
Students will develop the basic vocabulary and concepts necessary to act wisely in the world. The student will look at the total overview of what life might be like in a new profession with the reality of "being on your own," by preparing a plan, which includes decision-making, values, goals, wisdom and budgeting. Students will learn to formally address the problems of formulating a Christian approach to economic thought and will be challenged to demonstrate a growing knowledge and discernment in the realm of economic analysis and discourse.
U.S. History 11
In US History, 11th grade students will examine the reasons for the exploration and the settlement of North America, and study the culture and civilization of the American Indian prior to the arrival of the Europeans. Students will study the American Revolution and its causes and effects as they relate to the American's view of authority. Students will examine church and state and its current ramifications. Students will understand the conflict between federalism and states' rights and complete the course with post World War II contemporary history and the development of the Civil Rights Movement.
U.S. Government and Economics 12
In this 12th grade course the students will learn how to understand the Constitution and the form of government it produces with the goal of the student becoming an informed and participating citizen. Along with this focus on government the students will learn the basics of personal economics in order to prepare them for life on their own.
AP Government and Politics 12
Prerequisite: World History, U.S. History or teacher approval
AP Government and Politics is open to 12th grade students in place of the required senior class U.S. Government/Economics. It is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to understand how American government is laid out and how it works. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon them equivalent to those of a full year introductory college course. It also prepares them to be a committed and involved citizen with complete knowledge of the American form of government. At the conclusion of the class students will take an exam to determine their qualification to receive college credit.
Adv. Placement U.S. History/11th or 12th grade
Prerequisite: World History, U.S. History or teacher approval
AP U.S. History is open to 12th grade students. It is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in American history. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon the equivalent to those of a full year introductory college course. At the conclusion of the class students may take an exam to determine their qualification to receive college credit.
College And Career Education
Career Education is a requirement for graduation from Portland Christian High School. Students are required to complete a number of activities and assignments designed to encourage career exploration and to prepare them for college entrance. These activities and assignments are spread throughout the 4 years of high school in lieu of a separate class. Students receive credit and a grade at the end of the sophomore year and another at the end of the senior year.
Most of the required Career Education activities are completed at school. These include exercises addressing such areas as goal setting, getting a job, and career exploration. Students are also required to take a variety of academic and career-related tests, such as the PLAN, Statewide Assessment, and the PSAT.
In addition, each student is required to complete 10 hours of Community Service each year. Community service is defined as any volunteer activity, which would benefit the community. For example, students may volunteer at a hospital, their church, the Red Cross, a nursing home, at school, helping a faculty member, shut-in neighbor, or any non-profit organization.
College and Career Center
Portland Christian High School maintains a College and Career Center which contains a number of helpful resources designed to guide students in their post-high school planning. The Center has a variety of college and vocational resources such as college viewbooks and catalogues, scholarship and financial aid information, college videos and information related to various careers.
The Excel Program
Portland Christian Jr/Sr High School offers a unique program appropriate for students who:
- Are bright; with at least average IQ scores
- Are free of primary emotional or behavioral issues
- Have difficulty processing language at the same rate and in the same way as their peers
- Have well-developed thinking, problem-solving and comprehension skills
- Have difficulty in simple decoding, spelling and writing
- Have mild learning disabilities
Students must be motivated and committed to the learning process. Portland Christian has a structured approach to teaching where these students are able to master the strategies and skills necessary to learn and finally experience success in the classroom. Unfortunately, we are NOT equipped to meet the needs of students who have more pervasive learning disabilities.
The Excel program provides rigorous language remediation for students experiencing difficulty with written and oral expression. Curriculum emphasizes students improving their reading, spelling, writing, and comprehension, speaking and listening skills. Classes of six to eight students are based on teaching skills needed to succeed in the mainstream classroom. The Program has a secondary curriculum emphasizing organizational and study skills development in a traditional classroom setting.
Students will receive special accommodations in their regular classes when joining the program. A bi-weekly progress report is sent home electronically and by mail for parent/student and teacher communication. There is an increased tuition fee associated with the program.
Work Study
Portland Christian High School allows 12th grade students to receive elective credit for off-campus work experience. To receive credit, students in the Work Study Program must complete a minimum of 135 hours of approved off-campus work each term - or approximately 10 hours per week.
To be eligible to participate in the program, students must have a 2.5 grade point average or better and must conduct themselves in a manner that is in accordance with Portland Christian Schools Students Guidelines for Behavior.
Cadet Teaching
The Cadet Teaching program is designed for those students considering a career in education or youth work. Students are assigned to work as aides in one of the Portland Christian elementary campuses or at an approved local school, giving prospective teachers the opportunity to explore the field of education and to gain valuable experience in the classroom. By actually working in the classroom, these students learn first-hand the demands placed on teachers. They also begin to discover whether or not they have the personal qualifications necessary for teaching and working with young people.
International Student Academic Program
The purpose of the International Student Academic Program is to provide strong academics and biblical teaching in a Christian atmosphere. International students are encouraged to study for a high school diploma; however they are also welcome to study for a one year American experience. The English as a Second Language (ESL) courses are offered to assist international students with their English language skills needed to fully transition into mainstream American classes.
The academic goal is to guide international students, beginning in level one ESL classes, to graduate with primarily mainstream American classes. International students who are interested in being competitive for selective American colleges should know that by their senior year, they should have earned a 200 on the CBT and be enrolled in the standard college entrance tests in the United States. If they are unable to meet these options, their college options may be limited.
ESL English 1-2
This is an introduction to the English language. Students learn to express themselves in the present, past, and future tense. The basic skills of communication, reading, and writing are emphasized in this course.
ESL English 3-4
This class continues to develop speaking and listening skills. Students will establish a grammatical background needed for reading and writing. Other emphases will include short stories, essay writing, and poetry.
ESL English 5-6
English 5-6 will identify genre, define and identify worldviews and explore literature such as The Pearl by John Steinbeck, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickenson, and Hamlet by William Shakespeare.
ESL Bible 1
Bible 1 is a survey of the Old Testament of the Bible. Students will learn the character and nature of God.
ESL Bible 2
Bible 2 is a survey of the New Testament of the Bible. Students will learn the character of Jesus Christ and how to have a relationship with Him.
ESL US History
US History is an introduction to the history of the United States. Students will explore geography and key points that make our country what it is today. English language is limited to teaching at English level 1-2.
ESL World History
ESL World History is designed to show the evidence of God's plan throughout the history of man's progress. Students will identify key turning points in history that have determined where we are today.
ESL Government-Economics
This is an introduction of the American government system. Areas of emphasis are the structures of our government and the process by which it runs. Economic teachings will explore the United States free enterprise systems. Students will explore the possibilities of starting and owning a business.
ESL TOEFL Prep/Study Skills
The TOEFL Prep/Study Skills class will prepare students for TOEFL tests. Expanding the English vocabulary with idioms and cliché's will be emphasized. Practice TOEFL tests covering listening and reading will give the students skills needed to improve their scores.
ESL Science Adjunct
This class fosters international students in their studies in mainstream science classes. Science teachers on faculty will serve as instructors, carefully reviewing lessons and assisting in assignments from mainstream science classes.
ESL English/Bible Adjunct
English/Bible adjunct fosters international students in their studies in mainstream English and Bible classes. English and Bible teachers on faculty will serve as instructors, carefully reviewing lessons and assisting in assignments from mainstream English and Bible classes.
Student Activities
Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities.
Athletics
PC Middle and High School athletic facilities feature a state-of-the-art multi-purpose track and field. PC High School offers basketball, cross-country, track, softball, baseball, soccer, girl's volleyball, and boy's football. Junior Varsity and Varsity cheerleading takes place during football and basketball seasons, including Oregon State competition.
Clubs and Organizations
PC High School has several clubs, including the Ski Club and National Honor Society. National Honor Society teaches students about service, government, leadership, scholarship, and character while holding a specific GPA. Thespian Club has students that become members of the International Thespian Society, chapter 5408 and is based on the number of hours they participate in drama activities.
Missions
The Missions Outreach Program is extensive at Portland Christian Junior/Senior High School. Young people are given the opportunities to serve locally at homeless shelters and various other ministry outlets. In addition, a number of mission projects around the world are supported through student offerings and prayer.
Class Activities
Chapel Committees (6-8 and 9-12)
The middle and senior high school chapel Committees meet weekly with their advisors for the purpose of planning and prayer. Chapel committee members are chosen by advisors from among those who express a desire to assist in planning weekly chapels.
Parent volunteers work with class faculty advisors and student leaders to plan yearly retreats, parties, mission projects, and other activities.
Student Leadership Opportunities
PCS has two opportunities for student-run government: Student Government and Class Officers. The Student Government and Class Officers are responsible for helping to plan and coordinate retreats, school parties, Alumni Reception/Homecoming, mission projects, banquets, and Community Outreach. The involvement of these students in the life of PCS eases the load for faculty and administrators, but also enriches the students' experience and develops leadership skills through helping to coordinate the school's direction.