Academics
ACADEMICS
Elementary
Middle School
High School
College Guidance
Achievement Scores
ELEMENTARY PK4-5th
From the first day of Pre-K, OBCA stresses that the Bible is God’s Holy Word and that He speaks to us through His Word. Reading is introduced in kindergarten using a phonics-based approach equipping most of the children to read independently by the middle of first grade, where they are exposed to quality literature. Cursive writing is taught in kindergarten, and penmanship, as well as creative writing, is taught methodically. Spelling, Grammar and Math facts are taught by direct instruction. History and Science facts from creation to current times are presented at this stage as well. Introduction to Spanish begins in kindergarten and continues through middle school. The children also benefit from Music, Art, Physical Education and Computer classes. While all classes are taught from a Biblical perspective, Bible is also taught as a subject itself. In the fourth and fifth grades, students are encouraged to know Christ as their personal Savior and are taught basic Christian evangelical skills.
All of the basics are taught through a systematic, multi-sensory approach, enriched and reinforced with field trips to places such as the Maryland Historical Society, the zoo, museums and plays. Songs, jingles and repetition lay the foundation for a fun, rewarding, educational experience. Reading and comprehension skills are developed and expanded through independent reading and the presentation of oral and written reports and projects. ABeka and Bob Jones University comprise the bulk of the curriculum materials used at the elementary level.
MIDDLE SCHOOL 6th-8th
Middle school students are taught to reason and organize their views through guided discussion groups and interactive lectures. Students are taught to research and write effectively in a variety of areas across the curriculum. OBCA offers an accelerated or standard track in Language Arts and Math. Throughout the school year, students read literary works that reinforce history and science topics and concepts. These topics and concepts come to life for the students through experiments and demonstrations, current events, international feasts, projects, skits, an annual science fair and field trips to DC, Philadelphia, Gettysburg and Williamsburg. The sixth grade General Science course covers the basics of biology, physical energy and earth and space topics, paving the way for the next three years of in-depth study of Life Science, Earth and Space Science and Physics. Students apply the knowledge obtained in the lectures to their lab work. Sixth grade finishes the fundamental math courses preparing the seventh grade to split into an Introduction to Pre-Algebra class or an Advanced Pre-Algebra class. Eighth grade then divides into an advanced Pre-Algebra class and an Algebra I class, based on ability levels.
Multi-level literature groups are formed and lively discussions about the novels, their authors and their characters, reflect the fun in learning and discovering. Creative writing workshops, utilizing The Excellence in Writing program, present opportunities for students to effectively express themselves and their ideas, and to reflect on the ideas of others. Vocabulary is developed in middle school through the use of words derived from Greek and Latin roots, encouraging the development of deductive thinking skills.
Biblical concepts are incorporated into all courses. Additionally, daily Bible classes develop scriptural doctrine and the application of scripture to daily living. All students participate in weekly chapel services. OBCA students take computer and technology classes to prepare them to present themselves and their work in a proficient manner. Students also take Introduction to Spanish, Physical Education, and Music classes. Furthermore, students are encouraged to join the hand bell choir, instrumental band, praise band or drama/musicals.
HIGH SCHOOL 9th-12th
Building on the knowledge and skills acquired in previous years, students are taught to present in both oral and written form, refined and persuasive arguments across the curriculum, culminating in a senior project the final year. The standard and accelerated tracks continue in high school offering Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Calculus and Business or Consumer Math. Grammar, writing, vocabulary and speech continue to be emphasized in Language Arts, as well as the critique of classic works of literature. Instruction in government, economics and family living help students understand our current culture and our political and philosophical environment. Students expand their knowledge of science in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Anatomy classes and labs. In ninth grade students begin their required 2 years of formal foreign language study in Spanish I & II. They may elect to further study Spanish in the eleventh and twelfth grade. Our goal is to prepare our students, both mentally and spiritually with a Biblical worldview and the foundation to defend their faith, for the world of higher education and work.
