


Middle School
The Bible courses at Legacy Christian Academy Middle School provide a cohesive curriculum designed to develop an integrated biblical worldview. Each grade level has a unique focus while reinforcing the core elements of a biblical worldview. This approach ensures that all students, including those who join Legacy after 5th grade, can fully engage with and understand the material.
5th and 6th Grades focus on what Christians believe, laying the foundation of the central doctrines of the Christian faith and exploring the scriptures that support these beliefs.
7th and 8th Grades focus on why Christians believe what they believe, building on earlier foundations to explore how these doctrines shape a broader view of the world.
Students study the doctrine of God, His attributes, His work, the nature of humanity, and the redemption offered through Christ’s work on the cross.
This year emphasizes a biblical view of truth, God, humanity, the universe, and morality. Students engage deeply with scripture to understand the Christian position on these foundational topics.
Students explore comparative worldviews, contrasting Christian beliefs with non-biblical perspectives such as Islam, Naturalism, and New Age thought. They examine key scriptures that underpin the Christian worldview and evaluate their relevance in light of other ideologies.
Students analyze how a Christian worldview shapes theology, philosophy, ethics, and even the sciences. Using key biblical passages, they explore the practical implications of their faith in these areas.
5th & 6th Grade STEM (Required as Core Content)
These STEM courses introduce students to foundational computer science concepts through activities emphasizing collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, typing, programming, and robotics. Each equips students with essential skills, preparing them for more specialized computer science courses in upper middle school and high school.
The English Language Arts program at Legacy Christian Academy Middle School utilizes a selection of world-class literature, including both classic and contemporary works. These texts are broadly representative, intellectually challenging, and morally framed to provide students with a rigorous and engaging learning experience. Through this program, students gain a deeper understanding of literature from a biblical worldview.
The 5th-grade curriculum integrates reading, writing, speaking, listening, and vocabulary study through a biblical worldview. This program prepares students to become better readers, writers, and critical thinkers. Standards are differentiated for depth and complexity to meet each student’s academic needs, utilizing high-level texts and meaningful daily tasks. Key areas of focus include:
Engage in close and critical reading to deepen comprehension and analysis. Develop analytical writing skills to express ideas clearly and thoughtfully. Practice speaking and listening for a variety of purposes to enhance communication. Build powerful language skills for effective written and verbal expression. Students will read and analyze a wide range of literary genres, fostering comprehension and critical thinking skills.
The 5th-grade composition curriculum also integrates reading, writing, speaking, listening, and vocabulary, with an added emphasis on grammar. This program aims to develop students' writing and critical thinking abilities. Key components include:
Mastery of proper grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary development. Writing practice focused on conventions and effective communication. Active listening and language skills to enhance understanding and expression. Daily writing tasks encourage students to build confidence and refine their written communication.
The 6th-grade English Language Arts program continues to integrate reading, writing, speaking, listening, and vocabulary study, with a focus on analyzing texts through a Christian perspective. Students are encouraged to think critically and become independent learners while developing a lifelong appreciation for literature. The program’s goals include:
Developing clear and effective written and oral communication skills.
Fostering critical thinking and independent analysis of challenging literature.
Building a strong literary foundation through exposure to diverse works.
Incorporating technology into the research and writing process. Enhancing grammar, usage, spelling, and mechanics through the writing process. Students will engage in a variety of individual, small group, and large group activities designed to strengthen oral and written communication.
In 7th Grade English Language Arts, the primary goals are to develop academic independence and foster critical thinking skills as students move toward their final steps in the transition from their elementary education into their high school college-preparatory education, specifically in the areas of written and verbal communication. In the seventh grade English Literature classroom at Legacy, development in these areas is strategically accomplished by encouraging the individual student’s gifts and independence as he develops through five major academic avenues: grammar, public speaking, reading, vocabulary, and writing.
In 7th Grade English Language Arts Honors, students will be expected to operate with grade-level appropriate academic independence. They will be further challenged to develop their already present critical thinking skills as they prepare for the eighth grade honors classroom and prepare for high school college-preparatory education, specifically in the areas of written and verbal communication. In the seventh grade English Literature Honors classroom at Legacy, fostering and practicing in these areas is strategically accomplished by encouraging the individual student’s gifts and independence as he develops through five major academic avenues: grammar, public speaking, reading, vocabulary, and writing.
In 8th Grade English Language Arts, the primary goals are to develop independent and critical thinkers, investigating real-world issues from a Christian perspective, through reading, writing, and oral communication. Students develop basic reading comprehension skills, like utilizing background knowledge, asking questions, identifying the main idea and supporting details, sequencing events, making inferences and predictions, summarizing and paraphrasing, distinguishing fact and opinion, and comparing and contrasting. Students are also cognitively ready to closely and critically read, going beyond basic comprehension, to analyze upper-level elements such as theme, symbolism, character and plot development, mood and tone, figurative language, and author’s purpose and style. Furthermore, students develop as influential writers, applying grammar knowledge, working through each step of the writing process, writing successfully for a variety of purposes, and developing his/her confidence and individual voice in writing.
8th Grade English Language Arts Honors continues with the primary goals of developing independent and critical thinkers who investigate real-world issues from a Christian perspective. Additionally, 8th Grade English Literature Honors supports students who have a curiosity and passion for reading and writing through analysis of author’s purpose and craft. While students continue to develop basic reading skills, they are able to move beyond these skills with more independence and focus on analyzing the nuances of language, an author’s intentional use of literary and rhetorical devices, and synthesizing information, as well as Socratic-seminar-style oral discussion. Writers focus more on utilizing sentence structure to create variety and fluidity, seamlessly embedding direct quotations, and intentionally applying their knowledge of literary and rhetorical devices as writers.
History Courses at Legacy Christian Academy Middle School provide a study of History through a Biblical worldview. The program emphasizes critical writing, reading, speaking, and study skills to help students develop historical thinking skills and a historical understanding of the individual and collective experiences of people across the world.
In 5th Grade History, students will focus on ancient history from creation through the early church. Students will start with God's Creation and learn all about Biblical history and ancient civilizations up through the fall of Rome. Using the Bible as their guide and a variety of curriculum resources, students will study the major events throughout Scripture and the major ancient civilizations in the background, such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Israel, Greece, and Rome. Students will increase their research, annotation, and note-taking skills to learn the Arc of Bible History. Students will see history as one continuous story through STEM activities, interactive times, and visual representations.
In 6th Grade History, students will focus on the history of The Middle Ages. This curriculum covers world events focusing on church history by studying significant people and events from 200 A.D. to the Enlightenment. Students will explore how the church developed and spread within the context of world history and culture. In addition, we will be using novels and a variety of resources. STEM activities will also enhance their understanding of history. Students will appreciate how God has been at work in all of His-story.
In 7th Grade History, students will focus on an introductory account of the United States from European exploration through the Civil War. Primary and secondary sources will be used throughout the school year. Throughout the year, students will work on developing critical thinking through higherlevel questions that challenge students to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate the events of history to gain a better understanding of how and why events unfold as they do. Each unit of study will also include assignments and activities that challenge them to take what they have learned and apply it to Christian living in the United States today. Students will learn how God was, and is, an integral part of the continued success of our nation.
In the 8th Grade History, students will focus on an introductory account of the United States from the Reconstruction Period to the present day. Students will use primary and secondary sources throughout the school year. Students will develop critical thinking through higher-level questioning, which challenges students to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate history's events to understand better how and why events unfold as they do. Each unit of study will also include assignments and activities that challenge them to take what they have learned and apply it to Christian living in the United States today. Students will learn how God was, and is, an integral part of the continued success of our nation.
In the 8th Grade History Honors, students will be challenged to explore the introductory account of the United States from the Reconstruction period to the present day. From multiple perspectives, students will consider the lens of history through a biblical worldview. They will experience history in a thriving learning environment where students are encouraged to prepare for more advanced classroom engagement and discussion through educational strategies. They will have opportunities to gain deeper personal meaning and application in their historical studies while maximizing their understanding and achieving higher academic standards.
Introduction
Science at Legacy Christian Academy Middle School provides “evidence that demands a verdict” or data that points one to facts that follow the Scientific Method. It is a course that aligns with data that has never been disproved, that is the Truth of the Bible. LCA Science is current, interactive, lab based, problem based, and taught with a Biblical worldview so students are prepared to apply it to their lives. The 5th-8th grade program aims to challenge students with critical thinking and problem solving that advances with each grade. An interactive curriculum and STEM challenges are included in each grade level. No matter the grade, all of these dynamic courses provide an environment with teachers who love what they teach and have a lot of fun learning alongside the students.
In 5th Grade, we study an overview of life, physical sciences, and earth sciences as it relates to the intelligent design in God’s Creation. Every unit in our study integrates scientific data with a Biblical worldview. It uses the student's natural God-given curiosity to engage them in investigating, observing, and thinking about all they see, hear, smell, taste, and feel around them. They will cover topics such as Natural Cycles, Life Cycles, The Cell, Bacteria & Diseases, Ecology, The Basics of Matter, Simple Machines, The Rock Cycle, Natural Resources, and Weather & Climate. Additionally, STEM problems will provide the students with a collaborative setting in order to put the Scientific Method and critical thinking into action as they discover the answers to their questions. At the end of the year, the expectation is that students would enjoy and see a purpose in science in their daily lives. Fifth grade is a wonderful age for students to figure out what area of science they enjoy. This course is a robust start to science in middle school.
In 6th Grade, we continue to study an overview of earth, and physical sciences as it relates to God’s Creation. Students are able to solve problems, apply, and discover science using creative critical thinking skills individually and in groups. Every unit of study integrates a concept, followed by a handson application, and all based on a Biblical worldview. The curriculum uses the student’s natural Godgiven curiosity to engage them in investigating, observing, and thinking about the world around them. They will cover topics such as Rock Records, Astronomy, The Periodic Table of the Elements, States of Matter, Fluids, Newton’s Laws of Motion, Oceans in Motion, and Volcanos, Earthquakes, & Natural Disasters. Additionally, STEM will provide the students with a collaborative setting in order to put the Scientific Method to the test in order to solve problems. This course is meant to provide students with experiences in a wide variety of earth and space science fields.
In 7th Grade, we focus on Life Science which is vertically aligned with what was taught in grades five and six, as well as, what will be taught in ninth grade biology. The structures and functions of living things such as plants, animals, and human beings is the focus. All of these concepts unfold as a quest to understand the life that God has created. Case studies, webquests, lab activities, ethics boxes, and questions help students think like scientists and see life science from a Biblical perspective. They will cover topics such as Cells, Heredity & Genetics, Evaluating Evidence of Evolution with a Biblical Worldview, Bacteria & Viruses, Classification, Animal Reproduction, and Body Systems & Functions. In addition, STEM will provide the students with creative, fun, collaborative, problems that will challenge their critical thinking skills and allow them to apply their knowledge and understanding of concepts taught in the unit studies. Students will have extensive practice with Microscopes, as well as dissection skills of the worm, cow’s eye, and frog.
In 8th Grade, we focus on Physical Science which is vertically aligned with what was taught in grades five and six, as well as, what will be taught in high school chemistry and physics. In the chemistry chapters, they will see the wonder in matter and energy and how it interacts in the foods we eat, the drinks we drink, and in all the matter around them. In the physics chapters, they will see how things move and behave as they do based on the Scientific Method and how God Created the Universe as the “original mover”. It introduces students to topics such as The Basics of Science, Dimensional Analysis, Chemistry & the States of Matter, Atomic Structure, The Periodic Table, Balancing Chemical Equations, Physics in Motion, The Four Forces in Creation, Energy, Waves, Light, & Sound, and Electricity & Magnetism, Additionally, they will be challenged to base their conclusions on a Biblical worldview. Students will enjoy solving STEM problems that will be presented using a corporate model where they will be assessed with rubrics and the concept of individual return on investment.
8th Grade Honors follows the same same focus as 8th Grade Science. However, Honors moves at a faster pace through the basic content in order to include the application of higher math skills or analytical application and offer students more opportunities to venture into the analysis of figuring out why things work. Traits like engagement in class, attitude, aptitude, grades, work ethic, and writing ability are all considered when being placed in honors science. It is important to note that 8th grade students who are in honors need to come with the foundation of algebra due to its application throughout the year.
Mathematics Courses at Legacy Christian Academy Middle School promote learning through biblically integrative mathematics. Students learn a Biblical worldview of predictable mathematical patterns, precise mathematical measurements, exact mathematical answers, and whole parts in mathematics. Using a consistent and comprehensive curriculum all students will be able to understand and use mathematics in everyday life through meaningful learning and practice opportunities.
In 5th Grade Mathematics, students learn through a problem-solving approach based on everyday situations. Students learn basic math skills in a context that is meaningful by making connections between their own knowledge and experience and mathematics concepts. Students practice basic skills in a variety of engaging ways. In addition to completing daily review exercises covering a variety of topics and working with multiplication and division fact families in different formats, students play games that are specifically designed to develop basic skills. Lessons are designed to take advantage of previously learned concepts and skills and to build on them throughout the year. Grade-level goals include Number Theory, Estimation and Computation, Geometry, Division, Fractions, Decimals and Percents, Fractions, Exponents and Negative Numbers, Probability, Rates, and Ratios, Coordinates, Area, Volume, and Capacity.
In 6th Grade Mathematics, students learn through a problem-solving approach based on everyday situations. Students learn basic math skills in a context that is meaningful by making connections between their own knowledge and experience and mathematics concepts. Students practice basic skills in a variety of engaging ways. In addition to completing daily review exercises covering a variety of topics and working with multiplication and division fact families in different formats, students play games that are specifically designed to develop basic skills. Lessons are designed to take advantage of previously learned concepts and skills and to build on them throughout the year. Grade-level goals include Collection, Display, and Interpretation of Data, Operations with Whole Numbers and Decimals, Variables, Formulas, and Graphs, Rational Number Uses and Operations, Geometry, Number Systems, Probability, Rates, and Ratios.
In 7th Grade Mathematics, students expand on prior mathematical knowledge while developing solid foundations in pre-algebraic and geometric topics, with emphasis on using applied arithmetic, algebra, and geometry to connect these areas to measurement, area, and statistics. The topics include Whole Numbers, Integers and Introduction to Solving Equations, Solving Equations and Problem Solving, Fractions and Mixed Numbers, Decimals, Ratio, Proportion, and Triangle Applications, and Percents.
In 7th Grade Accelerated math, students explore and learn math concepts of both 7th (see above) & 8th grade math (understandings of linear equations, graphing, solving systems of equations, applying the Pythagorean Theorem, working with exponents and scientific notation, and problem-solving skills) at an accelerated pace, focusing on deep conceptual understanding through rich tasks, productive struggle, and mathematical discourse, aiming to master standards required for an accelerated pathway, including preparation for Algebra 1 in 8th grade.
In 8th Grade Pre-Algebra, students continue to gather, apply, analyze, and evaluate algebraic concepts. Students lay the groundwork for the next algebra course through real-life and real-data applications, data interpretation, conceptual understanding, problem-solving, writing, cooperative learning, number sense, estimation, critical thinking, and geometric concepts.
In 8th Grade Algebra I, students are provided a mathematical foundation that will be used in all higherlevel math classes. This class develops algebraic skills and concepts to use in a wide variety of problemsolving situations. Students examine operations with real numbers, linear equations, inequalities, relations and functions, polynomials, exponents, and radicals.
Fine Arts Courses at Legacy Christian Academy Middle School recognize the importance of using Godgiven talents and we believe that the arts promote creativity, thinking, and joy; increase aesthetic literacy; prepare students for full participation in society; and influence and reflect cultures.
In Middle School Worship and Vocal Arts, students develop vocal technique and confidence as soloists and ensemble members. Students explore other music genres such as classical, musical theater, pop, and electronic music. Theory lessons incorporate more advanced music theory concepts through rhythm exercises, theory lessons, written assignments, and tests. Performance opportunities include leading worship during chapel and other performances or concerts throughout the year.
In Middle School Worship and Vocal Arts, students continue to develop vocal technique and confidence as soloists and ensemble members. Students explore other music genres such as classical, musical theater, pop, and electronic music. Theory lessons incorporate more advanced music theory concepts through rhythm exercises, theory lessons, written assignments, and tests. Performance opportunities include leading worship during chapel, TPSMEA Honor Choir, solo and ensemble contests in the Spring, and other performances or concerts throughout the year. *This course has performance requirements as specified by the course instructor.
In Middle School Theater Production, students will grow as actors. Students learn about the fathers of acting and their influence on theater. Students will study plays and analyze their characters as they explore character development with acting techniques. Each semester students will have opportunities for live performances as individuals and as a group.
In Middle School Theater Production, students will build on previously taught skills as they grow as actors. Students learn about the fathers of acting and their influence on theater. Students will study plays and analyze their characters as they explore character development with more advanced acting techniques. Each semester students will have opportunities for live performances as individuals and as a group. *This course has performance requirements as specified by the course instructor.
In 6th Grade Art General Survey, students are introduced to the Elements and Principles of Art and Design while exposing students to various art media and art movements. Students begin each project by discussing the elements and principles of art and design necessary to create a successful piece, learning the basics of art media, and studying an artist who worked in that specific media.
7th & 8th Grade Studio Art I
In 7th and 8th Grade Studio Art I, students develop and reinforce their understanding of the Elements and Principles of Art and Design by exploring different art media, such as watercolor, acrylic, graphite, ink, and markers. Art criticism and Art History are introduced through personal art evaluation and observing how art movements have influenced different art media. Students utilize the principles, media, techniques, and styles they studied to create original works of art.
8th Grade Studio Art II (Prerequisite: Studio Art I or Teacher Portfolio Review)
In 8th Grade Studio Art II, students build on the principles, media, techniques, and styles learned in Studio Art I. Students continue to grow in their art-making skills while developing their creative conceptual thinking and personal expression. Students learn to appreciate art and develop criticism techniques by evaluating their pieces and studying Art History.
8th Grade Digital Design (Prerequisite: Studio Art I or Teacher Portfolio Review)
In 8th Grade Digital Art, students utilize their understanding of the Elements and Principles of Art and Design using various digital art-making apps and programs. Students create strong, compelling digital artworks while crafting logos and ad campaigns for a company of their invention. Students continue to develop art appreciation and criticism techniques by evaluating their current marketing campaigns and studying Art History.
In 6th Grade Beginner Band, students will select instruments based on the directors' recommendation and experience performing together as an ensemble. Students review notation principles, time signatures, key signatures, dynamics, rhythm, scales, sight-reading, and care of instruments. Students are equipped to also serve in orchestras and bands at church. The goal is to train and prepare students for the life-long understanding and enjoyment of music, whether they choose to become a performer or consumer of music, and a long-term, thriving membership in the Legacy band program.
Concert Band is structured towards reviewing and developing individual musical skills and guiding them toward effective ensemble playing skills. We will introduce and review principles of notation, time signatures, key signatures, dynamics, rhythm, scales, and sight-reading. The primary emphasis for this level is to learn the skills necessary for mature tone quality on their instrument, develop skills for proper warm-ups, and improve reading and playing technical passages. The goal is to train and prepare students for the life-long understanding and enjoyment of music, whether they choose to become a performer or consumer of music, and a long-term, thriving membership in the Legacy band program.
(Prerequisite: Audition Required)
The Symphonic Band consists of 7th and 8th grade band students from auditions of the previous school year and is the top-performing instrumental ensemble in the Middle School. Symphonic Band is structured towards reviewing and polishing individual musical skills, as well as developing their ensemble playing skills and sight-reading abilities. We will review principles of notation, time signatures, key signatures, dynamics, rhythm, scales, and sight-reading. The major emphasis for this level is to develop a mature tone quality on their instrument, understand and practice proper warm-ups, develop ear training, and improve reading and playing technical passages. Additionally, Symphonic Band Students will audition for the ATSSB Region Band in December and the TPSMEA Honor Band in January as a requirement of the course. The goal is to train and prepare students for the life-long understanding and enjoyment of music, whether they choose to become a performer or consumer of music, and a long-term, thriving membership in the Legacy band program.
In 8th Grade Spanish I, students integrate all the modalities of Spanish, speaking, reading, writing, and listening, to help students achieve a basic level of proficiency. Students study introductory grammar, vocabulary, dialogue, and culture, focusing on activities and routines used in daily life at school and home. Spanish I includes mastery of the primary forms of verbs and how and when to use them accurately. A gentle introduction to the language and culture as a whole develops skills through speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
In 7th and 8th Grade Speech, students develop skills focused on five identifiable functions: expressing, informing, persuading, visualizing and creating. Students become competent communicators through verbal and nonverbal messages, presentation skills, and effective social practices. Students develop and apply oral language, nonverbal communication, and listening skills in interpersonal, group, academic, and public contexts. Students are given the opportunity to understand the communication process and participate friendly debates to develop procedural communication processes, respond with informative messages, and develop an understanding of persuasion.
In 7th and 8th grade STEM Applications, students will harness their creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on projects and interactive learning experiences. Throughout the course, students will explore the Python programming language, game design principles, robotics, and more, providing a comprehensive exploration of STEM applications. Focusing on fostering innovation, collaboration, and critical thinking, students will emerge equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the everevolving landscape of STEM.
In 8th Grade, STEM takes a wide lens approach by covering such topics as user-centered design, the engineering process, automation, programming, and debugging code. Students will be inspired to take learned skills to design and program a variety of robots to compete in local and regional tournaments, with the hope of qualifying for the World Robotics competition each spring in Dallas.
7th & 8th grade Leadership & Service is a transformative program centered around biblical leadership principles and the importance of service. This course aims to instill values of compassion, responsibility, and integrity while drawing inspiration from biblical teachings on leadership. Students will delve into the stories of biblical figures renowned for their leadership qualities, extracting timeless lessons that they can apply to their own lives. Through interactive discussions, group activities, and community service projects, participants will not only develop essential leadership skills but also cultivate a heart for serving others. By merging biblical wisdom with practical application, this course strives to empower students to become compassionate leaders who positively impact their communities and lead with a strong moral compass. *Please Note: This course is required for 7th & 8th grade Heads of House.
7th & 8th grade Digital & Broadcast Journalism is a dynamic and hands-on exploration of the exciting world of media. This immersive program empowers students to become proficient journalists by providing a comprehensive overview of digital and broadcast media. Participants will learn the fundamentals of journalistic writing, honing their skills through the development of a studentpublished newsletter. Additionally, the course introduces the art of podcasting, equipping students with the tools to craft compelling audio stories. A highlight of the program is the hands-on experience in the operation of daily morning video announcements, allowing students to take on roles such as anchors, producers, and editors. Through this multifaceted approach, students not only gain practical skills in journalism but also foster creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication in the digital age.
7th & 8th grade Study Skills is tailored to empower students with the essential tools for academic success by honing good study habits and executive functioning skills. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will learn effective time management, organization, and goal-setting techniques. The course places a strong emphasis on developing note-taking strategies, active reading skills, and effective memory retention methods. Students will also be guided in the use of technology for academic purposes and encouraged to cultivate a growth mindset. With a combination of interactive lessons, practical exercises, and personalized feedback, this course aims to equip middle school students with the foundational skills necessary to navigate the academic challenges ahead, fostering a sense of confidence and self-efficacy in their learning journey. *Please note: A student in LLC may not select Study Skills in addition to their LLC selection.
The goal of our Spanish Immersion program is to develop bilingual students who excel academically, demonstrate Spanish proficiency, and value Spanish-speaking cultures.
In 5th grade, Spanish Immersion student receive 100% instruction in four (4) classes: Spanish Language Arts Reading , Spanish Language Arts Writing , Math, and Bible classes. These classes utilize Spanish versions of the same curriculum.
In 6th grade, Spanish Immersion student receive 100% instruction in three (3) classes: Spanish Language Arts, Math, and Bible Classes. These classes utilize Spanish versions of the same curriculum.
In 7th grade, Spanish Immersion student receive 100% instruction in three (3) classes: Spanish Language Arts, Spanish III, and Math (either 7th Grade Math or Accelerated 7th Grade Math). These classes utilize Spanish versions of the same curriculum.
Spanish III- SI students only (US Level Course; 1 Credit) The Spanish III course will build upon foundational Spanish skills by providing students with an intermediate level of proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Spanish, while delving deeper into grammar, vocabulary, and cultural aspects of Spanish-speaking countries, preparing them for the rigor of a subsequent Spanish course. It will include more complex topics, authentic materials, and increased emphasis on oral communication and cultural understanding.