Course Descriptions

For general academic information, consult the CAJ High School Student Handbook

Typical basic schedules: see graduation requirements

1. 9th: Bible and PE/health, English, math, biology, language, world history, a study hall and one elective.
2. 10th: Bible and PE/health, English, language, math, comparative politics/Japanese Culture, science (chemistry from 25-26), study hall and one elective.
3. 11th: Bible and PE/health, English or AP English Language, US history or another social studies class, study hall and at least two electives. For class of 2029 and beyond, a further class each of math and science should be taken in either grade 11 or 12.
4. 12th: Bible and PE/health, English or AP English Literature, Senior Capstone, study hall and one or more electives.

Bible

Bible Department Guidelines/Requirements:

• 4 credits Bible (one credit for each year enrolled at CAJ).
• At CAJ, students in grades 10 and 11 take two quarter-length Bible classes per year, adding up to one semester of Bible per year. They are able to choose their quarter-length classes from a menu of six options.
  • First quarter of semester:
    • Apologetics
    • Screwtape Letters
    • Wisdom
  • Second quarter of semester:
    • Theology and Fantasy Literature
    • Understanding the Gospels
    • World Religions

Bible 9: Introduction to Christianity

1 semester
This course provides a framework for understanding Christianity. In addition to learning about what is in the Bible, we will ask broader questions about the overall story that Christians find in the Bible, where the Bible came from, and why and how Christians look to it for truth and guidance. This framework, when filled out by later classes in the CAJ Bible curriculum, will prepare students to succeed in their Bible-based integration of their Senior Comprehensives topic into the overall story that Christians find in the Bible.

Bible 10/11: Understanding the Gospels

0.5 semester
The purpose of this course is to equip you to read and understand the gospels, the four narratives about Jesus that begin the New Testament. We will explore questions like: Can the gospels be trusted? What is the “good news” they tell about? Why were the gospels written? Why did the gospel writers choose to include the stories they included? This course will conclude with students creating a "chapel talk" that they will present to the class on a passage in one of the gospels.

Bible 10/11: The Screwtape Letters

0.5 semester
The purpose of this course is to equip you to think about big questions about life and reality in conversation with Christian teaching, important literature, and your own experience. To do this, we will use C.S. Lewis’ fictional book The Screwtape Letters, a collection of short letters in which a senior demon (Screwtape) gives advice to a junior demon (Wormwood) about how best to tempt a particular human being (“the Patient”) away from God and into hell. Along the way, we will explore questions like: What’s the real difference between good and evil? What’s the world really like? How much can we control ourselves? How can we be truly free? How does having bodies affect how we experience and understand the world? What is God really up to? What do we really need in life, and where do we get it? What is true love?

Bible 10/11: Wisdom

0.5 semester
What does it mean to make wise choices in life, especially when we face difficult decisions or encounter confusing situations? For help in answering this relevant question, we will look to two of the Bible’s “Wisdom Books”--Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. In Proverbs we will investigate what is wisdom, and how does it connect to our lives and how can we achieve the "good life"? In Ecclesiastes, we will look for meaning and fulfillment despite the fact that time and chance can make us all feel like it might be meaningless. How can we live this "good life" when the world doesn't always seem to follow set rules or fairness? To investigate this "good life" and how to get it, the class will go heavily into historical and textual analysis of the Biblical text.

Bible 10/11: Apologetics

0.5 semester
This course focuses on Christian apologetics—explaining how Christianity answers hard questions and is reconciled with our understanding of the way the world works. After beginning with a survey of what apologetics is, we will learn about how logical arguments work and then begin to look at hard questions that Christians have had to answer throughout history. Through individual and group work, we will learn how Christians understand the relationship between faith and reason, what some of the most important challenges to Christianity are, and how Christians should respond to these challenges, both from a logical and an interpersonal perspective.

Bible 10/11: World Religions

0.5 semester
As of 2016, over 80% of the world population self-identify as religious in some way. This means that a basic understanding of religion in general, and the world’s major religions specifically, is a necessity in understanding and impacting the world that we live in, and understanding and relating to others in the world. Through this course, students will learn basic facts, doctrine, and history of some of the major religions in the world. Rather than taking a strictly informational approach, however, this information will provide the backdrop for questions of Christian teaching and doctrine, addressing questions such as, Why are people religious? How do we explain similarities and differences between Christianity and other religions? What do Christians think will happen to those who follow other religions? Where (and how) do we draw the line between religious practices and cultural practices?

Bible 10/11: Theology and Fantasy Literature

0.5 semester
Everyone loves a good story. We tell tales, create legends, and immerse ourselves in words and worlds. But the question is, why? Why do we, as created beings, long to create ourselves? Where do these worlds that we create intersect with our faith? Can these stories, fiction though they may be, show and teach us Truth? We investigate these ideas by reading fantasy literature, digging into their worldviews, and comparing those views with the truth that scripture shows us. We investigate to better understand art, faith, and creativity as beings created in the image of God. Particularly, we seek to understand what it means to create as a sub-creator through a variety of selections from both Christian and non-Christian authors including some independent reading.

Bible 12: Ethics

1 semester
Bible 12 looks at Ethics, as well as playing a role in the Senior Comps process. Students learn what sets Christian ethics apart from secular ethical systems by studying 5 major ethical systems: Deontology, Utilitarianism, Ethical Egoism, Virtue Ethics, and Moral Relativism. Once this baseline of understanding about ethics has been laid, students learn about Christian ethics, and compare it to what they know of these 5 secular ethical systems. Students also debate the application of the 10 Commandments to see how they might be used to guide a Christian in understanding the appropriate Christian perspective on current issues.

English

English Department Guidelines/Requirements:

• All students must be enrolled in an English course each semester.
• All students are required to have 8 credits of English to graduate.
• English 9 is required of all students in grade 9.
• English 10 is required of all students in grade 10.

English 9

2 semesters
A thematic study of literature ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary memoirs. Students analyze and respond to literature as they explore themes relating to perseverance and growth through adversity, leadership, responsibility, and justice. Within each unit, an emphasis is placed on developing reading, writing, and presentation skills. Students discuss literary texts, compose analytical, narrative, argumentative, and informative writing, develop research skills, study grammar and vocabulary, and give both formal and creative presentations.

English 10

2 semesters
“We tell ourselves stories in order to live,” said Joan Didion. 10th Grade English is organized with the belief that our desire to hear and tell stories is God-given and that each of us has a story that only we can tell. To sharpen our writing craft, we will study a range of texts — from fiction, poetry, and memoir to videos and infographics. And will we craft our own short stories, articles, reviews, digital compositions, poems, and arguments. Since listening carefully to the stories of others is essential to becoming a good storyteller, we will read and discuss books by authors from across the globe through book clubs and daily independent reading.

English 11

2 semesters
A thematic survey of American literature, covering themes such as American identity, justice and civil rights through fiction, poetry, memoir, and primary documents. Students will present, research, debate, study and use rhetoric, write analytical and creative pieces, and discuss complex ideas with thoughtful respect.

AP English Language and Composition

2 semesters
Students focus on rhetoric, argumentation and synthesis in American literature structured around AP Language skills and standards. Reading is largely non-fiction, such as speeches, short essays and other persuasive documents. In addition to reading and research, students write and speak on a variety of topics, analytical and creative, with the themes of Own Your Voice, Hone Your Voice and Raise Your Voice. Completion of this course equips students to be successful on the AP Language exam.

Prerequisite: Students with a score of 550 on the EBRW section of the PSAT are eligible, while students who scored above 600 are strongly encouraged to take this course. Students with lower scores may be admitted on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with the teacher, principal, and academic guidance counselor.

English 12

2 semesters
A thematic study of literature from medieval to postmodern periods with an emphasis on British literature as the foundation for English literature. Students will explore how humans have wrestled with questions of suffering, good vs. evil, identity, and what it means to be human. Within each unit, an emphasis is placed on developing reading, writing, and presentation skills to a college-ready level. Students discuss literary texts, compose both informal and polished writing in various styles, study grammar and vocabulary, and give both formal and creative presentations.

AP English Literature and Composition

2 semesters
This college-level course prepares you for the AP English Literature exam, but AP Lit is also an invitation to explore how great writers use literary elements to capture themes and archetypes that have concerned people since the beginning of recorded history. We read and discuss stories, novels, poems, and plays, while sharpening our essay-writing skills. We also take time to appreciate the artistry that brings great works of literature to life. And since “all themes and characters and stories that you encounter in literature belong to one big interlocking family,” as Northrop Frye says, AP Lit is an invitation to get to know the family.

Prerequisite: Students with a score of 600 on the EBRW section of the PSAT are eligible, while students who scored above 650 are strongly encouraged to take this course. Students with lower scores may be admitted on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with the teacher, principal, and academic guidance counselor.

Creative Arts

Creative Arts Departments Guidelines/Requirements:

• The graduation requirements for Creative Arts are 2 credits.
• Some colleges and universities limit their acceptable courses list to Fine Arts only, that is, Art and Music courses. Please consult with your Academic Counselor.
• Creative arts and other electives (may be taken any year, and some can be taken multiple times)

Visual Arts

Art Design

2 semesters
This course allows for students to continue progressing in art skills and appreciation all year. The first semester focuses on each element as a unit with a choice of assignments to practice and apply the concepts of Art Theory. The second semester focuses on the principles of art through advanced projects that allow students to experiment with various techniques and mediums previously learned.

Ceramics

2 semesters
This course is designed to offer students an opportunity to explore ceramic media and processes. Students will learn basic skills in hand-building, working on the potter's wheel and creating a variety of surface designs. The course also includes a look at some of the scientific and cultural aspects of ceramics, and connections between creation and Creator.

Drawing and Painting

2 semesters
This year-long course is designed for students to improve in their drawing and painting skills through concentrated art projects that explore different art mediums. Each project is dedicated to a specific material that ranges from graphite, ink, charcoal, pastel, acrylic and oil paint.

Art and Design, AP

2 semesters
The AP Art and Design course is intended for highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the study of art and possibly pursuing a career in art. the course will involve in-depth examination of art techniques and processes. Students would need to produce at least 10 high quality pieces across the first three quarters of the year. AP Art and Design students do not take a written AP exam, but will be responsible for submitting a portfolio of their work for evaluation in May. Students in this class work on producing and evaluating portfolios in the areas of Drawing, 2-D, or 3-D Design. Students whose portfolios receive a score of 3 or higher may earn college credit at participating universities.
Prerequisite: we recommend two years of high school art before attempting this course.

Culinary and Textile Arts

2 semesters
This project based course is designed to expand on the cooking and sewing skills from the middle school curriculum. Students will also have the opportunity to learn different textile art techniques (units may vary per year) such as embroidery, tapestry weaving, knitting, crocheting, quilting, soft toy making and more; learning how to apply them to useful and aesthetic pleasing handmade objects. Students will have the opportunity to learn new cooking skills in baking, bread making and meal planning and work both, individually and in groups on a variety of Service Projects supporting school events while encouraging community building.
If taking this class for a second year or having experience on a particular craft, a student will complete an independent project of their choice with the approval of the teacher.

Design and Technology

2 semesters
For all future engineers, architects, makers, and artists! Design and technology involves creating imaginative, tech-based solutions to existing problems. This can mean anything from designing an innovative video game or app, to creating indoor living spaces that are both functional and visually appealing, to making CAJ or your community a more accessible place. If you are interested in making things to make the world a better place, in a career that involves engineering or architecture, if you are inspired by videos of people making incredible things, or if you want to see scientific principles at work, this is the class for you!
If you take it a second year, you can expect to use the same framework as the first year further your skills and create more complex solutions to make the world a better place. The second year is limited to those who have already completed one year of Design and Technology.

Yearbook Journalism

2 semesters
Students participate in an intense study in basic design, typographic principles, digital photographic editing, and caption writing, using professional software applications used in magazine layout production. Students must be self-motivated.

Music

Symphonic Band

2 semesters
Students in Symphonic Band practice and work on rehearsal and performance skills through intermediate level music of various genres. Instrumental playing skills are categorized into seven areas: posture, breathing, technique, pitch, rhythm, musicianship, and articulation. During rehearsals, students experience ensemble, chamber, and solo playing in preparation of live performances. Performance opportunities include three on-campus concerts and the league Band and Orchestra Festival. Biblical concepts presented are: What does it mean to worship with the God-given gift of music? As an ensemble, how can we serve one another? How should we respond to our world's brokenness and provide healing through music not only for ourselves but also for our community? Attendance at all performances is mandatory. Students in the group are eligible to audition for the league honor band.

Jazz Ensemble

1 credit/year, zero period
Jazz Ensemble musicians come together to learn and play as a collaborative ensemble. Students will mostly play as one whole unit (big band); however, they will be given opportunities to work in smaller groups called combos. Learning jazz is like learning a new language, therefore listening is a critical component for all students. Weekly listening to jazz musicians is a requirement and suggested artists are available for students who have no reference point for their instrument. Students will be taught a systematic approach to improvisation and soloing in class through theory and application. They will learn how to effectively communicate in the language of jazz, be it through interpretation or improvisation, ultimately learning how God has created us in his image as creative beings. There is a ¥20,000/year fee for this ensemble.

Prerequisites: Successful audition; concurrent enrollment in Symphonic Band is required for all woodwind and brass players.

Concert Choir

2 semesters
This course seeks to encourage the development of a lifelong love of singing through the making of music to God's glory using the talents he gives. Areas of study will include basic vocal technique, the development of music reading skills including sight singing, and the performance of music literature with both sacred and secular texts ranging from the Renaissance through contemporary styles. Though the choir is a group activity, musical skill and artistry in each individual singer will be encouraged. Performance opportunities include on-campus concerts and the league Choral Festival. Attendance at all performances is mandatory. Students in the group are eligible to audition for the league honor choir.

Chamber Singers

1 credit/year, zero period
This course is designed for singers from the Concert Choir who desire a higher level of music, are independent learners, and are willing to spend time outside of the school day in rehearsal and performances. Literature includes sacred and secular music of the 16th to 21st centuries. The main performance opportunities, at which attendance is required are on-campus concerts. As a public ministry outreach group of the school, Chamber Singers sing for concerts and services at local churches, civic events and other organizations. Concert attire is provided. Rehearsals take place before school two mornings each week. There is a ¥20,000/year fee for this class. (Financial aid is available.) It is open to all students enrolled in Concert Choir. Auditions occur in May and/or August.

Prerequisites: Successful audition; concurrent enrollment in Concert Choir is required.

Handbell Ensemble

1 credit/year, zero period
The ensemble rings five octaves of handbells and five and a half octaves of handchimes. Ringing technique is taught in class, and musicianship is emphasized. Literature includes sacred and secular music written specifically for handbells, arrangements of hymns, praise songs, and other well-known songs, and transcriptions of classical pieces. The main performance opportunities, at which attendance is required, are on-campus concerts. As a public ministry outreach of the school, it plays for concerts and services at local churches, civic events and other organizations. Concert attire is provided. Rehearsals take place two mornings before school each week. There is a ¥20,000/year fee for this class. (Financial aid is available.) It is open to students in Grade 6 and above. Auditions occur in May and/or August.

Prerequisites: Successful audition; ability to read music (treble staff, bass staff or both) is required.

String Orchestra

1 credit/year. Zero period.
The orchestra is open to students in Grade 6 through Grade 12 who are currently studying a string instrument at an intermediate or higher level. Students learn and practice basic and advanced skills. They study music from a variety of styles and genres in preparation for concert performances. Performance opportunities include three on-campus concerts, and the league Band and Orchestra Festival. Attendance at all performances is mandatory. Students make diligent efforts to contribute to society through volunteer performances in the community. Participation in the league solo and ensemble competition is available each winter. Students may also audition for the league honor orchestra.

Prerequisite: Director’s approval.

Digital Music Design

2 semesters
Digital Music Design is for students who have an interest in making music, whether they have a traditional music background or not. Focused on personalized learning through project-based music creation, students are given a variety of songwriting and production challenges that teach them how to express ideas musically and open them up to new-found creativity. Students use a digital audio workstation (DAW) called Ableton Live, and its dedicated hardware controller, Push. With these primary tools, students learn how to produce music in a variety of genres, develop practical songwriting tools, and collaborate with others in a digital music environment. This course can be taken only once.

Symphonic Band and Concert Choir

2 semesters
This option is designed specifically for those students who would like to continue to develop both instrumental and vocal skills. These selected students will alternate between choir and band rehearsals, which meet during the same block of the day. Students are expected to practice the material for both classes on their own time in addition to practice with the groups during rehearsals. Attendance at all performances, such as on-campus concerts and the league festivals, is mandatory. Only two semesters credit are available for this undertaking.

Prerequisite: Band and choir directors’ approval.

Mathematics

Math Department Guidelines/Requirements:

• To graduate from CAJ, you need two years of math. From the class of 2029, three years will be required.
• To go to university after you graduate, most of you will need four years of math; some of you will need specific math courses. It will depend on the university and the program of study you choose. Please talk to your Academic Counselor for assistance to determine your sequence of math classes.

Algebra 1

2 semesters
A basic course in first level algebra. Topics studied include open sentences, systems of equations, graphing of linear functions, polynomials, factoring, algebraic fractions, exponents, radicals, quadratic conditions, absolute values, and practical applications. A graphing calculator is required.

Prerequisite: Basic math, including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, as well as, fractions, percents, decimals, whole numbers and ratios. Successful completion of a Pre-Algebra course is recommended.

Algebra 2

2 semesters
This is an advanced algebra course which includes number systems, review of linear sentences, polynomials, rational expressions; systems of sentences, introduction to functions, coordinate geometry, exponents; logarithms, trigonometry, conic sections; graphing calculator; and some theory of equations, sequences, probability, and statistics.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of a year of Geometry and Algebra 1.

Geometry

2 semesters
Geometry is the study of visual patterns. In this course mathematical observation skills are sharpened by recognizing and analyzing these patterns as they relate to the shape and size of objects, both physical and theoretical. This course also includes an introduction to logic and proofs. The student will continue to learn more about two and three-dimensional shapes build on their algebraic base. Mathematical thinking is rigorous and different from much of the thinking used in our everyday lives. Problem solving and logical thinking skills will be strengthened by this class.

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Precalculus

2 semesters
Pre-calculus covers functions and graphs including polynomial, power and rational functions; Exponential, logistic and logarithmic functions; Trigonometric functions and identities; Discrete mathematics including sequences and probabilities. This course prepares students for Calculus.

Prerequisite: Algebra 2

Calculus AB, AP

2 semesters, Advanced Placement course
This course prepares students for the AP Calculus exam in the spring. The study focuses on properties of functions: continuity, limits, differentiation and integration, volumes of solids of revolution. Students who complete the course satisfactorily should be adequately prepared to take the Advanced Placement Calculus AB exam. Non-AP Calculus is a possibility. This is for students who take Calculus but opt not to take the AP exam. The topics of study are the same as AP Calculus, but the teacher may adjust the assignments accordingly.

Prerequisite: Precalculus

Calculus AB/BC, AP

2 semesters, Advanced Placement course.
This course prepares students for the AP Calculus BC exam in the spring. In addition to the content from AP Calculus AB, this course also covers topics like partial fractions, integration by parts, Taylor and Maclaurin series and lengths of curves. Students who complete the course satisfactorily should be adequately prepared to take the Advanced Placement Calculus BC exam. The AP Calculus BC Exam gives a BC score and a sub-score for AP Calculus AB.

Prerequisites:

• Calculus AB, OR
• A grade of A in Precalculus with a score of 650+ on the math portion of PSAT.

Statistics, AP

2 semesters, Advanced Placement course.
This is a college-level course that investigates the nature of data collection, techniques of data analysis, probability, and inferential statistics. The course will prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Statistics exam. Students are encouraged to consider broader questions such as: How do we find the truth in this world? How can we serve others with mathematics? How can God's love of truth guide our research?

Prerequisites: Algebra 2, although Precalculus or Calculus would be an advantage.

Statistics and Business Math

2 semesters, subject to demand.
Recommended for students who are not considering a science or technology-related field after high school. Students will be introduced to the foundations of statistics: the nature of data collection, techniques of data analysis, and probability. There will be investigations of spreadsheeting, financial and business mathematics, networking and project management. Students are encouraged to consider broader questions such as: How do we find the truth in this world? How can we serve others with mathematics? How can God's love of truth guide our research?

Prerequisite: Geometry, although Algebra 2 would be an advantage.

Physical Education

Physical Education Department Guidelines/Requirements:

• The graduation requirements within the PE Department are 4 credits (one credit for each year enrolled at CAJ).

PE/Health

Required course for 4 semesters of HS
All students will be taking PE/Health each year they attend CAJ. In 9th grade the emphasis will be on physical fitness, the body systems, wellness, nutrition and a Biblical perspective on health. In 10th and 11th grade a variety of lifetime sports and activities will be taught as well as an emphasis on mental and social health, substance abuse and sexuality. 12th grade will be a time to choose specific areas of sport interest and develop skills further as well as prepare for adult health issues and deepen health literacy.

Strength and Conditioning

2 semesters
PE Elective. This course will give students the opportunity to know and understand the benefits of a well-planned strength and conditioning program, as well as be familiar with terminology, basic concepts of program design and basic physiology. Students will be able to prescribe and implement an appropriate program to improve total body strength, power, speed, agility and balance. They will be able to perform various exercises with good technique, and will demonstrate the ability to incorporate proper safety procedures into training activities.

Social Studies

Social Studies Department Guidelines/Requirements:

• All students are required to complete 8 credits of Social Studies to graduate.
• All Seniors are required to participate in Senior Capstone to graduate from CAJ.
• US History is required for United States citizens and those applying to United States universities. Please consult the College and Career Counselor if you have questions.

World History 9

2 semesters; required course grade 9
World History is a broad-reaching subject, but is essentially a study of people. This class will explore the ways in which people have changed over time, and the ways they've stayed the same. We'll examine what people believe, what they've done, and how our environment changes our behaviors. We will investigate many cultures, events, and conflicts in an attempt to discover the connections of the past to the present. Students will have a variety of ways to demonstrate their understanding through discussions, debates, projects, presentations, and collaboration.

Comparative Politics and Government

1 semester; required course in grade 10 Social Studies.
To many, politics can be an uncomfortable topic. One which many would prefer to avoid altogether. But at its core, politics is the story of how we interact with each other. The main purpose of this class is to better understand others and grow in empathy. To this end, the students look at how different types of governments work, how are they similar or dissimilar from each other in their operation and how people and governments respond to all kinds of issues. They will learn the roles of different levels of government, the responsibilities of citizens, and see how it is put into practice in the real world, not just in theory or in an ideal sense. The students also will research current events, see what is happening around the world, and propose how to address specific needs. Through all of this, we seek to help the student understand others, to better understand our responsibility to each other, and how to truly love our neighbors. In this, we aim to better care for others, understand their story, their struggle, feel for their pain, and find a way to do something about it.

Japanese Culture

1 semester; required course in grade 10 Social Studies.
This is a one semester course that provides a general foundation for students’ knowledge of various aspects of Japanese culture. The goal is to cultivate and enhance each student’s understanding and appreciation of Japan and its people and culture, particularly through case studies such as the influences of Confucian values on society, Nagasaki and the significance of Christianity and the Atomic Bomb. Students will also conduct a mini cultural lesson as a semester project on topics of their choice. In this course, students will consider such questions as “How did elements of geography, historical events, and religious beliefs contribute to the formation of Japanese culture as we see it today?”; “What are the foundational cultural values of the Japanese people?”; and “In what ways and to what degree are Christians living in Japan responsible for learning and understanding Japanese culture?”

Economics, AP

2 semesters, social studies elective, Advanced Placement course. Switches between Macroeconomics and Microeconomics each year. In 2025-26 it will be Microeconomics.
This course aims to prepare students to take one of the AP Economics tests in May.
Macroeconomics gives students a thorough understanding of the principles of economics that apply to an economic system as a whole. The course places particular emphasis on the study of national income and price-level determination, and also develops students’ familiarity with economic performance measures, the financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economics.
Microeconomics places emphasis on the principles of economics that govern the actions of individuals and businesses. Students will explore concepts of supply and demand, elasticity, and market structures. Economic principles are set in the context of contemporary society and current events.

Prerequisite: English 10. Algebra 2 is strongly recommended.

Economics

2 semesters. Social studies elective.
A general introduction to economics, touching on topics and themes from both Macroeconomics and Microeconomics. This course does not prepare students for either AP exam in May. As with the AP courses, economic principles are set in the context of contemporary society and current events.

Prerequisite: English 10. Algebra 2 is strongly recommended.

US History

2 semesters.
Previously implemented as a part of the combined English and Social Studies course called “Humanities”, from the 2024 school year the new stand alone US History course will survey US history from early indigenous peoples through current history focusing on the three themes of empire, liberty and faith.

Psychology

2 semesters, social studies elective.
An introduction to the field of psychology covering neuroscience, learning, memory, social norms, and other topics that vary with the interests of the students.

Prerequisite: English 10, and preferably two years of science courses.

Senior Capstone

2 semesters, grade 12 required course.
The mission of CAJ is to prepare students to “serve Japan and the world for Christ”; Senior Comprehensives is your opportunity to do just that, and can be summed up in a single prompt:
Propose and engage in a plan of action that effectively addresses a global issue.
Senior Capstone has been designed to provide you with a guided framework as you complete the Senior Comprehensives process: deciding what part of the world you want to serve, and just how you want to do it. In Capstone, you will be asked to choose a global issue that you care about from your own interests and passions; through rigorous research and in-depth historical and theological analyses, you will come to understand why this issue exists at all and what can be done about it; through taking action, you will personally be part of relieving and/or preventing the suffering this issue causes.
Although Senior Comprehensives and Senior Capstone are linked, they are not the same course. Your work in Capstone will prepare you and support you as you complete Senior Comprehensives. Passing Capstone and completing the Senior Comprehensives are both graduation requirements for CAJ.

World History, AP: Modern

2 semesters, social studies elective.
AP World History: Modern is an introductory college-level modern world history course. Students cultivate their understanding of world history from c. 1200 CE to the present through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.

Prerequisite: English 10

Science

Science Department Guidelines/Requirements:

• The minimum graduation requirements for science are 2 years (4 credits). For the class of 2029 and beyond, the requirement will be 3 year (6 credits).
• Most universities/colleges will require three or four years depending on each institution. Please talk to your Academic Counselor for assistance to determine your sequence of courses.
• Computer Programming credits will count towards your graduation requirements. However, it may not meet your requirements for college/university eligibility. Please consult with your Academic Counselor.
• In which grade should I take each Science Course? Some flexibility is possible, including taking two in one year, but this is not easy. Note that schedules may not permit some combinations in some years.

Math Prerequisites:

• Physics 1 - Algebra 2 completed
• Physics 2 - Precalculus recommended at least concurrent

Biology

2 semesters, required grade 9 course.
Biology is a foundational course that provides students with an introduction to the principles and practices of life sciences. The key topics covered in this course include biochemistry, cellular biology, genetics and inheritance, DNA and molecular biology, evolution, ecology, and human anatomy and physiology. By participating in laboratory activities, students will develop skills such as experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Throughout the course, students will explore the study of biology through the lens of Christian perspective, and deepen our understanding of God’s creation and our role in it.

Biology, AP

2 semesters. Advanced Placement course. Grade 11 or 12.
AP Biology is an introductory college-level course that covers a range of topics, including cellular energetics, information storage and transfer, and system interactions, and evolution. In addition, the course emphasizes integration of scientific practices such as experimental design, data analysis, and communication of findings to biological concepts. Throughout the course, students will have opportunities to explore how scientific discoveries and principles of biology can deepen students’ understanding of God’s creation and the importance of stewardship of the natural world.

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry.

Chemistry

2 semesters
Chemistry is the study of the interaction of natural substances at the molecular and atomic level to produce many physical phenomena that humans observe in their daily lives. The course is designed to be as interactive, participative and motivational as possible. Students will be given ample opportunity to experiment and use chemical substances, and challenged to link experimental observations to theoretical facts.

Prerequisites: Biology

Chemistry, AP

2 semesters, Advanced Placement course. Grade 11 or 12.
The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. For some students, this course enables them to undertake, in their first year, second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. For other students, the AP Chemistry course fulfills the laboratory science requirement and frees time for other courses.
AP Chemistry strives to meet the objectives of a good college general chemistry course. Students in such a course are expected to attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course should contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic.

Prerequisite: Chemistry. Recommended to be taken with or after Precalculus.

Environmental Science

2 semesters; science elective; grade 11 or 12.
This is a high school course that seeks to apply principles from all the scientific disciplines to issues of environmental care and sustainability. Especially, it will consider case studies in the environmental impact of human activities. Essential questions will include: How can we care for the creation? What issues need to be considered when making viable environmental decisions? What aspects of modern life-style are hindering/helping the care of the environment?

Prerequisite skills: Biology is recommended.

General Physics

2 semesters, grades 11 or 12.
Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, motion, force interactions, energy, change, conservation, and waves.

Prerequisite: Algebra 2.

AP Physics 1

2 semesters, grades 11-12, Advanced Placement course.
AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, motion, force interactions, energy, change, conservation, waves and fluid dynamics. The level of inquiry in AP Physics 1 will develop students’ abilities to look at the world in new ways, to logically and clearly communicate their observations and explanations, and to creatively work through challenges. This course will prepare students for the AP Physics 1 Exam.

Prerequisite: Algebra 2, PSAT Math score of 600+ and teacher/principal approval. Recommended prerequisite: Precalculus or higher at the same time.

AP Physics 2

2 semesters, Advanced Placement course, grade 12.
AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore optics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and quantum mechanics. The level of inquiry in AP Physics 2 will develop students’ abilities to look at the world in new ways, to logically and clearly communicate their observations and explanations, and to creatively work through challenges. This course will prepare students for the AP Physics 2 Exam.

Prerequisite: AP Physics 1, Algebra 2. Recommended prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Calculus.

Computer Programming

2 semesters, elective, availability based on demand
This course teaches students fundamental programming skills through the Java programming language. Students will learn syntax, logic, debugging, conditional statements, loops, object-oriented programming (classes & objects), methods, and arrays. This is an introductory course and does not require any previous programming experience.

Prerequisite: recommended high grades in Algebra or other mathematics courses.

World Languages

Japanese

Japanese, Foundations

2 semesters
This course is intended for students with little or no previous knowledge of Japanese. Hiragana, katakana, and kanji are taught in the context of the cultural content the student is learning. Students will study basic grammar forms and conversation styles to support basic daily life. Cultural studies are emphasized in speeches, presentations, and projects.

Japanese, Intermediate

2 semesters
This course increases the challenge level of conversation, grammar, reading, and writing simple compositions. Cultural studies are emphasized in speeches, presentations, and projects. The course emphasizes the use of Japanese for active communication in a wider variety of situations in daily life.

Prerequisite: Japanese, Beginner

Japanese, Advanced 1

2 semesters
This course focuses on advancing their four skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing for proficiency in Japanese. Students study increasingly complex grammar and practice oral and writing skills. With advanced vocabulary and kanji, students present projects and write compositions.

Prerequisite: Japanese, Intermediate

Japanese, Advanced 2

2 semesters
This course is a continuation from Advanced 1, further cultivating the four skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing for proficiency in Japanese. Students will start focusing on the goal of being able to read books comparable to AP level in Japanese independently. Though this is not an AP Course with an AP curriculum, some class content and activities are complimentary for the AP Japanese exam.

Prerequisite: Japanese, Advanced 1

Japanese, Comprehensive

2 semesters
This course is for students who have completed Japanese Advanced 2, or comparable language training. In this course students demonstrate and apply comprehensively the speaking, reading, and writing skills that they have already mastered. This course uses the JLPT N1 workbook to cultivate and advance each student’s language skills. However, taking the JLPT N1 test is not a requirement. Another focus of this course is training students to read Japanese novels on their own. Finally, this course aims to enable students to sharpen the 4Cs of 21st century Skills (Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, and Communication) in the Japanese language. This class is conducted fully in Japanese. No formal assistance for the AP Japanese exam will be provided during class.

Prerequisite: Teacher approval.

Japanese Composition

2 semesters
This course is for students with near-native level Japanese skills who have had significant training in Japanese language either through formal Japanese education, family environment, and/or other backgrounds that provided solid support in developing their language skills. This course aims to further develop and cultivate each student’s Japanese skills, specifically in reading and writing. This course is not an extension of other Japanese courses taught at CAJ. No formal assistance for the AP Japanese exam will be provided during class. This class is conducted fully in Japanese.

Prerequisite: teacher approval.

Japanese Literature and Society

2 semesters
(Taught in a three year rotation, alternating with Japanese: 20th Century Authors and Japanese Christian Literature) This course is designed for students with native Japanese language skills. This class, conducted fully in Japanese, focuses on the study of selected works by Japanese authors that deal with linguistics, geography, history, religion, and culture. Students are expected to have Japanese skills high enough to read, comprehend, analyze, and critique all reading material in Japanese. Students are also expected to demonstrate such responses to their reading in written Japanese. The objective of this course is to enhance each students’ Japanese language skills in order to understand and appreciate Japanese culture further and deeper, and to love and serve the Japanese people as Christ taught us. No formal assistance for the AP Japanese exam will be provided during class.

Prerequisite: Native level Japanese skills, significant amount of formal Japanese education or equivalent.

Japanese 20th Century Authors

2 semesters
(Taught in a three year rotation, alternating with Japanese Christian Literature and Japanese Literature and Society) This course is designed for students with native Japanese language skills. This class, conducted fully in Japanese, focuses on the study of selected 20th century Japanese authors and their notable works. Students are expected to have Japanese skills high enough to read, comprehend, analyze, and critique the works of 20th century Japanese authors in the original language. Students are also expected to demonstrate such responses to literary works in written Japanese. The objective of this course is to enhance each students’ Japanese language skills in order to understand and appreciate Japanese culture further and deeper, and to love and serve the Japanese people as Christ taught us. No formal assistance for the AP Japanese exam will be provided during class.

Prerequisite: Native level Japanese skills, significant amount of formal Japanese education or equivalent.

Japanese Christian Literature

(Taught in a three year rotation, alternating with Japanese: 20th Century Authors and Japanese Literature and Society) This native track course is designed for students with native level Japanese language skills, focusing on the study of selected works by Ayako Miura. Students are expected to have Japanese skills strong enough to read, comprehend, analyze, critique, and reflect on all readings in the Japanese language. Students are also expected to demonstrate such responses in written Japanese. This course aims to enhance students’ Japanese language skills in order to understand and appreciate Japanese culture deeper, and to provide students an opportunity to love and serve Japan for Christ through various Japanese Christian literature that depict God’s love and the human condition. This class is conducted fully in Japanese. No formal assistance for the AP Japanese exam will be provided during class.

Prerequisite: Native level Japanese skills, significant amount of formal Japanese education or equivalent.

Spanish

Spanish I

2 semesters
Spanish I is an introduction to the four basic skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students begin writing short compositions within the first nine weeks. Cultural studies of Spanish speaking countries are woven throughout the curriculum. Religious vocabulary is increased through the use of Spanish Bible texts for devotions and the memorization of Bible verses in Spanish.

Spanish II

2 semesters
Spanish II reviews and continues conversation, complex grammar, and advanced reading, listening, and writing assignments. Cultural studies continue to be woven throughout the curriculum. Students will begin giving short speeches in Spanish. Prerequisite: Spanish I.

Spanish III and IV

2 semesters, AP or non-AP, subject to demand
Spanish III and IV review and continue conversation, advanced grammar, reading, listening, and writing. Cultural studies are presented with each unit emphasizing a different geographical area of the Hispanic world. Literature for each unit is also presented. Students give longer speeches in Spanish.

EAL

Effective Reading and Writing

2 semesters, EAL class
The EAL classes in high school support students at each grade level to improve their academic English across the curriculum. Students are given opportunities to develop their grammar skills, build their academic vocabulary, improve their reading strategies, develop their writing, listening and thinking skills, and hone their presentation skills across the academic content subjects. Students’ English language foundation is strengthened while they are being supported in successfully completing the classroom assignments of these academic subjects.

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