Middle School Curriculum Guide

Our middle school Bible program guides students through a deepening journey of biblical understanding, worldview formation, and personal faith development. Each grade builds on the last to equip students with a Christ-centered foundation for life and learning. The program is designed to build a strong biblical foundation by helping students understand Scripture, think critically about their beliefs, and apply God’s truth to everyday life.

In Grade 6, students are introduced to the concept of worldview and metacognition, exploring life’s big questions through a biblical lens while learning to live as image-bearers of God. They explore life’s big questions—Where did I come from? Why am I here? What’s wrong with the world? What can make it right? Where am I headed?—through the lens of Scripture. Students compare biblical answers to those from non-biblical worldviews, understand their identity as image-bearers of God, and are challenged to live out the Creation Mandate and Great Commandments in their families and communities.

In Grade 7, they journey through the Old Testament, focusing on the overarching redemptive story and learning observation skills to study God’s Word accurately. Emphasis is placed on the coming Messiah and the promises fulfilled in Christ. The primary Bible study skill emphasized is observation—learning to see clearly what the text says.

In Grade 8, students dive into the Gospels—especially Matthew—to examine the life, teachings, and redemptive work of Christ, emphasizing interpretation skills and personal sanctification as they grow in Christlikeness.

Rooted in the BJU Press Bible Series.

The Middle School English program focuses on reading, writing, spelling, speaking, listening, grammar, and vocabulary development. Students use oral language, written language, media, and technology as they interpret, evaluate, and reflect on literature. Organized around rich thematic units such as love, justice, perseverance, and wisdom, the program introduces students to a wide variety of genres and global cultures, helping them analyze texts for literary elements, author’s craft, and worldview perspective. Using BJU Press Literature and Language Arts Curriculum, a blended approach to classic and contemporary text selections, and standards based.

Students develop vocabulary through word study and context clues, strengthen comprehension through strategic reading skills, and engage with literature from a biblical lens—making connections to self, others, and God’s truth. Literary analysis includes genre study, character development, theme, plot, and figurative language.

Writing is woven throughout the course, with students composing across multiple formats including narratives, essays, poetry, letters, and journal responses. Oral and written book reports, grammar instruction, and study skills further equip students for academic success. Through close reading, critical thinking, and purposeful discussion, students learn to communicate with clarity, creativity, and discernment.

The goal of Middle School math is to approach any problem with a growth mindset, understanding that learning is a process that involves many mistakes and using them as opportunities is a great way to clarify thinking. Relevant, real-life problem based learning enhances the contextual learning for the student.  The series in middle school is vertically aligned to eliminate gaps and redundancies. It is horizontally aligned for consistency from level to level.

Students learn to identify the root issues in complex problems and apply mathematical reasoning with integrity and purpose. The curriculum encourages critical thinking, ethical problem-solving, and connections to God’s truth. Through engaging lessons and biblical integration, students develop a strong foundation in math while learning to view the world with wisdom and discernment. Standards based and supported by the BJU Press Math Series.

Students may be provided the opportunity to complete Algebra 1 during grade 8, before entering high school.

The Middle School Science program focuses on equipping students with the foundational knowledge of science concepts with emphasis on biblical principles. These principles reinforce the irrefutable evidence that there is indeed an Intelligent Designer who created the world in 7 days.

The middle school science program provides a comprehensive, three-year journey through life, physical, and earth sciences, all taught through a biblical worldview. In 6th grade, students build foundational knowledge by exploring living organisms, body systems, motion, energy, electricity, and chemistry.

In 7th and 8th grades, students dive deeper into life science—studying cells, genetics, microorganisms, plants, animals, human anatomy, and ecosystems—while also exploring earth science topics such as geology, oceanography, weather, and space. Hands-on investigations, scientific inquiry, and a focus on God’s purposeful design equip students to better understand and care for the world around them.

Rooted in the BJU Press Science Series and aligned to state standards.

Launching into middle school, 6th students embark on an engaging journey through world geography and cultures, exploring how people, places, map reading skills, and events have shaped civilizations across time.

Rooted in a biblical framework of Creation, Fall, and Redemption, the course uses a narrative approach to spark curiosity, ask thought-provoking questions, and encourage real-life application. Along the way, students develop essential social studies skills in geography, economics, civics, and cultural understanding. Students learn to recognize this pattern in ancient civilizations in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

In 7th grade history, students are equipped to analyze and evaluate critical world events from a biblical worldview. Their social studies skills are strengthened by analyzing maps, timelines, and current events.

During 8th grade,  students are guided  through key events in U.S. history, from the discovery of the New World to modern times. Emphasizing cultural influences and foundational values, the course equips students to become informed, discerning citizens who learn from the past to make wise choices for the future.

Rooted in the BJU Press Social Studies Series and Master Book’s Geography.

This year-long course integrates study skills, digital literacy, keyboarding, and physical education to support student success in middle school. Students will develop essential habits such as time management, organization, note-taking, and effective study strategies, while also learning academic integrity and proper citation. The course builds foundational technology skills, including navigating Google Classroom and creating presentations, documents, and spreadsheets, while emphasizing digital citizenship, internet awareness, and evaluating reliable information. Students will also strengthen typing skills through consistent practice. Physical education is included on alternating days in small group rotations, promoting fitness and teamwork. In culmination of the Middle School Success course, students will complete a cross-curricular project demonstrating their growth across all areas.

This Introduction to Communications course provides middle schoolers with foundational skills in verbal, nonverbal, and written communication. Students explore interpersonal interaction, active listening, and public speaking techniques, aiming to boost confidence and clarity. This includes techniques for organizing speeches, reducing anxiety, and delivering information; developing skills for effective conversation, conflict management, small group interaction, and active listening.

Students will plan, design, and produce a stop-motion animation by applying computational thinking skills—such as sequencing, pattern recognition, decomposition, and iterative problem-solving—to develop storytelling videos, manage digital tools, and refine their animations through feedback and revision.

This course combines physical education and health instruction to help students develop healthy habits for life. Through a variety of fitness activities, students will build strength, endurance, coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship while learning the value of regular physical activity. In the health component, students will explore topics related to physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being using a biblical worldview. Areas of study include personal wellness, nutrition, growth and development, healthy relationships, decision-making, safety, and character development. Students will be encouraged to honor God through wise choices and responsible stewardship of their health and bodies.

Students will learn basic mechanical skills that will serve them throughout their lifetime. Students will build small projects, learn how to use small hand tools, and develop problem-solving skills.

Students explore the heart of missions through the lens of Christ-centered servant leadership. Students will develop a deeper understanding of their identity in Christ, discover their unique leadership style, and learn practical tools for collaboration, communication, and conflict resolution. Each session builds toward a biblical understanding of how to influence others through humility, service, and purpose. Topics include personal identity, power and influence, teamwork, leading change, and the true essence of servant leadership. Students will engage in reflection, discussion, and hands-on projects that prepare them to lead and serve in their schools, communities, and beyond.

Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, students will study logical fallacies and learn to identify faulty reasoning in everyday life. With a strong emphasis on developing logical thinking and foundational rhetoric skills, this course prepares students for future academic work and effective communication. Grounded in a biblical perspective, students will grow as thinkers, writers, and speakers by learning to reason with clarity, humility, and truth. Whether in structured debate or everyday conversation, students will practice communicating with purpose and grace—not to win arguments, but to honor God through thoughtful and respectful dialogue.

This course helps students discover their God-given strengths, interests, and purpose as they begin planning for high school and beyond. Students will explore how personal skills and choices influence career paths and quality of life while developing strong work habits and employability skills such as teamwork, communication, and responsibility. Through research and guided planning, students will learn about educational and career opportunities and create a personalized high school academic plan and initial career plan.

This course introduces students to computational thinking, robotics programming, and problem-solving through hands-on LEGO SPIKE Prime technology. Students will learn core computer science principles by designing, programming, and testing robotic solutions.

This course combines physical education and health instruction to help students develop healthy habits for life. Through a variety of fitness activities, students will build strength, endurance, coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship while learning the value of regular physical activity. In the health component, students will explore topics related to physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being using a biblical worldview. Areas of study include personal wellness, nutrition, growth and development, healthy relationships, decision-making, safety, and character development. Students will be encouraged to honor God through wise choices and responsible stewardship of their health and bodies.

Ever thought of giving acting a try? This class is a great place to learn the basics! Character Development, Blocking, Stage Direction, and more, all through games! Then you get a chance to get up on the stage and try some scene work! Dramatic, comedic, group scenes, monologues, a little bit of it all.

This introductory mixed media course provides middle school students with a foundation in visual art through hands-on exploration of a variety of materials and techniques. Students will develop essential artistic skills, including perspective, color theory, and proportion, as they learn to observe and represent the world around them. Through projects that incorporate drawing, painting, collage, and design, students will experiment with creative expression while building confidence in their artistic abilities.

Students will develop vocal skills, musical understanding, and performance confidence through singing and group collaboration. The course introduces basic music techniques while encouraging creativity, teamwork, and a love for music through a variety of contemporary and worship-style selections. No prior experience is required.

Students will explore the creative world of graphic design and learn how art and technology work together to communicate ideas visually. Through hands-on projects, students will use words, images, symbols, color, and layout to create clear and engaging designs for a variety of purposes. Students will be introduced to the basic elements and principles of design while developing practical skills using Canva and Google Slides. The course introduces both creative illustration and real-world commercial design, giving students a foundation in how graphic design is used to inform, persuade, and communicate.

Students will learn sketching techniques as well as chalk and oil pastels. The goal is to introduce students to basic sketching techniques, materials, and observational skills, fostering creativity and confidence in visual expression.

Students will discover how filmmakers and content creators bring ideas to life through visual storytelling. Using a combination of animation, photography, video production, and editing, students will learn how to communicate ideas and emotions through media. The course emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving as students plan, produce, and edit a variety of digital projects that prepare them for future video production coursework.

Whether you are a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals (hitting, pitching, fielding, and base running) or a seasoned player striving for elite performance, Baseball Development is designed to ignite your passion for the game of baseball and propel you toward success. This course is only open to boys.

This is a comprehensive course designed to enhance players’ skills, knowledge, and understanding of the game. This course covers fundamental techniques such as dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense, as well as advanced strategies and tactics. Through a combination of drills, scrimmages, and game simulations, participants will improve their physical conditioning, decision-making abilities, and teamwork skills. This course will be offered separately for boys and girls.

Students will explore the fundamentals of cheerleading through high-energy chants, basic motions, jumps, and team-building activities. This elective emphasizes school spirit, leadership, and collaboration as students learn how to engage a crowd and work as a unified team.

This gender/team-specific course is open only to students currently rostered on the Grace Christian School Middle School Soccer Team. Soccer Training provides team players with additional opportunities to refine technical skills, improve tactical awareness, and develop soccer-specific fitness. Through focused training and game-based activities, students will strengthen their individual performance while contributing to team success.

Join us for Cross Country Development, a course designed for passionate runners looking to improve their endurance, speed, and technique. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, this program will challenge you to push your limits and reach new heights in your running performance.

Middle School Girls, we are going to get moving using workouts with high-intensity interval training, stretching, Pilates, and more. If you want to work out, laugh, release stress, and have a blast, come and join us!

Learn all about the game of football in a fun, safe environment! From the rules of the game to practicing plays in two-hand touch games, you’ll learn it all!

The Physical Education curriculum for middle school concentrates on the cognitive and physical skills required to participate in and enjoy various team sports. This involves the knowledge and application of rules and basic skills, and the understanding of competitive play and positive sports conduct – all with an emphasis on participation.

This course introduces students to a variety of recreational and lifetime sports that promote physical activity and healthy competition. Through games such as Spikeball, Ultimate Frisbee, Disc Golf, Badminton, and other outdoor activities, students will develop coordination, agility, teamwork, and sport-specific skills while learning rules, strategies, and sportsmanship through active participation.

Soccer Development is designed for students who want to improve their soccer abilities and understanding of the game. Students will develop skills such as ball control, passing, shooting, dribbling, and defensive play while learning teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship through drills and game play. This course is open to all skill levels and is ideal for students interested in growing as soccer players.

This course provides team players with opportunities to deepen their understanding of the game through classroom-based instruction, strategy, skill development, and team concepts. Students will explore rules, game situations, leadership, sportsmanship, and player development while building the knowledge and habits necessary for competitive success. Limited physical activities and skill application opportunities may be included as appropriate.

Students will be a part of an inductive Bible Study through the book of Ephesians. An Inductive Bible Study intentionally draws you into personal interaction with God through His Word so that your beliefs are based on prayerful observations and understanding of the Scriptures. Studying this way is summed up in the words of the Psalmist,” For you have taught me” (Ps. 119: 102).

We want to do more than just exist. We want our lives to count. We want to believe there is more to our time on earth than just feeling pleasure, pursuing goals, and gaining social status. Deep inside, we know the truth: our life’s mission is to live with purpose. For followers of Christ, living out that mission is possible because of what God has done for us through Jesus. We just need to know the steps to make it happen.

In this Bible study just for middle school girls, we’ll dig into the book of James—a short but powerful letter packed with wisdom about living out real faith every day. Together we’ll discover what it means to do the Word, not just hear it, and how our actions can reflect a heart that follows Jesus. Through discussions, creative activities, doodling notes, journaling, and prayer, we’ll learn how God calls us to handle challenges, show kindness, and stand firm when life gets tough.

In this action-packed Bible study, students will explore how faith and sports come together to shape strong character, discipline, and teamwork. Using inspiring stories from Scripture and real-life examples from the world of athletics, we’ll learn how to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (Hebrews 12:1) Each week, students will dive into topics like training with purpose, building resilience, leading with humility, and encouraging others – on and off the field. Whether you’re an athlete or just looking to grow in your faith, this course will challenge and equip you to live with passion, integrity, and endurance for Christ.

Come learn about the fascinating historical and legendary stories of our state. Did you know a nuclear bomb struck North Carolina? Have you heard of the Lost Colony? Did you know the famous pirate Blackbeard’s hideout was in North Carolina? Learn about our state’s interesting history.

North Carolina is home to many military bases. Learn about famous battles, military schools, famous leaders, weaponry, medical techniques, and military technology. Examine wars in which the U.S. was involved. If time allows, this class will culminate in a field trip to the Special Forces Museum in Fayetteville, NC.

This is an introductory-level sign language course that establishes a novice range of communication skills. This course emphasizes the cultural practices distinct from those that approach the world from a visual perspective.

This course provides students with opportunities to develop their skills as writers, editors, and communicators. Students explore journalistic writing, interviewing, editing, and publication design while also engaging in creative writing through short stories, feature articles, opinion pieces, and other forms of expression. Emphasis is placed on clear communication, effective storytelling, writing for a variety of audiences and purposes, and digital layouts for publications. Students will contribute to school publications and develop a portfolio of original written work throughout the course. Due to its detailed and compounding work, this course is a full-semester course.

Students will learn how to read, write, listen and understand the Spanish language. The course teaches students fundamentals and basic vocabulary for various conversational situations. Students will learn various conversation skills, provide and obtain information, and express feelings and emotions. Not only that, but students will also learn about Hispanic culture, its perspectives, and practices. This course is only available to qualifying 8th grade students and runs for the full year. Student will earn high school credit.

Students study chess history, rules, information and notation systems, and essential strategy. Students will develop skills using logical reasoning, pattern recognition, problem-solving, planning, and analytical thinking.

Students will step into the role of forensic investigators as they learn how science is used to solve crimes. Through hands-on laboratory activities, students will collect and analyze evidence, make observations, test hypotheses, and use critical thinking skills to solve realistic criminal cases. Topics include fingerprint analysis, document forgery, tool marks, dental evidence, tire impressions, and other forensic techniques. This course emphasizes scientific inquiry, problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork while introducing students to the exciting world of forensic science.

Students will delve into the world of game strategies and tactics that will help them dominate any gaming arena. From developing a solid game plan to mastering advanced techniques, you will learn how to outsmart your opponents and achieve victory with confidence. Students will develop skills using logic, problem-solving, probability, planning, systems thinking, and strategic decision-making.

In the Greenhouse & Garden Growing course, you will learn everything you need to know to create a thriving greenhouse and garden that produces bountiful harvests year-round.

Are you a creative, critical-thinker? Do you enjoy finding solutions to problems? Are you interested in technology and exploring science? If so, you might enjoy taking a STEM Elective class. STEM, or STEAM, will incorporate hands-on engineering design challenges while exploring the latest in various fields of science. If you are looking for a way to be creative and learn about science and engineering, this program is for you!

This course introduces students to the world of hair, skin, and nail care through hands-on activities and creative projects. Students will explore topics such as hairstyling, skincare, nail design, beauty trends, personal wellness, and basic cosmetology techniques while learning about hygiene, safety, and professionalism. This fun and engaging course is designed for students interested in beauty, self-care, creativity, and exploring future careers in the cosmetology industry.

Learn the basics of entrepreneurship through actually creating a small business over the course of a semester. We will understand what it means to be an entrepreneur and learn the process for selecting, designing, starting, and growing your business. We will also develop a well-rounded Biblical worldview of business and how God uses entrepreneurship for His Kingdom. (This course may require additional cost for students.)

Students in the Home Economics elective will explore the art of cooking, baking, and nutrition, as well as the skills needed to create a warm and inviting home environment. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of culinary delights, while also learning how to budget, plan meals, and shop smart.

Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to become safe, responsible, and ethical hunters and outdoorsmen. Based on the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission’s Hunter Education curriculum and Youth Hunter Education Skills Tournament (YHEST) program, the course covers hunter safety and responsibility, wildlife conservation and management, wildlife identification, hunting laws and ethics, outdoor survival, first aid, and orienteering. Students will build practical outdoor knowledge while preparing for the hunter-skills and knowledge components of YHEST competition. This course is especially beneficial for members of the GCS Shooting Team in preparation for their YHEST test,  but is open to any student interested in hunting, conservation, wildlife, and outdoor skills.

Students will earn certification through NCCER in the areas of Construction Safety, Hand and Power Tools, Construction Math, reading blueprints, and a variety of other areas. This course will be practical yet provide students with the foundation to pursue future vocational training in the construction industry. This course lasts for 1 semester, and is also the prerequisite for Welding or Carpentry/Woodworking courses.

Interested in camping, backpacking, and wilderness survival? North Carolina has many opportunities for wilderness camping with the Appalachian Trail, the Mountain-to-Sea Trail, and many more. Learn the basics of hiking and camping – how to pack, how to identify edible plants and poisonous vegetation, how to start a fire, and how to use a compass and read a map.

Content Strategies is a support course to help students develop study habits, organizational skills, and foundational academic strategies to support their success in current content classes. The course also provides targeted support in English and/or math, offering remedial instruction as needed to strengthen key skills. The aim is for students to build confidence in their ability to approach academic challenges with focus and determination.

Designed to provide students with extra time to complete homework/projects or study.