Course Descriptions

Business Education and Computer Science

Keyboarding with Computer Applications

An introductory course in the techniques of touch typewriting using computer courseware with emphasis on basic theory and skills for personal and vocational use. Tables, letters, memos, outlines, reports, and other business forms are introduced. Speed and accuracy on straight copy materials and problems are developed. Computer literacy is an introduction to the computer including historical development. The student will learn how to load and save a program, use the word processor, and spreadsheet. This course is required for graduation, but may be waived by exam. 10 s.p.

Accounting I

A study of business transactions and their classification in a double-entry system using both manual and computer entry. A study of the complete cycle for single proprietorship and partnerships. 10 s.p.

Microsoft PowerPoint

This course of study teaches the construction and presenting of slide presentations using PowerPoint. The student will learn how to create and save a presentation, as well as add and edit new slides, graphics, sound clips, tables, charts and organization charts. The student also learns how to customize presentations by adding things such as animation, text effects, custom backgrounds, sound effects, automatic timing, and hyperlinks. They also learn to create templates and embed and link objects to their presentations. 5 s.p.

Microsoft Excel

This course of study includes the construction of useful spreadsheets. Discussion is given on the development of the spreadsheet concept. This includes types of cell entries, how to edit cells, save and retrieve workbooks, and basic formatting. The student learns how to use spreadsheet math and functions. Charting capabilities and outlining is also included as well as cell referencing and recalculation. The student will learn to analyze, present data, and manage a spreadsheet. 5 s.p.

Office Procedures I

This course teachers SuperWrite, a one-semester abbreviated writing system based primarily on longhand and secondarily on phonetics. It is designed to provide students with a quick, easy-to-learn writing system that is easy to read and write. SuperWrite is especially useful to the college-bound student for organizing notes, listening for key points, research skills, and career exploration. Notetaking skills will be useful white in high school or college for educational, business, community, and personal activities.

Office Procedures II

Office Procedures II is a comprehensive office procedures class for high school students, which provides essential skills for success in today’s business world. The class is designed to teach knowledge and skills that are needed in a variety of careers where workers communicate, manage information, use technology, handle records, work with others, and solve problems in an office setting. The class also reinforces and extends basic skills involving math, language, decision making, critical thinking, and teamwork. The students will also develop awareness of their interests, strengths, and weaknesses related to the demands of a work environment.

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English as a Second Language

ESL Reading

The ESL Reading course is designed for the high-Beginning to the Advanced-Intermediate ESL student. A wide variety of print and multimedia material is used to expand the reader’s general vocabulary and knowledge of North American culture. Decoding, comprehension, and vocabulary skills are taught and practiced, with an emphasis on individualization. Students are also given opportunities to practice for the TOEFL. 5-10 s.p.

ESL Listening and Speaking

This ESL course gives students practice in common conversational and classroom listening and speaking tasks. Students will develop North American cultural awareness, conversational fluency, and classroom discussion skills. Students also engage in American accent training and practice. As in all ESL classes, practice time is given for taking the TOEFL. 5-10 s.p.

ESL Writing and Grammar

This course is designed to integrate grammar theory with practical  writing techniques. The grammar focus is on context, practice, and application. Students will learn and practice the full writing process, writing sentences, paragraphs, and essays using the rhetorical strategies of narration, description, explanation, and persuasion. They will move from conversational to academic vocabulary development, with an emphasis  on the syntax of Standard American English. Preparation for the TOEFL is included each semester. 5-10 s.p.

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Foreign Languages

Spanish I

A thorough orientation and introduction to the fundamental differences between English and Spanish pronunciation, basic grammar, and culture. The emphasis is in speaking communication developed through active student participation during each class session with the help of visual aids, varied activities, and teacher evaluation. 10 s.p.

Spanish II

Further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in communication. A wider understanding of Spanish pronunciation, grammatical usage, and culture is presented. 10 s.p.

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Language Arts

English I

This two semester course will introduce students to an understanding and appreciation of literature through selected reading assignments. Students do daily focus activities associated with the assigned reading. Longer, more developed assignments cover creative, narrative, persuasive, and expository writing. Students will also be given an opportunity to improve their public speaking skills through theme project presentations. Students will also participate in class discussions and the reading of two plays. 10 s.p.

English II

In this two-semester course, students delve into a rich mix of culturally diverse classic and contemporary literature selections. They read a wide variety of genres, including short stories, nonfiction, p oetry, drama, and humor. Writing and grammar activities are integrated with the literature. Writing activities include daily free writing (during which students make connections between literature and life) and process writing (which the students use in narrative, descriptive, explanatory, and persuasive  compositions.) Continued practice of correct grammar, usage, and mechanics aid students in more effective writing and revision. Students will incorporate new vocabulary words into their daily lives and practice precise word choice in written and oral presentations. And they will create a short research report, learning to avoid plagiarism and, instead, demonstrate original thinking in their research and writing. 10 s.p.

English III

– Survey of American Literature/Advanced Writing
This two-semester course looks at the major authors, ideas, movements, and trends that helped to shape our American culture from the discovery of America to the present. This class also gives students an opportunity to write using the four major types of writing including a major research paper. Students will improve their writing skills with daily and weekly assignments. Students will read selected works and will write responses to the various reading assignments. Class discussions help direct the students to the connections between the works, society, and themselv es. Students also give six (6) oral presentations to the class. 10 s.p.

English IV

– Survey of English Literature/Expository Writing
This one or two-semester course emphasizes the message in selected literacy works whose origin is England. The class covers from Beowulf to the beginnings of the 20th Century. This course is also designed to help students write papers whose purpose is to explain as well as disseminate information. Students will practice their writing skills through a variety of writing activities on a weekly basis. They will receive feedback on their writing from fellow students as well as the teacher. Students also give six (6) oral presentations to the class. 5-10 s.p.

English IV

– Twentieth Century Literature
This one-semester course is designed for seniors who are capable of reading advanced literature. Students will be required to read longer works by modern-day authors. It is the goal of this course to teach students how to select good literature in books and film within the context of a Christian home. In this context, students will pair-read a book of their own choice and present a short summary to the class. Comparisons will be made between the teacher-assigned printed work and filmed work. 5 s.p.

Advanced Placement (A.P.) English Literature

This year-long, rigorous, college-level course is designed for the 12th grade year. Students will study a broad body of classic literature and learn how to write essays based on their reading. The course will incorporate much additional reading in literature. MBA students in the class are required to take the National A.P. Exam in May (testing fee is approximately $80). Colleges and universities may then choose to grant credit, placement, or both to A.P. students based on their test scores. 10 s.p.

Advanced Academic Writing

This course is designed to further develop writing techniques. Emphasis is placed on writing essays and research papers. 5-10 s.p.

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Mathematics

Pre-Algebra

Enrollment in Pre-Algebra will be determined by performance on an algebra aptitude test. The language of algebra, integers, solving one-step equations, factors, fractions, rational numbers, solving equations and inequalities, graphing equations and inequalities, proportions and percent, statistics and gra phs, and probability are covered in this course. A scientific calculator is required. Enrollment in ALEKS as part of a math lab is required. 10 s.p.

Algebra I

Prerequisite: Students must demonstrate satisfactory performance on the algebra aptitude test before entering Algebra I. This course offers algebra with applications and connections to the real world. Properties and applications of rational numbers, equations, inequalities, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, functions, graphing linear equations, linear inequalities, systems of open sentences, radical expressions, quadratics, introduction to statistics, probability, and trigonometry are all studied. A scientific calculator is required. Some computer graphing is experienced. 10 s.p.

Geometry

Prerequisite: “C” or higher average in Algebra I. This course offers geometry with applications and connections to the real world. The language of geometry, reasoning and introduction to proof, parallels, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangles and trigonometry, circles, polygons and area, surface area, volume, loci and transformations are all studied. A scientific calculator is required. Computer use of Geometer’s SkethcPad will be experienced. 10 s.p.

Algebra II

Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry with a “C” or higher in each. A more penetrating and complete study is given of the topics introduced in Algebra I along with applications and connections to the real world. Linear equations, inequalities, relations and functions; conics; polynomial functions, rational polynomial expressions; exponential and logarithmic functions; sequences and series; probability and statistics; trigonometric functions, identities, and equations are studied. A scientific calculator is required. Computer graphing is experienced during this course. The CLEP examination is offered to secure college credit. 10 s.p.

Precalculus

Prerequisite: “B” average in Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. This course emphasizes trigonometry functions, their graphs, inverses, identities, and equations. There is study of vectors, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and complex numbers. Analytic geometry is then studied including linear relations, functions, systems of equations, inequalities, nature of graphs, polynomial and rational functions, and conics. An introduction to calculus is given studying limits, derivatives, and integrals. Computer graphing is done. A scientific calculator is required (graphing scientific calculator – optional). 10 s.p.

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Music

Keyboard/Piano

Piano keyboard is basic for music study. Through the study of theory, correct interpretation, and individual practice, the student can learn to play for his or her own personal enjoyment or perform artistically in public. Four practice periods per week required. 3 s.p.

Organ

Private lessons are given in organ. A student must show satisfactory proficiency on the piano before he/she will be accepted as an organ student. Students may perform at MBA or at their own church. 3 s.p.

Instrument and Voice

Private instruction in voice and instruments is offered. Emphasis is placed on technique, tone, quality, and sight reading. Students enrolled in private lessons receive academic credit and a letter grade. As such, four practice periods per week are required and attendance is taken. 3 s.p.

Chorale

A choral organization that primarily performs major sacred works and serves as a church chorale. A dditionally, the chorale performs secular music at the Fall and Spring Musicals. Emphasis is placed on efficient vocal production and sight singing. Though open to all students, an audition is required to determine voice assignment and sight singing ability. Students who have not yet achieved a basic level of sight singing may be required to attend a choral lab once a week in addition to the regular choir periods until they have adequately developed this skill. Students are expected to stay enrolled in the class for one complete semester. 6 s.p.

Oceanaires

A touring choral group that performs sacred and secular repertoire. Membership is by invitation only subject to audition by the choral teacher. One additional individual practice period is required of all members per week. Members must be concurrently enrolled in Chorale. In addition to the elements emphasized in choral, emphasis is also placed on choral blend and musicianship. Students are expected to stay enrolled in the class for the complete school year. 10 s.p.

Symphonic Band

An instrumental organization that prepares both secular and sacred music. It is open to students with a medium to advanced degree of technical ability on their instruments. Membership is by audition of the band director. One practice period weekly outside of group rehearsals is required of all members. 2.5 s.p.

Westwinds

A select instrumental organization used as a touring concert group. Membership is by invitation only, subject to audition. Opportunities to play in small chamber ensembles (i.e. woodwind quintet, brass quintet) within Westwinds are available. Students chosen to be in this organization are expected to stay with the group for the complete school year. Two practice periods per week outside of group rehearsals are required. Concurrent enrollment in Symphonic Band is required 10 s.p.

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Performing Arts

Drama

– Impressions
This organization is intended to give its members a cursory introduction to a variety of drama skills. These skills include improvisation, pantomime, and acting. Membership is by invitation only subject to audition by the performing arts teacher. 10 s.p.

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Physical Education and Health

Health

A course emphasizing consumer and environmental health, diet, exercise, general disease prevention, and body care. The student will be able to apply these concepts to daily living. Required for graduation. 5 s.p.

Freshman P.E.

This course is an introduction of the fundamental skills and physical conditioning needed in various sports and team activities. Emphasis is also given to lifetime fitness and conditioning. Required for all freshmen. 10 s.p.

Sophomore P.E.

A course designed to develop skill, coordination, and knowledge in a variety of sports activities. Emphasis is also given to individual fitness and conditioning which is tested each quarter. Required for all sophomores. 10 s.p.

The following classes are for juniors and seniors only and count towards the third year Physical Education requirement:

Co-ed Recreation

A general physical education class graded on participation rather than skill. A variety of recreational games are rotated throughout the quarter. Indiv idual fitness and conditioning are emphasized and tested quarterly. 10 s.p.

Co-ed Fitness

A course designed to improve cardiovascular and muscular fitness through weight and circuit training. 10 s.p.

Co-ed Lifetime Sports

A course including instruction and practice in the following “carry-over” sports: softball, golf, tennis, volleyball, badminton, swimming, and pickleball. 10 s.p.

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Religion

Religion I

In the Beginning God… (Genesis) The book of beginnings deals with every major issue that mankind has dealt with since the fall in the garden. This semester of study is dedicated to studying personal issues like dating, sexuality, marriage, family, sibling rivalry, anger, obedience, guilt, goal setting, failure, substance abuse, pain, and other personal struggles. (1st semester)

God’s Gift, Our Choice (Gospels) Heaven was never nearer to us than when God became a man and walked here on earth. Christ’s primary purpose in coming to live on our earth was to die for us. This semester of study is dedicated to studying the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ in all the gospels. The primary objective is to bring each student into a personal saving relationship with Jesus Christ. (2nd semester)

Religion II

Free at Last(Exodus) The world will never be the same for what happened in Egypt some thirty-four centuries ago. The tribe of Israel was initiated into a full-fledged nation the night the death angel passed over the land of Egypt and destroyed those not ‘covered’ by the blood of a lamb. This quarter of study is primarily dedicated to the study of the birth of the Jewish nation as spelled out in the first five books of Moses with special emphasis on the book of Exodus. The student will learn how God takes a hoard of slaves and initiates them into a full-fledged nation that He continually loves in spite of their inability to balance freedom and responsibility. (1st quarter)

Once Upon a Time… (Old Testament Characters) Good stories can take the imagination into other worlds. They can make an otherwise dull sermon in to something worth listening to, bring us to tears, make us laugh hysterically, or bring our whole world into focus. Some of the greatest stories ever told are found in the books of the Old Testament. God wants us to see, in the lives of all the Bible characters, practical insights for living. Even in the most obscure and unfamiliar stories there are things to be learned—things that we can take on life’s journey. The Old Testament stories and characters that are studied during this quarter are designed to help the student identify with the people of God. (2nd quarter)

The Flame Spreads(Acts) When Christ was resurrected from the dead, so were the hearts of his followers. When that band of motley disciples prayed and studied the word of God and were infused with the spirit of Jesus, they turned the world upside down. These uneducated men “had been with Jesus” and all the bad religion in the world was not going to stop them from proclaiming the message of risen Savior. Nothing was going to stop them, not even death and all the political forces on earth could not stop these simple men and women infused with Spirit power. This quarter of study follows the acts of the early church from birth to a new beginning. (3rd quarter)

The Sprea ding Flame(SDA History) By the end of the 18th century the world was in total upheaval. By the beginning of the 19th, Darwin was penning his “Origin of the Species” and Marx was disillusioned with bad religion and seeking a better world without God. At just the right time, God raised up a group of young people to remind the world that life was created not from some primordial swamp but by the God of heaven. These young people were also disillusioned with bad religion, and looking for the answers in prayer, Bible study and the Holy Spirit’s power. They were convinced that God would hold true to his promise to return to earth, so they prayed, they studied, and they were filled with Holy Spirit power. Monterey Bay Academy is a private boarding academy owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist church and this quarter of study follows the development of that church from the Protestant Reformation in general down to the religious movements of the 19th century, with special emphasis on the Millerite Movement and the beginnings of the Seventh-day Adventist church right up to present. (4th quarter)

Religion III

From Ruin to Riches (Romans) “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance…” The single most important event in earth’s histor y is the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Written almost two thousand years ago, the writer of Romans explains why life will never be the same because Christ became a man and died for our sins. The book of Romans explains why Christ came to earth to live, and why his death and resurrection are the best news that anyone could ever get. (1st quarter)

We Would See Jesus (Bible Doctrines and Comparative Religions) There are fundamental beliefs that are important to every Christian. As was eloquently said, “The precious, golden links of truth are not separate, detached, disconnected doctrines; … they form one strong chain of golden truth, and constitute a complete whole, with Christ as their living center.” This quarter of study uses Christ and His work as the primary outline of our faith, and then shows how the fundamental truths of Scripture are derived from or are related to Him. (2nd quarter)

Choices and Challenges (John) Why do most Christians make an atom of a world and a world of an atom? Are Christians at the forefront of change in our world or an irrelevant bunch of rule mongers and hypocrites? Why are most Christians more worried about how they look, what they eat, or promoting tradition rather than bringing about real social change in our culture and urging the soon coming of Jesus? These issues and a host of others make this quarter of study a very interesting self study in light of Christ’s mission to “go and make disciples” and the importance of “loving one another” till Christ comes. (3rd quarter)

The Mystery Revealed(Daniel and Revelation) The conflict of the ages rages over the same issues that put Christ on the cross. Will men let God be God and allow personal pride to be laid low, or will He continue to worship the creature above the Creator? This quarter of study is dedicated to studying the two primary apocalyptic writings of scripture and emphasizes the importance of seeing the issues resolved at the cross in all of history, from first to last. (4th quarter)

Religion IV

Insights for Building Strong Relationships (Dating, Marriage, and Family)
This semester of study is dedicated to looking at our most important relationships on earth from a Biblical perspective. Given the overwhelming statistic that the divorce rate for Christians is not much better than non-Christians, this comes at a critical time in the development of teenage youth.  This course is divided into issues critical to dating, marriage and family and includes topics in personality, family origin, friendships, dating, conflict resolution, communication, sexuality, parenting, career, and family finances. (1st semester)

The Path: Living Life Ethically and Strategically (Ethics and Personal Values) Helen Keller was once asked, “What would be worse than being born blind?” She replied, “To have sight without vision.”  This semester of study is aimed at building a personal ethic for the workplace; investigating decision making and will of God; exploring some of the more controversial moral subjects like bigotry, AIDS, euthanasia, and capital punishment; constructing a framework for problem solving and applying it to the use of our time, talents, and treasures; establishing a personal mission and vision statement for ones’ life; and  see the importance of self discipline in putting it all together. They will be taught to see that when we receive the “hope of the glory of God” then we purposefully align our lives with God’s eternal principles. (2nd semester)

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Science

Earth Science

This is a survey of the earth sciences, including geology, meteorology and oceanography. Included are the inter-relationships of these studies and their importance to humanity. 10 s.p.

Biology I

This class is designed to teach 10th grade students the principles and laws of nature and how to apply them to life. The material is presented with the realization of God as Creator of all life. 10 s.p.

Marine Biology

Prerequisite: Biology or Physical Science. A course with emphasis on California marine life with numerous dissections and field trips. The student will learn many California tide pool organisms by name and be able to discuss their life cycle and how they are important in the marine environment. 10 s.p.

Anatomy and Physiology

Prerequisite: Biology I with a minimum “B” grade or by special permission of the teacher. A course designed to familiarize students with body structure and function. The course will include a survey of the skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, digestive, circulatory, lymphatic, and endocrine systems. Demonstrations and exper iments will help students understand some of the physiological actions of the body. (Offered even years.) 10 s.p.

Physical Science

This course introduces students to the elementary concepts of motion, heat, light, electricity, atomic structure, solutions, acids and bases, organic compounds, and other selected topics that can be examined in the study of the earth and its environment in the physical world. 10 s.p.

Chemistry

Prerequisite: At least a “C+” in Algebra 1. A study that includes the following topics: atomic structure, chemical bonding, mass relationships, gas laws, molecular composition, solutions, ionization, acids and bases, introduction to organic compounds, oxidation, and reduction. A strong emphasis on mathematical relationships in all applicable areas is stressed. Laboratory is an integral part of the course. 10 s.p.

Physics

Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II with at least a “C” average in each. Lecture, demonstration, discussion, and individual laboratory experience using computer technology and interfaces with appropriate probes are combined in learning the nature of matter and energy and the laws that govern each. Topics studied include: force, motion, rad ioactivity, heat, light, sound, electric current, and machines which apply these phenomena. A good understanding of mathematics and willingness to study are essential. Laboratory sessions are required. 10 s.p.

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Social Studies

World History/Geography

This elective, year-long class, designed for the 10th grade year is a general survey of the beginnings of earth’s recorded history down to present day. Emphasis will include a Christian focus on history, current events, and a one-day field trip to a local historical site. 10 s.p.

U.S. History

This year-long class, designed for the 11th grade year, is a general survey of the development of the United States from the age of discovery to the present. It will include watching the news on a regular basis, research projects, and classroom presentations. 10 s.p.

U.S. Government

This semester-long required course is designed for the 12th grade year. It includes a study of the U.S. Constitution and the three branches of federal government. The course includes units on elections, California State history and government—including a field trip to the State Capitol, current news and events, landmark Supreme Court cases, classroom guests, and debates on controversial issues. 5 s.p.

Advanced Placement (A.P.) U.S. History

This year-long, rigorous, college-level course is designed for the 11th grade year. Students will master a broad body of historical knowledge and learn how to write essays based on original documents. The course will incorporate much additional reading in American Literature. MBA students in the class are required to take the National A.P. Exam in May (testing fee is approximately $80). Colleges and universities may then choose to grant credit, placement, or both to A.P. students based on their test scores. 10 s.p.

Economics

This semester-long course is intended to give the students a broad overview of macroeconomics and microeconomics. Concepts such as scarcity, productivity, economic institutions and incentives will be introduced. Students will apply basic reasoning skills to explore the relationships between economics, real life, and governmental policies. 5 s.p.

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Technology Education

Woodworking

Students plan and produce useful wood projects ranging from cutting boards and toys to full-size furniture. Safety and efficiency is emphasized in the demonstrations and lectures covering topics which include planning, wood selection, machine operation, assembly, and finishing techniques. Most class time is spent in the shop. 10 s.p.

Graphics Technology

This year-long class presents various techniques used to plan and produce useful printed materials. The sequence of instruction includes planning, design and composition, as well as printing and finishing processes for lithographic printing. An emphasis is pla ced on electronic publishing methods. Students will learn to use software such as Adobe InDesign and Illustrator. The final quarter is reserved for screen process printing. 5 s.p.

Medical First Responder

Students in this class will first study and practice the skills necessary to receive the AHA Healthcare Provider CPR certification. They will then learn the information and skills necessary to qualify as a medical first responder. Upon successful completion of the written test and the required skills tests they will be issued a First Responder Certificate. This certificate could be a first step toward a career in firefighting or emergency medical response. It is also a good introduction to a career in the medical care field. 5 s.p.

Photography/Darkroom Techniques

During the first part of the course the principles of camera operation, light, and composition are emphasized. The second part of the course involves the processing and printing of black and white film as well as the taking and processing of digital photos. The cost of photo materials and processing is not included in the tuition. The students should also plan to provide their own adjustable cameras. 5 s.p.

Yearbook Production

Students in this class will learn the basics of planning and producing a publication by working on the staff of the Cypress Bough. Page layout, feature writing, caption writing, and digital production skills will be emphasized. Students will be taking pictures both on film and digital cameras and will be working with software such as Adobe Photoshop and InDesign. Admittance is by teacher permission for students who want to produce an excellent yearbook and are willing to “put in the time” to do it right. 10 s.p.

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