Course Descriptions

Students are required to pass four consecutive years of English to graduate.

English 9 develops foundational skills in literature, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and communication. Students explore a variety of classical and contemporary literary works while strengthening critical reading, literary analysis, and written expression. Through the writing process, students compose narrative, analytical, argumentative, and informative essays, with an emphasis on organization, revision, and effective communication.

Honors English 9 is an accelerated, college-preparatory course that emphasizes advanced literary analysis, critical thinking, and analytical writing. Students explore a variety of classical and contemporary literary works while developing sophisticated reading, writing, and communication skills. Through the writing process, students compose analytical, argumentative, and research-based essays with an emphasis on close reading, independent thinking, revision, and effective written expression.

English 10 builds upon the foundational skills developed in English 9 by strengthening literary analysis, critical reading, and written communication. Students explore a variety of literary genres with an emphasis on poetry while developing a deeper understanding of literary devices, including metaphor, allegory, symbolism, irony, and allusion. Through the writing process, students compose analytical, argumentative, and research-based essays while refining grammar, organization, revision, and communication skills.

Honors English 10 is an accelerated, college-preparatory course designed to strengthen advanced literary analysis, critical thinking, and analytical writing in preparation for Advanced Placement English coursework. Students study a rigorous selection of novels, short stories, poetry, and drama while examining complex literary themes and techniques. Through close reading and the writing process, students produce sophisticated analytical, argumentative, and research-based writing with an emphasis on independent thought, revision, and effective communication.

English 11 explores American literature through a chronological study of major literary movements and historical periods from a Christian perspective. Students analyze a variety of literary works while examining the political, social, and cultural influences that shaped American literature. Through narrative, analytical, and reflective writing, students strengthen critical thinking, research, and communication skills while applying MLA documentation and citation standards.

AP English Language & Composition is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP English Language and Composition Exam. Students analyze a diverse selection of nonfiction texts to evaluate rhetorical strategies, purpose, audience, and argument. Through close reading, analytical writing, research, and collaborative discussions, students strengthen their ability to craft effective arguments while developing advanced communication and critical thinking skills.

English 12 is a chronological survey of British literature with selected works from European literature. Students analyze major literary works while examining the historical, cultural, and philosophical influences that shaped them. Through literary analysis, reflective, and professional writing, students strengthen critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills while completing research and multimedia projects.

Honors English 12 is an accelerated, college-preparatory course designed for students who demonstrate exceptional reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students engage in an in-depth study of British and selected world literature while analyzing complex themes, literary techniques, and historical contexts. Through close reading, analytical writing, research, and collaborative discussions, students develop advanced communication and critical thinking skills in preparation for college-level coursework.

AP English Literature & Composition is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam. Students analyze a diverse selection of novels, plays, poetry, and short stories from a variety of literary periods while examining themes, literary techniques, and historical contexts. Through close reading, analytical writing, research, and collaborative discussions, students strengthen their ability to interpret complex texts while developing advanced communication, critical thinking, and literary analysis skills.

Students are required to pass two years of a laboratory science (biology, chemistry, physics) to graduate.

Biology is the study of living organisms and the processes that sustain life. Students explore cell biology, genetics, DNA, ecology, botany, zoology, and human body systems while meeting the California Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Through laboratory investigations, scientific inquiry, and data analysis, students develop critical thinking skills while examining the living world from a biblical worldview.

Chemistry introduces students to the fundamental principles of matter, atomic structure, chemical reactions, and the behavior of substances. Through laboratory investigations and scientific inquiry, students explore how atoms, electrons, and molecules interact while developing problem-solving and analytical skills. The course concludes with an introduction to organic chemistry and emphasizes real-world applications of chemistry from a biblical worldview.

Note: Students are required to purchase the calculator designated by the instructor.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I.

Anatomy & Physiology explores the structure and function of the human body through the study of cells, tissues, organs, and body systems. Students examine the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, immune, and other major organ systems while developing an understanding of how they work together to maintain homeostasis. Through laboratory investigations, scientific inquiry, and data analysis, students strengthen critical thinking skills while studying the complexity of the human body from a biblical worldview.

Organics & Nutrition explores the relationship between nutrition, human health, and overall wellness through the study of food science and healthy living. Students examine the nutritional value of foods, digestive health, metabolism, organic and whole-food principles, food safety, and the role of nutrition in disease prevention. Through hands-on activities, research, and real-world applications, students develop practical skills for making informed nutritional choices while gaining an appreciation for caring for the body as good stewards of God's creation

AP Biology is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP Biology Exam. Students investigate foundational concepts in cellular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and biological systems through inquiry-based laboratory investigations and scientific research. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, data analysis, experimental design, and the application of biological principles while exploring the complexity of life from a biblical worldview.

Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Algebra I, Biology, and Chemistry, a minimum 3.7 GPA in the current content-area course(s), demonstrated proficiency in reading comprehension and academic writing, and a teacher recommendation.

Summer Assignment:
Required. Summer coursework must be completed prior to the start of the academic year and will be posted at the conclusion of the school year and distributed via email and/or Canvas.

AP Chemistry (Not Offered Every Year)

AP Chemistry is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP Chemistry Exam. Designed as a second-year high school chemistry course, students investigate advanced concepts in atomic structure, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, and introductory organic chemistry through inquiry-based laboratory investigations and scientific analysis. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, experimental design, and problem-solving while exploring the principles of chemistry from a biblical worldview.

Note: Students are required to have a Texas Instruments TI-84 (or higher) graphing calculator, or another calculator approved by the instructor.

AP Physics I (Not Offered Every Year)

AP Physics I is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP Physics 1 Exam. Through inquiry-based laboratory investigations, hands-on activities, and problem-solving, students explore the fundamental principles of mechanics, energy, motion, forces, waves, and simple circuits. Emphasis is placed on scientific inquiry, mathematical reasoning, experimental design, and critical thinking while applying the laws of physics to real-world phenomena from a biblical worldview.

Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Geometry and concurrent enrollment in Algebra II (or an equivalent course), a minimum 3.7 GPA in the current content-area course(s), demonstrated proficiency in reading comprehension and academic writing, and a teacher recommendation.

Summer Assignment:
Required. Summer coursework must be completed prior to the start of the academic year and will be posted at the conclusion of the school year and distributed via email and/or Canvas.

Students are required to pass three years of math to graduate.

Algebra I
This course covers the fundamentals of algebraic skills which include algebraic expressions, operations, solving equations, graphing, linear functions, quadratic functions, probability and statistics, and geometric connections.  Students will explore and try to solve real-world problems, understand how to use a graphing calculator and express mathematical ideas.

Geometry
The course of geometry dives into the study of geometric concepts such as the basic elements of geometry, proofs, parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, circles, trigonometry, surface area, volume, and congruency. Students will develop critical thinking skills as related to logic and reasoning for the purpose of solving equations.

Algebra II
Algebra 2 is a course designed to enhance and enrich the algebraic skills learned in Algebra 1. The topics covered in this course are solving for linear equations, inequalities, graphs, radical expressions, quadratic equations, functions, probability, and trigonometry. This course is designed for higher-order thinking skills as students prepare to enter a year of pre-calculus and higher.

Pre-Calculus
Pre-Calculus is a course that blends the fundamentals of Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and geometry into a course that prepares students for the rigor of Calculus. For this course, topics will be explored in the areas of algebra, functions, graphs, polynomials, rational functions, exponential functions, trigonometry, analytical trigonometry, and conic sections.

Honors Pre-Calculus
This course covers the same material as Pre-Calculus, plus an extra topic in each unit and an introduction to limits and continuity. This class will require more study and homework time. Students must have the Texas Instrument TI-84 or higher calculator.

Requirements/Summer Homework
Teacher recommendation and satisfactory completion of summer homework is required for enrollment in this class.

AP Calculus AB
Students work with slope and area of curves, investigating how those two ideas interact through graphing, solving, and applying to the world around them. This class will require intensive study and homework time. Students must have the Texas Instrument TI-84 or higher calculator.

Prerequisites
Students must have successfully earned above 85% in UCAʼs Honors Pre-Calculus class or its equivalence.

Requirements/Summer Homework
Teacher recommendation and satisfactory completion of summer homework is required for enrollment in this class.

Students are required to pass three years of social studies classes to graduate.

World History examines major world civilizations and global developments from the Age of Exploration through the modern era. Students analyze the political, economic, social, and cultural forces that have shaped world history while making connections among global trade, migration, conflict, and innovation. Through research, primary and secondary source analysis, and historical inquiry, students develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.

United States History explores the political, economic, social, and cultural development of the United States from the Reconstruction Era to the present. Students examine significant historical events, constitutional principles, government, economic systems, and the individuals who shaped the nation's history. Through historical inquiry, research, and analysis of primary and secondary sources, students strengthen critical thinking, communication, and civic literacy.

Government is a one-semester course that examines the foundations, structure, and functions of the United States government. Students study the Constitution, the three branches of government, civil rights and liberties, public policy, and the responsibilities of informed citizenship. Through discussion, research, and civic inquiry, students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and analytical skills.

Personal Finance is a one-semester course that equips students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to make informed financial decisions throughout life. Students explore budgeting, saving, investing, banking, credit, debt management, taxes, insurance, and financial planning while developing responsible money management habits. Through real-world applications and financial decision-making, students build the confidence and financial literacy necessary for college, career, and lifelong financial success.

Sociology explores the study of human society, social relationships, and cultural institutions. Students examine how individuals and groups influence one another while investigating topics such as culture, socialization, diversity, social change, and contemporary social issues. Through research, discussion, and analysis, students develop critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the complexities of society.

AP World History: is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP World History: Modern Exam. Students examine significant global events, civilizations, and historical developments from 1200 CE to the present while analyzing primary and secondary sources, constructing historical arguments, and evaluating patterns of continuity, change, comparison, and causation. Through historical inquiry and research, students develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and communication skills while exploring the interconnectedness of world societies.

Prerequisite:
A minimum 3.7 cumulative GPA, demonstrated proficiency in reading comprehension and academic writing, and a teacher recommendation.

Summer Assignment:
Required. Summer coursework must be completed prior to the start of the academic year and will be posted at the conclusion of the school year and distributed via email and/or Canvas

AP United States History is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP United States History Exam. Students investigate the political, economic, social, and cultural development of the United States from approximately 1491 to the present through historical inquiry, primary and secondary source analysis, and evidence-based argumentation. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, historical interpretation, and analytical writing while preparing students for college-level history coursework.

Students who earn a qualifying score on the AP Exam may be eligible to receive college credit, subject to individual college or university policies.

AP United States Government & Politics is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP United States Government and Politics Exam. Students examine the foundations of American government, constitutional principles, political institutions, public policy, political behavior, civil rights, and civil liberties through inquiry, analysis, and discussion. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, evidence-based argumentation, and civic engagement while preparing students for college-level political science coursework.

AP Psychology is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP Psychology Exam. Students investigate the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes while exploring biological foundations of behavior, cognition, sensation and perception, learning, development, personality, psychological disorders, and social psychology. Through research, inquiry, and analysis of psychological studies, students develop critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills while preparing for college-level coursework.

AP Microeconomics is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP Microeconomics Exam. Students examine how individuals and businesses make economic decisions while exploring concepts including scarcity, supply and demand, production, market structures, costs and benefits, and the role of government in the economy. Through data analysis, graph interpretation, and real-world applications, students develop analytical thinking and economic reasoning skills while preparing for college-level economics.

UCA requires all students to take Bible each year they are enrolled at our school. If a student earns an “F” in any semester of Bible, he or she will be placed on probation. If the student fails any subsequent semester of Bible, he/she may be asked to withdraw from UCA or re-take the Bible course.

Bible 9: Bible Survey and Christian Ethics
In order to prepare students for a thoughtful and impactful life of faith, this year-long course will lay a foundation for students in their understanding of the Bible and ethics. First, to lay the groundwork, students will be informed about the origins and reliability of the Bible and cover an overview of biblical content in all of the different books, genres, sections, and themes across both the Hebrew Bible and New Testament. Having laid the foundation of Biblical literature, students will then examine a number of cultural-ethical topics and issues that face followers of Christ in their contemporary setting.

Bible 10: Biblical Metanarrative and Life of Christ
The entirety of Biblical literature attests to a single Grand Story (or metanarrative) that initiates at the beginning of creation in Genesis 1, and finds its resolution at the conclusion of all things in Revelation 22. At the center of this Grand Story is the climax, where God Himself puts into the flesh and blood of a poor Jewish Rabbi, Jesus of Nazareth, who lives a beautifully world-changing life, experiences an enigmatic death, and shocks the world with a powerful resurrection. In this year-long course, students will hone their skills in tracing the biblical metanarrative from the beginning, to Jesus, to our current situation, and on through to the end of the story. Since Christ marks the pivotal point in the story, students will spend a significant share of the class investigating the credibility of the Gospel accounts and the content of the life of Christ.

Bible 11: Romans and Revelation
Following the events of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, His disciples and the early community of faith wrestled with the implications of those realities. In Paul’s epistle to the Romans, we have a clear presentation of the theology, philosophy, and Christian living practices of the early Christian community. Furthermore, John’s Apocalypse (the book of Revelation), presents modern readers a window into an ancient genre that speaks to the realities of persecution, faithfulness, and empire. This year-long course is a study dedicated to unpacking the rich truths found in these two texts by analyzing the cultural and historical context surrounding ancient Rome, Palestine, and Asia Minor. In doing so, students will then be equipped to wrestle with these same concepts, struggles, and realities that face them in their own contemporary context.

Bible 12L: Love, Dating, and Marriage
This semester-long course will center on God’s views on Love, Dating, and Marriage. Christian love at its core grows out as a reflection of God’s love. Thus, love and Christian action should be the natural outworking of knowing more about Jesus and his love for others. This course will first provide a philosophical and ethical framework for students to approach the topics of love, dating, and marriage. Considering the biblical witness and Christian traditions in the area of romance, students will learn to think critically about relationships, and practically apply content covered in the class.

Bible 12W: Worldview
Ever since Marshall McLuhan first coined the term “global village,” the truth of this short phrase has only grown in its applicability to the modern world. As students interact with their global neighbors in real life and on various media, the need to understand their own worldview and the worldview of others becomes increasingly essential. This semester-long course solidifies the students’ understanding of the Christian worldview, and also explores the cultures, philosophies, and religions with which the students will inevitably have contact. Worldviews are discussed and analyzed in media, and students are then equipped to express missionally the Gospel in each of these contexts.

Ministry Fellowship is a Christ-centered leadership course designed to equip students to grow in their faith while developing practical ministry skills. Through biblical study, discipleship, mentoring, and hands-on service opportunities, students learn the foundations of pastoral leadership, servant leadership, evangelism, and Christian ministry. Students are encouraged to strengthen their relationship with Christ while learning how to effectively share their faith, serve others, lead with integrity, and impact their communities through a biblical worldview.

Students are required to pass one year of a visual or performing art class to graduate.

Art I introduces students to the fundamentals of visual art through a variety of artistic media and techniques. Students explore the elements and principles of design while developing creativity, technical skills, and artistic expression through hands-on projects and studio experiences.

Art II builds upon the foundational skills developed in Art I with an emphasis on drawing and painting. Students refine their artistic techniques through independent and collaborative projects while expanding their understanding of composition, color theory, and creative problem-solving.

Worship Ensemble is an audition-based performance course for students with a passion for music and worship leadership. Students participate in weekly rehearsals and performances for chapel services and school events while developing musicianship, vocal or instrumental performance skills, and an understanding of both traditional and contemporary worship music.

Yearbook is a collaborative course in which students design, create, and publish the annual school yearbook. Students develop skills in journalism, photography, interviewing, graphic design, and publication layout while strengthening time management, teamwork, and project management skills.

Media Production introduces students to digital media production through graphic design, photography, videography, achoind motion graphics. Students gain hands-on experience with the production process from concept development and filming to editing and post-production while developing creative and technical communication skills.

Honors Art III is an accelerated, college-preparatory studio course designed for students seeking to develop a personal artistic style and expand their technical abilities across a variety of artistic media. Students create a portfolio of theme-based original artwork while engaging in proposal development, critiques, artistic reflection, and portfolio documentation. Student artwork is showcased throughout the school year in school and community art exhibitions.

AP Art & Design is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students to complete the AP Art and Design Portfolio. Students develop an original body of work through sustained investigation, artistic experimentation, and portfolio development while refining technical skills and creative expression. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, artistic growth, written reflection, and professional portfolio presentation in preparation for college-level art study.

Students who earn a qualifying score on the AP Portfolio Exam may be eligible to receive college credit, subject to individual college or university policies.

Students are required to pass two years of foreign language to graduate.

Spanish I introduces students to the fundamentals of the Spanish language through the development of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Students build vocabulary, practice conversational communication, and explore Hispanic cultures while developing a foundation for continued language study.

Spanish II builds upon the skills developed in Spanish I by expanding students' proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students strengthen conversational fluency, increase vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of Hispanic cultures through meaningful communication and cultural exploration.

Honors Spanish II is an accelerated, college-preparatory course that builds upon the foundational skills developed in Spanish I. Students strengthen proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking through more advanced grammar, vocabulary, and conversational practice while exploring the history, traditions, and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Emphasis is placed on effective communication, critical thinking, and language proficiency in preparation for Honors Spanish III and Advanced Placement coursework.

Honors Spanish III is an accelerated, college-preparatory course designed to develop advanced proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in Spanish. Students strengthen communication skills through increasingly complex grammar, vocabulary, literature, and cultural studies while exploring the history, geography, and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world.

AP Spanish Language & Culture is a college-level course aligned with the College Board curriculum that prepares students for the AP Spanish Language and Culture Exam. Conducted entirely in Spanish, the course develops advanced proficiency in interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication while deepening students' understanding of Hispanic cultures through authentic texts, media, and real-world interactions.

Additional World Language Opportunities
United Christian Academy is committed to preparing students for an increasingly global society. In addition to our on-campus Spanish program, students may enroll in a variety of additional world language courses through our Accelerate online learning program. Course availability may include languages such as American Sign Language (ASL), French, German, Latin, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, and others, depending on annual offerings.

Students interested in pursuing an alternative world language should consult with the High School Guidance Office for course availability and scheduling.

Students are required to earn 20 units of PE credit.

Physical Education promotes lifelong health and wellness through participation in team sports, individual fitness activities, and physical conditioning. Students develop endurance, strength, teamwork, and sportsmanship while learning the importance of regular exercise, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Weightlifting introduces students to safe and effective strength and conditioning techniques designed to improve overall fitness. Students develop proper lifting mechanics while building muscular strength, endurance, flexibility, and personal fitness through structured resistance and conditioning programs.

LEAD (Leadership Education And Development)
This course is designed to develop and enhance leadership skills in students. It takes an in-depth approach to review theoretical practices of leadership through current theories and ideas. This theoretical approach is transferred to applicable situations where students put into practice what is learned. LEAD students are responsible for organizing events, rallies, dances and other student activities.

Sociology
Sociology studies the behavior, development, structure, and functioning of groups and organizations embedded in a society. Specific behaviors, relationships among different cultures and ethical issues will be examined as they pertain to the societal make-up of a culture, community, and nation.

Marketing Fundamentals
The Digital and Social Media Marketing course is a comprehensive, yearlong program designed to equip high school students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in modern marketing. Drawing from real-world practices and aligned with college-preparatory standards, this course empowers students to navigate, analyze, and create in the evolving digital landscape while integrating ethical practices and strategic thinking.

Entrepreneurship
Intro to Entrepreneurship is a cross-curricular, real world, project-based learning method that will instill the fundamentals of innovation, work ethic, financial stewardship, people skills, and excellence in business leadership. Over the duration of the course, students will design and launch a small business. Lessons learned in class are immediately applied to the created business with real world successes and failures. Students are given the resources to understand the basics of ideation, product and service design, pricing, marketing and sales, financial reporting, and community stewardship and actually implement these concepts to ensure deep understanding and retention.

Organics and Nutrition
This course looks at the basic concepts of nutrition and the effects of proper nutrition on human health. The effects of advances in food technology are discussed and analyzed. Part of the course requirement includes healthy choices for food preparation and cooking.

The Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program equips students with the academic skills, organization, critical thinking, and confidence needed for success in high school, college, and beyond. Through writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading (WICOR), students develop the habits necessary to thrive in rigorous coursework while preparing for postsecondary education and future careers.

Students engage in college and career exploration, goal setting, leadership development, academic support, and community-building experiences that promote both personal growth and academic excellence. Rooted in United Christian Academy's mission, AVID encourages students to pursue excellence while developing character, responsibility, and a Christ-centered approach to lifelong learning.

Courses Offered

• AVID I 
• AVID II 
• AVID III 

(Future AVID IV may be added as the program expands.)

More Information

Your Head Start on College Success
A Program for High School Students & Families

What is ACCELerate?
ACCELerate allows students to take real college courses during their regular high school class period — in a supportive, structured environment built for success. Students develop essential college-readiness skills — study habits, critical thinking, and personal confidence — while standing out in the admissions process. This is more than a program. It's a launchpad.

Why ACCELerate?

• Career & Calling Exploration - Discover your direction with UCA Guidance support.
• Confidence & College Readiness - Build real skills for your next step.
• Safe, Structured Environment - Learn within your school day no extra commute.
• Competitive Admissions Edge - Stand out with college-level coursework on your transcript.
• Save Money - Take some courses for free and reduce future college costs.

What UCA Provides

• A safe, supervised learning environment within your school day, freeing time for other commitments.
• Enrollment in a vetted program with flexibility to explore your desired major or discover your career path.
• Access to dual enrollment courses some available at no cost.
• UCA Guidance support throughout your college exploration journey.

Commitment: One full academic year, renewable annually for continued momentum.

Participating Institutions
Chaffey College | Cal Baptist University (CBU) | Mt. San Antonio College | Citrus College | UC Scout | Sevenstar Academy

For more information
Felicia Douglas, Ed.D., High School Guidance Counselor FDouglas@UCAcademy.org

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