We are studying the major prophets (our last unit) and gearing up for a robust time of review
in preparation for the Final Exam.

Posted: 4/21/16


Course Title: Old Testament Survey (10th grade)
Textbook:  Holy Bible
Instructor: Rev. Dr. Peter Edward Burch, PhD
Contact Information: pburch@finneyschool.org; 387-3770 x256


Course Description

This is an overview of the writings of the Old Testament. In the first grading period, students will learn about the books of the Law (Genesis to Deuteronomy).  In the second grading period, our topic will be the books of History (Joshua to Esther).  The Wisdom and Poetry books (Job to Song of Solomon), as well as the Major Prophets (Isaiah to Daniel), will be our learning focus in the third grading period.  A study of the Minor Prophets (Hosea to Malachi) will conclude the course in the Spring.  Throughout the entire course, we will be examining prophetic verses pointing to incarnation and salvation of Jesus Christ.  Students will learn the authorship, historical context, purpose, major themes, and theological content of each book in the Old Testament. Additionally, students will memorize Scriptures, enhance critical thinking skills, and compare ancient and modern worldviews.

 

Instructional Method


Throughout the year, the students will be exposed to a variety of teaching practices that will appeal to a wide range
to learning styles.  The purpose of this variety is to help each student find success in learning the curriculum while
developing his/her own personal learning method.  While the instructional delivery will be varied, the objectives and 
emphasis will remain the same.  The emphasis is on authentic understanding, high quality work, memorizing Scripture,
and mastering the central themes and doctrines, and most importantly, facilitating opportunities for Christian growth
in a loving environment. 


Learning Units


Unit 1: The Law (Genesis to Deuteronomy)

Unit 2: History, Part One (Joshua to Second Kings)

Unit 3: History, Part Two (First Chronicles to Esther)

Unit 4: Wisdom Books (Job to Song of Solomon)

Unit 5: Major Prophets (Isaiah to Daniel)

Unit 6: Minor Prophets (Hosea to Malachi)


Classroom Behavior Expectations

The guiding philosophy behind the classroom behavior expectations is respect and responsibility.  In this classroom, 
and in life, you should respect the presence of God, respect your teachers, respect your peers, respect your school, 
and respect yourself.  You are also expected to be responsible for your actions and being prepared for class.  
Specific behavioral expectations are posted in the room ("Classroom Management Plan").


​Required Materials


​2" binder, paper, dividers


Homework Assignments


Students should expect two homework assignments per week requiring reading passages in the New Testament
and answering questions with varying degrees of cognitive skill (Bloom's taxonomy).   The purpose of the assignments
is to reinforce and deepen understanding of the main concepts of the Old Testament.


Late Homework Policy


If a student is absent when work is assigned, s/he is given the same amount of time to turn it in. If a student knows of
an assignment/due date, but is absent on the due date, it is to be turned in on the first day the student returns .  
1 day late = half off grade earned, 2 days late = zero.

Projects  (Details will be provided in class)


First Semester:  In Quarter One, students will create a web-based (Prezi.com) presentation illustrating and explaining
one of the major events in the Exodus.  In Quarter Two. students will utilize PosterMyWall.com to creative a poster
representing the leadership of one of Israel’s judges.  For both projects, students will receive start-up training in class
(how to sign up, getting started, and basic design functions); however, students will also need to take personal initiative,
like watching online tutorials, to incorporate more advanced creative applications to the projects.

Second Semester: In Quarter Three, students will utilize Windows Live Movie Maker (software is free) to create and
present a 2-3 minute video based on an event in the life of one of the prophets.  Students will receive start-up training
in class (how to insert video, audio, music, and text); however, students will also need to take personal initiative,
liking watching online tutorials, to incorporate more advanced creative applications to this project.


Late Project Policy


Projects must be turned in on the assigned due date.  Due to a project's long lead time, students will not be given
additional days off for days missed (exceptions may apply for extended absences).  1 day late = half off grade earned,
2 days late = zero.


Cumulative Testing


Any material assessed on a test or quiz may be reassessed on a subsequent test or quiz.


Final Exam Review


During the first week of school, students will receive (by email) a PowerPoint presentation to be used for reviewing
for the Final Exam.  The review document will not be comprehensive, however, it is extensive and very helpful in reviewing
for the Final Exam in June.  We will also review for the Final Exam in May (date TBD).


Test/Quiz Retakes
​

There are no test or quiz retakes in this class. All students are are expected to be prepared on the scheduled test day.


Extra Assistance


​Make an appointment with me if you need extra assistance in comprehending the material.


Grading


Tests .....................…………………   35%  

Projects  ………….….............……..  20%   

Quizzes .…….……….................…..  20%   

Homework ........................................15%

Classroom Participation …...….........10%


Total ............................................. 100% 


Extra Credit


Extra credit is available on some assessments.


Final Exam


The comprehensive Final Exam is very important, 20% of the overall grade.  The test is administered in a
2 to 3 hour time block, on one day (TBD) between the dates of June 6-8, 2016.