Giving students Autonomy over the work they do,  encouraging their journey toward Mastery, and awakening their sense of Purpose through inquiry and project-based learning.

Bible Literacy & Communications Workshop is about much more than studying and learning about the Bible. It is about learning how to “USE YOUR BIBLE” for both personal spiritual growth and to reach out and share the message of God’s love with others. So, as part of your Bible classwork this year, you are being given the privilege to work on self-selected academic learning activities involving hands-on, real-world outreach experiences.

Having the freedom to choose your own assignments helps you to become a self-directed learner by giving you “ownership” of your personal learning. It also allows you to pursue your learning goals in the manner that best suits your personal interests, talents, and academic strengths. The products that you create and share in the Workshop must be your own original work, must not contain plagiarism, and must have been accomplished during the current semester. You will be given a variety of opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the hearts and lives of others by sharing your “Best Work,” not only with your class and school associates, but with many other people in various ways, as well.

BELOW YOU WILL FIND

  • The “Workshop Menu” – A listing of the many personal Bible project choices that are available to you… (click on each menu item to go directly to the project description).
  • Various Project Guidelines and Assessment Rubrics – to help you better understand how each project works, how your final products will be assessed, and to help you evaluate the quality of your work. 
  • Your Weekly Project Report (worth up to 50 additional project points/submission) to help keep your project work on track and keep your learning guide updated on your progress. Project Reports must be submitted at the end of your final Bible class period each week.

OVERALL SCORING:  Items on the “Workshop Menu” are individually valued—some project components are worth more points than others. You may work on more than one project at a time if you wish, mixing and matching the various project components to achieve the points you need. However, you need to choose your projects carefully and submit enough quality finished products to accumulate the following points:

  • 100% = 1,500 Total Points / Quarter = 3,000 Points / Semester
  •   95% = 1,425 Total Points / Quarter = 2,850 Points / Semester
  •   90% = 1,350 Total Points / Quarter = 2,700 Points / Semester
  •   85% = 1,275 Total Points / Quarter = 2,550 Points / Semester
  •   80% = 1,200 Total Points / Quarter = 2,400 Points / Semester
  •   75% = 1,125 Total Points / Quarter = 2,250 Points / Semester
  •   70% = 1,050 Total Points / Quarter = 2,100 Points / Semester

  Failing = Less than 70% (1,050 points/quarter or 2,100 points/semester)

Bible Literacy & Communications Workshop can be worth up to 25% of your overall score in Bible for the quarter/semester.

~ Workshop Menu ~

I will show you my faith by my works!

(James 2:18, NASB)

(Click on Each Tab to Go Directly to the Project Description)

OBSERVATION

AND RESPONSE

WRITING

FOR OUTREACH

RESEARCH

& ENLIGHTENMENT

________________________________________________

SECTION ONE

OBSERVATION & RESPONSE

BIBLE LEXICON – Vocabulary Journal …

  ~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 50 pts./entry; Up to 1,500 Points for 30 Entries)

  • Use Your Bible to Create a Lexicon!

Expanding your vocabulary is important to your comprehension of the Bible and the spiritual concepts it contains. Your vocab is also important for communicating spiritual concepts and Bible truths to others. A lexicon—sort of a fancy word for “dictionary”—refers to the vocabulary of a language or a specific field of study.  It is a collection of words and phrases that are used and understood by speakers of that language or members of that field and includes:  words and phrases, definitions or meanings, pronunciations, usage, and other relevant information.

To complete this assignment, you must create your own Bible Lexicon—vocabulary journal—listing up to 50 unique or unusual words or phrases from the Bible—not common everyday words or phrases—that may be difficult to understand or use proficiently.

LEXICON GUIDELINES – PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

List the word or write out the phrase, then:

1. (+6pts) – Provide the Greek/Hebrew/Aramaic definition of the word, or “key words” in the phrase.

2. (+6pts) – Provide the English definition or the word, or meaning of the phrase in the English language.

3. (+10pts) – Give the part of speech: noun, verb, adjective, adverb, pronoun, preposition, conjunction, interjection—or the type of phrase: noun phrase, verb phrase, adjective phrase, adverb phrase, prepositional phrase, gerund phrase, infinitive phrase… as it is being used in this context!

4. (+14pts) – Share a quote from the Bible containing the word or phrase—provide (book, chapter, and verse).

5. (+14pts) – Write an original complete sentence or statement (created by you) containing the word or phrase—used in the same way it is being used in the scripture that you shared.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 50 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Each vocabulary entry can be worth up to 50 projects points:

Build your Lexicon week by week and submit for credit at the end of the quarter. Your Bible Lexicon project can be worth up to 1,500 project points for 30 entries when designed in accordance with the above guidelines.

RightNow Media Review

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 500 pts./video; Up to 1,500 Points for 3 Entries)

  • Use Your Bible to Evaluate and Comment on Social/Spiritual Presentations!

RightNow Media is a Christian video promotion platform that features hundreds of inspiring, Christ-centered, Bible-based videos. The videos are being utilized by Bible classes, youth groups, and in other educational settings all across America.  Your task is to choose videos that seem interesting to you, watch them, takes notes, and then provide a written reflection—including the biblical connections—on each one. To engage with this project:

1st – Talk to your learning guide—Mr. Stroud—who will send you an official invitation from the Southgate Church of Christ account so that you can set up your own RightNow Media account (if you don’t already have one).

2nd – After setting up you account and logging on, go to “Browse” in the upper tool bar > then click on “Youth” > then select the video, or video series, you are interested in viewing.

3rd – After selecting a video, watch and take good notes using the “Quick Notes” guide so that you can prepare an interesting review of the topic being presented.

4th – Follow the “Guidelines – Product Assessment” rubric below to make sure that you are covering each are that is required for your review. Each reflection that you provide must be at least 500 words minimum, be well organized, and be error free. Follow these eight (8) steps to produce a quality product and get a great score:

MEDIA REVIEW GUIDELINES – PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. (+25pts.) – What was the main topic/story presented in the video?

2. (+25pts.) – What Bible verses can you find that relate to this topic/story?—write out the Bible verses (with book, chapter, verse) and explain the connections!

3. (+25pts.) – How does this story make you feel?

4. (+25pts.) – What have you learned from the story?

5. (+25pts.) – How can you apply the character trait presented in the video to your own life?

6. (+25pts.) – Observe all proper conventions: spelling, grammar, paragraph unity, overall structure, and appropriate parenthetical citations for all scripture references or outside sources used.

7. (+25pts.) – Include a brief “Works Cited” section at the end of each reflection describing the video source, the version of the Bible you used, and any other outside resources that you used.

8. (+25pts.) – Submit your “Quick Notes” along with a peer/parent edited rough draft together with your final video review.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 200 = __________% of Pts. Available!

All “Best Work” video reviews (scoring 90% or above) will receive extra credit and may be published on our website for others to read and enjoy. You may watch and review up to three (3) RightNow Media video presentations worth up to 500 points each (for a possible 1,500 total project points) during each quarter. You may submit your reflections to your learning guide one-by-one as you finish them, or collectively at the end of the quarter.

LITERARY CRITIQUE — Fiction/Historical Fiction

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 1500 Points)

  • Use Your Bible to Evaluate and Share a Work of Fiction!

Read a Bible-based or Biblically themed work of “fiction” or “historical fiction” (containing a setting, characters, and events that actually existed in history) and prepare a personal critique of the book. The book must be a minimum of 200 pages—if less than 200 pages, you must read two books (fiction and/or non-fiction) totaling 300 pages or more and do a critique or review of each book in order to successfully complete this assignment.

LITERARY CRITIQUE GUIDELINES

Each literary critique that you do will consist of the following three sections:

1.) Introduce the book—provide author, publisher, publishing date, number of pages, or other general facts and information about the book.

2.) Share & Elaborate on the five (5) essential elements of a fictional work:

  • Describe the Characters: The people or entities that the story revolves around.
  • Describe the Setting: Detailed descriptions of the time, place, geography, history, culture, etc… where pertinent.
  • Describe the Plot: The sequence of events that make up the story… Use at least three (3) direct quotes from the work that help to establish the plot!
  • Describe the Conflict: The struggle/problem that drives the plot and creates tension in the story.
  • Discuss the Theme: The underlying message/meaning of the story—can be implicit or explicit.

3.) Conclude by sharing your personal response to the work, including:

  • Your personal perception of the book’s accuracy to Bible history or teaching—give your reasons.
  • Any connections to or comparisons with other works of fiction or of history.
  • Your likes and dislikes about the work.
  • Your recommendations to others (to read or not to read).

See the “Literary Critique Assessment Rubric“ to help you better understand how your product will be assessed and to help you evaluate the quality of your work.

The Literary Critique project can be worth up to a maximum of 1,500 points /quarter—even if working with more than one book.

BOOK REVIEW – Non-Fiction

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 1500 Points)

  • Use Your Bible to Evaluate a Non-Fiction Work!

Read a Biblically/Spiritually themed Non-Fiction Book and prepare a formal “book review.” The book must be a minimum of 200 pages—if less than 200 pages, you must read two books (fiction and/or non-fiction) totaling 300 pages or more and do a review or critique of each book in order to successfully compete this assignment.

BOOK REVIEW GUIDELINES

Your book review will consist of the following four sections:

1.) An introduction to the author(s), explaining why they wrote the book and what credibility they have on the subject matter.

2.) An explanation of the subject matter, including why it is interesting and important.

3.) A summary of the major points laid out in the book, along with the most compelling supporting details for each major point—(use at least 3 quotes from the book to support your understanding of the book’s major points).

4.) Your personal analysis of the book:

  • Your personal thoughts, reflections, realizations, and opinions about the subject matter contained within the book—supported by good reasoning.
  • Must include your perceptions of the book’s accuracy to Bible history or Biblical teaching—tell how the author uses Bible scripture to support the main points of the book—must provide at least three quotes from the Bible that relate directly to (or maybe contradict) the points being made in the book; and tell whether or not you agree with the author’s applications of the scripture to the points they are making in the book.

See the “Non-Fiction Book Review Assessment Rubric“ to help you better understand how your product will be assessed and to help you evaluate the quality of your work.

The Non-Fiction Book Review project can be worth up to a maximum of 1,500 project points/quarter—even if working with more than one book.

HISTORICAL ANALYSIS & COMMENTARY — Bible Character or Event

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 1,500 Points)

  • Use Your Bible to Evaluate and Report on a Bible Character or Event!

Read everything you can find in scripture about a particular Bible character or historical Biblical event.  Use at least two (2) additional outside resources/references that help you better understand the history and culture surrounding this character or event—use the “Quick Notes” guide to record the information provided by each of your two (or more) outside sources.

HISTORICAL ANALYSIS GUIDELINES – PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. (+25pts.) – In your commentary, you must use at least three (3) scripture quotes from the Bible and at least two (2) quotes from your outside sources to substantiate your analysis of the Bible character or event you are documenting—submit your “Quick Notes” on each outside source used, and a peer or parent edited rough draft, along with your final product.

2. (+25pts.) – Introduce your topic by telling why this particular Bible character or event is of interest to you and important to you and to others.

3. (+25pts.) – Give the general historical and Biblical setting in which your Bible character lived, or in which the event your analyzing took place.  Include important cultural items, political/social issues, or other historical events or people that may have influenced or impinged upon your character or that might have helped shape and mold the occurrence of the event.

4. (+25pts.) – Describe how this individual or event has helped to shape history or influence other characters and events.

5. (+25pts.) – Share important lessons that we can learn from this individual or event?

6. (+25pts.) – Be sure to use appropriate parenthetical citation to cite the scripture and other sources used within your commentary; and provide a properly formatted bibliography citing all sources used.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 150 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your historical analysis and commentary on a Biblical character or event can be worth up to 1,500 project points when appropriately designed in accordance with the above guidelines.

SECTION TWO

WRITING FOR OUTREACH

EDITORIALS

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 750 pts./editorial… up to 1,500 pts. for 2 editorials/quarter)

  • Use Your Bible to Express Your Opinions & Positions via Editorials!

To receive full credit, each editorial you submit must have a minimum of 750 words and be appropriately cited.  All “Best Work” editorials (scoring 90 or above) will receive extra credit and will be published on our website for others to read and learn from. A “Best Work” editorial will have a terrific title, an introduction with thesis statement, at least three unified body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion.

Important:  Before you start your writing, you must complete the “Editorial Graphic Organizer” for each editorial that you will submit. Remember the writing process: write, edit, revise/rewrite, edit, revise/rewrite.  To receive credit for your work, a copy of your graphic organizer and a peer edited (or parent edited) rough draft must be submitted along with each final draft prior to the end of each quarter!  Follow these steps for success:

EDITORIAL GUIDELINES – PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1st  (20pts.) – Choose the type of editorial that you want to produce FROM THE LIST BELOW and then do your research—provide at least one (1) outside source that will help to explain or confirm your thesis (main point).

2nd (20pts.) – Use your Bible—as your main source for establishing and supporting your thesis—be sure to use scripture quotes in your editorial and provide book, chapter, verse!

3rd  (20pts.) – Complete the “Editorial Graphic Organizer”—you must submit the organizer and a peer or parent edited rough draft along with your final copy!

4th (20pts.) – Structure your editorial with a good introduction that introduces your theme, at least three unified body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion.

5th (20pts.) – Conventions: Make sure there are no spelling or grammar errors, that you have used appropriate parenthetical citations where needed in the text, and that you have a properly formatted “Works Cited” section the end.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 100 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your Editorial products can be worth up to 750 project points per editorial when appropriately designed and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines. You may submit a maximum of two (2) editorials per quarter.

CHOOSE YOUR EDITORIALS

You may choose various types of editorials to submit during the quarter from the following list:

OPINION PIECE

  • (750 pts.) … We all have opinions on many things in life, especially when it comes to social issues, political issues, spiritual issues, and even Bible teaching. People’s opinions often shift and change as they encounter new knowledge, people, and experiences. Your job is to select a topic on which you have a strong opinion and meaningfully share your opinion with others. Use your Bible, along with at least two (2) outside sources, to give people good reasons to change their opinion and, perhaps, come to an agreement with you.

INSTRUCTIONAL

  • (750 pts.) … What does it mean? Help me understand! Some things do not have a simple definition. This essay challenges you to go beyond a dictionary definition and expound upon a spiritual concept or idea from multiple perspectives. Can you help your reader understand the deeper meaning of courage, faith, generosity, or love? Use your Bible, along with at least two (2) other outside sources, to provide examples, quotes, and connections that will help enlighten your reader about the meaning and value of a particular concept or idea.

COMPARE & CONTRAST

  • (750 pts.) … Use the “Compare & Contrast Graphic Organizer” for this one! This is where you explain in detail how two or more people, places, events, things, or ideas are similar and how they are different. Jesus did this when He used “parables” to help people understand spiritual concepts regarding life in the Kingdom of God.  Use your Bible, and at least two (2) other outside sources, to share a few apparent similarities and differences that will help people evaluate particular concepts, ideas, items, characters, places, or events.  Be sure to develop your thoughts with details and organize them in a way that is logical and provides thoughtful insights.

PROBLEM & SOLUTION

  • (750 pts.) … The world is certainly full of problems. For every problem, there may be a limitless number of possible solutions. Identify a social, political, or spiritual issue or problem, and use your Bible, along with two (2) other outside sources, to present a possible solution. Strive for a solid understanding of the problem you’re addressing and explain it well to your readers. Then, present a possible solution that is supported by solid reasoning. Share facts and examples that indicate how and why your solutions can and should work.

CAUSE & EFFECT

  • (750 pts.) …  An effect is an outcome—the result of a previous situation or action, known as the cause. Identifying actions and outcomes helps us all have a better understanding about “why” something occurred. It helps us make better decisions and choices moving forward and is one key way that we learn lessons from the past and devise promising plans for the future. In this essay, you’ll describe something that has happened and attempt to explain why it happened;  or a situation that exists, and attempt to explain the reasons why it exits; or a potential future situation or outcome that could possibly exist if a certain course of action is taken. Use your Bible, along with two (2) other outside sources, to set forth relevant examples or principles that will help substantiate a probable cause & effect when applied to a similar situation that someone may be concerned with today.

YOUNG AUTHOR

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 38 pts. / 100 words… up to 1,520 pts. / 4,000 words)

  • Use Your Bible to Create Your Own Literary Work!

Feeling creative? Have a story in mind? Become an author by writing your very own short story, novella, or novel. Your writing must be prompted by scripture, spiritually themed, and include various allusions to, as well as direct quotes from, the Bible.  Your writing may provide references to specific Bible characters and events, or it may set forth and highlight important Biblical concepts such as: faith, hope, love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, courage, fellowship, worship, service to others, godly leadership, etc… The important thing is that you write with a message so that your creative writing may touch other people’s hearts and lives.

You may choose to write a short story, a novella, or a novel. You may continue this project for more than one quarter; and, in the case of a novel, for more than one school year. However, regardless of the format you choose, you may submit up to 4,000 words (500 words/week) by the end of each quarter—for one or more creative writing pieces—in final, edited, polished, and ready to publish format.

  • A short story can range from 1,000 to 15,000 words. It has one complete plot, focuses on one main character, and has an established theme – (you may need to submit multiple short stories to reach the 4,000 word per quarter requirement).
  • A novella is longer than a short story, but shorter than a novel. It can range from 15,000 to 30,000 words. and does not contain chapter breaks. Its plot is a bit more complex than a short story, contains more description, and includes stronger character development.
  • A novel is a detailed narrative with chapter breaks. It typically ranges upwards of 30,000 words or more. Writing a novel is considered a high achievement for anyone. Novels have a major plot line, but also contain sub-plots (little side stories that are developed throughout the narrative). They have multiple, complex characters who each have unique viewpoints. A novel may also contain multiple themes. Composing a great novel requires commitment and fortitude, a strong grasp of language, excellent story telling abilities, and an amazing insight into the human condition… do you have what it takes?

You may write from a 1st person, 2nd person, or 3rd person point of view (but be consistent):

  • First person is a point of view where the narrator or author is a character in the story and refers to themselves using pronouns such as “I” or “we.” This allows the author to give a personal account of events and to share their thoughts and feelings with the reader. First-person narration can be effective for creating a sense of intimacy with the reader and for exploring the inner world of the narrator.
  • Second person is a point of view where the narrator addresses the reader directly using pronouns such as “you.” This creates a sense of immediacy and involvement with the reader and can be used to make the reader feel like they are a part of the story. Second-person narration is relatively uncommon in long-form writing but can be effective in shorter pieces such as letters, instructions, or interactive fiction.
  • Third person is a point of view where the narrator or author is not a character in the story and refers to characters using pronouns such as “he,” “she,” “it,” or “they.” This perspective allows the author to describe the actions, thoughts, and feelings of the characters without being limited to their own personal experiences or opinions. Third-person narration is the most common point of view in long-form writing such as novels and short stories.

Each point of view has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which one to use depends on the author’s goals for the story and the effect they want to create for the reader.

Important:  Before you start writing sentences, paragraphs, and chapters, you must complete the “Creative Writer’s Story Map” for each literary work that you submit.  To receive full credit for your work, a copy of your “Story Map,” along with your peer or parent edited rough draft, must be submitted along with the final draft of each of your works prior to the end of each quarter!  All “Best Work” creative writing pieces (scoring 90 or above) will receive extra credit and may be published on our website for others to read and enjoy.  A “Best Work” creative writing piece will include:

YOUNG AUTHOR PROJECT GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

  • (25pts.) – Interesting theme/topic/message: This is the underlying message or meaning of the literary work. It can be a moral lesson, a commentary on society, or an exploration of human nature, among other things. Include appropriate scripture references from the Bible to support the validity of the message.
  •  (25pts.) – An intriguing introduction: This is the opening section of the novel that sets the scene and introduces the main characters and their situation; does the writer captivate or “hook” his/her audience?
  • (25pts.) – Descriptive setting(s): This refers to the time, place, and environment in which the story takes place. It can include descriptions of the physical surroundings, social and cultural norms, and historical context.
  • (25pts.) – Colorful & captivating character(s): These are the people, animals, or entities that populate the story. They have their own personalities, motivations, and relationships, and are usually the main focus of the story.
  • (25pts.) – An interesting plot: Is the plot logical? Does it make sense? Is the problem or conflict (the issues, or challenges, or obstacles that the protagonist must face and overcome) clearly defined? Does the plot build tension or suspense and keep the reader interested and engaged?
  • (25pts.) – A dramatic climax and satisfying resolution: Is there a definite “turning point” of the story where the problem, the conflict, and the tension reaches a peak and the outcome of the story becomes uncertain; followed by a logical outcome that makes sense in light of the plot—can include a happy or tragic ending, depending on the author’s intention.
  • (25pts.) – Grammatical and structural integrity:  Does the student make use of good grammatical and literary conventions: spelling, grammar, syntax, paragraph unity, logical body structure, appropriate parenthetical citations; does student submit their “Creative Writers Story Map” and a peer/parent edited rough draft along with their final draft?
  • (25pts.) – Proper attribution: Does student use appropriate parenthetical citation for any scripture references, graphics, photos, artwork, or “direct quotes” from other authors or works used?  Is there a properly formatted bibliography, both for sources that have been directly quoted the work as well as sources whose work the writer has only alluded to or borrowed from?

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 200 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your Young Author project can be worth up to 1,520 project points for 4,000 words when appropriately submitted in accordance with the above guidelines.

MEMOIRS / BLOGGING

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 50 Pts. / Entry… Up to 1,500 Points for 30 Entries)

  • Use Your Bible to Reach Out to Others with Your Personal Thoughts and Experiences!

Many people throughout history have found value in documenting their experiences through their writing.  Today, many people write their memoirs, keep a journal, or create a “blog” to record what they’re doing, what they’re thinking, what they’ve learned, and their personal feelings, connections, and comments about life. Recording our memoirs, journaling, or blogging can be extremely useful tools for processing our own experiences and gaining some perspective on life; as well as for enlightening others when shared.  Want to give it a try?

In this project, you will maintain your own daily journal throughout the quarter (but may extend to more than one quarter) and see how your written reflections impact your life and, possibly, the lives or others.  Each entry must contain a minimum of 150 words and will be divided into three separate sections:

MEMOIRS / BLOGGING PROJECT GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSEMENT

1. (15 pts.) —Your personal experience, observations, or feelings.

2. (20 pts.) —A passage of scripture or Bible quote relating to your experience, observations, feelings; and tell how the passage relates to your experience, observations, or feelings.

3. (15 pts.) —A little written “prayer talk” with God about your experience, observations, or feelings.

You may make up to 30 journal entries or blog posts that can be worth up to 50 points each if well written. Your Memoirs/Blogging project can be worth up to 1,500 project points for the quarter (3,000 pts./semester) when all entries are carefully crafted and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines.

WARNING:  Always remember that you are producing a PUBLIC BLOG and not a private diary. Your goal is to reach out to others if you can, and to enlighten and encourage them, by sharing some of your own life experiences, observations, and prayers. Whether you intend to record your memoirs in a physical journal, or post online, your work must be submitted and checked by your learning guide—Mr. Stroud—at the end of the quarter to assure compliance with all project requirements.

SPREADING THE WORD

~ Freshman -to- Senior High School Level Only ~

(Worth 750 Pts. / tract … Up to 1,500 Pts. / quarter )

  • Use Your Bible to Reach Out and Share with Others via the Printed Page!

Do you long to share your faith with others? We have a constant and continual need for outreach material and tools that can be used to share the Gospel with people who are actively seeking, or who are responsive to, the word of God.  In this project, you will help provide some of those tools. You may write about a wide range of topics or biblical concepts (faith, hope, love, obedience, salvation, fellowship, worship, the church, etc…) or you may write simply to briefly explain a particular passage of scripture that you love and how that passage applies to our daily lives.  However, each assignment that you undertake must be written with love and compassion; and it must include direct scripture quotes and Bible references.  Remember, you are writing not only to convict people of truth, but also to get people interested in further Bible study.

“Best Work” tracts (scoring 90 or above) will receive extra credit and may be printed in volume, and/or published on our website, for others to read and learn from. A “Best Work” tract will have a terrific title, a simple introduction that “hooks” the reader’s interest, at least three logical and unified body paragraphs, appropriate scripture references, and a powerful conclusion that calls for action. It will also be free of all grammatical, formatting, and spelling errors.

IMPORTANT:  Before you start your writing, you must complete the “Outreach Graphic Organizer” for each tract that you intend to produce and submit.  To receive credit for your work, a copy of your graphic organizer, along with your peer or parent edited rough draft, must be submitted along with each final draft of your tracts by the end of each quarter!  For best results and highest scores, follow these guidelines:

“SPREADING THE WORD” GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1st   (20pts.) Groundwork — Complete the “Outreach Graphic Organizer” and submit, along with a peer/parent edited rough draft, together with the final project draft.

2nd  (20pts.) Design — Each tract must be an 8” x 11” trifold, utilizing front & back, using 12pt. Arial font, single-spaced, with a minimum of 750 words and containing at least one (1) graphic/photo.

3rd (20pts.) Structure — Each tract must present with an intriguing introduction that sets forth a clear theme, at least three logical and unified paragraphs, and a conclusion that calls for action.

4th (20pts.) Scripture — Appropriate use of at least three (3) Bible quotes as the main source for establishing and supporting the theme—must provide book, chapter, verse!

5th  (20pts.) Conventions — Good grammatical and literary conventions: spelling, grammar, syntax, appropriate quotation marks, and parenthetical citations for scripture references.  

6th (20pts.) Quality — Work is “Professional Grade,” well crafted, attractive, neat, tidy, and presents a caring and workmanlike disposition.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 120 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your “Spreading the Word” project can be worth up to 750 points per tract when appropriately designed and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines. You may submit a maximum of two (2) tracts worth up to 1,500 points per quarter.

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

 ~ Freshman -to- Senior High School Level Only ~

(Worth 1,500 Points / quarter)

  • Use Your Bible to Reach Out and Share with Others via Your Own Christian Website!

In this project you will build your own personal Christian website designed to share the message of God’s word with others? You may use Google Sites, or WordPress (recommended), or any other web building platform that your parents have given you permission to use.  You must keep this entire website as a Christian ministry dedicated to teaching the Bible. However, you may produce content about a wide range of topics or biblical concepts (faith, hope, love, obedience, salvation, morality, fellowship, worship, the church, etc…) or you may produce content that simply explains a particular passage of scripture and how that passage applies to our daily lives.  However, everything you post on your website must be done with love and compassion; and it must include direct scripture quotes and Bible references.  Remember, you are writing not only to convict people of truth, but also to get people interested in further Bible study.

“Best Work” site pages (scoring 90 or above) will receive extra credit and may be shared or linked to our general website. A “Best Work” webpage will have a terrific title, a simple introduction that “hooks” the reader’s interest, at least three logical and unified body paragraphs, appropriate scripture references, and a powerful conclusion that calls for action. It will also be colorful, neat, trim, and free of all grammatical, formatting, and spelling errors.

Important:  Before you start writing, designing, and posting web content, you must complete the “Outreach Graphic Organizer” for each page that you intend to produce and post.  To receive credit for the page, a copy of your graphic organizer, along with a peer or parent edited rough draft of each page’s content, must be submitted to your learning guide—Mr. Stroud. For best results and highest scores, follow these guidelines:

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1st   (20pts.) Secure Platform/Initiate Site — Choose your web building / hosting platform and secure written permission from your parents to use the platform. Research and create your “landing page” (home page).

2nd (20pts.) Groundwork — Complete the “Outreach Graphic Organizer” for your home page and for at least two additional pages and submit to your learning guide—Mr. Stroud—along with a peer/parent edited rough draft of any and all content you intend to post on your website.

3rd (20pts.) Design — Site must be well organized with logical design flow. All subpages must be appropriately filed under the correct parent page. All links to other site pages, or to outside resources must be “working links” and must appropriately support your web content.

4th (20pts.) Structure — Each page must present with appropriate headings, sub-headings, and intriguing content with a clear theme, at least three logical and unified paragraphs, and a conclusion that calls for action.

5th (20pts.) Scripture — Appropriate use of at least three (3) Bible quotes as the main source for establishing and supporting the theme for all content articles—must provide book, chapter, verse!

6th (20pts.) Conventions — Good grammatical and literary conventions: spelling, grammar, syntax, appropriate quotation marks and parenthetical citations for all scripture references an outside sources (including graphics) that are used. Each article must close with a brief, but properly formatted, “bibliography” or “works cited” section at the end.   

7th (30pts.) Quality — your website must be “Professional Grade,” well crafted, attractive, neat, tidy, and with good graphics representing an overall caring and workmanlike disposition.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 150 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your “Website Development” project may entail a maximum of up to three (3) new web pages per quarter worth up to 500 points per page when appropriately designed and posted in accordance with the above guidelines—for a possible total of up to 1,500 project points per quarter.

GOD’S PLAN FOR MAN – (A SEMESTER-LONG PROJECT)

~ Freshman -to- Senior High School Level Only ~

(Worth 1,500 Points / quarter… 3,000 Points/ semester)…

  • Use Your Bible to Create a Chain Reference for Personal Study With Others!

Perhaps the most beautiful project in the house!

Would you like to share the Gospel with family, friends, and others whom the Lord brings into your life? A Bible Chain Reference Study is a wonderful tool to help you do just that.  In this project, you will place a chain reference in your Bible—a linked chain of Bible passages that moves from scripture-to-scripture—so that you can sit down with anyone and, using just your Bible, and maybe a few of your own study notes, you can share with them the message of God’s love and help them become a Christian, as well. To complete this beautiful project, follow these instructions:

“GOD’S PLAN FOR MAN” PROJECT GUIDELINES

  • Choose/Purchase the “Study Bible” you want to work with—suggest that you use a New American Standard Study Bible, or a New International Version Study Bible—preferably, one with wide margins that you can write in. You will also need a notebook or journal in order to complete this assignment.
  • Open, download, or print out “God’s Plan For Man” Bible Study Chart. The chart is available to you as hardcopy, as a .pdf file, or as a GIF on this website.
  • Work through the chart section by section—PROBLEM, PROPHECIES, CHRIST, GOSPEL, RESPONSE—moving from top to bottom under each section and left to right across the page.
  • Underline in your Bible each passage of scripture that is listed.
  • In the margin of your Bible, right beside the scripture that is listed, write in the next scripture reference on the chart:  for example, at Genesis 1:26-27, write in Geneses 2:15-17 in the margin.  Then, out beside Genesis 2:15-17, write in Genesis 3:1-7… and so on and so forth throughout all the scripture references on the entire chart!
  • As you are doing this, you must list each scripture reference that you come to in your journal and write one paragraph explaining what you think this passage of scripture is teaching and why you believe it is being used at this point in your chain reference. Think carefully, because this is what you will share with others you are studying with whenever you work through your chain reference with them.
  • Before you start journaling, you must designate at least the first four pages of your journal for copying the chart. As you work through each section of the chain reference, copying it into your Bible, you will draw out the chart on these pages in your journal—draw all items in the heading area above, and write in all the scripture references below, exactly as shown on the chart.  For example: across the top of your first page, you will draw the Creation sphere… then a little later, you will add Patriarchal Age (Family)… and just below “Seed Promise Given”… then you’ll draw Mt. Sinai and just below “Law Given”… then you’ll draw in Old Covenant (Davidic Kingdom / Physical, National Israel) etc., etc., etc.… Complete the chart on an ongoing basis as you work through all the scripture references.

NOTE:

Whenever you study with someone, you will have a piece of blank paper with you and you’ll reproduce this chart in it’s entirely on that paper to give to the one that you’re studying with so that, by the end of your study together, they will have the entire chart with all the scripture references available to take with them, as well.

If you have questions about this project, the process, or any particular passage of scripture on the chart—what it is teaching or why it is being used in the chain reference—please ASK your learning guide, Mr. Stroud, who will be more than happy to review it with you and answer any questions you may have.

Submit both your Bible and your journal to your Bible learning guide—Mr. Stroud—for final review and assessment.

“GOD’S PLAN FOR MAN” PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. (500pts.) — Each and every scripture reference in the study has been underlined in the student’s Bible (no passages are missing) and the next Bible passage in the chain is properly listed out in the margin for easy reference!

2. (500pts.) — The chart “God’s Plan for Man” has been drawn in the student’s journal and is complete (no component is missing) — student demonstrates a good understanding of the chart!

3. (500pts.) — Notes on each Bible passage referenced in the chain study can be found in the student’s journal and the corresponding entry demonstrate a good understanding of the passage as well as the reason why that passage occurs at its particular location in the study — student understands the intent and the flow of the study and how each passage in the study works together to present the Gospel to others.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 1500 = __________% of Project Points Available!

NOTE: “God’s Plan for Man” is a SEMESTER-LONG PROJECT. Student’s progress will be assessed at the end of each quarter. This project can be worth up to 1,500 project points for progress shown during the quarter — up to 3,000 project points for the semester — when carefully crafted, thoroughly understood, and shared with Mr. Stroud in accordance with the above guidelines.

SECTION THREE

RESEARCH & ENLIGHTENMENT

THE “BIBLE PROJECT” COMMENTARY

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 500 Pts. / Review… Up to 1,500 Points / 3 Entries)

  • Use Your Bible to Evaluate & Comment on Bible Video Presentations!

The “Bible Project” (Read Scripture Series) is a resource for hundreds of inspiring, educational, and artful video productions of the Bible. Careful, these videos can become addictive!  Your task is to choose Bible video lessons that seem most interesting to you, watch them, takes notes, and then provide a written review of each one.

To complete this project:

  • Go to: bibleproject.com
  • … on the home page go to: Watch
  • … then go to either Old Testament Overviews or New Testament Overviews and choose the book of the Bible you wish to learn about,

Use the “Quick Notes” guide to take good notes as you watch each video so you can prepare an interesting review of the Bible book being presented to share with others.

You may watch up to four (4) Bible video presentations (worth up to 500 points each) during the quarter and provide a review of the book being presented in the video. You may submit your reviews as you finish them or collectively at the end of the quarter. All “Best Work” video reviews (scoring 90% or above) will receive extra credit and may be published on our website for others to read and enjoy.   Each review that you provide must be at least 500 words at minimum and be well organized, error free, and include these five parts:

THE “BIBLE PROJECT” COMMENTARY GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. (10 pts.) – A description of the central theme of the book that is being presented in the video.

2. (20 pts.) – The general outline of the main points of the book being presented in the video.

3. (30 pts.) – The most “interesting” idea or concept contained within the book being presented in the video.

4. (30 pts.) – How you think the book being presented in the video can impact the world we live in today.

5. (10 pts.) – A brief “Works Cited” section at the end of each review describing where you retrieved the video. A copy of your “Quick Notes” for each video you’ve previewed must be submitted together with your final product.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 100 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your “Bible Project” commentaries can be worth up to 500 points per review when appropriately designed and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines. You may submit a maximum of three (3) reviews worth up to 1,500 points per quarter.

IN THE NEWS

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 500 Pts. / Entry… Up to 1,500 Points / 3 Entries)

  • Use Your Bible to Analyze & Report on Current Events in the News!

History is being made every day and many Christian news organizations, churches, radio stations, news bloggers, missionaries, YouTubers, etc…  are devoted to reporting the latest news. For this project, you must report on recent or current news items and stories that have occurred or are occurring during the current or previous quarter. Give attention to the following:

  • The news item or event you are reporting on must have a social/political/spiritual impact on our society.
  • You must be sure that you’re getting your news from reputable sources.
  • Read news articles, or listen to radio, or view television or internet coverage from at least two (2) different news sources that are reporting on the event and take “Quick Notes” on the article (which must be submitted with each report).
  • Each “In the News” report that you submit must have a minimum of 500 words, plus a properly formatted “Works Cited” section at the end, and a copy of your quick notes.

Follow these steps for success with this project:

“IN THE NEWS” PROJECT GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. (50pts.) – Your “Quick Notes” showing your initial research notes.

2. (80pts.) – A well written summary of the news item or event describing:  Who, What, When, Where, How, and Why.

3. (80pts.) – Any public reactions to or opinions about the event or news item.

4. (80pts.) – The possible moral/spiritual effects or consequences the item or event may have on our society.

5. (80pts.) – How the Bible or Biblical teaching may weigh in on the item or event – (provide scripture references).

6. (80pts.) – Your personal connections, thoughts, and opinions about the news item or event.

7. (50pts.) – A properly formatted “Works Cited” at the end of your news report.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 500 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Your “In the News” project can be worth up to 500 points per news item when appropriately designed and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines. You may submit a maximum of three (3) news items worth up to 1,500 project points per quarter. You may submit them as you go throughout the quarter or collectively at the end of the quarter. All “Best Work” news reports (scoring 90% or above) will receive extra credit and may be published on our website for others to read and learn from.

GLOBAL ISSUES REPORT

~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

(Worth 1,500 Points)

  • Use Your Bible to Evaluate and Comment on a Current Global Issue!

Our world is a dynamic and ever-changing place! There are consistencies and changes, patterns and novelty, trends and transformations. A “Global Issues Report” focuses on one current social/political/spiritual problem or concern. All issues have two or more opposing sides, so be sure to research the multiple perspectives of the issue – you must present all sides of the argument.

To receive your full credit, you must submit a minimum 2000 word report.  You must use your Bible as one source for your information, along with at least two (2) other outside sources. You must also COMPLETE & SUBMIT the “Quick Notes” that you’ve taken on each of your sources—including the Bible, along with a peer or parent edited rough draft of your report, whenever you submit the final draft of your report for assessment.

There are six (6) ingredients to having good success with your Global Issues Report:

GLOBAL ISSUES REPORT GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. (30 pts.) – A clear and interesting introduction that presents the issue and states why it is important in today’s world. Your introduction should also mention the various competing perspectives or viewpoints.

2. (70 pts.) – Sufficient background research and contextual information about the issue that illustrates what has led up to the situation and describes the controversy as it now exists—use direct quotes from your sources!

3. (70 pts.) – The presentation of the opposing viewpoints, their beliefs, motivations, and goals—must include supporting evidence: facts, details, quotes, graphs, charts, maps, illustrations, etc. from outside sources that are properly cited within the report.

4. (70 pts.) – Concluding remarks in which you share your personal opinions and feelings regarding the issue and provide some possible solutions, or what you think needs to happen, or would like to see happen, going forward—provide Bible scripture references to help support your personal positions.

5. (30 pts.) – Pay Attention to Conventions — no glaring grammatical or spelling errors, unified paragraphs, local body structure, appropriate parenthetical citations of all sources used within your text, and a properly formatted “bibliography” at the end of the report.

6. (30 pts.) – Don’t forget to submit your Quick Notes and your peer/parent edited rough draft along with your final draft.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 300 = __________% of Pts. Available!

Each “Global Issues” report that you submit can be worth up to 1,500 points / quarter when appropriately designed and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines. All “Best Work” global issues reports (scoring 90% or above) will receive extra credit and may be published on our website for others to read and learn from.

POWER TEACH

~ Freshman -to- Senior High School Level Only ~

(Worth 1,500 Points)…

  • Use Your Bible to Create and Share a Dynamic Classroom Lesson!

Probably the “Coolest” and “Funnest” Project in the House!

Do you want to be the teacher for a day—(well, for 10-20 minutes anyway)?  Here is your chance!  A Power Teach is a brief educational presentation in which a teacher, or learning guide, tries to quickly cover as much material and information as possible in as little time as possible. It’s supposed to “pack a punch!” So, your task is to create a ten-to-twenty-minute PowerPoint or Slides presentation—with accompanying hardcopy handout and an interactive learning activity—that will sufficiently cover the topic you’ve chosen, all in less than 20 minutes!  It’s fun, but whewww… then schedule a time to make your presentation to the class.

POWER TEACH PROJECT GUIDELINES

Follow these instructions:

1. Select a Biblical topic—for example: faith, hope, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, self-control, worship, fellowship, service, spiritual discipline, morality, marriage, salvation, etc… or you may select a particular Bible character or event, or you may choose to focus in on one of your favorite passages of scripture that you would like to present.

2. Research your topic thoroughly by studying as much about it as you can in the Bible (provide cross-references) and by using multiple sources of outside information—(a minimum of three outside sources is required). Remember that all quotes or borrowed information in your presentation must be appropriately cited—using parenthetic citations—on the slide in which it was used. Your final few slides must also present a properly formatted bibliography noting all our outside sources and the version of the Bible you used.

3. Create an educational presentation outline of your study emphasizing the main points and sub points that you want to teach and transfer your outline to a PowerPoint or Google Slides presentation.

4. Don’t forget to find a few interesting graphics or photos to add to your presentation to help make it colorful and enjoyable – no one like a boring old black & white classroom presentation! Remember that all your borrowed graphics, photos, etc. must also be appropriately parenthetically cited on the slide in which it was used and also in your bibliography.

5. As you put together your Power Teach, plan for a 10 to 15 minute slide presentation, followed by a 5 minute “hands-on” class learning activity, and then an additional 5 minutes of class reflection for follow-up questions and answers.

6. When you’ve finished putting your presentation together and you’re ready for your Teach, you must schedule classroom time with Mr. Stroud for you to present your Power Teach to the class.

7. Before teaching the class, you will need to write out a “presentation script” in either an outline or full manuscript form to use during your Power Teach. After your Teach, you must submit your presentation script to Mr. Stroud.

  • A specific “Power Teach Assessment Rubric” is available to help you better understand how your work will be assessed and to help guide you through the process. Good luck and have fun!

Each “Power Teach” can be worth up to 1,500 project points when appropriately designed and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines.

NOTE: If you choose to do this project, it is probably best that you get your research done and your presentation put together as early in the quarter as possible so that we have plenty of time to schedule your Power Teach presentation before the end of the quarter.

EXPOSITORY EXEGESIS – (A SEMESTER-LONG PROJECT)

~ Freshman -to- Senior High School Level Only ~

(Worth 1,500 Points/Quarter… 3,000 Points/Semester)

  • Use Your Bible to Create an In-depth Expository Exegesis of a Biblical Text!

Boldest, most challenging project in the house – not for the faint of heart!

In-depth Bible research requires more than merely reading a biblical text and then expressing our personal thoughts, feelings, or opinions about that passage of scripture.  The goal of “expository exegesis” is not to impose one’s own interpretation on the text, but rather to let the text speak for itself and to present its meaning in a way that is faithful to the original author’s intent. This requires giving careful attention to the nuances of the language, culture, history, and conditions under which the passage was written and a willingness to engage with the text on its own terms. Expository exegesis is a rigorous and disciplined approach to interpreting a biblical text that seeks to uncover its meaning and significance in a systematic and objective manner. For this project, you must:

EXPOSITORY EXEGESIS GUIDELINES

AND PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

1. Choose and carefully read a particular chapter of the Bible that is important and meaningful to you.

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2. (300 pts.) – Outline the Chapter— Begin by outlining the chapter using your own words and in a structure that appears appropriate and logical to you—you must submit your outline, along with a peer or parent edited rough draft, when you submit your final draft for assessment.

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3. (300 pts.) – Conduct Your Research— Research the book in which the chapter is found, and the passage under review, using at least three (3) outside resources: Bible history book, Bible dictionary/encyclopedia, lexicon, commentary, documentary, article, editorial, etc… —you must submit at least one page of “Quick Notes” on each of your three outside sources used when you submit your final draft for assessment.

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4. (300 pts.) – Present Your Research— Based on your research, provide: the historical context, an analysis and assessment, and a reliable application of the passage under consideration by answering the following research questions:

  • Who wrote the book?
  • When was the book written?
  • To whom was the book originally written?
  • What is the historical/cultural context of the writing?

— what was happening historically/culturally that might bear upon the meaning of the text?

  • What specific message did the writer intend to convey to his initial audience?

— what was the writer’s apparent intent for, or expectation of, the original recipients of the text?

  • What cross references (other passages of scripture) might bear upon the meaning of the text?
  • What are the relevant applications of this passage to our hearts and lives today?

— are there specific commands being set forth in the passage that we are to obey? Are there examples being set forth in the passage that we are to emulate? Are there inferences contained within the text to which we must give attention?

  • What eternal biblical principles, additional life-lessons, or wisdom is being set forth within the chapter to which we as individuals, and as a society, would do well to give heed?

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5. (300 pts.) – Pay Attention to Conventions— no glaring grammatical or spelling errors, unified paragraphs, logical body structure, appropriate parenthetical citations of all sources used within your text (including Bible verses), and a properly formatted bibliography, listing all sources used—including the version(s) of the Bible you’ve used—at the end of your manuscript.

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6. (300 pts.) – Work for Timely Completion— Submit your 2000-word (minimum) expository exegesis of the Bible chapter you’ve selected by the end of the semester; along with your chapter outline, your “Quick Notes” on each source used, and a peer or parent edited rough draft.

TOTAL POINTS SCORED _________ / 1500 = __________% of Points Available!

NOTE: “Expository Exegesis” is a SEMESTER-LONG PROJECT. Student’s progress will be assessed at the end of each quarter. This project can be worth up to 1,500 project points for progress shown during the quarter — 3,000 project points total for the semester — when appropriately crafted and submitted in accordance with the above guidelines. Students are limited to one (1) expository exegesis per semester—no more than two (2) in a single school year. All “Best Work” expository exegesis (scoring 90% or above) will receive extra credit and may be published on our website for others to read and learn from.

WBS MISSION TRAINING – (A SEMESTER-LONG PROJECT: and may be extended into a second semester)

~ Freshman to Senior High School Level Only ~

(Worth up to 1,500 Points/Quarter… 3,000 Points/Semester)

  • Use Your Bible to Prepare Yourself for Teaching Online Bible Students Around the World!

    Perhaps the most eternally significant project in the house!

    This is a “real-world,” hands-on mission training project!  World Bible School is one of the church’s largest global mission initiatives; with millions of students living in countries all around the world and thousands of “Bible Study Helpers” (teachers) who help guide them through their studies. You are invited to prepare yourself to become a vital part of taking the Gospel of Jesus Christ into all the world by training to serve as one of those WBS Bible Study Helpers.

    In this project, you will enroll as an online World Bible School student with your SACA Bible learning guide—Mr. Stroud—serving as your WBS “Bible Study Helper.”  You will take all seven (7) of the WBS online “Master Series” courses while keeping a digital journal of Mr. Stroud’s responses to your answers, along with your own additional notations, for future reference when working with your own students.

    The WBS Master Series courses will not only enrich your own understanding of the Bible, but it will also prepare you for sharing the same material with Bible students around the world who are seeking the truth of God’s word. For this reason, this course has been designated as a PREREQUISITE to participation in the World Bible School Elite Course—wherein you will become a full-fledged WBS Bible Study Helper with students of your own.

    The WBS Courses you will take as you proceed with this project include:

    1. “The Way to Life” A brief one-lesson introduction.
    2. “God Has Spoken” (8 lessons)—God reveals Himself and His will for you in the Bible. What does God say about Himself? Who is the Holy Spirit? How can I be “right with God”?
    3. “This is Good News!” (7 lesson)—God’s message in the Bible is “good news.” How does God want me to respond to it? What is faith that “saves”? How can I be sure about my faith? What do I receive from God’s good news?
    4. “Knowing Jesus” (7 lessons)—Jesus makes remarkable promises to those who “know” Him. How can I know Jesus? What do prophets and eye-witnesses say about Him? Is Jesus God’s Son? Why did He die? Is He alive today?
    5. “Born of Water and Spirit” (8 lessons)—Jesus speaks of being “born again” to live a new life. What does He mean? Can I really have a fresh start in life? Why is the cross so important? How can I face death with assurance?
    6. “The Family of God” (8 lessons) plus extensive study helps—God has chosen a family of His very own—and He wants you to be a part of it. Who has God chosen? Me? How can I know? What does the word “church” really mean? What is His purpose for my life?
    7. “Live a Life of Love” (13 lessons) plus extensive study helps—God offers every single person a new purpose and a joyful life. How does He want me to live? Can I really change? Is the Holy Spirit real-and really at work in my life? How can I help others?

    There are a total of 52 lessons in the WBS Master Series.  Each lesson within a course is relatively brief and can typically be completed in 20 to 30 minutes. To finish all the lessons and courses within one school semester will require that you complete approximately three (3) lessons per week–(from class and from home).  Students who do not complete all the WBS courses within one semester may extend the project into the following semester.

    If you are interested in this project, it is important that you talk with your Bible learning guide—Mr. Stroud—for instructions in signing up as a WBS student so that you can be sure that he becomes your official online WBS Bible Study Helper.

    ____________________

    NOTE:  “WBS Mission Training” is a SEMESTER-LONG PROJECT (and may be extended into a 2nd semester).  Student’s progress will be assessed at the end of each quarter.  This project can be worth up to 1,500 project points for progress shown during the quarter — 3,000 project points total for the semester — when shared with Mr. Stroud in accordance with the above guidelines.

    EXTRA CREDIT

    EXTRA CREDIT FOR MEMORY WORK

    ~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

    (Worth 50 pts. / submission… Up to 500 Points/Quarter)

    • Put God’s Word in Your Heart and in Your Mind.

    If you want or need additional points, you may schedule “memory work” time with your learning guide— Mr. Stroud. Please adhere to the following instructions:

    MEMORY WORK GUIDELINES – PRODUCT ASSESSMENT

    1.) Select a passage of scripture that is meaningful to you—no less than four (4) verses of scripture in length—and commit the passage of scripture to memory.

    2.) Come prepared to talk about your passage of scripture and share with Mr. Stroud why you feel like it is an important and meaningful passage to you.

    3.) You will then “write out” your scripture passage and submit it to Mr. Stroud, who will review it with you and assign your extra credit points.

    * You will be awarded 50 pts.for every “perfect” submission!
    * You will be awarded 40 pts.for every “almost perfect” submission!
    * You will be awarded 30 pts.for every “halfway perfect” submission!
    Sorry, no points can be awarded for a “less than halfway perfect” submission!
    BONUS: Double Points (100 pts.) awarded for a “perfect submission of 7 verses or more!

    You may not earn more than 500 extra credit pts. for memory work / quarter!

    EXTRA CREDIT FOR HELPING HANDS

    ~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

    (Worth 50 pts. / submission… Up to 500 Points/Quarter)

    • Put the Message of God’s Love and the Truth of His Word into Action in Your Own Life through Your Love and Service to Others.

    When are we most like Jesus? To help us answer that important question, remember that on the night before His crucifixion, Jesus got down on His hands and knees and washed His disciples’ feet. And the Bible says: “When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:12-15, NIV).

    So when are we most like Jesus? When we follow His example by humbly loving and serving others. Jesus also said, “…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28, NIV).

    While true service to others is NOT done just so that we can get something for ourselves, your Bible Learning Guide—Mr. Stroud—would like to say “thank you” for the service that you provide to other people, to our school, and to our community.  So, if you have been involved in personal, group, school, or community service activities (outside of your own family) and would like to accept Mr. Stroud’s sincere thanks for the service you’ve provided, please accept his invitation to fill out the “Helping Hands Service Report” and claim your extra credit points!

    EXTRA CREDIT FOR CRAFTSMANSHIP

    ~ Available to All Grade Levels 7th-12th ~

    (For All Project Work Scoring 90% or Above)

    All Products Submitted in “BIBLE LITERACY AND COMMUNICATIONS WORKSHOP” Scoring 90% OR HIGHER Will Be Automatically Awarded an Additional 5% Extra Credit Points for:

    NCSA Standards:  Curriculum and Instruction

    Standard 5 – The school ensures biblical principles (biblical content, biblical worldview, spiritual formation, Christian character, and Christian service) are integrated and written in all curricula (including any taught through alternative delivery methods).

    5.1 The school demonstrates biblical principles are embedded in curricula.

    • Benchmark 4: The school has a formalized, systemic, and implemented process to ensure that biblical principles are embedded in all curricula and that instructional practices support effective biblical integration across the curriculum.

    5.2 Teachers show evidence of using the Christ-centered curriculum in their teaching and provide opportunities for students to incorporate biblical principles in real world situations.

    • Benchmark 4: All teachers show evidence of using the Christ-centered curriculum in their teaching and consistently provide multiple opportunities for students to incorporate biblical principles through the application of their knowledge and skills to real world situations.

    5.3 A system for evaluation of student development in the areas of biblical content, biblical worldview, Christian character, and Christian service has been developed that is aligned with the student spiritual formation goals.

    • Benchmark 4: A system for comprehensive evaluation of student development in the areas of biblical content, biblical worldview, Christian character, and Christian service that is fully aligned with the student spiritual formation goals has been developed and implemented.

    This Curriculum Component Provides the Following Evidence of Adherence to NCSA Standards for Curriculum and Instruction:

    • Curriculum guides and scope and sequence and/or curriculum mapping include biblical integration objectives (biblical content, biblical worldview, Christian character, Christian service).
    • Lesson plans include biblical integration objectives.
    • Staff are knowledgeable about the integration of biblical principles (biblical content, biblical worldview, Christian character, and Christian service) in the content area(s) in which they teach • Integration of biblical principles is demonstrated in classroom instruction.
    • The curriculum and learning opportunities in each course/class provide for all students to develop spiritually.
    • Data indicates student spiritual growth.
    • Vertical and horizontal alignment of the Christian curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
    • Examples of how teachers plan and incorporate Christian principles into their classroom Instruction.

    NCSA Standards:  Instructional Resources

    Standard 7 – The school ensures that the acquisition and use of all instructional resources (technology, print, and other media resources) are aligned with the school’s purpose/mission and Christian philosophy of education.

    7.1 The school has developed policies and procedures regarding the acquisition and use of technology, print, and other media resources that are aligned with the school’s foundational documents.

    • Benchmark 4 -The school has developed and implemented policies and procedures regarding the acquisition and use of technology, print, and other media resources that are fully aligned with the school’s foundational documents.

    7.2 The school has implemented an Internet usage policy consistent with biblical principles that has been communicated to all school personnel, students, and parents.

    • Benchmark 4 -The school has fully implemented an Internet usage policy consistent with biblical principles that is well articulated and clearly understood by all school personnel, students, and parents.

    7.3 The school demonstrates that technology resources are used in an ethical manner and that school personnel and students follow guidelines to prevent plagiarism and/or copyright infringement.

    • Benchmark 4 – All school personnel and students use technology resources in an ethical manner and follow clearly established guidelines to prevent plagiarism and/or copyright infringement.

    This Curriculum Component Provides the Following Evidence of Adherence to NCSA Standards for Curriculum and Instruction:

    • Acceptable technology and/or Internet use policy.
    • IT personnel/webmaster articulate policies regarding technology resources and web content related to alignment with purpose/mission and Christian philosophy of education.
    • Students demonstrate an understanding of appropriate and responsible use of technology, print, and other resources consistent with biblical principles.
    • Policies and procedures that provide Christian direction to the acquisition and use of technology, print, and other media resources.
    • Policies and procedures communications to stakeholders.
    • Evaluations of policies and procedures.

    Source Cited:

    The National Christian School Association. (2022). Accreditation Manual of the National Christian School Association (Revised August 2022). Pages 28-30 & Pages 32-33. Retrieved from: http://www.nationalchristian.org/uploads/1/4/3/5/143554147/ncsa_accreditation_manual_2022_updated_august_15_.docx_-_google_docs.pdf