International High School Diploma Program

A total of 22 credits (24 are recommended) must be completed to graduate from Blessed Hope Academy and receive a high school diploma. Students are advised to inquire at the college or university of their choice regarding entrance requirements and required high school courses. Diagnostic or placement tests may be required for some subjects.

The required courses for graduation from the International Student Program at Blessed Hope Academy is as follows:

English I, II, III, IV. - 4 credits

Math - 3 credits. Chosen from the following: Mathematical Models with Applications, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre Calculus. Must include Algebra I and Geometry. Recommended sequence: Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II.

Social Studies - 2.5 credits. Chosen from the following: World History or World Geography, United States History, American Government.

Science - 2 credits. Chosen from the following: Biology, Integrated Physics and Chemistry, Chemistry, and Physics. Must include Biology and Integrated Physics and Chemistry. May substitute Chemistry or Physics for IPC but must use the second of these as academic elective credit. Recommended sequence: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Academic Elective - 1 credit. Chosen from either: World History Studies, World Geography Studies, or any science course. Note: If substituting Chemistry or Physics for IPC, must use the second of these as academic elective credit here

Economics - 0.5 credits 
Health - 0.5 credits 
Physical Education - 1.5 credits 
Speech/Communication Applications - 0.5 credits 
Technology Applications - 1.0 credits 
Fine Arts - 1.0 credits (Recommended sequence) 
Biblical Literature - 0.5 credits. Included in English III & IV 
Foreign Language - 2.0 credits (Recommended sequence) 
Electives - to meet or exceed 22 credits (24 recommended)

The English as a Second Language Program

READING AND WRITING SKILLS:

Video-phonics English Literacy - a phonics based method to teach reading in English. Designed for teenagers, this course combines video technology with audio methods to make learning to read English easier. This program includes letters and letter sound exercises, blending exercises, repeat sound exercises, practice exercises, and applications of reading and writing skills.

English as Your Second Language - a video and study guide course. Lessons are designed so that the non-English speaking student can complete it in six to twelve months. By that time, an intermediate level of proficiency should have been met. The course is self-paced and individualized.

New Horizons in English - English that students can and will use outside the classroom. Natural exchanges set in real life contexts which allow students to participate and contribute according to their own levels of proficiency. Grammar building skills, co-operative learning, small group practices, and pair-work all will encourage student interaction and teamwork.

Write English Right - an ESL homonym workbook on words, their proper spelling, and usage. Word definitions with grammatical explanations, example sentences for everyday conversation using listening and speaking methods, and vocabulary comprehension.

Learning English - Students learn practical conversational phrases through pictures and words in student workbooks, the accompanying videos lets them hear the words aloud. Follow up activities let students practice what they have learned individually or in small groups.

READING LABS WITH DUAL CREDIT:

United States History and Geography - The student carefully studies the map of the United States, the time zones, the states, and the regions. The student is introduced to the history of the Constitution, the westward movement, the Civil War, and American Economics. Videotapes on United States Geography supplement the course.

United States Government - A thorough background of the foundations of government, the Constitution, the branches of government, state and local government, citizenship, and foreign relations.

Texas History - A supplemental reading course on the history of Texas, the geography of Texas, the people of Texas, Spanish settlement, the Battle at the Alamo, and modern Texas.

OTHER COURSES:

Accent Training Program - a guide to speaking and pronouncing American English for everyone who speaks English as a Second Language. Guides you in fluency in spoken American English to developing a good accent in which words to stress, where and how long you pause, and how you run words together.

Students are tutored by teachers in one-on-one situations and in small classroom settings. Students also use video labs for best results.