Textile Arts
Students learn fundamental textile techniques including sewing, weaving, and fabric arts. Textile Arts builds fine motor skills, design thinking, and appreciation for the craft of creating with fabric and fiber materials.
Art Design
Students explore the principles of graphic design and visual communication through digital and traditional media. Art Design develops an eye for composition, typography, color, and visual storytelling applied to real-world design contexts.
Current Events (Middle School)
Students examine local, national, and global news through media literacy and critical analysis. Current Events teaches students how to evaluate sources, identify bias, and engage responsibly with current affairs from a Christian worldview.
Fantasy Lit and Writing
Students explore fantasy literature and creative writing, developing imaginative storytelling skills through reading and original writing projects. Fantasy Lit and Writing nurtures creativity and voice while building strong narrative writing techniques.
Historical Fiction
Students immerse themselves in historical fiction literature, exploring different eras and cultures through compelling narratives. This elective deepens reading comprehension, historical thinking, and empathy by examining the past through story.
Design Lab
A hands-on makerspace elective where students work on open-ended design, engineering, and creative projects. Design Lab encourages experimentation, iteration, and innovation using tools and materials from multiple disciplines.
Intro to Chapel Band
An introductory course for students interested in joining the Chapel Band program. Students develop worship leading skills, practice with peers, and learn the scriptural foundations of music ministry in preparation for future Chapel Band participation.
Lego Programming
Students learn programming fundamentals through hands-on coding using LEGO Mindstorms and related robotics platforms. Lego Programming develops logical thinking, sequencing, and engineering concepts through interactive building and coding challenges.
Speech (Middle School)
Students develop public speaking, debate, and communication skills through structured exercises and presentations. Speech builds confidence, clarity, and the ability to persuade and inform audiences effectively.
Video Game Design
Students design, build, and play their own video games using game development tools. Video Game Design blends computational thinking, creativity, and storytelling as students learn the principles behind game mechanics and digital design.
Theater (Middle School)
Students explore acting, stagecraft, and theatrical performance through improvisation, scene study, and performance exercises. Middle School Theater builds confidence, creativity, and communication skills in a supportive ensemble environment.
Choir (Middle School)
Students develop vocal skills, music theory, and choral performance techniques in a group setting. Middle School Choir builds confidence, teamwork, and an appreciation for music as worship and artistic expression.
Band (Middle School)
Students develop instrumental performance skills in a large ensemble setting. Middle School Band introduces music fundamentals, proper technique, and ensemble playing through a varied repertoire of age-appropriate music.
Foundations of Technology
A required elective introducing Grade 7 students to digital literacy, coding fundamentals, and foundational technology skills. Students explore how technology shapes daily life and develop practical skills in computing and digital tools.
Art (Grade 6)
A required elective for Grade 6 students exploring a variety of visual art techniques and mediums. Students develop artistic skills and learn to observe, analyze, and create using the elements and principles of design.
Design & Modeling
Students learn computer-aided design and 3D modeling using industry tools. A required elective for Grade 6, Design & Modeling introduces engineering design thinking through hands-on digital and physical prototyping projects.
Innovation Hour (Grade 5)
A dedicated innovation period encouraging Grade 5 students to explore, experiment, and create. Students tackle open-ended design challenges that build creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving habits of mind.
Art (Grade 5)
A required elective introducing Grade 5 students to visual art through drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students explore the elements of art and develop creative expression skills through guided projects.
STEAM
Students engage in integrated science, technology, engineering, art, and math experiences. A required elective for Grade 5, STEAM reinforces cross-disciplinary thinking through project-based challenges and creative problem-solving.
PE/Health
Students develop physical fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship, and health literacy through movement activities, sport skills, and wellness education. Middle School PE/Health integrates physical activity with health concepts including nutrition, mental health, and responsible decision-making.
U.S. Studies
Students examine American history, government, economics, and citizenship. U.S. Studies provides an overview of the United States’ founding, development, and key historical events, preparing students for high school Social Sciences.
Global Studies
Students investigate world cultures, religions, geography, and global issues from a comparative perspective. Global Studies develops cross-cultural understanding, critical thinking, and awareness of how nations and peoples are interconnected.
MN History
Students explore the history, geography, culture, and government of Minnesota from its Indigenous roots through statehood and modern times. MN History develops a sense of place, identity, and civic responsibility within a local and national context.
Social Studies 5
Students examine communities, geography, economics, and civics with an emphasis on their local and state context. Social Studies 5 builds civic knowledge and an understanding of how people and places are connected.
Physical Science
Students explore matter, energy, forces, motion, waves, and electricity through lab experiments and problem-solving. Physical Science builds mathematical and scientific reasoning skills as a foundation for high school Chemistry and Physics.
Life Science
Students study cells, genetics, evolution, ecosystems, and the diversity of living organisms. Life Science includes lab investigations and field activities that connect biological concepts to the world God created.
Earth & Space Science
Students investigate Earth’s structure, plate tectonics, weather and climate, the solar system, and space exploration. Earth & Space Science develops observational and analytical skills through labs and inquiry-based activities.
General Science
Students explore foundational concepts in life, earth, and physical science through hands-on labs and investigations. General Science builds curiosity and scientific literacy while emphasizing God’s design in the natural world.
Geometry (Grade 8)
An advanced option for 8th graders, introducing the foundations of Geometry including postulates, theorems, congruence, similarity, and geometric proofs. Equivalent to the high school Geometry course and counts toward high school math credit.
Algebra I
A full Algebra I course covering linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, polynomials, factoring, and quadratic functions. Students develop algebraic reasoning essential for higher mathematics and college preparation.
Pre-Algebra
Introduces students to algebraic thinking through the study of variables, equations, inequalities, ratios, proportions, and functions. Pre-Algebra bridges arithmetic and algebra, building the skills needed for Algebra I.
Foundations of Math
Designed for students who need additional time to build a strong mathematical foundation before pre-algebra. Topics include number systems, ratios, proportions, geometry, and introductory algebraic thinking.
Math 5
Students strengthen number sense, operations with fractions and decimals, ratios, geometry, and introductory algebra concepts. Math 5 prepares students for the transition to middle school mathematics through problem-solving and mathematical reasoning.
Honors English 8
An accelerated English course for Grade 8 students with advanced literary analysis, complex writing assignments, and high school-level critical thinking. Designed to position students for success in Honors English 9.
English 8
Students study literature, refine essay and research writing, and develop communication skills in preparation for high school English. English 8 emphasizes analytical thinking and clear, effective expression.
Honors English 7
An accelerated English course for Grade 7 students emphasizing advanced literary analysis, sophisticated writing, and complex grammar. Designed to prepare students for high school Honors and AP English coursework.
English 7
Students engage with a variety of literature, develop essay writing skills, and strengthen grammar and vocabulary. English 7 builds research and analytical writing skills in preparation for high school coursework.
Honors English 6
An accelerated English course for Grade 6 students, providing deeper exploration of literature, more rigorous writing assignments, and advanced grammar and vocabulary study. Students are challenged with greater complexity and critical thinking expectations.
English 6
Students continue developing reading comprehension, writing, grammar, and communication skills. English 6 introduces more sophisticated literary genres and essay structures as students transition to middle school academic expectations.
English 5
Students develop foundational literacy skills in reading, writing, grammar, and communication. English 5 builds upon elementary language arts through increased complexity in writing tasks, literary analysis, and vocabulary development.
Bible: Building on the Rock
Students grow in their understanding of Scripture and faith through an age-appropriate Bible curriculum. Building on the Rock equips middle schoolers with a solid Biblical foundation, exploring core Christian doctrines, God's story throughout history, and what it means to live out faith daily.
Book Buddies
Kindergartners and 4th graders are paired together to share their love of reading. Older students serve as reading mentors, building confidence and leadership skills, while younger students gain excitement for books and literacy through a meaningful cross-grade connection.
STEM
Students engage in integrated science, technology, engineering, and math experiences through project-based learning and hands-on challenges. STEM class builds critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that prepare students for an innovative future.
PE
Students build physical fitness, coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship through age-appropriate movement activities, games, and sports. Physical Education develops healthy habits and an active lifestyle rooted in caring for the bodies God has given them.
Outdoor Garden
Students connect with the natural world through hands-on gardening and outdoor learning experiences. They explore plant life cycles, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship, developing a sense of wonder and responsibility for God’s creation.
Music
Students are introduced to the joy of music through singing, rhythm, movement, and instrument exploration. Lessons build foundational music literacy, ear training, and an appreciation for music as a gift from God and a form of worship.
Library
Students develop a love of reading and strengthen information literacy skills through regular library time. Lessons cover book selection, research basics, and literary appreciation, guided by a library specialist in a welcoming and resource-rich environment.
Innovation Hour
A dedicated time for creative problem-solving, design thinking, and hands-on exploration. Students engage in open-ended challenges that spark curiosity, collaboration, and inventive thinking, developing the mindset of tomorrow’s innovators.
Art
Students explore creativity and self-expression through a variety of visual art mediums including drawing, painting, collage, and sculpture. Lessons introduce the elements of art and principles of design while nurturing each student’s God-given creativity.
Social Studies
Students develop an understanding of community, culture, history, and geography. Topics explore family, neighborhoods, local and world communities, and civic responsibility, helping students grow into engaged and thoughtful global citizens grounded in Christian values.
Science
Students explore the natural world through hands-on investigation, observation, and inquiry. Topics span life science, earth science, and physical science, with an emphasis on curiosity, experimentation, and understanding God’s creation.
Language Arts
Students develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through a rich literacy curriculum. Instruction covers phonics, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and composition, building confident and capable communicators from an early age.
Math
Students build a strong foundation in mathematical thinking through number sense, operations, patterns, measurement, geometry, and problem-solving. Curriculum is developmentally sequenced across grade levels to support mastery and confidence in math.
Bible
Students explore the Bible through age-appropriate lessons rooted in Christian faith. Instruction covers key stories, characters, and themes from both the Old and New Testaments, helping students develop a Biblical foundation and understanding of God’s story.
PSEO Introduction to Sociology
Covers major concepts, theories, methodologies, findings, controversies, and history of sociology. Explores contributions of sociology to Christian life and thought.
PSEO Socioeconomic & Justice Issues in Market Economies
Equips students with knowledge and skills for understanding and critically evaluating how market economies operate, their broad socioeconomic consequences, and their impact on the lives of socially disadvantaged people.
PSEO Social Psychology
Covers behavior and experience of individuals and groups in relation to others. Topics include conformity, persuasion, social cognition, attraction, altruism, aggression, prejudice, group behavior, and applied topics. Prerequisite: PSEO PSY 100.
PSEO Lifespan Development
Covers physical, cognitive, emotional, social, moral, and spiritual development from conception to death, with a consistent focus on individual differences. Prerequisite: PSEO PSY 100.
PSEO Introduction to Healthcare
An introduction to various health professions and the healthcare system in the United States. Emphasizes understanding the healthcare system, current issues, and career paths. Students examine education, training, licensure, and certification requirements for potential healthcare careers.
PSEO Personal Mission and Leadership
Students develop an understanding of their personal mission and study its application to leadership. Emphasis on identifying individual talents and gifts and developing leadership goals for future roles.
PSEO Individualized Internship 2
Develops career-readiness through on-the-job work experience focused on job interviewing, safety practices, employee rights, employer responsibilities, and transferable skills for lasting career success. Students create portfolio materials including a cover letter and resume.
PSEO Individualized Internship 1
Development of career-readiness skills through on-the-job work experience combined with instructional activities. Builds skills in safe engagement in the work environment, job-seeking, career exploration, and transferable employability skills such as communication, accepting feedback, and maintaining employment.
Teaching Assistant
Provides practical work experience at Maranatha. Duties may include filing, designing bulletin boards, correcting papers, data entry, teaching small groups, and individual tutoring. Students are placed by the College and Career team with an MCA teacher or staff member.
Leadership 101
Students learn how leaders gather data and resources to identify patterns, relationships, and linkages to create vision and strategies. Topics include emotional intelligence, the negotiating process, communication skills, and persuasion. Leadership is explored as both a process of organizational direction and personal self-development.
Calling, College, and Careers
Students discover what the Bible says about calling and work. Through interactive activities, inventories, and guest speakers, students assess their skills and interests, explore careers and pathways, and develop academic and college plans to make informed decisions about their future.
Native-Speaker Spanish
Students learn about Hispanic culture through art, music, and literature. Improves understanding of Spanish grammar and the ability to write in Spanish. Instruction is primarily in Spanish.
Spanish 4
Students build grammar skills through reading and writing in Spanish. Spanish-speaking cultures are explored and compared with the U.S. Strong focus on communication skills and preparation for AP Spanish.
Spanish 3
Students build Spanish language knowledge through increased vocabulary, additional grammar tenses, and continued focus on communication skills through speaking, writing, and reading comprehension through class novels.
Spanish 2
Builds on Spanish 1 to expand knowledge of the Spanish language and culture. Enhances skills in comprehension, vocabulary, grammar in context, conversation, and culture, with deeper development of communication skills.
Spanish 1
An introductory course integrating language skills with the culture of Spanish-speaking people. Emphasis on natural output of the Spanish language using consistent comprehension-based strategies.
American Sign Language 2
Expands knowledge and skills of ASL through class discussion, homework, videos, games, and music. Develops ASL sentence structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Higher emphasis on reading comprehension through class novels and deeper exploration of Deaf American culture. Classes are taught in ASL with little or no spoken English.
American Sign Language 1
An introduction to the basics of American Sign Language and the culture of the American Deaf community. Focuses on vocabulary, fingerspelling, numbers, verbs, greetings, and basic grammar in ASL. Classes are taught in ASL and English, progressing toward full immersion.
Mustang Enterprises
A hands-on opportunity to work in a student-led promotional products business. Students gain experience in entrepreneurship, marketing, sales, finance, and management by creating strategies, managing finances, and overseeing the production and distribution of promotional products.
Introduction to Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Students learn about the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry and its trends including green processes, data management, AI, prefab, and robotics. Students learn both CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and BIM (Building Information Modeling) as foundations of digital transformation in AEC.
TechXcel: Empowering Future Innovators
Introduction to cybersecurity, mobile app development, data science and analytics, artificial intelligence, and web development. Students work on a real-world technology project applying knowledge from the class, which may include developing a mobile app, conducting data analysis, or designing a website.
Industrial Arts
Covers basic woodworking and general home maintenance and repair, including general tool use and safety. Projects include making a toolbox and picture frame, identifying house systems, hanging items on walls, changing light fixtures, patching walls, and changing a faucet.
Computer Science
Students learn and practice programming through the use of an Arduino, creating and inventing objects in the physical world while gaining foundational computer science skills.
Drone Aviation
Goes beyond basic drone operations to explore complex maneuvers, rules for flying outdoors, and legal and social issues regarding public and private drone use. Students gain hands-on experience piloting and spotting for each drone mission.
Coding
Introduces basic principles of programming. Students engage in various programming activities that reinforce their learning, writing and testing their own code just as programmers in the field do.
PSEO Introduction to Psychology
Methods, theories, and principal findings of psychological investigation. Covers fundamental psychological theories and their application to understanding human behavior and social contexts.
PSEO Introduction to American Culture
Exploration of diversity issues within the United States, particularly as they impact personal experience, identity, relationships, and opportunity. Examines personal values, assumptions, and perspectives and strategies for approaching diverse settings with a biblical, peacemaking stance.
PSEO History of the United States
Examination of selected historical events. Develops connections between historical events and larger social, economic, and political trends. Considers multiple perspectives when investigating historical questions and the influence of faith while exploring history’s significance.
PSEO American Government and Politics
Covers the structure and workings of major parts of the U.S. national government, including the Constitution, the presidency, Congress, the courts, and the electoral process, and how these help Americans deal with significant current issues.
Influence of Sports in America
Explores the role sports play in the world through their relationship with politics, culture, and globalization across popular and lesser-known sports. Students learn to analyze sports using critical thinking skills to examine them in new ways.
Current Events
Focuses on world and local issues that affect students’ everyday lives—economics, government, and conflict—using online media and newscasts to support discussion. Students respectfully discuss and debate current topics, identify forms of media bias, and learn to become responsible news consumers.
Introduction to Psychology
An introduction to fundamental psychological theories and theorists. Students explore theories on the how and why of human behaviors throughout multiple stages of life. Analysis and discussion help students become wiser and more active participants in their community.
AP United States History
A rigorous course equivalent to an introductory college course in American History. Spans Colonial America (1400s) through the early 21st century. Uses the textbook, primary source documents, and current events to explore political, social, religious, and economic developments. Culminates with the AP exam in May.
Government
Engages students in the political process. Topics include the historical development of government and political systems, the rule of law, the U.S. Constitution, federal, state, and local government structure, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
United States History
From the mid-19th century through the early 21st century, students examine the political, economic, social, and cultural development of the United States. Units emphasize America’s economic growth, foreign policy, and national identity through the lens of cause-and-effect and historical patterns.
World History
Semester 1 explores ancient history from early civilizations across the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Semester 2 examines the geo-political world of the 20th century, from the fall of monarchies and world wars to the contemporary world of today.
World Geography
Study of the geography of the world’s nations with emphasis on cultural, political, and economic issues. Examines the socioeconomic repercussions of changing governments and the development of new countries.
Economics
Students gain an understanding of how society organizes its limited resources to satisfy unlimited wants. Develops economical thinking through a Christian lens while relating history and politics to economics. Students apply knowledge with a Shark Tank presentation.
PSEO Introduction to Chemistry and Lab
Overview of atoms—their composition, ability to form bonds, and ability to interact as molecules. Tailored for nursing and allied health fields. Topics include reactions, thermodynamics, acids and bases, nuclear decay, and others. Includes a collaborative laboratory experience.
PSEO Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
Provides an introduction to cellular and subcellular aspects of living organisms, including basic chemistry, biological molecules, cells, enzymes, metabolism, classical genetics, and molecular genetics.
PSEO Environmental and Humanity Lab
Examines how science, engineering, and economics work together to address and solve environmental problems. Students explore the importance of the scientific method related to the environment, conservation of resources, and energy, and evaluate case studies to develop a deeper sense of planetary stewardship.
AP Physics 1
Surveys the first semester of college physics, including Newtonian mechanics (rotational dynamics and angular momentum), work energy, mechanical waves, and sound. Includes lab work. Culminates with the AP exam in May.
AP Chemistry
A college-level chemistry course supporting future advanced coursework. Students develop understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations exploring atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. Culminates with the AP exam in May.
AP Biology
Covers cellular chemistry, energy, and genetics, including the function and structure of DNA and RNA. Studies evolutionary theories, population dynamics, communities, and ecosystems. Lab work and field studies are a significant component. Culminates with the AP exam in May.
Physics
Covers motion, forces, sound and light, heat, electricity, magnetism, and related topics through lectures, discussion, lab, and evaluation. Students are expected to compute algebraic and numerical problems.
Anatomy and Physiology
Introduces the organization of the body on chemical, cellular, tissue, and system levels. Students identify and integrate anatomical structures and functions. Labs include hands-on activities and dissections. Encouraged for students interested in medical-based careers.
