Course Catalog
Sierra Lutheran High School offers a comprehensive, Christ-centered curriculum designed to prepare students for college and life. Browse our course offerings by department below.
Course Types
Honors Courses
AP Courses
Dual-Credit Courses
English
English I
9th Grade
This year-long course builds vocabulary, strengthens grammar and writing structure, and teaches strategies for critical reading. Each semester is worth half a credit.
English II
10th Grade
A continuation of English I. Students grow in reading and writing through the study of British Literature, research, rhetoric, and college entrance exam preparation. Each semester is half a credit.
Honors English II
10th Grade
Covers all English II content but with additional literary material and more rigorous writing and analysis expectations. Prepares students with advanced reading and composition skills.
English III
11th Grade
Prepares students for upper-level reading, writing, and research. Focuses on rhetoric and composition through a wide variety of texts including nonfiction, fiction, poetry, and articles.
AP English Language and Composition
11th Grade
An introductory college-level composition course. Students explore rhetorical situations, claims and evidence, organization, and writing style through reading, analyzing, and writing a variety of texts.
English IV
12th Grade
A skills-based course focused on critical thinking, reading, and composition in preparation for college. Students analyze texts, write arguments, support claims with evidence, and develop advanced commentary.
AP English Literature and Composition
12th Grade
This college-level course teaches literary analysis through the study of poetry and prose across genres. Students examine characterization, structure, figurative language, perspective, and setting, and may take the AP exam for potential college credit.
Mathematics
Pre-Algebra
Grades Vary
Covers foundational algebra topics including equation solving, linear and nonlinear functions, rational functions, and an introduction to right-triangle ratios.
Algebra I
9th–10th Grade
Develops essential algebra skills and introduces logical problem-solving processes. Topics include equations, inequalities, functions, graphing linear and quadratic functions, simplifying exponential expressions, factoring polynomials, and introductory rational and radical functions.
Geometry
9th–11th Grade
A study of plane geometry emphasizing logical thinking and the structure of geometric systems. Students learn definitions, theorems, postulates, and deductive reasoning.
Algebra II
10th–12th Grade
Expands on Algebra I concepts including linear and quadratic equations, graphing, matrices, logarithmic functions, and manipulation and solving of polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic equations.
Honors Algebra II
10th–12th Grade
A faster-paced and more rigorous version of Algebra II, including advanced work with linear, quadratic, exponential, polynomial, and logarithmic equations. Adds deeper study of matrices and functions.
Pre-Calculus (WNC Math 126)
11th–12th Grade
First course in the WNC dual-credit sequence (Math 126). Covers algebra, geometry, and trigonometry topics needed for calculus. Includes functions and graphs, polynomial, power, rational functions, and exponential/logarithmic functions.
Honors Pre-Calculus (WNC Math 126/127)
11th–12th Grade
A rigorous preparation for calculus covering algebraic models, trigonometry, logarithms, exponential functions, rational equations, systems of equations, conic sections, trigonometric identities, and complex numbers. Dual-credit with WNC: Math 126 & Math 127.
AP Calculus (WNC Math 181)
12th Grade
First-semester college calculus. Topics include limits, derivatives, antiderivatives, integrals, trigonometric functions, inverse trig, logarithmic and exponential functions. Prepares students for the AP Exam; passing scores may earn college credit.
Statistics (WNC STAT 152)
11th–12th Grade
Teaches students to collect, analyze, interpret, and communicate data. Includes statistical writing, data reasoning, and logic. Emphasizes real-world application and clear explanation of results.
Business Math
12th Grade
Applies math to personal finance and business situations, covering financial literacy topics such as budgeting, banking, credit, interest, taxes, investing, payroll, and basic accounting to prepare students for real-world financial decision-making.
Science
Biology
9th Grade
Surveys major areas of life science including biochemistry, genetics, ecology, and more. Students perform laboratory experiments, investigations, and research-based projects.
Anatomy & Physiology (WNC BIO 200)
10th–12th Grade
Covers foundational human anatomy and physiology. Students study ten organ systems, microscopic and gross anatomical structures, and the principles of homeostasis, including causes of homeostatic imbalance.
Astronomy
10th–12th Grade
An introductory study of the universe and how astronomers gain knowledge about it. Students learn to recognize celestial objects, understand cosmic processes, and appreciate God’s creation.
Forensic Science
10th–12th Grade
Introduces forensic science through a Christian lens, exploring crime scene investigation, fingerprinting, DNA analysis, blood spatter, forensic anthropology, trace evidence, medical autopsy, and the role of the coroner. Features hands-on labs, case studies, and an emphasis on ethics, integrity, and respect for human life.
Environmental Science
10th–12th Grade
Explores the natural environment, human interactions with ecosystems, scientific advances that shape our understanding, and Christian stewardship of God’s creation.
Chemistry (WNC CHEM 100 or 121)
11th–12th Grade
Covers matter and energy, atomic structure, electronic orbitals, the periodic table, chemical formulas and bonding, balancing equations, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry, and introductory organic chemistry. Includes significant use of algebra and dimensional analysis.
CHEM 100: Introductory chemistry with a focus on impacts on human society and environmental issues.
CHEM 121: A more rigorous fundamentals course including labs.
Physics
10th–12th Grade
Introduces motion, forces, energy, heat, light, sound, matter, and atomic structure. Uses mathematical equations to explain physical concepts. Includes classroom instruction and lab investigations.
Honors Physics
11th–12th Grade
A rigorous exploration of physics concepts including mechanics, sound, light, energy, magnetism, gravity, and relativity. Emphasizes conceptual understanding through equations, diagrams, lectures, labs, and reading.
Foreign Language
Spanish I
10th Grade
Follows the Nevada Academic Content Standards for World Languages. Students become novice to early Spanish speakers in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Includes structural analysis and introductory Spanish culture.
Spanish II
11th Grade
Students progress from early to intermediate Spanish language learners in the four domains: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Strengthens structural analysis and language skills. Includes deeper cultural learning.
Theology
Faith I
9th Grade
Walks students through the Old Testament, exploring Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration. Helps students interpret historical texts and understand how God’s story gives meaning to history and daily life.
Faith II
10th Grade
Covers the New Testament, exploring theological, historical, linguistic, and cultural context. Students read most of the New Testament while learning skills for interpreting Scripture and applying biblical principles.
Church History
11th Grade
Explores the story of the Christian Church from biblical times to today. Students examine key theological questions, trace doctrinal development, and study how Christians across eras lived out biblical truth.
World Religions
11th Grade
Academic study of major world religions including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others, while maintaining a distinctly Christian worldview. Students compare worldviews and study what each teaches about humanity, sin, salvation, and God.
Christian Living
12th Grade
Explores what it means to live as God’s people in daily life. Students learn how vocation, stewardship, mercy, and witness flow from Christ’s work, and conclude with a Gospel-centered creative project.
Christ & Culture
12th Grade
Examines how Christian faith interacts with modern culture, media, music, and current issues. Students learn discernment, Gospel-centered engagement, and how to live as salt and light in the world.
Physical Education
Physical Education
9th Grade
Improves physical fitness, coordination, strength, and endurance. Students learn rules, strategies, sportsmanship, and teamwork, emphasizing cooperative participation and appreciation of individual uniqueness as God’s children.
Lifetime Activities
10th–12th Grade
A co-ed PE elective focusing on lifelong physical activities. Students learn rules and techniques for various games, emphasizing cooperation, sportsmanship, and maintaining lifelong physical activity.
Basketball
10th–12th Grade
Teaches basketball fundamentals such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork. Students analyze film, design plays, and learn coaching perspectives. Conditioning and strength training included. All skill levels welcome.
Weight Training
10th–12th Grade
Students learn proper weight training technique to build strength, enhance fitness, and improve cardiovascular health.
Computer Science & Applications
Computer Science & Applications
1 Semester
Introduces computer science fundamentals, programming in Python and HTML, computational thinking, algorithms, documentation, security, data visualization, communication, and problem-solving.
Public Speaking (WNC COM 101)
12th Grade, 1 Semester
A performance-centered course teaching clear and effective speaking, debate, delivery techniques, and confidence in multiple speaking contexts.
Electives & Fine Arts
Health
9th Grade, 1 Semester
Covers mental, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual health. Students learn decision-making, responsible choices, healthy habits, and maturity regarding sensitive topics.
Home Economics
10th–12th Grade
Covers textiles and clothing, food and nutrition, health and wellness, family and child development, and household organization and management.
Intro to Art
9th–12th Grade
Teaches drawing, painting, 2D design, visual language principles, and art history fundamentals through hands-on creative projects.
Psychology
10th–12th Grade
Introduction to psychology including human development, consciousness, perception, learning, memory, personality, motivation, emotion, stress, abnormal psychology, and treatment methods.
Performance/Theater A
9th–12th Grade
Confidence-building course exploring improvisation, acting, historical/cultural significance of theater, and backstage skills including set design, props, costumes, audio, and lighting. Includes participation in productions such as the Spring musical.
Worship Leadership
9th–12th Grade
Students develop musical and leadership skills to plan and lead weekly chapel worship and other events. Requires intermediate skill in vocals, instruments, or tech.
Yearbook
9th–12th Grade
Students learn photojournalism and graphic design while working collaboratively to document school events and publish the yearbook.
Photography
9th–12th Grade
Students learn manual camera operation, composition, lighting, perspective, and storytelling. Includes indoor/outdoor projects and development of a diverse portfolio.
Filmmaking
9th–12th Grade
Teaches storytelling, pre-production, filming, post-production, scripting, casting, lighting, location sound, camera operation, editing, and audio mixing. Students produce short films and occasionally create marketing videos for LHS.
Social Science
Geography
9th Grade, 1 Semester
Helps students learn where places are in the world so they can identify locations mentioned in class or on the news. Students study culture, famous landmarks, and the economy of each region covered.
GPA Scale: 4
World History
10th Grade
Covers global events from the Renaissance to modern times. Students analyze the political, social, cultural, and economic development of nations. Includes reading primary sources, writing about historical themes, and developing critical thinking and perspective-taking skills.
GPA Scale: 4
U.S. History
11th Grade
Examines U.S. history from the colonial era to its rise as a world superpower. Highlights the role of Christianity in the nation’s development. Students explore key events, cultural shifts, and defining moments in American history.
GPA Scale: 4
Government & Economics
12th Grade
Government (1 semester): Covers political foundations, structures, processes, and institutions at the federal, state, and local level. Students explore constitutional principles, rights and responsibilities of citizenship, policy-making, elections, political parties, and comparative government.
Economics (1 semester): Focuses on financial literacy and both micro- and macro-economics. Topics include supply and demand, business forms, labor unions, government finance, inflation/deflation, banking, loans, mortgages, interest, retirement planning, and the stock market.
GPA Scale: 4