Junior High School

Electives

Junior High Electives

At Campbell Christian Schools, learning extends well beyond the core subjects. Our Junior High electives program empowers students to explore their interests, discover new talents, and develop lifelong skills—all within a Christ-centered community that values creativity, innovation, and leadership.

Through a wide variety of elective offerings, students are encouraged to follow their passions, whether in art, science, technology, music, languages, or service. By engaging in hands-on projects, teamwork, and personal reflection, they learn that education is about developing the gifts God has given them to serve others and make a positive impact in the world.

Announcement graphic for Campbell Christian Schools Summer 2026 programs.

A Well-Rounded Education Rooted in Purpose

Junior High at Campbell Christian Schools (grades 6–8) is designed to prepare students academically, spiritually, and socially for high school and beyond. Elective courses play a key role in that experience, offering choice, independence, and exploration alongside traditional subjects.

Students can select from semester-long or year-long electives designed to fit a variety of interests—from coding and robotics to fine arts, fitness, world languages, and service learning. Most electives meet two to three times per week, allowing students to balance their schedules while pursuing what excites them most. All electives are taught by dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields and passionate about mentoring young learners to grow in both skill and character.

Visual and Performing Arts

Creativity comes alive in our vibrant arts programs. These electives encourage students to express themselves, appreciate beauty, and create works that reflect both imagination and discipline.

3D Sculpture Art Studio (Mrs. Jose)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1 & 2

Get ready to bring your ideas to life—literally! In this hands-on 3D Art elective, students will explore the exciting world of three-dimensional design using a variety of materials such as paper, wire, cardboard, papier-mâché, clay, and more. You’ll learn sculpting techniques, basic construction methods, and the principles of form, texture, and space. This class is all about creativity, experimentation, and making art you can touch. Emphasis is placed upon the student’s ability to conceive three-dimensional forms and execute them skillfully in space.  This elective has a maximum of 10 students.

Sketching & Altered Books (Mrs. Jose)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1

Sharpen your pencils and your creativity in this focused sketching elective! Students will explore the fundamentals of drawing through a variety of techniques, including shading, perspective, contour, gesture, and more. Using pencils, charcoal, ink, and mixed media, you’ll build skills in observation and expression while learning to draw from life, photos, and your imagination. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your skills, this class is a great place to develop your artistic voice one sketch at a time.

Altered Books (Mrs. Jose)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 2

Turn old books into bold works of art! In this creative elective, students will transform recycled books into unique, mixed-media masterpieces. Using techniques like collage, painting, cutting, folding, stamping, and layering, you’ll learn how to repurpose pages into personal visual journals and sculptural art pieces. This course encourages self-expression, experimentation, and thinking outside the book—literally! No prior art experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to explore.

Lego® Movie Making (Ms. Ohashi)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Semester 1

Do you want to learn how to make short films using Legos to spark creativity and imagination, while having fun and learning?  The course is designed to be a cross-curricular activity covering literacy, art, design, and technology.  Students will create short films using Lego bricks to create sets and use minifigures as actors!  We will explore filming using a wide range of apps to add special effects and bring stories to life.

Blue Band (Mrs. Im)

0 Period (7:30-8:10am)

M/TH/F, 6th-8th Grade, Year-long

This year-long elective is offered to students who have received beginning instruction on a band instrument and have obtained approval from the director. The class will meet one to two times per week during the first half of the semester (sectional/full band practice), then one to three times per week during concert seasons (full band practice). Blue Band will explore a variety of genres, including Classical, Jazz, Pop, and Film/Game music.

The Blue Band will perform at several events throughout the school year—such as the San Jose Giants game, local festivities, and pep rallies—in addition to the Winter and Spring Concerts. Students must supply their own instruments.  All music will be provided.  Students in Blue Band may also select additional afternoon electives.

Red Band (Mrs. Im)

M/W/F, 5th-8th Grade, Year-long

This year-long elective will meet once a week during the first half of the semester, and one to three times per week during concert seasons.  Students will learn to play their choice of flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or percussion/bell set. No experience necessary. If you are taking private lessons on another instrument (violin, cello, oboe, etc.), you are more than welcome to join the band with that instrument. (If you are at an advanced level on your instrument, you may be eligible to join Blue Band as well). Red Band will perform in both the Winter and Spring Concerts, as well as in chapel previews. 

Students must supply their own instruments.  Please contact Mrs. Im before obtaining an instrument.  All music will be provided.  Junior High students in Red Band will choose to join Answers for Today, Embroidery (Fall only), Lego Movie Making (Fall only), Puzzles & Games, or Study Hall on days when they are not participating in the band. 

Show Choir & Production (Mrs. Im)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Year-long

This yearlong elective will meet twice a week throughout the school year. Students will have the opportunity to participate in either (or both) the performance and production sides of musical entertainment. Show Choir performers will learn to sing in a choir using melody and harmony, explore music theory related to their repertoire, and learn choreographed movements to enhance their performances. No prior vocal or dance experience is necessary.

Production team members will engage in hands-on, project-based learning to support the creative and technical aspects of performances. This includes set and stage design, prop making, film and video production (such as music videos and short features), and program creation. The Show Choir & Production team will participate in both the Winter and Spring Concerts, pep rallies, and local festivities as scheduled. They will also receive an introduction to songwriting and content development for video.

Technology and Innovation

Technology electives at CCS equip students with future-ready skills in coding, robotics, and digital arts—all within a safe, encouraging environment that connects innovation to integrity.

App & Game Development (Ms. Ohashi )

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Semester 1

In this semester-long elective, students will get hands-on experience in the process of making a website using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Students will also learn additional terms like the front end or back end of a website, HTTP, ISP, IP, domain, etc. Students will also learn how to write an algorithm and make their own functional games using JavaScript from Scratch.

Machines & Robotics (Ms. Ohashi)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Semester 2

Prerequisite: App & Game Development.  In this semester-long elective, students will build on lessons from App & Game Development to learn Swift coding, 3D printing, and how to build real-time 3D projects across various platforms like games, animations, and more using Unity.  Students will also build robots using Arduino microcontrollers. This elective has a maximum of 12 students. 

Video Production (Mr. Negrette)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1

This elective will guide students through the basics of filmmaking and video production. We will expand your ideas, map out your storyboard, and have fun capturing vision to share with your family and friends. We will walk through the steps of taking an idea and seeing it through to the big screen. 

InstaNews (Mrs. Barker & Ms. Bala)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Year-Long

We’re InstaNews – the team behind the Eagle’s Eye! In this year-long course, students will report on various school activities and articles of interest through print journalism, Instagram, Google Classroom, and our Eagle’s Eye bulletin board. Students will be in charge of filming and producing the iconic  “Eagle’s Eye” weekly news program that will be shown in each homeroom.

But wait–there’s more! InstaNews is also responsible for producing CCS’s awesome school yearbook! Students will develop a timeline, gather information, take and compile images, and craft the yearbook’s design.  Through these various projects, students will develop their skills in writing, editing, photography, design (using Canva), publishing, and film. 

Space in this elective is limited. For new InstaNews students, a recommendation letter from a teacher is required. This letter must outline your leadership, time management, independent work, and collaboration skills. For 6th grade students, your recommendation must come from your 5th grade teacher; for new InstaNews students, your recommendation must come from a previous teacher. 

CEO Challenge (Mr. Matheou)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1

CEO Challenge is an engaging, hands-on course where students step into the shoes of entrepreneurs and business leaders.  Through real-world simulations, team projects, and interactive case studies, students will develop essential skills in leadership, problem-solving, and innovation.  This course culminates in a capstone project where students pitch their own business ideas, gaining valuable experience in communication and strategic thinking.

Students engaging in technology, sports, and faith-based activities at Campbell Christian Schools

Science and Wellness

These electives promote curiosity, health, and balance, helping students strengthen both body and mind while deepening their understanding of life sciences.

Bio Lab 1: Anatomy & Dissection (Mrs. Cayton)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1

This semester-long elective is an introduction to how anatomy and physiology are related.  We will begin by learning about the physiology of how organs function in the body, and then every few weeks we will do a dissection to observe a real specimen.  Over the course of the semester, this will equate to 5-6 dissections.  This course can only be taken once and has a minimum of 4 students and a maximum of 8 students each semester.

Bio Lab 2: Anatomy & Dissection (Mrs. Cayton)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 2

Prerequisite: Bio Lab 1. This semester-long elective is a continuation of Bio Lab 1, investigating how anatomy and physiology are related.  We will begin by learning about the connections between different types of organisms as the complexity of their physiology increases.  Students will select a group of organisms to research, present, and help lead the dissection every few weeks.  Over the course of the semester, this will equate to 5-6 dissections. This course can only be taken once and has a minimum of 4 students and a maximum of 8 students each semester.

Calisthenics & Strength Training (Mr. Negrette)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 2

Let’s get stronger together through bodyweight strength training. Calisthenics helps to develop endurance, flexibility, and coordination. Whatever level you are at, you will gain the confidence to grow in your abilities through this elective!

Pilates (Ms. Bala)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1 or 2

Are you wanting to improve your flexibility, strength, and balance?  Pilates is a great opportunity to learn more about low-impact exercises, wellness, and mindfulness.  In this class, students will participate in guided pilates sessions and mindfulness exercises.  By the end of the course, students will be able to create personalized pilates routines that they can incorporate into their daily routine!  Students will need to bring their own yoga mat for this elective. You may only take this elective once during the school year. 

Life Skills for Legends (Mrs. Barker)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1

Welcome to Life Skills for Legends—the class where real-world skills meet real fun! Whether you’re learning how to meal plan, ace a job interview, budget for your dream vacation, or tackle laundry like a pro, this course is packed with hands-on activities, games, challenges, and team projects that make adulting less scary and way more awesome.

Each week dives into something new—from simple skills to managing stress and setting goals. Think of it as a survival guide for life, with a lot of creativity. Expect role-playing, mock bank accounts, DIY projects, survival competitions, and maybe even a few TikTok-style presentations (yes, really!). Why Take This Class? Because being smart in school is great, but being ready for life – that’s legendary.

Nature on Lock(e) (Mrs. Barker)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 2

Explore the natural world through mindful observation and reflective writing in this immersive Nature and Wildlife course. This course blends fieldwork with creative expression to deepen understanding and appreciation of local ecosystems and native species. Students will participate in guided nature walks, wildlife tracking, and habitat exploration while learning fundamental concepts in ecology, species identification, and environmental stewardship. 

A key component of the course is maintaining a nature journal, where students will document their observations, thoughts, sketches, and personal reflections. This journaling practice fosters a deeper connection to the natural world, encourages patience and curiosity, and helps build a long-term observational skillset. Whether you’re a budding naturalist, an aspiring writer/artist, or simply someone who enjoys the outdoors, this course offers a balanced mix of science and storytelling to help you experience—and steward—God’s creation.

Students participating in language and culture electives, exploring Spanish language proficiency and Greek historical influence through interactive learning and cultural study.

Language and Culture

Our world language electives encourage global awareness and communication while integrating faith through culture and Scripture.

Answers for Today (Mr. Negrette)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Semester 1 & 2

You’ve got questions—the Bible has answers! In this semester-long elective, we will dive deep into Scripture for all of the tough questions that students come across today. The Bible will come alive as we examine what God has already spoken to the issues we face in the 21st century. 

Spanish 1A (Mrs. Sayre)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Year-long

In this yearlong elective, students will discover how much Spanish they already know!  Students will learn to read, write, and use basic Spanish phrases.

We will watch blogs of real junior high and high school students in Spanish-speaking countries, and find out some similarities and differences between our lives and theirs.  We will also explore art, music, festivals, & foods from Spanish-speaking countries around the world.  Students will also memorize familiar Bible verses in Spanish.  Audiovisual presentations will be completed each quarter.

Spanish 1B (Mrs. Sayre)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Year-long

Prerequisite: Spanish 1A or Spanish fluency.  In this yearlong elective, students will build on key skills developed in Spanish 1A. Students will sharpen conversation skills, gain reading ability, and increase their understanding of written and audiovisual materials, as we aim to use Spanish in the real world.

Audiovisual presentations will be completed each quarter entirely in Spanish.  We will continue to learn Bible verses in Spanish, as well as explore cultures, histories, celebrations, and foods from Spanish-speaking countries around the world. 

Spanish 2 (Mrs. Sayre)

M/W/F, 7th-8th Grade, Year-long

Prerequisite: Spanish 1B or Spanish fluency.  This yearlong elective is the equivalent of a high school Spanish 1 course.  Students will be shifting their Spanish into high gear, aiming to use the target language closer to 80-90% of the time in class.

Using the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, students will be able to understand and communicate their knowledge of multiple topics within the context of culture.  Advanced audiovisual presentations will be completed each quarter entirely in Spanish. Being able to read and understand the Bible in Spanish will be part of language practice.   Students will be diving deeper into the exploration of Spanish-speaking cultures, histories, festivals, and foods!

Intro to Greek (Mr. Matheou)

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 2

Intro to Greek offers students a foundation of the Greek language and culture, focusing on basic grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills. By the end of the semester, students will be able to read simple Greek passages and appreciate the influence of Greek civilization on modern society.

Creative Writing & Literature

Our Creative Writing & Literature electives encourages imagination, communication, and focused academic growth through creative activities and structured study time.

Students working together on puzzles and strategy games, practicing problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking in a fun classroom setting.

Puzzles & Games (Mr. Matheou)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Semester 1

This semester-long elective is designed to enhance the strategy skills of junior high students in an electronics-free zone! Students will participate in a variety of puzzles, board games, and card games from all over the world. In the end, students will create their own game for their peers and others to enjoy. You may only take this elective once.

Students practicing embroidery stitching techniques in a classroom setting, creating needlework and friendship bracelet designs.

Embroidery (Mrs. Clayton)

M/W/F, 6th-8th Grade, Semester 1

This semester-long elective provides a hands-on way to explore the fun and elegant uses for embroidery stitching. This will include an introduction to one of the common uses for students, which is making friendship bracelets. We will also explore the techniques for needlepoint, cross-stitch, and embroidery.

Beginning with the basic forms, students will build upon these to create more intricate and elaborate designs. Students who previously took this elective can demonstrate their skills by moving on to the next level of technique. This elective will help provide an introduction to the lifelong skill of sewing, and you will learn a fun and easy way to make personalized gifts for all ages.

Announcement graphic for Campbell Christian Schools Summer 2026 programs.

A Well-Rounded Education Rooted in Purpose

Junior High at Campbell Christian Schools (grades 6–8) is designed to prepare students academically, spiritually, and socially for high school and beyond. Elective courses play a key role in that experience, offering choice, independence, and exploration alongside traditional subjects.

Students can select from semester-long or year-long electives designed to fit a variety of interests—from coding and robotics to fine arts, fitness, world languages, and service learning. Most electives meet two to three times per week, allowing students to balance their schedules while pursuing what excites them most. All electives are taught by dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields and passionate about mentoring young learners to grow in both skill and character.

Study Hall and Academic Support

Students needing extra time for assignments or structured study can enroll in Study Hall. This supervised environment allows for focus, organization, and academic support while reinforcing responsibility and time management.

M/W/F6th-8th Grade, Semester 1 & 2

T/TH, 7th-8th Grade, Semester 1 & 2

This elective will be available for students who seek a quiet work environment and additional time to work on their class assignments and study for upcoming tests and quizzes. Students will be graded based on coming to class prepared with all materials, not distracting others, and being on task throughout the class.

Students singing and playing musical instruments together during a school music class or chapel practice.

Opportunities That Build Leadership and Purpose

Junior High at Campbell Christian Schools goes beyond academics—it’s about becoming a well-rounded student grounded in faith and integrity. Through electives, students learn real-world skills, express creativity, and embrace servant leadership.

Whether presenting in Show Choir, programming a robot, translating Scripture in Spanish, or learning about other cultures, every elective reflects the core CCS mission: to educate the mind while shaping the heart.

Families choose CCS because of its balance of academic rigor, spiritual depth, and opportunity. Our Junior High electives program helps students uncover passions, build confidence, and prepare for the future—anchored in faith, guided by curiosity, and strengthened by community.

Explore the Next Step in Your Student’s Journey

Junior High at Campbell Christian Schools equips students with leadership, purpose, and confidence through a wide range of enriching electives. From robotics and show choir to cooking and Spanish, each experience reflects our mission to educate the mind and shape the heart.

Explore Campbell Christian Schools Today

For parents searching for private Christian schools near me or a Christian school near me that can provide a balanced, faith-based education, Campbell Christian Schools offers a unique experience that prepares your child spiritually and academically.

We encourage you to schedule a tour of our beautiful campus and speak with our dedicated staff to learn more about how CCS can nurture your child’s faith and academic growth.

Schedule a tour today to see firsthand why families rank Campbell Christian Schools among the top private Christian schools in San Jose and Campbell.

Address

1075 W Campbell Ave, Campbell, CA 95008

Phone

(408) 370-4900

Office Hours

Monday – Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: Closed