This class uses a Judeo-Christian biblical lens to provide a comprehensive overview of the dominant worldviews that have influenced Western Civilization. Students will examine the inevitable conflicts that arise when these worldviews intersect in the arena of ideas, as well as the natural and predictable impacts each worldview has on individuals and society.
Specifically, the course will focus on how the tenets of the Christian worldview compare with five major competing worldviews of our time: Islam, Secularism, Marxism, New Spirituality, and Postmodernism. Students will explore how these six worldviews relate to everyday life, covering various subjects such as theology, philosophy, ethics, biology, psychology, sociology, law, politics, economics, and history.
Students must successfully complete this class in their junior or senior year to participate in the KEYS graduation ceremony (See Policies at KEYS, Graduation requirements for more details).
The following textbooks and supplies are to be purchased by parents.
Under Class Details, see Class Attachment for a picture of the textbook and workbook.
Textbook:
Understanding the Times: A Survey of Competing Worldviews
(1st edition, 2015 or 2nd edition, 2016)
Summit Ministries (summit.org)
ISBN 13: 9781434709585
The 2016 edition contains minor updates.
Workbook:
Understanding the Times Student Manual (5th edition, 2020)
Summit Ministries (summit.org)
ISBN 13: 9780936163215
A Bible
(A) Students must have completed a KEYS upper-level high school English course (HS English II, American Literature & Composition, or British Literature & Composition) or successfully complete the pre-registration evaluation for High School Worldviews before registering for the course. (B) Because this course includes mature content, students must be at least 16 years old at the start of the academic year.
Parents are responsible for purchasing all textbooks and supplies before the first day of class.
KEYS will invoice supply fees at the time of registration and class selection. This fee covers materials, lab supplies, and other expenses incurred by the teacher. It is a one-time fee, transferable until August, but non-refundable.
Please note the grade level for this class. Students younger than the recommended grade levels need special permission before signing up for the class. Please contact the office for more information.
What happens if a class is full? You may email administration@keysofva.org to be waitlisted.
