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Great Plains Academy 701 S Bridge St |
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 All of our special days, field trips and programs are listed on the school calendar. Credits - .5 c (1/2 Carnegie Unit) equals 200 minutes per week for 18 weeks. Points are not allotted for attending half a semester (or a quarter) of a class. Course Descriptions
Credits - .5 c (1/2 Carnegie Unit) equals 200 minutes per week for 18 weeks. Points are not allotted for attending half a semester (or a quarter) of a class.
Technology
Computer Applications 2 Semesters, 1 c
Computer Applications is designed to train students in the constructive use of computer technology, to teach safe internet use, and is an introduction to the Microsoft Office Suite. First semester covers the communication intensive applications Word and PowerPoint. Students will learn how to create documents such as letters, reports and résumés, as well as simple web pages in Microsoft Word. Next, students will learn how to plan, create and deliver presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint. Second semester covers the data and reporting intensive applications Excel and Access. Using Microsoft Excel, students will learn how to create, use and edit spreadsheets. They will also gain a beginning understanding of data collection, statistics and finances. Finally, students will learn about databases as used in Microsoft Access. They will learn how to plan, create, edit and maintain databases. There will be at least one group or individual project during each of the four Office applications in addition to the assignments from the textbooks. These projects are intended to add to the students’ overall understanding and fluent use of the Microsoft Office Suite, and also to provide opportunities for learning safe internet use and internet research skills.
Available to students who request it is a Chapter-by-Chapter study guide to prepare a student for the Microsoft Office User Specialist exam (MOUS) for Word, PowerPoint, Excel and/or Access. “Microsoft Office Specialist certification, the premier Microsoft desktop productivity certification, is a globally recognized standard that validates computer desktop skills. The Microsoft Office Specialist program is meeting the demand for "job-ready" people in the global workplace.” (http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/officespecialist/default.mspx)
Exploring Computer Technology 1 Semester, 1 c
This is an elective, single semester course where students are given the opportunity to choose some aspect of computer technology for a guided self directed study through planning and completing at least one
project. The planning of each project is done with the instructor’s guidance, and each project must be approved by the instructor. Part of the students’ grade for the course will be based upon successful completion of the project with checkpoints at intervals of two weeks or shorter. The other part of the students’ grade for the course will be based upon attendance and activity during each class period. Prior to beginning any projects all students must pass a computer competency exam with no less than 90%.
Career Development
Life Skills 2 semesters, 1 c
The primary focus of this class is learning valuable basic life skills and concepts, as well as looking at careers and personal interests and aptitudes in the world of work. Topics covered include personal development and relationship skills, family life and friendships including childcare and development, life skills including basic nutrition, fitness, cooking and sewing, career exploration along with the Caps, Cops and Copes testing program for insight into career aptitudes and interests. Depending on teacher availability, Shop class may be offered and can be taken instead of Life Skills.
Shop 2 semesters, 1 c Offered based on teacher availability, please contact school for more information. English
The five areas of English skills and concepts include: writing, listening, speaking, reading, and viewing. These five areas are developed though out each of the English classes offered, however, specific skills and concepts are stressed during each of the different classes.
Introduction to Literature and Grammar 2 Semesters, 1 c
This course will introduce the student to a variety of literature genres and styles and teach the basic elements of each. This course will cover the basics needed for each of the five areas of English skills. The skill area of reading is given special attention during this course to expand the student’s familiarity with literature and to expose the student to a
variety of writing techniques and styles. Student will also spend time developing the basic mechanical skills needed for exemplary writing.
World Literature and Advanced Grammar 2 Semesters, 1 c
This course will introduce the student to a variety of cultural writing from around the world and teach the student to analyze the works and their messages. A special emphasize on the listening and speaking skills allows students to give speeches, participate in drama, and make presentations during this course. The student will also further their writing abilities by expanding their knowledge of grammar through diagramming and writing.
American Literature and Writing 2 Semesters, 1 c
This survey of American literature develops a higher level of insights, maturity, and thinking through the analysis of American literature from the colonial period to the modern age. The student will also continue to cultivate the five areas of English skills with a special emphasis in the writing area. They will write in a variety of different modes, aims, and styles while practicing the writing process and developing editing skills.
British Literature and Advanced Writing 2 Semesters, 1 c
This survey of British literature will challenge the student’s critical thinking, evaluation, and literary criticism skills. The student will complete their development of the five areas of the English giving special attention to the writing and viewing sections while they participate in projects, debate, and create literature. This course also familiarizes students with the process of research paper writing especially the development and support of a thesis statement.
Fine Arts
Private Music Lessons each semester, .125 c
To receive credit, students are required to take one thirty-minute lesson per week, obtaining a minimum of twelve lessons per semester, and practicing at least 2 ½ hours per week. Students are charged for music lessons if their absences are unexcused.
Reflectors 2 semesters, .5 c
Reflectors is a select vocal ensemble whose members are chosen by audition and invitation. This group tours extensively throughout the state, performing mainly in local churches, and Conference events. Sometimes rehearsals occur outside of regularly scheduled class times and students need to be willing to commit to a travel schedule. Concert dress is required and must be purchased by the student. Reflectors is a year-long course in its objectives and scope, therefore interested students need to make a commitment for the entire year. New participants for 2nd semester may join the ensemble by invitation. Members of Reflectors are automatically members of the school choir.
Pre-Requisite: Choir experience/ Audition
Choir 2 semesters, .5 c
This is an ensemble open for anyone interested in learning to sing in a choral setting. This ensemble performs mainly on campus since travel requirements are not as demanding as those for Reflectors. All students are required to participate in all performances. Concert dress consists in black dress pants, coat and tie, and white dress shirt for boys; black skirt and black or white dress shirt for girls.
Resound 2 semesters, .5 c
Resound is a performing handbell choir that usually tours with Reflectors. All students are required to participate in all performances. Concert dress is required and must be purchased by the student.
Pre-requisite: Ability to read music and rhythm/Audition/Permission by instructor
Handbell Beginner Choir 2 semesters, .5 c
This is an ensemble open to any student interested in learning how to ring handbells. All students are required to participate in all performances. Concert dress consists in black dress pants, coat and tie, and white dress shirt for boys; black skirt and black or white dress shirt for girls.
Drawing & Painting 1 Semester, .5 c
This is an introductory course designed to expose the student to design, color and perspective through the following mediums: pencil and charcoal drawing, watercolor, block printing, and acrylic painting
Ceramics 1 Semester, .5 c This course is designed to introduce students to three-dimensional art through the following methods of developing clay: sculpting and hand building. Students will develop skills in the use of a wide variety of tools, glazes and painting. Mathematics
Business Math 2 semesters, 1 c
This class is designed to give the student real-world applications to mathematics. Topics covered may include balancing a checkbook, purchasing a car, purchasing a home, planning a budget and planning a trip. This course may also cover basic math skills, such as fractions, decimals, and percents. Use of a calculator is required.
Algebra I 2 semesters, 1 c
This class emphasizes the manipulation of algebraic expressions and equation solving. Graphing will be emphasized with the us of a TI 84 graphing calculator. Topics include growth, decay, quadratic
equations, roots and irrational numbers. The course also contains an introduction to Geometry.
Geometry 2 semesters, 1 c
In this course, the student will study the relationships of plane figures with and without measurement through the use4 of two-column, paragraph and coordinate proofs. Topics include circles, triangles, parallelograms, regular polygons and their areas. Applications of geometry and an introduction to trigonometry will be included. Use of calculators is required. Pre-Requisite: Algebra I
Algebra II 2 semesters, 1 c
This course includes a thorough study of the fundamental operations of algebra in the fields of rational and real numbers as well as an introduction to trigonometry and complex numbers. Topics include matrices, functions, roots, radical functions, conics and probability using a TI 84 calculator. Pre-Requisites: Algebra I
Pre-Calculus 1 semester, .5 c
In this course students will build on their solid Algebra II foundation, studying those topics in depth and adding similar topics. Available topics include: graphing, analyzing, combining, dividing, inverting, solving and using properties of functions, including polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. We may also solve systems of equations and inequalities, and use linear programming; perform operations with matrices, find inverse matrices, and determinants; and work more with sequences, series, and probability, including the binomial theorem using a TI 84 calculator. Pre-Requisites: Algebra II with a minimum B-, Geometry with a minimum B-, or teacher’s permission.
Physical Education
Physical Education 2 semesters, .5 c
These classes will combine physical conditioning with team sport skills. It will teach the fundamental skills of team sports and guide the students toward unselfish play and sportsmanship.
Physical Education Waiver: If a student cannot meet the graduation requirements for physical education because of medical reasons, a waiver written by a medical doctor must be submitted each semester and placed in the student’s file before the PE requirement can be waived. Elective or substituted courses will be required from the student in order to meet the graduation requirements for total semester points.
Health 1 semester, .5 c
Students will study the practical applications and personal choices in regards to this divinely inspired quotation, “The greatest cause of human suffering is the lack of knowledge of how the human body works and how to care for it.”
Gymnastics 2 semesters, .5 c
The students will develop gymnastics skills in tumbling, free-exercise, limited apparatus, acro-sports and team pyramids. In addition to gymnastics, the students will also be introduced to the joy of service; witnessing through our programs and clinics.
Basketball 2 semesters, .5 c
The students will learn and develop the fundamental skills needed to play the game of basketball. They will also learn the rules of basketball and how to apply them. In addition to basketball, the students will be introduced to the joy of service; witnessing through our program. Students will learn to value the sport through a Christian perspective.
Girls Volleyball 2 semesters, .5 c
The students will learn and develop the fundamental skills needed to play the game of volleyball. They will also learn the rules of volleyball and how to apply them. In addition to volleyball, the students will be introduced to the joy of service; witnessing through our program. Students will learn to value the sport through a Christian perspective.
Religion
Hebrew History- 4 semesters, 1 c This course emphasizes the books of Genesis and Matthew, Exodus, Psalms, Jeremiah, Micah, Malachi, Joel, Hosea, and Corinthians I and II. The course also includes Seventh-day Adventist Church history.
Bible Doctrines- 4 semesters, 1 c This course focuses on the practical application of Biblical principles to Christian living which are basic to personal development and to success in one’s relationship to the home, the church, and the community. The students will also gain knowledge which will assist in vocation, marriage, money management, and family life choices, thus helping to ensure fulfillment through the dedication and development of one’s talents for effective and meaningful service to God and man. Students will study the 27 fundamental doctrines of the Seventh-day Adventist Church with an emphasis on personal application. They will also share those doctrines in a variety of witnessing formats. Science
Earth Science 2 semesters, 1 c
This course is a broad study of earth and the universe. The instruction emphasizes everyday applications of earth science to man’s existence. Major topics include: earth’s materials, sculpting forces on the earth, history of the earth, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. Labs cover most of the major topics. Labs range from experiments to field trips to creating models.
Biology 2 semesters, 1 c
This course is a study of life and its basic principles and structures from the molecular level to the organism. The various forms of life that will be studied include unicellular organisms through complex organisms. Major topics include: cells, genetics, creation/evolution, classification, microorganisms, viruses, plants, invertebrates, vertebrates, human biology, ecology, and reproduction & development. Labs cover most of the major topics. Labs range from experiments to field trips to creating models. Prerequisite: freshman science.
Chemistry 2 semesters, 1 c
This course is a study of elementary inorganic chemistry. Major topics for this course include: matter, energy, atomic structure, ionic compounds, covalent compounds, chemical equations, changes in matter, gases and condensation, solutions, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, reaction rates, and nuclear chemistry. In addition, students learn to balance chemical equations, perform calculations, understand the mole concept, understand atomic structure and the periodic table, and learn about the bonding processes. Labs cover most of the major topics. Prerequisites: Biology, Algebra I and freshman science
Anatomy/Physiology (elective class) 2 semesters, 1 c
This course involves the study of the human body, the eleven body systems and how they function. The course will begin with an introduction of cell biology and will then take a detailed investigation of the body systems. The dissection of the cat and/or other animals is expected of all students. A detailed examination of these structures adequately prepares the student for further studies in the field of health, nursing and medicine. This class is an elective, and only seniors with a high proficiency in science may take this course. Labs include animal dissection, building the Visible Man model, and tissue observations.
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, enrolled as a senior
Physics 2 semesters, 1 c
Physics is a laboratory class which emphasizes classic Newtonian Laws of Motion, Mass, Energy and Electromagnetism.
Co-Requisite: Algebra II
Social Studies
World History 2 semesters, 1 c
Survey class of World History from pre-history to current times. This class will focus on large trends and patterns throughout history as well as exposing students to new cultures and ideas.
American History 2 semesters, 1 c
This course explores the development of the United States in light of the economic, social, political, and religious forces which have and continue to affect our nation. The study of current events will be an integral part of this course.
American Government 2 semesters, 1 c
This class teaches the basis of American government, systems of government, the Constitution, politics, the judicial system, and current events.
Foreign Language
Spanish I 2 semesters, 1 c
This class provides an introduction to the Spanish language and aspects of Spanish-speaking cultures through a communicative, interactive approach. Emphasis is made on developing skills in speaking, writing, listening and reading comprehension. Course work includes: quizzes, chapter exams, class participation, homework, and a final exam. This course is for non-Spanish speakers only.Native Spanish speakers are encouraged to take Russian or to enroll for Spanish for Native Speakers, which is a self-guided class.
Spanish II 2 semesters, 1 c
This class provides a review and expansion of the conversational practice, grammatical structures, vocabulary, culture and literature studied in previous semesters. Our classroom goals will be to improve upon the four basic foreign language skills: oral comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. This course is designed for non-Spanish speakers only. Native Spanish speakers are encouraged to take Russian or to enroll for Spanish for Native Speakers, which is a self-guided class.
Russian 2 semesters, 1 c
This course is an introduction to basic Russian. The students learn Russian vocabulary and practical p
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Work Study Program
Work Study each semester, .125 c
All GPA students participate in this work program. This grade is calculated into each student’s grade point average (GPA).
Great Plains Academy endeavors to help students in the following ways through this work program:
• To develop a respect for the dignity of labor and pride in a job we ll done.
• To develop good work habits, such as diligence, initiative, hon esty, and resourcefulness.
• To provide personal and occupational information which will enable each student to intelligently consider possible occupa tional choices. For more information, see the Finance Section–
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