Gem State Adventist Academy

Class  Credits 

*Bible- 40
English- 40
*Math- 30
*Science- 30
P.E.- 15
U.S. History- 10
U.S. Government- 10
Humanities- 10
Fine Art- 10
Computer Application- 10
Practical Art- 10
Economics- 5
Speech- 5
Health- 5
Senior Project- 5
Spanish 1- 10
BS Degree Track Total 245

*Spanish 2- 10
BA Degree Track Total 255 

* Bible is required for each year in attendance
at a Seventh-day Adventist school.
*10 math credits are required in the senior year.
* 10 science credits must be from a lab science class.

ART I - 5 CREDITS
Grades 9-12
1 semester
no prerequisite
elective (fine art)

Art I gives students a broad scope of exposure to media and techniques, exploring the visual arts and artists. Emphasis is placed on learning the elements and basics of design and color through drawing and painting creative studio projects. The primary goals are to expand aesthetic awareness, assess and reflect on their own work and others', and develop skills, knowledge, and an appreciation of art as a means of communication and expression.

COMPUTER and life literacy - 10 CREDITS
Grade 9
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

This course introduces computer literacy and various life skills. In addition to learning the essentials and fundamentals of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, & PowerPoint) and G Suite applications (Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, & Gmail), we will explore best practices in academic success. We will also practice typing skills, learn about household management, and how to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle using biblical principles.

PUBLICATIONS - 10 CREDITS
Grades 9-12
2 semesters
no prerequisite, permission of instructor
elective (practical art)

The primary focus of this class is the production of the school yearbook (Syringa). Students will learn skills necessary in the production process including: theme creation, layout, design, computer graphics, journalism, and photography.

World History- 10 CREDITS
Grade 10
2 semesters
no prerequisite
Required

This course examines World History from Early Civilization to the modern era. It explores connections made between peoples and how these connections have driven the course of history. Likewise, it examines key players in history, but also evaluates minority groups and how their lives were affected. It provides general knowledge on the development of nations in all areas, political, economic, social and cultural.

U. S. History- 10 CREDITS
Grade 11
2 semesters
no prerequisite
Required

This course examines U.S. History from Early American history through the late 20^th Century. It explores connections made between peoples and how these connections have driven the course of U.S. history. Likewise, it examines key players in American history, but also evaluates minority groups and how their lives were affected. It provides general knowledge on the United States in all areas – political, economic, social and cultural.

Government- 10 CREDITS
Grade 12
2 semesters
no prerequisite
Required

This course examines the foundations and functions of American Government.  Likewise, it examines key topics and political issues of the past and present. It provides knowledge on rights, civic duty and the role citizens play in government.

Economics- 5 CREDITS
Grade 12
1 semester
no prerequisite
Required

This course examines the concepts of economics, specifically how theories affect supply and demand, and what that means to the overall economy. Students study the personal, community, national, and global effects of economics, while discussing biblical principles about responsible stewardship of one’s assets.  

ENGLISH 9 - 10 CREDITS
Grade 9
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

A language arts course where students primarily read and write about short stories, plays, and poetry to develop a sense of historical context and to acquire knowledge of applications in their own lives. Assignments include investigations of literary styles and devices, creative modeling, and written, auditory, oral, and visual analysis of material. Responsibility, beliefs, values, self-identity, and relationship are major themes of the course.

ENGLISH I0 - 10 CREDITS
Grade 10
2 semesters
prerequisite English 9
required

A language arts course designed to help students increase in their reading and writing abilities. Strong emphasis is placed on writing skills including academic, creative, and poetry. Required reading focuses on world literature. Students learn to connect their reading and writing.

ENGLISH 11 - 10 CREDITS
Grade 11
2 semesters
prerequisite English 10, required

A language arts course where students study American Literature to obtain a greater understanding of the American character, identify recurring themes, and apply them to their own lives. Writing instruction will include expository and argumentative analysis, research, narrative, and descriptive modes of discourse, focusing on effective communications and language skills.

ENGLISH 12 - 10 CREDITS
Grade 12
2 semesters
prerequisite English 11
required

A language arts course presented in a primarily chronological format, using various genres of world literature and focusing on language and literature as reflective of the human experience through the ages. Students will explore the historical and cultural currents and events that have influenced cultural development on a worldwide scale. Writing, research, and composition instruction is an ongoing aspect of the coursework, integrated with the instruction units presented. Students will expand writing abilities in all major forms of discourse.

SENIOR PROJECT - 5 CREDITS
Grade 12
1 Semester
No prerequisite
required

The Senior Project is designed to help students develop or improve a skill or performance; design or create a product, service, system or event; and investigate a career or a passionate interest to better prepare them for service to others, further studies, and/or employment after high school. The final project must demonstrate a students ability to research, write, and interview, work with a mentor, present findings to an audience, and reflect on the experience. Seniors are expected to demonstrate self-directed learning by selecting a topic of genuine interest and managing their time well.

SPEECH - 5 CREDITS
Grade 12
1 semester
no prerequisite
required

Speech is a practical and general course designed for students to improve communication skills, speech proficiency, poise, and self-confidence in public speaking situations. The course is designed to develop better interpersonal communication skills and lead students step-by-step from simple to relatively complex original speaking presentations.

SPANISH I - 10 CREDITS
Grades 11-12
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

This course provides an opportunity to begin to develop proficiency in the four basic skills: Listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Cultural activities are also included in the course content.

SPANISH II - 10 CREDITS
Grades 11-12
2 semesters
prerequisite Spanish I
elective

This course is offered as a supervised online class. Students will complete the course through an online program, with a required supervised period on campus to complete the work.

ALGEBRA I - 10 CREDITS

Grades 9-10
2 semesters
prerequisite placement exam 
required

A beginning Algebra course that covers such topics as polynomial factoring, exponents, roots, sets, graphing, problem solving, and elementary geometry. The course is designed to teach elementary Algebra with an emphasis on problem solving in preparation for Algebra II. Algebra I also offers adequate preparation for a comprehensive Geometry course.

ALGEBRA II - 10 CREDITS

Grades 10-11
2 semesters
prerequisite Algebra I
required (if it is the second year of math)

This is the final course in beginning Algebra. In addition to further study of Algebra I topics, the student will study such topics as matrices, complex numbers, and trigonometry. Upon completion of this course, the student will be fully prepared for a Pre-Calculus course.

PRE-CALCULUS - 10 CREDITS

Grades 11-12
2 semesters
prerequisite Algebra II
elective

This course extends the topics learned in Algebra II. It includes in-depth coverage of such topics as polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric functions and equations, conic sections, series, polar coordinates, and introductory calculus. Graphing calculators are required and used extensively throughout this course. The emphasis is on problem solving and preparation for Calculus.

CALCULUS - 10 CREDITS

Grade 12
2 semesters
prerequisite Pre-Calculus, elective

Advanced Placement Calculus AB is a high school course that teaches the topics of the first semester of college Calculus. Students will study a variety of topics including elementary functions, trigonometry, derivatives and their applications and an introduction to integrals. A College Board certified AP Examination will be given at the appointed time in May. Most colleges give credit for successful scores on the exam. Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be prepared for the second semester of college Calculus.

GEOMETRY - 10 CREDITS

Grades 10-12
2 semesters
prerequisite Algebra I
elective or required if second year of math

This course is a comprehensive study in Euclidean Geometry. Topics include proofs, constructions, logic, trigonometry, triangles, circles, and polyhedra. The goal is to help the student develop an appreciation for the inherent beauty of geometry in our world.

Pre-Algebra - 10 CREDITS

Grade 9
2 semesters
No prerequisite

This course is to serve as a bridge between elementary mathematics and Algebra. This course will
build a foundation of algebraic concepts through the use of technology, manipulatives, and problem
solving. Students will learn to utilize the calculator in solving math problems.

BAND - 10 CREDITS

Grades 9-12
2 semesters
no prerequisite, audition
Elective (fine art)

Band is an instrumental group open to intermediate and advanced students by audition. This group consists of woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Both sacred and secular music suited to the abilities of the members are performed around the Northwest as opportunities arise. Performances include the Christmas and Spring concerts, and area church concerts.

CHOIR - 10 CREDITS

Grades 9-12
2 semesters
No prerequisite, audition, elective (fine art)

Chorale is a group of mixed voices open to all students committed to studying and performing choral music. Both sacred and secular music suited to the abilities of the members are performed around the Northwest as opportunities arise. Performances include Christmas and Spring Concerts, as well as area church concerts.

SOUND RIPPLE - 10 CREDITS

Grades 9-12
2 semesters
no prerequisite
elective

Sound Ripple is a handbell group open to all students. One does not need to be familiar with music in order to join. One does need to be committed and dedicated to the goals and purpose of this group. The Sound Ripple Choir performs locally and occasionally on a tour.

SOUNDWAVE - 10 CREDITS

Grades 9-12
2 semesters
no prerequisite, previous experience and audition
elective (fine art)

Soundwave is a select group open by audition only. Advanced sacred and secular music is performed on a 5-octave set of Malmark English Handbells and three octaves of Malmark Handchimes. Each ringer must be dedicated to continuing the excellent reputation of this group as it performs in area churches, civic groups, and on tours throughout the Northwest and beyond.

BIBLE 9 - 10 CREDITS

Grade 9
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

The first part of this course examines God's relationship with His people as found in the book of Genesis in the Old Testament. Both the historical and theological themes will be studied including: Creation, the antediluvian world, the flood, the call of Abraham, the stories of the patriarchs, and the migration of the Israelites to Egypt. The second part of this course examines the life and teachings of Jesus as found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the New Testament. The course consists of lectures, discussion, group activities and assignments. Bibles are required.

BIBLE 10 - 10 CREDITS

Grade 10
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

Bible 10 examines the history of God's people from the time of Moses until the present day. Special emphasis is put on grace and how one can see it revealed especially in the events of the Old Testament, through the persecution of the early church, and through the time of the dark ages. One will see God's leading in the development of the Adventist church from small beginnings to the world wide movement of today. Bibles are required.

BIBLE 11 - 10 CREDITS

Grade 11
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

This class examines the Biblical basis of Seventh-day Adventist doctrine so each student may give an answer for their hope in Christ, as directed by 1 Peter 3:15. During the first semester we study the prophetic books of Daniel and Revelation, giving a clearer understanding of several unique Seventh-day Adventist beliefs including the Heavenly Sanctuary, the investigative judgment, God's remnant church and their mission, and the second coming of Christ. During the second semester we continue our study by examining the rest of the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist church. We also use this time to study the contrasting beliefs of other denominations, specifically Roman Catholic and Latter-day Saints. The purpose of the class is to give students the information they need to become strong and active members of the Seventh-day Adventist church. Bibles are required.

BIBLE 12 - 10 CREDITS

Grade 12
2 semesters
no prerequisite
required

This course provides the opportunity for seniors to develop a philosophy for practical, adult Christian living as taught in the Word of God. Subjects include: A study of world religions, college and career investigation, personal finances, marriage and family and life philosophy, and moral choices. Class activities include lecture, discussion, research, hands-on projects and simulations. Bibles are required.

Worship Leadership 1 - 10 CREDITS

Grades
2 semesters
no prerequisite
Elective

In this Worship Leadership class, music is the main focus. Students spend the first part of the year learning techniques and tools for music leadership in the context of church. The second part of the year is a practicum for what was learned at the beginning.

Worship Leadership 2 - 10 CREDITS

Grades
2 semesters
no prerequisite
Elective, required for all spiritual leaders (classes and SA)

This Worship Leadership class is designed to help young leaders develop their skills for Sabbath School and vespers leadership. Students also learn to preach in this class.

HEALTH - 5 CREDITS

Grades 9
1 semester
no prerequisite
required

Instruction in health is approached through the concept of wellness. This class is designed to give the students an awareness of all aspects of healthful living (mental, emotional, physical and spiritual), and to enable them to integrate this awareness into everyday life. The curriculum is designed to show that the student is responsible for his/her health. Emphasis is placed to some degree on five dimensions of wellness: stress management, nutritional awareness, physical fitness, personal health and safety, and self-image. Current health issues are discussed regularly.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION I & II - 5/10 CREDITS

Grade 9 - 10
semester/year,
no prerequisite
required

The basic physical education classes are designed to introduce the students to a variety of abilities that can be used throughout their lives. These abilities include physical fitness, team sport skills, and social skills. The students will be able to design and execute their own personalized fitness programs by the completion of class. The students will be introduced to the fundamental skills, rules and team strategies for, (but not limited to), the following sports: flag football, volleyball, basketball, hockey, soccer, and softball. The students will also be introduced to the importance of social skills, including sportsmanship, with application to sports. The importance of being actively involved with some form of physical activity as a lifestyle is strongly emphasized.

Lifetime Activities - 10 CREDITS

Grades
2 semesters
no prerequisite
Elective

In this class students experience a broad range of activities that can be done individually for a lifetime of physical fitness, health, and enjoyment.

EARTH SCIENCE - 10 CREDITS

Grade 9,
2 semesters,
No prerequisite,
REQUIRED

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:
geology, which is earth’s materials, its sculpting forces, and its history; oceanography; meteorology (weather); and astronomy, the study of space and its celestial bodies. This class includes: fun experiments, hands-on activities and field trips.

BIOLOGY I - 10 CREDITS

Grade 10,
2 semesters,
Prerequisite 9th grade Science,
REQUIRED

This course is a study of life and its basic principles and structures from the molecular level to the organism. Major topics include: chemistry, cells, cellular processes, genetics, ecology, creation/evolution, classification, and human biology. Labs range from experiments to field work to creating models.

BIOLOGY II - 10 CREDITS

Grades 11 or 12,
2 semesters,
Prerequisite Biology I
ELECTIVE,
(offered on alternate even ending years, ex: 2021-22)

This course is a study of life and its organisms. The various forms of life that will be studied include unicellular organisms through complex organisms. Major topics include: plants, viruses, bacteria, protozoans, fungi, and invertebrate animals as well as their reproduction & development. Labs cover most of the major topics. Labs range from experiments to field work to creating models. A journal of biological examples will be kept by each student. This class is an elective course. Several field trips are included in this class.

CHEMISTRY - 10 CREDITS

Grade 11,
2 semesters,
Prerequisite 9TH GRADE and 10TH GRADE Science & Algebra I
ELECTIVE

This course is a study of elementary chemistry. Major topics of this course
include: Matter, energy, atomic structure, ionic compounds, covalent compounds,
chemical equations, changes in matter, gas laws, solutions, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, reaction rates, and nuclear chemistry. In addition, students will get a strong understanding of the periodic table and how to use it. Labs are used to enhance concepts in Chemistry.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY - 10 CREDITS

Grades 11 & 12,
2 semesters,
Prerequisite 2 years Science, Chemistry helpful 
ELECTIVE

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 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. Labs include animal dissection, hands-on materials, and tissue observations. This class is elective and only juniors/seniors with a high proficiency in science may take this course. Teacher's permission is required to take this class.