Classes Offered
Computer Skills 1 Unit
This course will offer an introduction to keyboarding. Students will learn
the most important topics of Microsoft Office 2007. In this course students
will gain hands-on experience in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. An
electronic portfolio will be developed by each student using Macromedia
Dreamweaver, as students showcase their Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
projects by developing a web page. This course will strive to meet the
National Educational Technology Standards (NETS). This is done by
giving hands-on experience while learning practical computer skills. The
standards are met while students take part in online forum discussions
where students do research and discuss issues like peer pressure, chat room
stalkers, and Internet etiquette. The projects of this course, along with the
forum discussions, are done in collaboration with other classes. This
course is required for graduation.
English I 1 Unit
Instruction is given in language structure and usage, paragraph
development, short story, Shakespearean drama, poetry, and the novel.
Public speaking and creative writing skills are also emphasized.
English II 1 Unit
Advanced instruction is given in correct grammar and punctuation usage in
preparation for technical and creative writing. World literature is studied
extensively. Public speaking and creative writing receive detailed
attention.
English III 1 Unit
This course includes an in-depth study of the major periods of American
literature. Students are encouraged to develop self-expression through
composition both of poetry and prose. Students are also encouraged to
develop the ability to analyze and critique literature.
English IV 1 Unit
An advanced course of writing is given covering the areas of analysis,
research, comparison, exposition and persuasion. English literature is
combined with vocabulary and writing in preparing the student for a
working knowledge of English in higher education and the work place.
AP English Literature and Composition 1 Unit
This one-year advanced placement course engages college-bound seniors in
the careful reading and critical analysis of classic and contemporary
American and European literature. Through the active reading of a rigorous
selection of texts, students will deepen their understanding of the ways
writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their
readers. Writing assignments focus on the critical analysis of literature,
including expository, analytical, and argumentative essays. Toward that
end, writing instruction focuses on developing coherence, unity, precision,
structure, and stylistic maturity. This course is designed to prepare students
to take the AP English Literature and Composition exam at the end of the
school year.
Applied English I 1 Unit
Applied English I is designed for freshman students who need to develop
better reading, writing, and organizational skills before merging into our
standard English program. Students will read a variety of material
including drama, short stories, poetry, and novels.
ESL (English as a Second Language)
The ESL course is especially designed for international students who want
to spend time in the United States or American students for whom English
is a second language. The ESL class strives to help these students become
more fluent in English.
Students will also be enrolled in other courses in the regular curriculum.
These may be on an audit or credit basis depending upon skill level and
recommendation of the ESL director.
Conversation, Reading & Composition 1-2 Units
This course focuses on basic conversational skills, practice in speaking,
reading and writing in the English language. Daily life skills vocabulary
and conversational phrases are also emphasized. Students are also
introduced to everyday living, cultural differences, and the general
geography of America. Students will move from this course into regular
English courses as their English skills improve so they can perform
adequately in the regular curriculum as recommended by the ESL director.
Drama “Testify” .5 Units/Semester
Our goal is to create an attractive picture of Christ in the minds and hearts
of our audiences through pantomimes and skits. Our prayer is that we
effectively share Christ’s love and that the audience will see Him from a
new perspective. We want audiences to meet our Friend, Director, and
Acting Partner. “Testify” does not tour widely, but performs on special
weekends at GCA.
Photography .5 Units/Semester
This course provides an introduction to digital photography. Students will be required to rent camera equipment unless they own their own approved equipment.
The music department usually conducts a major tour each year during the
April break. The groups going from year to year will usually rotate
between the major choral and instrumental organizations.
Camerata Singers .5 Units/Semester
Provides opportunities to develop performance skills and knowledge in
ensemble singing. Limited to 16-20 performers and may include any style
period. Covers performance and production, analysis and theoretical
studies, historical and cultural influences, creative aspects of music and
appreciation of music. Stresses balance of individual progress and group
success. Because of the size and the touring involved, members are
required to remain in the group the entire year. Uniform and tour fee are
required. Private voice lessons may be required for those belonging to this
organization. Students must pass an audition to be considered for this
select ensemble. Also a current minimum GPA of 2.7 is required upon
entrance, and must be maintained throughout the school year. Students
must be enrolled in the GCA Chorale.
Concert Band .5 Units/Semester
Selected by audition, this organization provides opportunity for those
interested in improving their skills on wind and percussion instruments to
participate in performances for special occasions here on campus and on
tours throughout the conference. The band serves both as a witnessing and
a public relations organization for GCA. Because of the touring involved,
members are expected to remain in the group for entire semester, and
preferably the entire year. Uniforms are required, and a touring fee may be
required. Private instrumental lessons are encouraged and may be required
for some students.
GCA Chorale/Mixed Chorus .5 Units/Semester
Provides opportunities to develop performance skills and knowledge in
mixed choral singing. Covers performance, production, and basic
conducting. Stresses individual progress and group experiences.
Performances on campus and within the Georgia-Cumberland Conference
are included during the school year.
Private Lessons .25 Units/Semester
Private instruction in keyboard, voice, string, and band instruments is
available to the student desiring to either begin or improve skills on an
instrument or voice. Lesson charges vary based on the instructor.
String Orchestra .5 Units/Semester
Selected by audition, this ensemble provides opportunities to develop
performance skills in string ensemble repertoire. The String Orchestra
serves both as a witnessing and as a public relations organization for GCA.
Several performances and tours are scheduled each year. The group often
goes on tours combined with another group, such as Cantabile Ringers.
Students should plan to be in the group for the entire year, maintain a
cumulative GPA of at least 2.0, and staff off critical academic probation.
Uniforms are required and a touring fee may be required.
Spanish I 1 Unit
This course is the first step to becoming fluent in Spanish. Instruction is
given in speaking, hearing, writing and reading Spanish. Using Spanish in
daily speech is encouraged both in class and out. Class activities are geared
to give students the ability to communicate in Spanish with confidence.
Spanish II 1 Unit
A continuation of Spanish I. Communication skills are improved and
vocabulary and grammar bases are broadened. The class is taught in
Spanish, and students speak mostly Spanish in class.
Prerequisite: Spanish I
Health & Physical Education Courses
Gymnastics .5 Units/Semester
This course is designed for students with a previous background in
gymnastics or students who adapt quickly to the gymnastics program of
skills. The gymnastic team is usually limited for a traveling team of skill
and Christian witnessing. Fee charged for uniform and Acrofest.
Health & Wellness .5 Units
This course includes principles of health and their meaning to the
individual and the community; counsel in the writings of Ellen G. White;
acquaintance with current advances in health knowledge and healthful
living. (Required course for freshman year.)
Physical Education I .5 Units
Physical education is a required course for freshmen. The program consists
of the rules, fundamental skills and participation in team sports and
promotion of physical fitness.
Physical Education II .5 Units/Semester
This is a coeducational class offering training of advanced skill in tennis
and badminton or fitness and weight training.
Driver Education .5 Units
This course consists of 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of
behind-the-wheel instruction. The student must purchase a textbook and a
workbook, plus pay the additional fee as listed in the GCA bulletin.
Every student must obtain financial clearance from the GCA Business Office,
be at least 15 years of age and have a learner’s permit
or license on the first day of class—no exceptions.
History & Social Studies Courses
American Government .5 Units
This course is an introduction to the background, origins, development and
operation of the government of the United States. Following an
introduction to modern political philosophy, the course deals with political
participation and the Constitution. Students explore the three branches of
the Federal Government. A unit on civil liberties emphasizes First
Amendment rights.
Economics .5 Units
As an introduction to the world of economics, this course uses an online
multimedia presentation of economic situations to help the student learn
and understand the importance of financial literacy in everyday life. The
course is designed to prepare the student to be an informed consumer, a
wise investor, and a responsible steward of available resources. Related
areas of study include economic implications of current events and the
increasingly global nature of economic activity.
United States History 1 Unit
A survey course covering pre-colonial times to the present. Deals with
ideas, trends, events and leaders in political, military, social, cultural, and
religious history. Considers the relevance of history to the present and
future. Recognizes the contributions of a wide variety of cultures in the
American experience.
World History 1 Unit
A survey of the past considering the origin and growth of Western
Civilization and its place in the broader world. Special emphasis is placed
on the origin and development of Christianity, and its role in shaping
history.
Algebra I 1 Unit
This course introduces algebraic concepts such as the theory and
application of variables, graphing, linear equations, inequalities, basic
exponent properties, and polynomial operations.
Prerequisite: GCA Placement Test Score
Algebra II 1 Unit
This course is an extension of Algebra I which emphasizes polynomials,
exponent manipulations, matrices, functions, and an introduction to
trigonometry. Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in Algebra I.
Calculus 1 Unit
An advanced placement course designed to help prepare student to take the
AP Calculus exam at the end of the school year. This course covers limits,
derivatives, application of derivatives, integrals, and techniques of
integration. A cash fee is required to apply for the AP exam.
Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Calculus
Consumer Math 1 Unit
This course covers problem-solving strategies in consumer-oriented
situations dealing with budgets, checking and savings accounts, risk
management, debt management, investments, mortgages, income taxes and
deductions.
Geometry 1 Unit
This course covers relationships between figures, figure measurements, and
the classification of figures. Deductive and inductive reasoning are used to
justify properties and theorems.
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in Algebra I
Pre-Calculus 1 Unit
This course is an extension of Algebra II which emphasizes polar graphing,
trigonometric identities, decomposition of fractions, and an introduction to
limits.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I and Algebra II
Math Basics
This course is intended for students who need further preperation for
Algebra I and aims to develop fluency with rational numbers and
proportional relationships. Topics covered include percents, basic
operations, solving equations and inequalities, measurements and data,
probability, and basic geometry.
Prerequisite: GCA Placement Test Score
Religion I (Freshman Bible) 1 Unit
1st Semester (Genesis). 1st Quarter: An introduction to the purpose of the
Bible, the various versions, how it is organized, and how to study it. Also
addresses the origin of all things including creation, God’s purpose for the
Sabbath, and His response to sin. 2nd Quarter: Emphasizes God’s grace for
the human family through Adam, Noah, the Tower of Babel, and Abraham.
Also considers Biblical principles revealed in the stories of Jacob and
Joseph with applications to teen relationships and their families.
2nd Semester (The Life of Christ). 3rd Quarter: An introduction to the
gospel story studying the chosen land, the chosen people, and the early
years of Jesus’ life. Also covers the early ministry and teachings of Jesus
from His baptism through the proclamation of a new kingdom. 4th Quarter:
Deals with the later ministry of Jesus’ life and the mounting rejection by
the Jewish leaders and people. Also studies the ministry of Jesus’ final days
to His betrayal, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection.
Religion II (Sophomore Bible) 1 Unit
1st Semester. 1st Quarter (Old Testament Survey). A general survey of the
history of God’s people from the Exodus through the period between the
Old and New Testaments. 2nd Quarter (Acts). A study of the development
of the early Christian Church according to the New Testament book of
Acts.
2nd Semester. 3rd Quarter (History of Christianity). A sweeping survey of
significant eras, events and individuals within Christianity during the past
two millenniums. 4th Quarter (History of Adventism). An exploration of
the Millerite movement in the early 1800’s through the development and
growth of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to the present time.
Religion III (Junior Bible) 1 Unit
1st Semester. 1st Quarter (Friendships). A sampling of topics includes: Who
am I? Created for Love. The Gift of Friendship. Is This Love? Climbing
the Ladder of Love. The Value of Virtue. How to Bend Without Breaking.
2nd Quarter (Adventist Beliefs). The basic beliefs shared by Seventh-day
Adventists are explored, appraised, and substantiated from a Bible-based
and Christ-centered perspective.
2nd Semester. 3rd quarter (Daniel and Revelation). An introductory study of
the key prophetic books of the Bible which considers the original context of
the writings followed by application to our modern-day world. 4th Quarter
(Choices and Challenges). Focuses on five different dimensions of selfunderstanding
as they relate to a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ.
These dimensions include: spiritual, psychological/emotional, decision
making, educational, and vocational self understanding.
Religion IV (Senior Bible) 1 Unit
1st Semester. 1st Quarter (Life Philosophy and Moral Issues). An
introduction to philosophy and ethics from a Christian perspective. 2nd</p>
Quarter (John). Helps students gain a deeper understanding of the life of
Jesus and builds a more substantial relationship with God.
2nd Semester. 3rd Quarter (Worldviews and Religion). An introduction to
understanding the major world views and religions that surround us. 4th
Quarter (Marriage and Family). Topics include, but are not limited to:
Qualities of a Great Mate. Beating the Odds. Sex: God’s Gift. Money
Management and Career Clashes. Caring Enough to Communicate. Parent
Styles and Discipline. What Makes Families Successful?
Anatomy and Physiology 1 Unit
Anatomy and physiology is a study of the human body and how it
functions. Anatomy focuses on the names and identification of the physical
structures making up the various systems of the body. Physiology is the
study of the chemical and biological processes that explain how the various
parts carry out their functions in maintaining a healthy, well functioning
body. Generally we will do a system-by-system study of the skeletal
system, the integumentary system, the muscular system, the digestive
system, the circulatory system, the endocrine system, the nervous system,
the urinary system, and the reproductive system. In addition to normal
functions, there will be some study of common health problems related to
those systems and how to prevent them.
Biology I 1 Unit
Biology is a laboratory course involving the study of living organisms.
Various areas of field biology (insect collecting, bird watching, flowers,
etc.) will be studied which may stimulate interest for hobbies in the future.
Basic functions of cells, genetics, a survey of the animal kingdom, theories
of evolution and creation, and environmental issues are some of the areas
that will be studied.
Biology II 1 Unit
Biology II is a course designed tofurther student's knowledge base and
skills introduced in Biology I and to study new topics of importanceand
interest. Because knowledge and technology in the life sciences is
constantly increasing in volume and complexity, this course will offer
students the opportunity to be better prepared for educational routes beyond
high school, and should be especially useful for students planning on taking
science courses at the university level. Major content areas will include
Biochemistry and Cellular Biology, Microbiology, Embryology, Plant and
Animal Physiology. Lab experiences are an important component of this
course and are designed to give the student the practical experiences
necessary to be successful when pursuing college level science courses.
Lastly and most importantly, this course is designed to give credit and
glory to our Creator who is our Savior and Friend.
Chemistry 1 Unit
Chemistry is a laboratory course designed for students who plan to enter
medical or other science-related careers. It involves the study of matter, the
way it behaves, and how our lives are affected by the use and misuse of
chemicals. Emphasis will be given to learning chemical names and
formulas; mechanisms of bonding between chemicals; writing, balancing,
and using chemical equations to describe chemical activity; the study of
states of matter, especially the gas laws; and an introduction to organic
chemistry.
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in Algebra I.
Geology/Ecology 1 Unit
First semester: Geology is an examination of the earth, its composition,
and factors that have caused changes in the earth's surface. It will include
discussions of how those changes have affected the earth and the effect on
life as we know it. It will include some paleontology, the study of fossils,
and how their presence can be explained as well as how they are used to
identify the various rock systems that we find in the world. Emphasis will
be givento the Biblical creation model of interpretation of the geologic and
biologic events.
Second Semester: Ecology is a study of the enviromental factors that
affect the quality of life for living organisms. Issues to be considered are
solid waste and its disposal, the handling of toxicand hazardous wastes, air
pollution, population dynamics, global warming, nuclear energy, reducing,
reusing, and recycling of materials, sewage treatement, alternative sources of
energy in the home and in our vehicles, water quality and how we treat it to
make it potable for human consumption, and what we can do individually
and personally to be good stewards of the earth by healthful and aesthetic
practices.
Physical Science 1 Unit
This course is an introduction to the general principles of chemistry and
physics. Some laboratory experience with opportunities for hands-on
activities will be included. The practical applications of scientific thought
and principles are emphasized. Scientific evidences of God’s existence and
power in the natural world are unveiled.
Physics 1 Unit
Physics is a laboratory course involving the study of the interactions of
matter and energy. General topics include laws of motion, application of
forces, simple machines, light, electricity, magnetism, quantum theory and
nuclear physics. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the physical
phenomena that a person encounters in everyday life.
Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in both Algebra II and Geometry.
