Frequently Asked Questions
What is Great Oak Academy?
Great Oak Academy is a science program in the home of Jay and Norma Street. For many years, we’ve shared our passion for exploring God’s creation with other homeschoolers. The fully equipped science lab, woods, gardens, and field trips are now enjoyed by dozens of families. Most classes have between five and ten students.
What is Great Oak Academy’s position on creation and evolution?
We believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God and contains the creation account. Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. We should always be ready to give a gentle, reverent defense of our faith in our discussions with others who may believe differently.
We’re interested. What should we do?
First, go to the web site, www.GreatOakAcademy.com, and look through the course offerings. The New Family Checklist explains how to apply, when the interview occurs, and what to do after a student is accepted into the program.
Which course should my student take with Great Oak Academy this year?
Monthly classes have suggested age ranges, although decisions are made primarily on the readiness of individual students. For weekly classes, it is recommended that students plan to take Biology the same year they take Algebra 1. This is to prepare them to take Chemistry the following year which requires successful completion of Algebra 1. General Science and Physical Science are the two courses that are recommended before Biology, and provide a strong foundation for later science courses.
Can high school credit be earned for taking General Science or Physical Science?
General Science is a middle school level course that prepares a student well for entering high school level courses. With a final grade of at least 85%, a student can earn high school credit for Physical Science. It is an excellent introduction to the concepts that will be developed in Chemistry and Physics.
Are the same classes offered each year?
For our monthly students, we offer three of the following: Science ABCs, Earth Sciences, Botany, Anatomy, or Zoology 1, 2, or 3. General Science and Physical Science are routinely offered every year. Biology, Chemistry, Conceptual Physics, etc. are offered as needed by currently enrolled students.
My student really loves science already. Can you challenge this kind of student even more?
Yes, of course! Students are welcome to take two science classes to learn even more!
Where can we purchase textbooks?
Homeschool Hangout (www.hshangout.com) carries Apologia textbooks and puts them on sale occasionally. Christian Book Distributors (www.christianbook.com) and Rainbow Resource (www.rainbowresource.com) are excellent sources of educational materials as well.
How can I best help my student at home between classes?
Monthly students enjoy "Home Challenges" emailed to the family after class, which lists activities to further explore the concepts covered in class. Points may be earned to trade in for prizes from the science box. For weekly students, parents are to check the assignment sheet in the student's notebook after each class, help the student schedule homework wisely, and initial that it is corrected and scored. Parents or grandparents are welcome to attend classes with their student(s) at any time.
About how much time should a student expect to spend on science homework?
Monthly students are encouraged, but not required, to do homework. It is up to the parents to determine which “Home Challenges” the student does each month. Weekly students probably spend about 30-60 minutes on homework daily. Students may schedule times at Great Oak Academy to study with others, or work on projects.
Do students test with you in class?
Testing is usually done at home. Students bring home each test in a sealed envelope with the due date written on it. These are proctored by a parent, and the student returns it to the teacher to be graded. Testing may also be done during class at the teacher’s discretion.
Norma, are you the only teacher?
We have been blessed by the addition of another science teacher with a degree in medicinal chemistry. We also have a math teacher now. Many students take their science and math classes on the same day. If students are here for an extended period of time, they may bring a snack or lunch if they'd like. Occasionally, we invite guest speakers to present topics of special interest.
Who goes on field trips?
Most of our field trips are local, inexpensive, and open to all Great Oak Academy families regardless of the classes in which they are enrolled. Students are welcome to participate in our field trips, but they are not required. Extended family members such as grandparents may join us as well.