RIDGEFIELD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
MATHEMATICS
FUNDAMENTALS OF MATH (7)
This course covers concepts such as whole numbers, decimals, number theory, fractions, and an introduction to algebra and geometry.
PRE-ALGEBRA (7, 8)
This course focuses on the study of integers, order of operations, variables, expressions, and equations. Students will solve and graph equations and inequalities, write and solve proportions, and explore geometry, statistics and graph concepts. Problem solving will be incorporated throughout the course. Bible verses and biblical applications of mathematics are interwoven throughout.
ALGEBRA I (8, 9) CREDIT: 1.0
A high school level course that focuses on the study of variables to represent unknown quantities and then solving for those unknown quantities by writing equations and inequalities. Topics include a review of order of operations with integers, solving equations, and simplifying expressions. Students will work extensively on solving and graphing linear and quadratic equations and inequalities. Additional topics will include rules of exponents, factors, and polynomial fractions, the Cartesian coordinate plane, radicals, and the quadratic formula. Students will learn to read, analyze and solve real-life applications with a Biblical viewpoint. RCS students take Algebra I in either the 8th 0r 9th grade . Since it is a high school level course, the grade will go on the student’s final high school transcript, and the grade will be in the final GPA at graduation.
GEOMETRY (9, 10) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Geometry is another step in the overall educational process. It enhances the students’ abilities to work practical problems. It also develops thinking processes that are essential in future math classes and in everyday life. This geometry course deals primarily with Euclidean geometry. You should expect the students to show all of their work and explain orally how a problem is solved. Topics to be covered in this course are ranging from basic geometry principles (i.e. sets, subsets of lines, planes and space) evolving into segments and angle measurements, to triangles, polygon, and circle measurements and finally to how these can be used in connecting to real life.
ALGEBRA II (10-11) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry
Algebra II is designed to reinforce the foundational algebraic concepts learned in Algebra I while preparing the student for higher-level courses by expanding known concepts and introducing new topics. Some of the new concepts include matrices, complex numbers, polynomial functions of higher degree, the relationship between rational exponents and radicals and logarithmic functions. Four methods for solving quadratic equations (factoring, taking roots, completing the square, and the quadratic formula) will be introduced.
PRECALCULUS (11-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
Precalculus extends previously learned material to a deeper level and develops many new concepts. For instance, to find the inverse of a matrix, to measure how well a straight line fits plotted data, to apply math inductions to sequences, and to find the instantaneous rate of change of one variable with respect to another. The student is introduced to basic trigonometry including radian measure, reference angles, trig ratios and solving triangles. Concepts of polynomials are reviewed before the introduction of different types of functions, operations with functions, and culminating with composition of functions. Most equations are conditional in that they have solutions at selected values of the variable. Students find these selected values to solve polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric equations. Students will also realize some equations have no solutions and are called inconsistent.
AP CALCULUS (12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisite: PreCalculus
AP Calculus AB is roughly equivalent to a first semester college calculus course devoted to topics in differential and integral calculus. In differential calculus, students will find limits of functions and instantaneous rates of change. In integral calculus, students will use definite integrals to find the area under the curve of a function's graph or the area between the curves of two function's graphs. Students will learn calculus concepts and problem-solving graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.
QUANTITATIVE LITERACY (11-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry
This course builds on Algebra I to explore mathematical topics and relationships. Emphasis will be placed on applying modeling as the process of choosing and using appropriate mathematics and statistics to analyze, to better understand, and to improve mathematical understanding in real world situations. Students will represent and process their reasoning and conclusions numerically, graphically, symbolically, and verbally. Quantitative Literacy will help students develop conceptual understanding by supporting them in making connections between concepts and applying previously learned material to new contexts. Students will be expected to use technology, including graphing calculators, computers, or data gathering tools throughout the course.
MATH LAB (7-12) CREDIT: 1.0 FOR 9-12 STUDENTS
This class is an elective designed for individualized practice of math concepts using the Accelerated Math software. Personalized assignments are generated based on teacher input and student performance from the Star math assessment. Accelerated Math supports differentiated practice so students can get help where they need it most. Students are responsible for working toward individual goals and objectives with guidance from the teacher.
SCIENCE
LIFE SCIENCE (7)
Students study general concepts for science including scientific methods, life sciences, body and reproductive science, and physical science.
EARTH SCIENCE (8)
Students study general science concepts including the nature of science, life science, physical science, earth and space science.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE (9) CREDIT: 1.0
Physical Science is a required 9th grade course that focuses on the two physical sciences of Chemistry and Physics. Topics covered are introduced to science, matter, states of matter, atoms, the periodic table, the structure of matter, chemical reactions, solutions, acid & bases, motion, forces, work and energy, heat & temperature, waves, sound & light, electricity, and magnetism.
BIOLOGY (10) CREDIT: 1.0
Biology is the science of life and living things. Topics by chapter taught are the science of life, cell structure & function, homeostasis and cell transport, photosynthesis, fundamental of genetics, bacteria, viruses, protists, fungi, the importance of plants, plant structure & function, introduction to animals, worms, mollusks, arthropods, and insects.
CHEMISTRY (11-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology
Chemistry is a physical science in which we cover chapters in matter and change, measurements & calculations, atoms, arrangements of electrons in atoms, the periodic law, chemical bonding, chemical formulas & compounds, chemical equations & reactions, stoichiometry, states of matter, ions, acids & bases, and oxidation-reduction reactions.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY (11-12) CREDIT: 1.0
This class covers the basics of human anatomy and physiology including anatomical terminology, basic biochemistry, cells and tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CHEMISTRY CREDIT 1.0
Prerequisites: An “A” in Chemistry
The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. For some students, this course enables them to undertake, in their first year, second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. AP Chemistry should meet the objectives of a good college general chemistry course. Students in such a course should attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course should contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. The college course in general chemistry differs qualitatively from the usual first secondary school course in chemistry with respect to the kind of textbook used, the topics covered, the emphasis on chemical calculations and the mathematical formulation of principles, and the kind of laboratory work done by students. Quantitative differences appear in the number of topics treated, the time spent on the course by students, and the nature and the variety of experiments done in the laboratory.
SOCIAL SCIENCES
WORLD HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY(7)
This is a required course for 7th grade students. History of the World leads students on a journey through time from Creation to the late twentieth century. The Christian perspective is the thread that connects the past to the present in this narrative of world history, teaching students to recognize the hand of God in human events.
AMERICAN HISTORY (8)
This is a required course for 8th grade students. Land I Love presents the history of the United States from a conservative, Christian perspective as part of a well-rounded program to give students a deeper understanding of our nation’s history. The goal of the text is three-fold: (1) to show God’s hand in the history of the United States. (2) to emphasize the role of individuals in history, and (3) to teach the many lessons that can be learned from history. Above all, Land I Love emphasizes the providence of God in America’s rise to greatness. The last nine weeks is devoted to teaching Arkansas History.
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT (9) CREDIT: 0.5
American Government is a graduation requirement offered as a one semester course in 9th grade. American Government is written from the conservative, Christian perspective. Basic to this perspective is the conviction that God is the Creator of the universe and that He founded and ordained government. This class emphasizes the important concepts and ideas in American Government as well as people and events. This class also emphasizes the responsibilities that come with our rights as American citizens.
ECONOMICS (9) CREDIT: 0.5
Economics is a required one semester course for those in the 9th grade. Topics covered are Everybody’s Economics, Economists & Economic Laws, The Factors or Production, The Laws of Supply & Demand, The Productive Market Economy, The Good that Competition Does, Efficiency of Production, What Money is Good For and Government & the Economy.
WORLD HISTORY (10) CREDIT: 1.0
World History is a graduation requirement offered in the 10th grade. Because the focal point of history is the birth of Christ, this class takes the view that all history is either pointing toward the birth of Christ or looking back at it. This class helps students see the sovereign hand of God in history, as well as the consequences of man’s choices. World History and Cultures emphasizes the important concepts and ideas in history as well as people and events.
AMERICAN HISTORY (11) CREDIT: 1.0
American History is a graduation requirement offered in the 11th grade. The text, United States History-Heritage of Freedom, is written from the Christian perspective. Basic to this perspective is the conviction that God is the creator of the universe and the Controller of history. The Christian perspective is the key to a proper understanding of history for it enables the students to see God’s purpose and plan in human events. This class helps students see the blessings of righteousness as well as the consequences of sin, making history class an ideal opportunity for character-training. Heritage of Freedom emphasizes the important concepts and ideas in history as well as people and events.
A.P. UNITED STATES HISTORY (12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: An “A” in the previous year’s English and History class.
This course is for students in focuses on developing students’ understanding of American history from approximately 1491 to the present. The course has students investigate the content of U.S. history for significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in nine historical periods, and develop and use the same thinking skills and methods employed by historians when they study the past. The course also provides seven themes (American and national identity; migration and settlement; politics and power; work, exchange, and technology; America in the world; geography and the environment; and culture and society) that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places. The course ends with the AP exam, through which students have the possibility of earning college credit. Summer reading is a requirement.
PSYCHOLOGY (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Psychology is a high school social studies elective course that introduces students to the science of behavior and mental processes. It includes an overview of the history of psychology as well as an opportunity to study individual and social psychology and how the knowledge and methods of psychologists are applied to the solution of human problems. The content of this course includes human development; biological bases of behavior; sensation and perception; learning, memory, and cognition; behavior patterns; motivation and emotion; adjustments to social environments; and psychological disorders and their treatments.
FINANCIAL LITERACY (10-12) CREDIT: 0.5
This state mandated personal financial literacy course is designed to alert, inform, and educate students in concepts of personal finance and money management. ... Five broad topics will be the foundation of the course: college and career planning, money management, savings and investing, income, and spending.
POLITICAL SCIENCE (10-12) CREDIT: 0.5
This course is an introduction to questions of ethics and politics. Topics to be discussed may include justice, the nature of the good, different conceptions of happiness, virtue, ethical theory, moral relativism, feminist ethics, liberty, equality, and the foundation of rights, as well as particular applied topics in moral and political philosophy (such as economic justice and the ethics of war).
ENGLISH AND COMMUNICATIONS
ENGLISH 7
This course concentrates on grammar, writing, literature, and vocabulary. The study of grammar includes a detailed look at all parts of speech and varied functions in sentences pertaining to usage. Literature will consist of many genres, including fiction and poetry. Elements of literature will be observed and studied in detail, and students will begin to develop skills for formal composition through the use of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. They will form strategies for writing, from planning, drafting, revising, and editing their work.
ENGLISH 8
This course concentrates on grammar, writing, literature, and vocabulary. The study of grammar includes a detailed look at all parts of speech and varied functions in sentences pertaining to usage. Literature will consist of many genres, including fiction and poetry. Elements of literature will be observed and studied in detail, and students will begin to develop skills for formal composition through the use of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. They will form strategies for writing, from planning, drafting, revising, and editing their work.
ENGLISH 9 CREDIT: 1.0
This course concentrates on grammar, writing, literature, and vocabulary. The study of grammar includes a detailed look at all parts of speech and varied functions in sentences pertaining to usage. Literature will consist of many genres, including fiction and poetry. Elements of literature will be observed and studied in detail, and students will begin to develop skills for formal composition through the use of the Institute for Excellence in Writing. The students will concentrate on narrative, expository, and persuasive writing, striving for logical and grammatical consistency.
WORLD LITERATURE (10) CREDIT: 1.0
This is a secondary literature course suitable for students in grades 10-12. The course is broken between two semesters and offers students a wide survey of literature from many different cultures and time periods. The first semester concentrates on classic works, illustrating the foundation of Western culture and thought. The second semester surveys the contemporary world, studying works primarily written during the 20th century. This course emphasizes traditional literary study but is also a concentration on research, writing, and critical thinking. Students will continue to develop composition skills through expository, persuasive, and research oriented writing.
AMERICAN LITERATURE (11,12) CREDIT: 1.0
This is a secondary literature course suitable for students in grades 11-12. A survey of American literature from the period of exploration and settlement to the present. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural contexts. Texts will be selected from among a diverse group of authors for what they
reflect and reveal about the evolving American experience and character. The texts studied in the course include standard fiction and poetry, as well as primary sources such as government documents, personal narratives, other forms of nonfiction. This course emphasizes traditional literary study but is also a concentration on research, writing, and critical thinking. Students will continue to develop composition skills through expository, persuasive, and research oriented writing.
BRITISH LITERATURE (11,12) CREDIT: 1.0
This is a secondary literature course suitable for students in grades 11-12. This course is a chronological study of British letters beginning with early Anglo-Saxon texts and ending with contemporary works of the 21st century. The course follows major literary and artistic trends, as well as political events, as students study works related to colonialism, the British Civil War, and the slave trade. The texts studied in the course include standard fiction and poetry, as well as primary sources such as government documents, personal narratives, other forms of nonfiction. This course emphasizes traditional literary study but is also a concentration on research, writing, and critical thinking. Students will continue to develop composition skills through expository, persuasive, and research oriented writing.
A.P. LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION (11,12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: An “A” in 10th/11th grade English
This course is an Advanced Placement course, alternating between AP Literature and AP Language each year. AP English Language and Composition is an introductory college-level composition course. Students cultivate their understanding of writing and rhetorical arguments through reading, analyzing, and writing texts as they explore topics like rhetorical situation, claims and evidence, reasoning and organization, and style. The course ends with the AP exam, through which students have the possibility of earning college credit. The AP exam is required for students to earn weighted credit. Summer reading is a requirement.
A.P. LITERATURE AND COLLEGE COMPOSITION (11,12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: An “A” in 10th/11th grade English
This course is an Advanced Placement course, alternating between AP Literature and AP Language each year. The course follows those frameworks and is geared toward improving student writing, communication, and critical thinking. The course is devoted to the reading of important texts including classic and contemporary works. Students spend time reading such works and writing both expository essays and research papers dealing with the works and the cultures to which they belong. The course ends with the AP exam, through which students have the possibility of earning college credit. The AP exam is required for students to earn weighted credit. Summer reading is a requirement.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Oral Communications (Speech) is a high school level course designed to give students the opportunity to gain lifelong confidence speaking in front of others. Students prepare and present various types of speeches to develop interpersonal communication skills and poise. Students will also acquire better listening skills, increase their vocabularies and grow in research, organizations, and writing skills.
CREATIVE WRITING (10-12) CREDIT: 0.5
Creative Writing is a senior high level, semester long, elective course designed to provide students who have a desire to express themselves through the written word an opportunity to develop their skills. Daily writing, weekly revision projects and collaborative feedback are crucial elements of this course.
FINE ARTS
ART (7-8)
Students may elect to take one semester or two semesters. This course designed to teach students to apply the elements of art and the principles of design. Students are expected to use a variety of media, techniques, processes and tools to create original artwork that demonstrates understanding of aesthetic concerns and complex compositions.
ART I-IV (9-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Art is a two-semester course designed to teach students to apply the elements of art and the principles of design. Students are expected to use a variety of media, techniques, processes and tools to create original artwork that demonstrates understanding of aesthetic concerns and complex compositions.
CHOIR (9-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Choir is a non select chorus for high school students who are interested in developing proper vocal and choral technique. Students develop music sight-reading skills, learn to sing with expression and technical accuracy, learn teamwork and self discipline through musical performance, and develop an understanding of standard music symbols and terminology.
INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE (9-12) CREDIT:
Students become acquainted with the history of the theatre and various significant plays. Areas of technical production such as make up, lighting, costuming, and set design are studied. Class requirements also include limited performance work and a final project demonstrating skills and knowledge applied in this course.
THEATRE (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisites: Introduction to Theatre
Theatre I is a two-semester course in which students learn and demonstrate mastery of theatre academic and performance skills. Theatre II and III are two-semester courses which expand the knowledge and performance base of Theatre I. At the Theatre I level, students will explore theatre fundamentals, analyze and interpret scripts, evaluate artistic work, and use those evaluations to deepen the meaning of their work. In Theatre II and III students will focus on the practical application of skills developed in Theatre I. Students will take on more complex projects and may begin to develop directorial skills. Ultimately, students will make artistic decisions using multiple forms of inspiration, particularly focusing on social, cultural, and historical context.
INTRODUCTION TO ACTING (7-12) CREDIT: 0.5 FOR 9-12 STUDENTS
This course introduces students to some of the fundamental skills and tools required for developing the acting process. They build self-awareness, develop their imagination and concentration, recognize their emotional truth, learn the actor’s vocabulary, and demonstrate the ability to be honest and committed in their acting. In addition, students learn how to behave as a professional actor as they demonstrate the focus and respect necessary in an acting class, on stage, or on set.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
SPANISH 1 (9-12) CREDIT: 1.0
This course includes a variety of activities what will help you gain a basic understanding of the Spanish Language and some of the people who speak it. You can also expect to develop listening, reading, and writing skills in order to communicate in Spanish. Throughout the course you will be introduced to different forms of Hispanic culture, from everyday life to art and literature.
SPANISH 2 (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
This course will allow students to further develop and improve listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Emphasis is placed on comprehension of Spanish, as well as, reading and writing practice in Spanish using a variety of activities incorporating familiar vocabulary and structures.
HEALTH/PHYSICAL EDUCATION
HEALTH (9-12) CREDIT: 0.5
Health and Safety courses should provide content and learning experiences in nutrition, disease prevention, human growth and development, healthy life skills, personal health and safety, community health and promotion, decision-making skills, interpersonal communication skills, and information regarding the use and abuse of medications, alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. The course content should focus on personal health and wellness and the practice of health enhancing behaviors to avoid or reduce health risks.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (9-12) CREDIT: 0.5
Physical Education is concerned with the development of the whole individual. It contributes to the mental, social, and emotional well-being of youth. Physical Education develops physical fitness and motor skills in recreational activities that carry over into adult life. NOTE: Only one full credit will count toward graduation.
OTHER COURSES
KEYBOARDING CREDIT: 0.5 FOR 9-12 STUDENTS
One semester course introducing students to basic keyboarding skills, as well as Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS CREDIT: 0.5 FOR 9-12 STUDENTS
This one semester course offers a introduction to personal computers using Microsoft Windows, Office Suite, and Apple applications. The student will receive hands on experience in MS Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs, Slides, Sheets, and other programs.
YEARBOOK (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
Prerequisite: An application with a writing sample and an interview. This teacher approved course is designed to teach students basic journalistic skills such as layout, editing, copywriting, and photo design and selection. It culminates in the production of the school’s yearbook.
FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
The purpose of this course is to increase student knowledge and ability in skills necessary for everyday living. Topics include personal growth, interpersonal skills, management skills, consumer skills, pathways to career success, relationships, parenting & caregiving skills, nutrition and food choices, clothing & fashion choices, housing, and transportation.
COMPUTER SCIENCE (10-12) CREDIT: 1.0
This course provides foundational understandings of concepts in computer science that are necessary for students to function in an ever-changing technological world. Students begin to explore, apply, and move toward mastery in skills and concepts related to Computational Thinking and Problem Solving; Data and Information; Algorithms and Programs; Computers and Communications; and Community, Global, and Ethical Impacts. Emphasis will be placed in programming/coding.
COLLEGE AND CAREERS (11-12) CREDIT: 1.0
College and Careers addresses the knowledge, skills, and behaviors all students need to be prepared for success in college, career, and life. The focus of the course is the impact of today’s choices on tomorrow’s possibilities. Topics to be addressed include twenty-first century life and career skills; higher order thinking, communication, leadership, and management processes; exploration of personal aptitudes, interests, values, and goals; examining multiple life roles and responsibilities as individuals and family members; planning and building employability skills; transferring school skills to life and work; and managing personal resources.
CONCURRENT COLLEGE COURSES
ENG 1003. COMPOSITION I (FALL)
Study and practice of fundamentals of written communication including principles of grammar, punctuation, spelling, organization, and careful analytical reading.
ENG 1013. COMPOSITION II (SPRING)
Prerequisite, must complete ENG 1003 with grade of C or better for degree.
Continues the practice of ENG 1003, to develop further the skills learned in that course. Based on reading and discussion of various types of writing, the students’ essays will provide practice in different kinds of rhetorical development including research and documentation.
MUS 2503. FINE ARTS MUSIC
An introduction to music for the listener who has had no formal musical training or experience. A study of musical styles and composers and their cultural and historical contexts.
ONLINE COLLEGE COURSES
All course descriptions for online classes offered by Arkansas State University may be found at:
http://www.astate.edu/dotAsset/6fa88e5e-a970-484f-a725-a09313865be9.pdf
Concurrent college courses and online college classes will be offered through Arkansas State University.
Students taking these courses must have an act composite and reading score of 19.
Students must apply with AState and pay an application fee. AState will charge $40 per credit hour plus textbooks.