This course is taken by all students in grades 9-10. Each year the content of these Bible courses will vary so that throughout a student’s freshman and sophomore year they will acquire a basic study of Biblical principles, doctrine, and application of Scripture to their lives. Different Bible modules will be used.
English 9:
In this course, students will concentrate on skill-building in composition, literary analysis, vocabulary development, and study habits. All four literary genres (novel, play, poetry, and short story) are introduced and examined. In writing, students will concentrate on organization, ideas and content, voice, sentence structure, word choice, and writing conventions. They will gradually progress to writing text-based, APA and MLA-style, five-paragraph essays. Study English essentials: parts of Speech, sentence variety, and mechanics. Vocabulary is drawn from the literature read in class in order to sharpen both reading and writing skills. Students have quarterly readings and poetry recitations; they are expected to write one research paper with documentation in the APA and MLA format. Prerequisite: Completion of 8th grade English.
English 9 Honors:
The course consists of literature, writing, grammar, and vocabulary, emphasizing literature and writing. Students will review the fundamentals of writing and then focus mainly on content in various writing styles and adhere to the APA and MLA format. Critical writing and critical thinking skills are developed through an intensive examination of the genres of literature: short story, novella, novel, drama, poetry, and epic. Vocabulary is drawn from the literature and will be incorporated into the students’ written work and personal vocabulary. Students have quarterly readings and poetry recitations, and they are expected to write one research paper with documentation in the APA and MLA format. Prerequisite: “B+” average in 8th grade English and /or teacher’s recommendation.
Algebra 1:
This course gives an introduction to real numbers, rational numbers, square roots, and graphing. Problem-solving is emphasized through linear equations, polynomials, equations, and quadratic equations. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Algebra with a minimum grade of “C” averaged over two semesters and/or with the teacher’s recommendation.
Plane Geometry 310:
This course is a study of theorems and postulates of plane Euclidean geometry with an emphasis on the development of logical thinking. This course will include the writing of proofs, calculation of area for regular polygons, surface area and volume for simple solids, and an introduction to Trigonometry ratios in solving triangles. This course is required for the college preparatory diploma. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 with a minimum grade of “C-” averaged over two semesters and/or with teacher’s recommendation.
Geometry Honors:
This course is an advanced study of theorems and postulates of plane Euclidean Geometry with an emphasis on the development of logical thinking. This course will cover the same content as Geometry, but with a higher level of exploration and geometrical relationships and applications. This course will also include third-dimensional applications to enhance the student’s geometry foundation for the math student preparing for Calculus in their senior year. In addition, the student should have demonstrated skills in organized note-taking, homework completion, and success in meeting academic deadlines. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 with a minimum grade of “B+” averaged over two semesters and with teacher’s recommendation.
Conceptual Physics:
The goal of this course is for students to actively pursue an understanding and appreciation of the laws that govern matter and energy and their interactions. Students will integrate algebraic problem-solving skills as they apply the laws of physics to show relationships between physics quantities. Topics to be covered include measurement, Mechanical Equilibrium, Newton’s Three Laws, Energy and work, gravitation rotational motion, and electricity. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 8th-grade science.
Conceptual Physics Honors:
This course is a quick-paced approach to physics in which problem-solving is the emphasis. The goal is for students to actively pursue an understanding and appreciation of the laws that govern matter and energy and their interactions. Students will integrate computers and equipment as they apply the laws of physic to show relationships between physics quantities. Most of the mathematics is done on the trigonometric and algebraic levels with a few calculus ideas. Topics to be covered include measurement, Mechanical Equilibrium, Newton’s Three Laws, Energy and work, gravitation, rotational motion, and electricity. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 8th-grade science with a “B+” average or above and successful completion of Algebra 1 with a “B+” average or above. (Space in this class is limited).
World History:
This course is a survey of World History from Early Civilization through The Modern World. In this course, students will examine the Foundations of World History from a biblical perspective. It will focus on the cultures of the world with an emphasis on Greek and Roman civilizations. Students will learn how to complete timelines, and develop their reading, writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills. This course will help the students gain an understanding of God’s hand in the history of the world.
World History Honors:
This course will study the same basic principles as World History but will go more in-depth. There will also be more required projects. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 8th-grade social studies with a “B+” average or above.
This course is taken by all students in grades 9-10. Each year the content of these Bible courses will vary so that throughout a student’s freshman and sophomore year they will acquire a basic study of Biblical principles, doctrine, and application of Scripture to their lives. Different Bible modules will be used.
English 10:
In this course, students will further develop critical reading and thinking skills through an intensive examination of the literary genres of the short story, poetry, novel, and drama. Vocabulary is emphasized with a connection to literature and the students’ personal use. Grammar rules will be reviewed and usage problems will be examined. Students will review and continually adhere to APA writing format in formal writing, while informal in-class writing assignments will also help develop students’ writing styles and abilities. Students have novel reading projects and poetry recitations, and they are expected to write papers. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 9th grade English.
American Literature Honors:
This course is designed to give students an enriched, global experience in American Literature while encouraging steady growth in all other aspects of language arts abilities. The course stresses the influence of historical events on literary schools of thought. Students learn to assess and analyze poetry, short stories, and novels of selected major and minor American writers. Students will examine the intellectual and historical environments in which the works appear. Students are expected to continue their study of grammar and vocabulary and refine their writing and test-taking skills. Students will write and produce formal essays in and out of the classroom, and they are expected to write one research paper with documentation in the APA format. All new students considering American Lit Honors are required to first take an assessment test. Prerequisite: “B+” average in 9th Grade or 9th Honors and/or teacher’s recommendation.
Algebra 2 / Trig:
This course is an extension of Algebra 1 in which all major concepts are reconsidered and then expanded to include more difficult applications. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to functions and relations irrational numbers, conic sections, exponential functions, complex numbers, logarithms, trig functions, acute angles, and right triangles radian measure and circular functions, graphs of the circular functions trig identities, inverse circular functions, and trig equations. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Plane Geometry 310.
Algebra 2 / Trig Honors:
In this course, the student continues a study of the algebraic functions including solving for multiple unknowns and different factoring methods. The student will study complex numbers, graphs of quadratics, conic sections, matrices, special series, rational expressions, exponential functions, and logarithms. The student will also study trigonometric functions, identities, and graphs. Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry Honors with minimum grades of “B+” average or above over two semesters and with teacher’s recommendation.
Plane Geometry 310:
This course is a study of theorems and postulates of plane Euclidean geometry with an emphasis on the development of logical thinking. This course will include the writing of proofs, calculation of area for regular polygons, surface area and volume for simple solids, and an introduction to Trigonometry ratios in solving triangles. This course is required for the college preparatory diploma. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 with a minimum grade of “C-” averaged over two semesters and/or with teacher’s recommendation.
Geometry Honors:
This course is an advanced study of theorems and postulates of plane Euclidean Geometry with an emphasis on the development of logical thinking. This course will cover the same content as Plane Geometry 310, but with a higher level of exploration and geometrical relationships and applications. This course will also include third-dimensional applications to enhance the student’s geometry foundation for the math student preparing for Calculus in their senior year. In addition, the student should have demonstrated skills in organized note-taking, homework completion, and success in meeting academic deadlines. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 with a minimum grade of “B+” averaged over two semesters and with teacher’s recommendation.
Conceptual Physics:
The goal of this course is for students to actively pursue an understanding and appreciation of the laws that govern matter and energy and their interactions. Students will integrate algebraic problem-solving skills as they apply the laws of physics to show relationships between physics quantities. Topics to be covered include measurement, Mechanical Equilibrium, Newton’s Three Laws, Energy and work, gravitation rotational motion, and electricity. Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous science.
Conceptual Physics Honors:
This course is a quick-paced approach to physics in which problem-solving is the emphasis. The goal is for students to actively pursue an understanding and appreciation of the laws that govern matter and energy and their interactions. Students will integrate computers and equipment as they apply the laws of physic to show relationships between physics quantities. Most of the mathematics is done on the trigonometric and algebraic levels with a few calculus ideas. Topics to be covered include measurement, Mechanical Equilibrium, Newton’s Three Laws, Energy and work, gravitation, rotational motion, and electricity. Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous science with a “B+” average or above over two semesters, and a grade of an “A-” average or above or two semesters or concurrent enrollment in Algebra. (Space in this class is limited).
Living Environment/Biology (NCAA Approved Credit):
This course will study the beginnings of plant, animal, and human life. A systems approach to biological life will be emphasized as the structure and chemistry of life are investigated. The student will further investigate the relationship between God and science. This is a lab course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Conceptual Physics or a General Science.
Living Environment/Biology Honors (NCAA Approved Credit):
This course will cover the same material as Biology but is taught in a more intensive manner. Prerequisite: A minimum “B+” average or above over two semesters in Conceptual Physics Honors or a General Science.
World History:
This course is a survey of World History from Early Civilization through The Modern World. In this course, students will examine the Foundations of World History from a biblical perspective. It will focus on the cultures of the world with an emphasis on Greek and Roman civilizations. Students will learn how to complete timelines, and develop their reading, writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills. This course will help the students gain an understanding of God’s hand in the history of the world.
World History Honors:
This course will study the same basic principles as World History but will go more in-depth. There will also be more required projects. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 8th-grade social studies with an “B+” average or above over the two semesters and/or year.
US History:
This course is a study of our American heritage from the earliest exploration of the continent to the present. Special emphasis will be placed on spiritual struggles, as well as the experiences of the political struggle while trying to develop a new nation under God. Current events and map studies are integrated throughout the course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of World History.
US History Honors:
This course provides a more in-depth study of American History through the analysis and interpretation of maps and the reading of primary and secondary historical sources. Prerequisite: A “B+” average or above over two semesters in World History and/or teacher’s recommendation.
This course is taken by all students in grades 11-12. Each year the content of these Bible courses will vary so that throughout a student’s high school years they will achieve an in-depth study of Biblical principles, doctrine, and application of Scripture to the student’s life. A study of understanding the times of the past compared to that of today will give our students wisdom to make sound decisions for their future.
American Literature/Composition:
In this course, students will gain a more enriched understanding of works of American Literature, while maintaining growth in all other aspects of language arts. This course stresses the influence of historical events on literary schools of thought. Students will assess and analyze poetry, drama, short stories, novels, and essays of selected major and minor American writers. Students will continue their study of grammar and vocabulary along with further refining their writing and test-taking skills. Students will write and produce essays in and out of the classroom. All students are expected to write papers with documentation in the APA format. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 10th-grade English.
AP English Language:
The AP English Language and Composition course aligns with the introductory college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum, which requires students to develop evidence-based analytic and argumentative essays that proceed through several stages or drafts. Students evaluate, synthesize, and cite research to support their arguments. Throughout the course, students develop a personal style by making appropriate grammatical choices. Additionally, students read and analyze the rhetorical elements and their effects in non-fiction texts, including graphic images as forms of text, from many disciplines and historical periods. Students should be able to read and comprehend college-level texts and apply the conventions of Standard Written English in their writing. Prerequisite: “A-” or better in American Literature Honors and teacher recommendation.
Finally, the course will help prepare the students for the Advanced Placement exam given in May which provides the student an opportunity to receive college credit. There is a College Board fee for the MANDATORY AP Exam. By selecting an Advanced Placement course, scholars are required to take the national AP exam for that course which is administered in May. The cost of each AP exam is $97.00.
Algebra 2 / Trig:
This course is an extension of Algebra 1 in which all major concepts are reconsidered and then expanded to include more difficult applications. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to functions and relations irrational numbers, conic sections, exponential functions, complex numbers, logarithms, trig functions, acute angles, and right triangles radian measure and circular functions, graphs of the circular functions trig identities, inverse circular functions, and trig equations. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Plane Geometry 310.
Algebra 2 / Trig Honors:
In this course, the student continues a study of the algebraic functions including solving for multiple unknowns and different factoring methods. The student will study complex numbers, graphs of quadratics, conic sections, matrices, special series, rational expressions, exponential functions, and logarithms. The student will also study trigonometric functions, identities, and graphs. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry Honors with minimum grades of “B+” average or above over two semesters and with teacher’s recommendation.
Math Analysis (Pre-Calculus):
This course follows Algebra 2/Trigonometry and builds on that course to provide a foundation for Calculus. The course will build on the student’s knowledge of Algebra and extend their understanding of equations, inequalities, functions, and graphs. This is followed by an in-depth study of polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential and logarithmic functions. Finally, the student will study analytic geometry. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2/Trigonometry, Algebra 2/Trigonometry Honors, or Trigonometry with a grade ranging from a “B” to a “C-” averaged over two semesters and or teacher recommendation.
Math Analysis Honors (Pre-Calculus Honors):
This course provides a modern, integrated treatment of the basic concepts of algebra, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and pre‑calculus. There will be a review of trigonometry including solving triangles and applications. The student will study the properties of special functions (the natural logarithm and the exponential function), complex numbers, the binomial theorem, special series, conics, matrices, vectors, polar coordinates, and graphs. Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry and Algebra 2/Trig HN with minimum grades of “B+” average or above over two semesters and with the teacher’s recommendation.
Probability and Statistics:
Probability and Statistics are designed to prepare students for success in post-secondary careers and statistics courses and in a world where knowledge of data analysis, statistics and probability is necessary to make informed decisions in areas such as health, economics, and politics. In Probability and Statistics, students build on the conceptual knowledge and skills they mastered in previous mathematics courses in areas such as probability, data presentation and analysis, correlation, and regression. This course prepares students for college and career readiness. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2/Trig with a minimum grade of “C-” averaged over two semesters and/or with the teacher’s recommendation.
Chemistry:
Chemistry is the study of atoms, how they arrange themselves into compounds, and the changes they undergo. Laboratory work will be used for development and unifying principles. Concepts and mathematical understanding of chemistry will be stressed. Problem-solving skills, test-taking skills, hands-on activities, problem-based learning, critical thinking situations, and activity and lab-based learning will be incorporated throughout the course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Algebra 1.
Chemistry Honors:
This course will introduce advanced concepts of chemistry. Topics include the structure of matter, atomic theory, chemical reactions, states of matter, reactions, kinetics, and chemical bonding. Advanced concepts and mathematical understanding of chemistry will be stressed. Laboratory observations and measurements will be used to interrelate diverse phenomena. Careful attention is given to the development of problem-solving skills, test-taking, hands-on activities, problem-based learning, critical thinking situations, and activity and lab-based learning will be incorporated throughout the course. The pace is accelerated. Prerequisite: A “B+” average or better in Biology and/or Conceptual Physics.
US History:
This course is a study of our American heritage from the earliest exploration of the continent to the present. Special emphasis will be placed on spiritual struggles, as well as the experiences of the political struggle while trying to develop a new nation under God. Current events and map studies are integrated throughout the course. Prerequisite: Successful completion of World History.
US History Honors:
This course provides a more in-depth study of American History through the analysis and interpretation of maps and the reading of primary and secondary historical sources. Prerequisite: A “B+” average or above over two semesters in World History and/or teacher’s recommendation.
Psychology (NCAA Approved Credit) (Required):
Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior as we attempt to observe, describe, predict, and shape it. Some of the major theoretical tenets of psychology are studied and integrated with scriptural principles. It’s a required elective course.
Psychology Honors (Required):
Psychology Honors is the advanced scientific study of human behavior as we attempt to observe, describe, predict, and shape it. Some of the major theoretical tenets of psychology are studied and integrated with scriptural principles. It’s a required elective course. A prerequisite of a “B+” in US History is required.
This course is taken by all students in grades 11-12. Each year the content of these Bible courses will vary so that throughout a student’s high school years they will achieve an in-depth study of Biblical principles, doctrine, and application of Scripture to the student’s life. A study of understanding the times of the past compared to that of today will give our students wisdom to make sound decisions for their future.
British Literature/Composition:
This course concentrates on various works of authors (Spring Board curriculum) and selected British authors which are examined to increase reading proficiency and vocabulary, provide models of excellent writing, and foster an appreciation for British literature. Students will cite textual evidence; understand themes and central ideas, develop word choice and meaning, analyze the structure of a text, and identify points of view on writing and vocabulary through the study of literature and vocabulary lessons. With a concentration on British Literature, this course also has an introduction to college freshman composition component that focuses on improving students’ abilities to write in a university setting and introduces students to writing practices in the disciplines and professions. This course stresses critical-thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are required for success in college, career, and life. APA format is taught for one extended research paper which is tied to the Senior Capstone. Prerequisite: Successful completion of 11th grade American Literature.
AP English Literature:
Students will learn to use modes of discourse and will analyze the underlying themes, structures, and styles in the various works read. This course is designed to be writing-intensive in which reading selections will come from various genres of literature. Student writing will be developed and refined in both voice and technique. In addition to the required text, students will be responsible for reading several novels and plays as additional required reading. There will also be an introduction to college Freshman Composition.
Finally, the course will help prepare the students for the Advanced Placement exam given in May which provides the student an opportunity to receive college credit. There is a College Board fee for the MANDATORY AP Exam. All new students considering AP English are required to first take an assessment test. Prerequisite: “A-” in 11th grade English Honors and/or teacher’s recommendation. By selecting an Advanced Placement course, scholars are required to take the national AP exam for that course which is administered in May. The cost of each AP exam is $97.00.
Math Analysis (Pre-Calculus):
This course follows Algebra 2/Trigonometry and builds on that course to provide a foundation for Calculus. The course will build on the student’s knowledge of Algebra and extend their understanding of equations, inequalities, functions, and graphs. This is followed by an in-depth study of polynomial, rational, inverse, exponential and logarithmic functions. Finally, the student will study analytic geometry. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2/Trigonometry, Algebra 2/Trigonometry Honors or Trigonometry with a grade ranging from a B to a C- averaged over two semesters and or teacher recommendation.
Math Analysis Honors (Pre-Calculus Honors):
This course provides a modern, integrated treatment of the basic concepts of algebra, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and pre‑calculus. There will be a review of trigonometry including solving triangles and applications. The student will study the properties of special functions (the natural logarithm and the exponential function), complex numbers, the binomial theorem, special series, conics, matrices, vectors, polar coordinates, and graphs. Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry and Algebra 2/Trig HN with minimum grades of “B+” average or above over two semesters and with the teacher’s recommendation.
Probability and Statistics:
Probability and Statistics are designed to prepare students for success in post-secondary careers and statistics courses and in a world where knowledge of data analysis, statistics and probability is necessary to make informed decisions in areas such as health, economics, and politics. In Probability and Statistics, students build on the conceptual knowledge and skills they mastered in previous mathematics courses in areas such as probability, data presentation and analysis, correlation, and regression. This course prepares students for college and career readiness. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2/Trig with a minimum grade of “C-” averaged over two semesters and/or with teacher’s recommendation.
AP Calculus A/B:
This fifth-year math class is a college‑level course of instruction in differential and integral calculus with a primary emphasis on real‑world applications. This course includes a study of limits, functional continuity, derivatives, and integrals with trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions and with multiple variables. It also includes graphing, optimization, differential equations, and slope fields. This course will prepare the Senior for the Advanced Placement Test which provides the student with an opportunity to receive college credit. Because of the rigorous pace of this college-level course, students will be required to complete an extensive summer review packet which is due on the first day of school and will count as a test grade for Quarter 1. This packet will cover pre-requisite skills and concepts necessary to be successful in this course. Prerequisite: Completion of Math Analysis Honors (Pre-Calculus) with a minimum grade of “A-” average or above over two semesters and with the teacher’s recommendation. There is a College Board fee for the MANDATORY AP exam. By selecting an Advanced Placement course, scholars are required to take the national AP exam for that course which is administered in May. The cost of each AP exam is $97.00.
This fine arts course is required for graduation. This is a year-long educational experience that will provide ample situations for a student to see all aspects of life through the Scriptures. This will prepare the student for competent service in the world by matching his/her interests with his/her abilities and skills in order to explore future options in life from a Christian perspective. The first semester will focus on the written/research aspects of capstone and the second semester will focus on oral presentation. No make-up exams/work will be accepted. All students must participate for a full grade if enrolled in the class.
American Government:
American Government is a study of the development, organization, and functions of the American Republic and the roots from which it came. Students will develop concepts about the opportunities and responsibilities of effective citizenship on the part of a Christian within the American Republic. Students will study the free enterprise system with emphasis on current issues of local, state, national, and international scope. This course is a requirement for graduation. Prerequisite: Successful completion of U.S. History.
American Government Honors:
We will study the same basic principles as the American Government course but will go more in-depth. We will also complete more projects. Prerequisite: Completion of United States History Honors with a “B+” average or above and/or teacher recommendation.
The success of the RBS academic program is reflected in the fact that an average of 98% of our graduating seniors have been accepted into postsecondary education. Honors and Advance Placement Courses are offered to academically qualified students. Over 50% of the student body maintains a 3.0 GPA.
Riverdale Baptist High School is accredited through the Middle States Association of School and Colleges.
100 hours of service learning is required for the college preparatory diploma.
© Copyright 2023 Riverdale Baptist School. All Rights Reserved.