Purpose

The purpose of the program of studies is to describe the content covered in each subject taught at Riverside Academy.  These descriptions should assist students in making the best choices for academic advancement. We encourage parents and students to consult and maintain constant communication with the school counselor, teachers, and administrators in planning their course of study for their entire school career. Career and academic goals should be set, and courses should be selected in proper sequence to meet those goals and assure graduation from Riverside Academy. Ultimately, it is up to the student and his/her parents to make sure all requirements for Graduation are fulfilled.

Riverside Academy Graduation Requirements

Riverside Academy has the final decision on placement of all students.

Dual Enrollment courses are available for College and high school credit.  The course offerings will be determined by Southeastern Louisiana University.  

TO DETERMINE CLASS RANK ONLY the following point system will be used.

Policy for 8th Grade students

8th graders taking honors courses in the 3 core areas, (English, Math, & Science) will follow the honors high school grading system.

Course Descriptions

LANGUAGE ARTS DEPARTMENT

General guidelines:  Four credits in English are required for graduation.  

1. All courses are integrated courses of language, literature, and composition.  
2. To enroll in an honors English course, a student must have earned a C or better in their previous English course.
3. All students enrolled in the Advanced Placement courses ARE required to register for the National Test in each course scheduled in order to receive AP credit and the corresponding quality points.  

English I – Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course is an introduction to basic skills of grammar and writing.  The course centers on the following:  development of basic composition, with emphasis on writing clear, well-constructed sentences; the development of vocabulary; the development of literary interpretations skills.  Students are exposed to the general characteristics of the five major genres of literature and attention is given to spelling, library skills, note-taking skills and mechanics.  Student will be expected to compose a 5 paragraph essay.  Attention to library skills and an introduction to research will be taught.

English I – Honors – Prerequisite: A or B in previous English course 1 credit

This course is a course includes writing of expository and persuasive paragraphs, history and development of the English language, and advanced vocabulary.  Students will study in depth the five major genres of literature.  In addition to literature, each student works on the proper mechanics of writing a fully-developed essay (introduction, body, and conclusion) with sentence variety.  Attention to library skills and the development of a research paper will be taught.

English II – Academic – Prerequisite: English I 1 credit

The primary emphasis of the English II course is the unified, coherent, and emphatic writing of the paragraph. This is balanced with a “genre” approach to literature in which the student is introduced to the craft of the short story writer, the poet, the dramatist, and the novelist. Writing usage and mechanics are reviewed throughout the year and accompany continued novel reading and vocabulary study.  A continuance of basic term paper skills will be covered, and a short research paper will be assigned.

English II – Honors – Prerequisite: English I Honors or B avg. English I 1 credit

The primary research objective of this course is unified, coherent, and emphatic writing of a research paper, balanced with a general literature course. Students will read a variety of literary works and literary interpretation and analytic skills will be developed.  The course continues vocabulary building and requires projects generated from research.

English III – Academic – Prerequisite: English II 1 credit

This will focus on writing an essay. Outline, introduction, thesis statement, development, and conclusion are stressed along with the elements of unity, coherence, and emphasis.  Style is stressed after basic structural and mechanical elements have been mastered. The secondary focus of the course is the survey of American literature. Vocabulary study and usage review are geared to improve writing and ACT/SAT preparation.

English III – Honors – Prerequisite: English II Honors or B avg. English II 1 credit

This course will have greater depth with more emphasis placed on interpretive and analytical skills.  The content of the course and examinations will place emphasis on developing a student’s abilities to respond sensitively and intelligently to literature and to write clear expository prose. The student is expected to do independent work and produce projects generated from this work.  A survey of American literature is presented, including novels, essays, poetry, and plays.  Vocabulary study and usage review are geared to improve writing and ACT/SAT preparation.

English IV – Academic – Prerequisite: English III , seniors only 1 credit

This course is a senior course combining a thematic survey of literature and ancient cultures through the twentieth century.  A writing component that builds on the work begun in previous courses with particular attention to research, citation, and documentation is emphasized.  The completion of a research project is also expected.  Vocabulary study and usage review continue and are geared to improve writing and ACT/SAT preparation.

English IV – Honors – Prerequisite: English III Honors, seniors only 1 credit

This college preparatory course covers British, American, and European literature along with the history of various periods.  The students analyze and critique the works they study and engage in scholarly research.  Students are required to complete a research project.

MATH DEPARTMENT

General guidelines:  Four credits in Mathematics are required for graduation.  

1. All courses include a systematic study of concepts, principles, skills, and modes of thinking.
2. To enroll in an Honors Mathematics course, a student must have earned a C or better in their previous mathematics course.
3. All students enrolled in the Advanced Placement courses ARE required to register for the National Test in each course scheduled in order to receive AP credit and the corresponding quality points.

Algebra I – Academic – Prerequisite: 1 credit

Algebra I consist of the mastery of basic algebra skills up through the solving of systems of equations and inequalities.  This course covers the basic functions of real numbers (whole numbers, integers, functions, graphing and exponents). The basic functions of polynomials and factoring will be discussed.

Algebra I – Honors – Prerequisite: A or B in previous math course 1 credit

In addition to topics covered in the academic level course, there will be an introduction to sets, complex fractions, variables, and factoring quadratics. The basic functions of radicals and extended functions will also be introduced.

Algebra II – Academic – Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry 1 credit

This course is designed to reinforce all Algebra I concepts and provide students an opportunity to further their understanding of algebraic concepts.  Students will extend the functions of models for dealing with real life situations.  Students explore algebraic functions of different degrees through data collection, analysis, and interpretation.  Linear and quadratic equations and some trigonometry will be covered.

Algebra II – Honors – Prerequisite:  Algebra I Honors and Geometry Honors 1 credit

This course builds on the skills of previous courses and leads to the study of general algebraic theories and transcendental functions such as logarithmic and exponential including but not limited to sin and cos sin curves, quadratic inequalities, and parabolas.

• May be taken along with Geometry Honors

Geometry – Academic – Prerequisite: Algebra I 1 credit

This is a formal study of visual patterns and the use of these patterns to describe the physical universe.  Euclidian geometric systems and the logic behind the development of such systems, develops students’ critical thinking skills.  This course stresses the use of logical reasoning through deductive proofs and practical applications.

Geometry – Honors – Prerequisite: Algebra I Honors 1 credit

This course will cover the same material as the academic course, but it will cover more deductive proofs and critical thinking skills.  After discovering or deriving special relationships, students will solve algebraic problems involving Euclidean geometry, transformational geometry, and coordinate geometry.

• May be taken along with Algebra II Honors

Advanced Math – Academic – Prerequisite: Algebra II, seniors only 1 credit

This course is designed to review Algebra II skills and includes topics such as exponential and logarithmic functions, graphs, matrices, and basic trigonometry. This course is not suggested for college bound students.  

Advanced Math – Honors – Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra II Honors 1 credit

This course is designed to develop higher levels of geometry, trigonometry, and algebra skills begun in previous math Honors courses. Topics covered include complex numbers, polar coordinates, inverse trigonometric functions, and solving triangles and equations.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

General guidelines:  Four credits in Science are required for graduation.  

1. All courses include the use of computer technology and the Internet to improve academic achievement and to develop critical thinking skills.
2. Each course will include the basic principles of science and the attitudes and processes of scientific thought.
3. To enroll in an Honors Science course, a student must have earned a C or better in their previous science course
4. All students enrolled in the Advanced Placement courses ARE required to register for the National Test in each course scheduled in order to receive AP credit and the corresponding quality points.

Physical Science – Academic – Prerequisite: none required 1 credit

This course is a study of matter and energy. It emphasizes everyday applications of physical laws.  Emphasis is placed on helping the student develop and apply critical thinking process skills through problem solving.  Following the introduction, the general topics are: motion, energy, heat, work, machine, forms of matter, atomic structure, chemical bonds, periodic table of elements, organic chemistry, solutions, chemical reactions, waves (sound & light) mirrors & lenses, electricity, radioactivity & nuclear reactions, and energy alternatives.  It is an introduction to the principles of chemistry and physics.  

Physical Science – Honors – Prerequisite: C or better in previous science 1 credit

This course covers all topics as in the academic section. It is a more comprehensive introduction to the principles of chemistry and physics.  The material is learned through use of lecture, laboratory work, demonstration, and written assignments. Emphasis is placed on helping the student develop and apply critical thinking process skills through problem solving using theory and mathematics.

Biology I – Academic – Prerequisite: none required 1 credit

This course is a study of living things.  Students will learn the facts associated with the science of life through the concepts:  cell biology, evolution, genetics, taxonomy, microorganisms, plants, invertebrates, animals, ecology, and human anatomy, and physiology. Laboratory experiences coincide with material covered in lecture.

Biology I – Honors – Prerequisite: C or better in previous science 1 credit

This course is a comprehensive study of all living things.  The concepts covered in the academic class will be explored with more depth.  Other topics include DNA, homeostasis, photosynthesis, respiration, and genetics.  Student projects and research will be required in this class.

Biology II – Honors – Prerequisite: Biology I Honors or C or better in Biology I 1 credit

This is a second year course that expands upon the subject matter covered in the first year. It requires students to work outside of the designated class period to discuss projects, research and or dissection.  Forms of evidence will be applied to life situations such as DNA analysis, fingerprinting, toxicology, soil analysis, human remains, and crime scene.   Laboratory experiences and projects will be a portion of the class.  

Chemistry I- Academic – Prerequisite: Physical Science, Biology 1 credit

This course is an introductory chemistry course.  Topics covered will include measurements, atomic theory, energy, bonding, chemical formulas, equations, stoichiometry, acids, bases and salts, and phases of matter.  

Chemistry I – Honors – Prerequisite: Physical Science Honors and Biology 1 credit

This course is designed for students enrolled in the honors curriculum. Topics covered are the same as those in the academic course and with additional topics:  quantum mechanics, organic chemistry, stoichiometry, and analytical chemistry. Laboratory experiments accompany context.  

• May be taken concurrently with Algebra II

Environmental Science- Academic– Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology 1 credit

This course is a study of one aspect of the natural world and how the world works around us.  Specialized environmental topics, such as ecology, forestry, oceanography, geology, and meteorology will be covered. Students will be expected to do field research and to become involved in local environmental sources.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

General guidelines:  Four credits in Science are required for graduation.  

1. All courses include the use of the Internet to improve academic achievement and to develop critical thinking skills of both historical and current topics.
2. Each course will include an historical background of the subject being taught and its relation to today’s society.
3. To enroll in an Honors History course, a student must have earned a C or better in their previous History course
4. All students enrolled in the Advanced Placement courses ARE required to register for the National Test in each course scheduled in order to receive AP credit and the corresponding quality points.

Civics – Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course consists of a study of the background to, and the evolution of, the United States government. Emphasis is placed on understanding the underpinnings of government.  Topics focus on citizenship, federal, state, and local governments, and current political issues.   

Civics – Honors – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course consists of an in-depth study of topics covered in the academic section.  Various political parties and the theories behind the development of such parties will be explored.  Outside reports and projects may be required.

American History – Academic – Prerequisite: Junior 1 credit

The course is designed to give the students a background of our national heritage. The scope of the course is designed to give the student an overview of American history from colonial times through the present day.  Emphasis is to associate the issues that most affected the American experience, Civil War, growth of the economy, and the government.

American History – Honors – Prerequisite: Junior & C or better in previous SS course 1 credit

This course is designed to give the students an in-depth background of our national heritage.  The same topics listed in American History academic will be covered.  Additional topics covered will include the growth of federal power, increasing democratization, the expansion of industrial capitalism, and the emergence of the United States as a world power.  Independent work, reports, and projects will be required.

World History – Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course offers a survey of the history of the world from prehistoric man to the present. The course emphasizes cause and effect, cultural change, and connections to our conditions in the 21st century.  Consideration of geographical, economic, political, religious, and cultural factors influencing the direction taken by world groups is covered. Independent reports, research and projects may be required.

World History – Honors – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course is designed to cover the same topics listed under academic World History.  Additional topics covered are the influence of Western Civilization on modern institutions, governments, contributions from other cultures to present day society.

Psychology – Academic – Prerequisite: Junior or senior 1 credit

This course is designed as an introduction to the field of psychology. The central theme of this course is psychology as the science of mental processes and behavior. The various topics include: the history of psychology, statistics, biological foundations of behavior, sensation and perception, cognition, learning and memory, developmental psychology, motivation and emotion, gender and sexuality, personality theories and assessment, abnormal behavior, and social psychology.

Psychology – Honors – Prerequisite: Counselor recommendation 1 credit

This course is designed to cover the same topics listed under academic Psychology.  Additional topics covered are learning, personality, disorders and therapies

World Geography- Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

The course covers the major physical features, governments, economies, religions, and cultures of the nations comprising North America, South America, and Europe.  Other topics include the position of continents, mountains, oceans, and rivers; the arrangement and boundaries of countries, states, and cites; and the effect of location on climate, resources, population, products, etc.

World Geography – Honors – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course designed to cover the same topics listed under academic World Geography.  Special emphasis is placed on the roles nations play in current events.

Western Civilization – Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course covers the he history of civilization in general.  Special emphasis is placed upon the evolution of European civilization and the role it has played in the development of our artistic and legal heritage. Provisions are made to present comparisons and associations between Occidental and Oriental heritages especially in art, religion, and politics.

Western Civilization – Honors – Prerequisite: Counselor recommendation 1 credit

This course covers the same material as Western Civilization and the role of women in history, Renaissance and Reformation periods, and Nationalism and Modern Europe.

FINE ARTS/WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

Art Electives

Fine Art Survey – Academic – Prerequisites: None 1 credit

Fine Art Survey is a half lecture and half studio art class. It is an introduction to basic design elements/principles, drawing, printmaking and painting. Other processes may be introduced with time permitting. Art history concerning Prehistoric, Impressionism, Expressionism, Pop Art, Modernism, and Louisiana culture will be covered. Students will explore artists and artistic periods independently and apply learned information to their own work. A fee will be charged for materials.

Publications- Academic – Prerequisites:  Multi Media Prod. & Teacher recommendation 1 credit

Publications (Yearbook) is a yearlong elective course that gives students marketable experience in print media publishing. This course solely works toward the completion and selling of a large finished product, Riverside Academy’s Yearbook. The staff will also be utilized for school wide design projects. In class, students compose construct and edit all elements of computerized text layout, graphic art, and digital photography. Students work on many clerical operations, make announcements, maintain signs, conduct polls, schedule interviews, and maintain the yearbook files. Out of class, students will be expected to acquire and maintain the content of the pages and assignments they are responsible for.

MUSIC DEPARTMENT

A successful music program begins with students possessing talent, ability, and interest.  The Music Department will provide ample opportunities for students with these qualities.  Music is a vehicle used to teach life skills, work ethic, and social well-being. Instrumental, marching, performance groups are maintained for the purpose of contributing to the cultural and social life of the participants, the student body, and the community of families and alumni.  The musical truths taught in each organization become part of the students’ foundation for good moral values and attitudes. This will help guide them through higher levels of education and become responsible community members.

The objectives of the music program are to:

1. Build self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment
2. Develop responsibility and self-discipline
3. Develop a life-long appreciation for music
4. Develop social skills and the ability to work with others
5. Develop coordination and communication skills
6. Cultivate creativity

Beginning Band – Academic – Prerequisite:  None 1 credit

This course is designed to create student interest in music.  Students enrolled in beginning band will have very little previous experience in reading music and participating in musical performances.

Intermediate Band – Academic– Prerequisite:  Beginning band 1 credit

This course is designed for students who have previous experience in marching, concert, and performance band.  

Advanced Band – Academic – Prerequisite:  Intermediate band or instructor permission 1 credit

This course is designed for students who have participated in a band program and understand reading and applying music.  

Theater I-IV- Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

The purpose of this course is to provide a balanced theatre arts program that guides students to achieve the standards in the performing arts. Theatre courses will emphasize artistic perception and creative expression.  They will promote understanding of aesthetic valuing, historical and cultural awareness, and the interconnections of the arts and other disciplines. Students will be trained in the fundamental skills of the theatre arts, including improvisation techniques, body control, voice, diction, pantomime, learning of lines, creation of character, projection of ideas and emotions and preparation and acting of scenes from plays.  Acting projects will provide positive groups experiences in collaborative assignments, developing self-discipline, evaluating the performances of others, and accepting constructive criticism.  Classwork focuses on characterization, playwriting, and playwrights’ contributions to theatre; while improvisation, creative dramatics, and scene work are used to help students challenge and strengthen their acting skills and explore the technical aspect of scene work.

Choir I-IV- Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This introductory course is open to all students who have an interest in singing. In this class, choral literature is studied in jazz, popular, contemporary and classical fields. Some study is given to a review of the mechanics of music, composers, and music appreciation. Emphasis is placed on correct vocal production and performance skills. Participation in after-school rehearsals and performances is expected.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Spanish I – Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course is designed as an introduction to the study of Spanish and for students to develop the ability to communicate in Spanish.  Vocabulary building and grammar are stressed. Student will acquire knowledge of Hispanic countries and develop an understanding of the cultural heritage of their people.

Spanish II – Academic – Prerequisite:  Spanish I 1 credit

This course is designed to review grammar presented in Spanish I and learn more complex grammatical concepts.  The student’s ability to communicate will be further developed by means of reading, listening and speaking

Spanish III – Honors – Prerequisite:  Spanish II 1 credit

This course is designed to review grammar, usage, and vocabulary introduced in Spanish II.  Students will develop the ability to communicate in Spanish.  Vocal communication and conversations are stressed. The student’s ability to communicate will be further developed by means of reading, listening, and speaking.

French I – Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

This course is designed as an introduction to the study of French and for students to develop the ability to communicate in French.  Vocabulary building and grammar are stressed. Student will acquire knowledge of French, Acadian, and Cajun areas in Louisiana and in countries while developing an understanding of the cultural heritage of their people.

French II – Academic – Prerequisite:  French I 1 credit

This course is designed to review grammar, usage, and vocabulary introduced in French I.  Students will develop the ability to communicate in French.  Vocabulary building and grammar are stressed. The student’s ability to communicate will be further developed by means of reading, listening, and speaking.

French III –Honors – Prerequisite:  French II 1 credit

This course is designed to review grammar, usage, and vocabulary introduced in French II.  Students will develop the ability to communicate in French.  Vocal communication and conversations are stressed. The student’s ability to communicate will be further developed by means of reading, listening, and speaking.

KINESIOLOGY DEPARTMENT

Athletic Health & Physical Education I-IV – Prerequisite: Coach’s approval 1 credit

These courses will cover the health curriculum covered in Physical Education, and will also give athletes an opportunity to do training in their respective sport.

Health Science- Academic- Prerequisite: None 1 credit

Instruction in personal hygiene, communicable diseases, and nutrition will be studied.  Current trends in relation to alcohol, drugs, and tobacco abuse will also be taught.  Basic first aid and CPR will be examined.  Personal decision making and family decision making will also be discussed.

Health & Physical Education I-IV- Academic – Prerequisite: None 1 credit

Basic skill in various sports will be stressed.  Knowledge of rules and sportsmanship is emphasized. The program introduces students to team and individual sports such as volleyball, football, soccer, badminton, Ping-Pong, basketball, bowling and physical fitness. Academic topics such as nutrition, drug education, basic first aid, and safety education will be discussed.