RHS Home Faculty/Staff/
Administration
Academics School  Calendar   Athletics Organizations Counselor's Corner   South Tippah School District

  RIPLEY HIGH SCHOOL
COURSE OFFERINGS


Language Arts:
Accelerated English 1
Accelerated English 2
American Novel +*
AP English 3
AP English 4
Compensatory Writing 1
English 1 
English 2
English 3 
English 4 
Short Stories +*
Spanish 1
Spanish 2 
Spanish 3
Journalism Lab

Social Studies: 
American Government +
Economics +
Middle East History
MS Studies +
Psychology +
Sociology +
World Geography +
World History
AP U. S. History
US History

Mathematics:
Advanced Algebra +
Algebra 1
Algebra 2
AP Calculus
Geometry
Pre-Algebra
Transitions to Algebra
Trigonometry +

Fine Arts:
Art 1 
Art 2 
Band 
Introduction to Theatre Arts 
 


 

Science:
Anatomy and Physiology (Course Description)
Biology 1
Biology 2  (Course Description)
AP Chemisty 1
Chemistry 1
Physical Science
Physics
Science Skills and Reasoning

Business Education:
Accounting 1 
Accounting 2
Computation in Business +
Computer Applications +(Course Description)
Desktop Publishing+ (Course Description)
Information Processing +(Course Description)
Keyboarding +(Course Description)
Personal Finance +
Web Page Design + (Course Description
Word Processing+(Course Description)

Physical Education:
Comprehensive Health +
Driver Education ^
PE (nonathletic)
Fitness Training, Advanced

<>Vocational Education:
Child Development +
Cooperative Education 1 @
Cooperative Education 2 @
Family Dynamics +
Nutrition and Wellness +
Personal Development +
Technology Discovery

Vo-Tech:
Allied Health %
Business and Computer %
Furniture and Upholstery %
Vehicle Mechanics %
Metal Trades %
(Each Class is Year 1 or 2)

Special Education:
Self-Contained Special Needs
Career Preparation
Life Skills Science
Employment English
Job Skills Math

 


 
* Electronic Classroom (limited slots) 
+ 1/2 credit, one semester 
% 2 credits 
@ 2 1/2 credits 
^  1/2 credit, full year

Accelerated English 1—Includes the objectives in grammar and literature of English 1 while placing additional emphasis on reading and writing skills.  Summer readings are required.
Accelerated English 2—Follows the same course description as English II. However, Accelerated English II focuses on independent study and enhanced creativity and problem solving skills.  Individual and cooperative research are components of this course as well.
AP English 3—Helps students read texts written from different historical periods for a variety of purposes and helps students write for different types of audiences for a variety of purposes.  Students are helped to become more skillful writers who can write for a variety of audiences for a variety or purposes.
AP English 4—Contains the same literature content as English IV; however, the course is developed to encompass a wider range of in-depth reading and critical writing.  AP incorporates the development of writing as well as works from classic books such as Sophocles, Homer, The Book of Job, Eliot, Conrad, Moliere, Stoppard, Kafka, and Ibsen.

Compensatory Writing I--
English 1—Provides instruction in grammar and literature which builds on content and mastery which prepares for English 2.
English 2—With the Mississippi English 2 Subject Area Test as a requirement for graduation, English 2 is designed to infuse the study of mechanics and grammar into a comprehensive analysis of language and literature.  Students who complete this course should be able to communicate effectively, to think creatively, and to solve problems.  Written and oral communication skills, listening skills, creative thinking skills, individual and cooperative learning strategies, research skills, reading skills and their application through hands-on activities are emphasized with a progression from concrete to abstract thinking.
English 3—Studies American Literature from the Colonial Period to the Modern Era.  Additionally, students will become better communicators through the discussion of a variety of texts and through writing for a variety of audiences and purpose.
English 4—Emphasizes the development of language and literature continuity and the relation of literature to social, economic, political, philosophical, and cultural movements.  Students, in turn, compose a variety of essays, the majority of which are research-based and which overlap with the students’ analysis of literature.
American Novel—(1/2 credit) Covers three novels with emphasis on plot, characterization, and various literature techniques. Scheduled with Short Stories.
Short Stories—(1/2 credit) Includes a variety of stories within the genre with emphasis on authors and literary techniques. Scheduled with American Novel.
Spanish 1—A language course that teaches basic concepts such as colors, numbers, foods, etc.  Students also learn basic grammatical structures to create sentences and paragraphs.  Students’ communication and conversation skills are held to basic topics such as greetings, telling time, giving directions, etc. A Spanish/English dictionary is required.
Spanish 2—A 2nd year course (intermediate) designed to improve vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills. Emphasis is placed more on grammar and sentence structure as to improve writing. Conversational skills are broadened through various situations such as taking a car to the garage, going to the post office, etc. Students will read two classic Spanish novels. A dictionary is required.
Spanish 3—A 3rd year course conducted primarily in Spanish to improve conversational skills. Emphasis is placed on the cultures and lifestyles of various countries and their inhabitants. Two classic Spanish novels are taught. Students will also read poems, essays, letters, legends, etc from countries around the Spanish-speaking world. A dictionary is required.
Journalism Lab—Incorporates aspects of journalism to produce the school yearbook and newspaper. Basic elements for the newspaper include writing strategies, editing articles, and retouching pictures using Photoshop and laying out pages in Quark.  Web site composition of Highlander Online is taught according to the skill and interest of the individual student.
Return to course list.

Return to Course List
 

American Government—(1/2 credit) This class will provide students with an understanding of civic life, politics, and the constitutional process. It will also provide a basis for understanding the rights and responsibilities of citizens and a framework for competent and active participation. The formal curriculum should be augmented by related learning experiences in both school and community. Skill development will include, but is not limited to, the interpretation and application of maps, graphs, charts, political cartoons, primary documents, and other social studies tools. The avenues for these concepts are developed through the social studies strands. Scheduled with Economics.
Economics—(1/2 credit) This course will develop an awareness of the relationship of world economic systems in a global setting. The student will trace the American economic system and the impact of that system in a global setting.  The student will develop an understanding of microeconomics and macroeconommics from individual finances to world economic organizations. Skill development will include, but is not limited to, the interpretation and application of maps, graphs, charts, political cartoons, primary documents, and other social studies tools. The avenues for these concepts are developed through the social studies strands. Scheduled with American Government.
Mississippi Studies—(1/2 credit) “Mississippi Studies is a one semester course designed to foster appreciation for our state and its culture. The content will include the geographic, historic, economic, political, and social events that have contributed to the state’s development. The course will also include the study of the diverse contributions of the citizens of the state.” MS social studies Framework and Guide
Psychology—An introduction to the study of human behavior and the external and internal factors that influence psychological development.
Sociology—An introductory course on the nature and development of culture, social aspects of personality, population trends, social classes, culture change, etc
World Geography—World Geography is designed to provide students with the skills to ask geographical questions, acquire geographical information, arrange geographical information, analyze geographical information, and answer geographical questions. Students will master these skills by studying the six essential elements of geographical content: the world in spatial terms, places and regions, physical systems, human systems, environment and society, and the uses of geography. The course of study will address the skills and elements by examining Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Oceania, Europe, Middle America, North America, and South America.
World History—World History is a two semester, one credit course that explains how geography, economics, and politics have influenced the historic development of various civilizations and nations since the Enlightment. It describes the impact of science and technology on the historical development of the world. Students will acquire the ability to use social studies tools, such as timelines, maps, and globes. The course will discuss how civic responsibilities are important to American as citizens of a global community.
U. S. History—United States History: 1877 to the Present will be the final step in the study of the nation’s history. This course uses thematic units based on interwoven social, political, economic, and geographic changes in the U.S. form 1877 to the present. The course focuses on the role of the U.S. as it made the transition from a young nation to a leading nation in the global arena. The student will trace the history of the U.S. from Reconstruction’s end to the modern period.” MS Social Studies Framework and Guide.
Middle East History—Studies the time period from 2000 B.C. to 100 A.D. in the Middle Eastern world.

Return to Course List

Pre-Algebra—Serves as a bridge between elementary mathematics and Algebra. This course will build a foundation of algebraic concepts through the use of manipulative and collaborative/cooperative learning. Concepts include real numbers, algebraic expressions, linear equations, polynomials, inequalities, geometry, ratio, proportion, percents, number theory, measurement, data analysis, statistics, and graphing. A variety of problem-solving techniques and technology will be used when applying these concepts, which will enable students to solve real life problems. This course is designed to prepare students for Transition to Algebra or Algebra 1.
Transitions to Algebra—The study of basic Algebra principles, this class gives the student the background of knowledge needed to enter Algebra 1. The class studies include solving simple equations, finding the standard form of a line, graphing and solving multi-step equations.
Algebra 1—Provides the minimum competencies required for students to be successful in higher level math courses. Algebra 1 provides students the opportunity to develop and communicate an understanding of Algebraic representation that is a prerequisite for all higher mathematical concepts. Students must enter Algebra 1 with fluency in computing with all four basic operations using rational numbers, knowledge and understanding of how to use formulas to solve real-world problems  and an understanding of solving and graphing linear equations
Geometry—Provides the minimum competencies required for students to be successful in higher-level mathematics courses. Students should enter Geometry with an understanding and the ability to solve linear equations and graph results, be familiar with quadratic equations, understand the Pythagorean Theorem, be able to identify two and three-dimensional shapes, and be familiar with the basic geometric formulas. Geometry provides a graphical and visual representation of the mathematical world around us. Students are given an opportunity to develop spatial sense, an understanding of proofs, and how to utilize formulas and graph lines.
Algebra 2—Builds on earlier experiences with linear equations and functions. The genre of functions expands to include polynomial, exponential, rational and radical examples. Attention is given to inverses, composition of functions, and families of graphs. Technology is utilized to investigate properties of functions in greater detail. Graphing calculators aid students in modeling real-world applications. Algebra 2 is to be taken by students who have successfully completed Algebra 1.
Trigonometry—(1/2 credit) Builds on a well-developed Geometry and Algebra background to explore the study of unit circles and triangles. Trigonometry is a prerequisite for AP Calculus. This course is for students who have successfully completed Geometry and Algebra 2. It is scheduled with Advanced Algebra.
Advanced Algebra—(1/2 credit) Reviews, develops, and extends the topics covered in Algebra 2 and is a good preparation for college Algebra. This class is scheduled with Trigonometry. Advanced Algebra is also a prerequisite for AP Calculus.
AP Calculus— A study of the mathematics of change with topics on acceleration, velocity, slope of a line, optimization, applications to business, area under a curve, etc. This class is designed for students who have a thorough understanding of Algebra, which is used extensively

Return to Course List

Art 1—Art 1 is a program of study that involves a broad range of media, techniques, and processes in which the students learn to express themselves visually. Students will increase their visual vocabulary by incorporating the elements and principles of design through original personal creation of artworks as well as studying the artworks of others throughout history.
Art 2—A program of study that continues the development of knowledge and skills as well as the creation and study of works of art and design. Students will develop their own personal style through independent original thought and production through increasing use of various media to express their changing selfs and environments.
Band—A performance class that studies a variety of music and learns different performance concepts. The band attends marching contests in the fall, parades in the winter and concert festivals in the spring.
Choral Music—Explores the importance of music in their lives, the origins of music and cultural differences in music using research skills, reading and listening skills, and vocal participation.
Introduction to Theater Arts— Students will perform, create, analyze, and critique dramatic performances. They will also study the fundamentals of drama, including the history of drama and the changes it has undergone through the ages.

Return to Course List

Science Skills and Reasoning—A transition from 8th grade science to Biology I.  This course will provide students with an overview of basic Biology with an emphasis on organizational skills, critical thinking, reasoning skills, and methods of science.  Concepts covered in this course include scientific problem solving, research, experimental design, measurement, characteristics of life, cell structure and function, energy transfer in biological systems, genetics, and diversity of life.
Physical Science—Provides an opportunity for students to develop and communicate an understanding of physics and chemistry.  Concepts covered include chemical and physical properties and changes, kinematics, dynamics, energy, waves, electricity, and magnetism.
Biology 1—A lecture/ laboratory course in basic biological principles including chemical basis of life, the cell, genetics, nature of science, ecology,  & diversity of life.  Students will also explore laboratory skills in taking measurements, experimental design, & dissection.  Biology I is a part of the Subject Area Testing Program, which is administered the final six-weeks of the school year.  Students must pass the SATP to graduate from high school.
Biology 2—An advanced study of topics in biology.  We generally spend 6 weeks studying 5 topics in biology after a general review during the first 6 weeks.  This class has several written assignments, outside research, posters, and presentations, all of which require students to work diligently.  Academically, this class is more advanced than biology, but is not as intensive as A&P or chemistry, due to material and content covered. Topics include the plant kingdom, genetics, microbiology, ecology and a survey of the animal kingdom.
Anatomy and Physiology—A study of the parts and workings of the human body with more concentration on anatomy.  This is an in-depth study requiring note taking, advanced study, material presentation, and outside reading.  We dissect adult mammal organs and  a complete cat dissection.  Students learn much about their body, how to care for themselves, how to avoid many diseases, and how to recognize and treat common health disorders.  All body systems are covered and material is presented in a frank, yet professional manner, allowing students to feel comfortable to participate in class without being afraid or embarrassed.  Only students who have a 90 or above average in Biology I or Biology II should take this class
Chemistry 1—Provides opportunities for students to develop and communicate an understanding of structure, physics, chemical properties, and changes.  Concepts covered include properties of matter, measurements and use of the SI system of measurement applied to  mathematical operations, atomic theory, landing, periodicity, nomenclature equations and reactions, the mole and stoichiometry, thermochemistry, gas  laws and the kinetic molecular theory, solutions, equilibrium, acids and bases, and oxidation-reduction.
Chemistry 2—Provide opportunities to develop and communicate a deeper understanding of atomic structure, bonding, intermolecular forces, stoichiometry of solutions, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, oxidation-reduction, nuclear chemistry, and organic chemistry
Physics—Provides an opportunity for students to develop and communicate an understanding of matter and energy through lab-based activities, mathematical expressions and concept exploration.  Concepts covered include kinematics, dynamics, energy, waves and electricity.

Return to Course List

Keyboarding—(1/2 credit) Develops speed and accuracy techniques with formatting of letters, reports, and memorandums. Scheduled with Computer Applications.
Computer Aplications—(1/2 credit) Develops essential skills and knowledge to create basic word processing, database, and spreadsheet documents. Scheduled with Keyboarding.
Computations in Business—(1/2 credit) Improves proficiency in solving problems that are encountered in business situations. Students will apply basic mathematical concepts to solve problems are applied. Scheduled with Personal Finance.
Personal Finance—(1/2 credit) Explores personal financial decision-making. It also helps individuals use skills in money management, record keeping, banking, and investing. Scheduled with Computation in Business.
Word Processing—(1/2 credit) Refines keyboarding skills and develops advanced computer skills with the enhanced production of letters, reports, envelopes, and a resume. Internet and career activities are included. Scheduled with Information Processing.
Information Processing—(1/2 credit) Develops knowledge of graphic presentations (PowerPoint), database management (Access) and spreadsheet applications (Excel). Scheduled with Information Processing.
Accounting 1—Allows students to learn accounting terminology, principles, and procedures as related to a single proprietorship, partnership and a corporation.
Accounting 2—Incorporates accounting principles and procedures in managerial, intermediate, and cost accounting with an emphasis on corporate accounting
Web Page Design—Examines web publishing software and basic HTML editors to develop a personal web page. Scheduled with Desktop Publishing.
Desktop Publishing—(1/2 credit) Produces documents such as flyers, letterheads, business cards, newsletters, and brochures to include graphic design and page layout techniques. Scheduled with Web Page Design.

Return to Course List

Comprehensive Health—(1/2 credit) Focus is designed to educate students in the areas of physical, mental, and social health. This course promotes good health practices for lifelong health and happiness. Ninety-one ten-minute lessons in life skills cover many aspects of mental, emotional and social health technology while the remainder of each class meeting will consist of instruction including human development, nutrition, disease prevention, substance abuse as well as safety and first aid.
Driver Education—(1/2 credit) Provides basic driving information to help prepare new drivers to qualify for a driver’s license and assists all drivers in becoming safer, more responsible drivers.
PE (nonathletic)—Exercise class for non-athletes.
Fitness Training, Advanced—A physical education class which emphasizes conditioning through weightlifting, running, and stretching programs.

Return to Course List

Child Development--(1/2 credit) Develops skills related to physical, social, intellectual and emotional development of the child.  It includes instruction on considerations for parenthood, prenatal care, child growth and development, behavior management, needs of exceptional children, and career opportunities.  Scheduled with Family Dynamics and open to students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades.  Preferred that students have completed Personal Development and Nutrition/Wellness.
Family Dynamics— (1/2 credit) Develops skills related to personal, family, and parenting issues. It includes instruction in dimensions of adolescent development, family decisions and responsibilities, social decisions and responsibilities, and management of family systems in today’s society. Scheduled with Child Development and open to students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades. Preferred that students have completed Personal Development and Nutrition/Wellness.

Personal Development--(1/2 credit) Develops skills related to positive interpersonal relationships within the family, peer groups, the workplace, and the community.  It includes instruction on self discovery, personal decisions, relationships with others, establishing goals, career survival skills and clothing and nutritional sound choices. Scheduled with Nutrition and Wellness and open to students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades.
Nutrition and Wellness— (1/2 credit) Develops skills related to overall good health and wellness.  It includes instruction on the connection between good nutrition and lifelong wellness.  It also includes information about the basic types of nutrients and their sources and functions.  The role of exercise in preventing obesity and other health risks is also included.  There is a unit on kitchen safety followed by a short cooking unit. Scheduled with Personal Development and open to students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades..

Return to Course List

Cooperative Education 1—(2 1/2 credits) A secondary training program for grades 11 and 12.  The program combines work-readiness preparation, related occupational classroom instruction, and worksite training.t
Cooperative Education 2—(2 1/2 credits) A secondary training program for grades 11 and 12.  The program combines work-readiness preparation, related occupational classroom instruction, and worksite training.
Technology Discovery—Combines lecture and hands-on activities that allow students to experience different workplace technologies.  Working in groups of two, students rotate through modular units that include satellite technology, video production, computer aided design, laser and robotic technologies, aerospace concepts, engineering technology, and 3-D design.  The students also research new and emerging technologies.  In each module, students apply communication skills, explore the principals of technology, and gain exposure to different technologies by conducting hands-on activities related to that unit/technology.  Technology Discovery is a required class for 9th graders.

Return to Course List

Allied Health—(2 credits) Includes career exploration in medical and health care fields such as nursing, dentists, physicians, dieticians, lab technicians and administrative positions. Other major areas to include are health, first aid, health assistant skills, human relations, and career
planning.
Furniture and Upholstery—(2 credits) Consists of frame cutting, frame assembly, materials cutting, sewing, upholstery and CAD layout components.
Business and Computer—(2 credits) Includes basic business fundamentals, communications skills, the use of calculating machines, automated accounting, word processing, database management, voice recognition systems, spreadsheets, filing, desktop publishing, human relations, job-seeking skills and typewriting.
Vehicle Mechanics—(2 credits) Includes basic and advanced training in automotive, farm tractor, and all terrain vehicles. Students will experience the use of high tech equipment to analyze, to conduct diagnostic tests, and to retrieve repair procedures.
Metal Trades—(2 credits) Includes basic and advanced instructions in metal selection, shaping, milling, turning and CNC operations, metal fabrications, and welding.

Return to Course List

Self-Contained Special Needs—Specially designed instruction that meets the unique needs of an exceptional child as he/she acquires various skills necessary to help him/her transition into adult life.
Career Preparation—(occupational diploma) Enables students with disabilities to practice previously learned concepts in an authentic setting.  Skills to be developed and applied include community orientation skills, mobility skills, basic geographical concepts, governmental concepts, and the individual’s role as a citizen in a democratic republic.
Life Skills Science—(occupational diploma) Provides a general overview of health and science topics.
Employment English—Provides students with skills needed in the work place. These skills include how to apply for a job, how to dress for a job interview, and other skills useful to find and keep a job.
Job Skills Math—Develops math skills that can be used in the work place.  We will work on sales tax, banking skills, and other useful math skills that can be used everyday.

Return to Course List


RHS Home Faculty/Staff/
Administration
Academics Activities Calendar   Athletics Clubs/
Organizations
Counselor's Corner   South Tippah Home Page