RVA High School Course Descriptions
Outlined below are the courses that we offer in the RVAHS. In addition, we have some supplemental programs that may be used by students. Please look over the course descriptions and choose the courses you would like to take this year. We encourage students to take the RVAHS Online courses with live instruction. However, students can also take courses independently from a variety of different curriculum vendors.
Once you have chosen your classes, do your best to fill out the “RVAHS Course Sign Up” Sheet in the online enrollment forms. Once we receive your enrollment information and course selections the School Counselors will give you a call and help you to finalize your schedule. Please be sure to submit this information as soon as possible as the classes might fill up fast!
RVA High School Online
Using online content (mainly provided by the Wisconsin eSchool Network – WeN) students will have “Blended Instruction.” Students will have online classes that they can work through at their own pace, but they will also have teacher support daily in these courses. Following a daily time schedule, students will log into their online classes and receive live instruction and help daily. Attendance is mandatory for the first two weeks of almost every course. Students can earn flexibility in their daily schedules by demonstrating mastery of the concepts and showing that they are able to maintain adequate pace. There are some classes however, where there is limited “Earned Flexibility” and daily attendance is required.
RVA High School Online English Courses
English I: 1.0 English Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 9
This year long course is an introduction to high school English. Through the study of literature, nonfiction, and life, students explore the unknown, search for identity and equality, and seek achievement, opportunity, and understanding. They will read to analyze the way language is used to express human motivation and research to examine the results of actions in the real world.
English II: 1.0 English Credit, Prerequisite English I, Required Grade 10
This year long course extends and expounds upon English concepts. In this course, students see how the human experience, real life, is the foundation of the best stories, plays, poems, films, and articles. In each unit of the course, students explore a specific aspect of the human experience such as Laughter, Obstacles, Betrayal, and Fear. Through the study of literature, nonfiction, and life, students explore what it means to be human, what it means to be fulfilled, triumphant, empowered, and transformed.
English III: 1.0 English Credit, Prerequisite English II, Required Grade 11
This year long course provides students the opportunity to be thorough, accurate, and compelling in their writing. Students explore writing that is clear and concise and read stories that give perspective. In English III, students gain an appreciation of American literature and the ways it reflects the times in which it was written. Students discover how people thought and lived and wrote about their experiences.
Career Prep: 0.5 English Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 11
This semester long course is designed to help students prepare themselves for life after high school. Students will discover possible career options, develop professional skills, and learn about themselves along the way. Topics and assignments covered in class include: learning styles, resume writing, and interview etiquette.
Written Communications (Dual Credit): 0.5 High School English Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This semester long course develops writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on subject matter and content. This course also develops critical reading and thinking skills through the analysis of a variety of written documents. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Oral and Interpersonal Communications (Dual Credit): 0.5 High School English Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This semester long course is focused upon developing speaking, verbal and nonverbal communication, and listening skills through individual presentations, group activities, and other projects. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Gothic Literature: 0.5 English Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to help students explore a unique genre of literature. This course will focus on the major themes found in Gothic literature and demonstrate how the core writing drivers produce, for the reader, a thrilling psychological environment. Terror versus horror, the influence of the supernatural, and descriptions of the difference between good and evil are just a few of the themes presented. By the time students have completed this course, they will have gained an understanding of and an appreciation for the complex nature of dark fiction.
Mythology & Folklore: 0.5 English Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to help students explore a unique genre of literature. Mythology and folklore have been used since the first people gathered around the fire as a way to make sense of humankind and our world. This course focuses on the many myths and legends woven into cultures around the world. Starting with an overview of mythology and the many kinds of folklore, the student will journey with ancient heroes as they slay dragons and outwit the gods, follow fearless warrior women into battle and watch as clever animals outwit those stronger than themselves. They will explore the universality and social significance of myths and folklore, and see how they are still used to shape society today.
Public Speaking: 0.5 English Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to explore public speaking. Students will learn not just the theory, but also the practice of effective public speaking, including how to analyze the speeches of others, build a strong argument, and speak with confidence and flair. By the end of this course, students will know exactly what makes a truly successful speech and will be able to put that knowledge to practical use.
Creative Writing: 0.5 English Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to teach students how to discover their creative thoughts and turn those ideas into dually realized pieces of creative writing. For many hundreds of years, literature has been one of the most important human art forms. It allows us to give voice to our emotions, create imaginary worlds, express ideas, and escape the confines of material reality. Through creative writing, we can come to understand ourselves and our world a little bit better. This course provides students with a solid grounding in the writing process, from finding inspiration to building a basic story to using complicated literary techniques and creating strange hybrid forms of poetic prose and prose poetry.
RVA High School Online Mathematics Courses
Pre-Algebra: 1.0 Math Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 9
This year long course is an introduction to high school math. Pre-Algebra will help students transition from Elementary Math to Algebra.
Algebra I: 1.0 Math Credit, Prerequisite Pre-Algebra or 8th Grade Math, Required Grades 9 - 10
This year long course is an introduction to high school math. Algebra I is the foundation, the skills acquired in this course contain the basic knowledge needed for all future high school math courses. Each module in this course is presented in a step-by-step way right on the computer screen. Hands-on labs make the numbers, graphs, and equations more real. The content in this course is tied to real-world applications like sports, travel, business, and health. This course is designed to give students the skills and strategies to solve all kinds of mathematical problems.
Geometry: 1.0 Math Credit, Prerequisite Algebra, Required Grades 9 - 11
This year long course is designed to explore real world geometry. Geometry is everywhere, not just in pyramids. Engineers use geometry to build highways and bridges. Artists use geometry to create perspective in their paintings, and mapmakers help travelers find things using the points located on a geometric grid. Throughout this course, students travel a mathematical highway illuminated by spatial relationships, reasoning, connections, and problem solving.
Algebra II: 1.0 Math Credit, Prerequisite Geometry, Recommended Grades 10 - 12
This year long course is designed to further extend a student’s knowledge of Algebra and prepare them for higher level math. Starting with a review of basic algebra, you will learn polynomials, quadratic equations, exponential and logarithmic relations, and probability and statistics.
Consumer Math: 1.0 Math Credit, Prerequisite Geometry, Recommended Grades 10 - 12
This year long course is designed to further a student’s knowledge of the many ways in which math can be used in everyday life. The course gives practical advice on how to handle situations that involve money and math principles. Consumer Math focuses on the basic skills and methods of arithmetic and provides students the opportunity to develop experience with algebraic techniques of evaluating variables and equations, including geometric formulas and interest equations. Topics covered include personal finance, taxes and insurance, banking services and investments, retirement, and statistics.
College Algebra (Dual Credit): 1.0 High School Math Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; Prerequisite Algebra II, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This year long course covers those skills needed for success in Calculus and many application areas on a baccalaureate level. Topics include the real and complex number systems, polynomials, exponents, radicals, solving equations and inequalities (linear and nonlinear), relations and functions, systems of equations and inequalities (linear and nonlinear), matrices, graphing, conic sections, sequences and series, combinatories, and the binomial theorem. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Applied Math (Dual Credit): 1.0 High School Math Credit, 2.0 Collegiate Credits; Prerequisite Geometry, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This year long course covers review and application of basic arithmetic skills involving whole numbers, fractions and decimals. Introduction and application of percents, area, volume, ratios and proportions will also be covered. The measurement system, angle, perimeter, square and board feet and formulas for geometric shapes as well as algebra will also be included. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
RVA High School Online Science Courses
Physical Science: 1.0 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 9
This year long course is an introduction to high school science. This course is designed as an interactive, 21st century course focusing on basic physics and chemistry. Topics include forces and motion, energy through waves, electricity and magnetism, the matter around us, chemical bonding and reactions. This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of the physical sciences. Students will demonstrate a vast understanding of the importance of the physical and chemical properties of the world around them; enabling them to apply these properties to their everyday lives.
Biology: 1.0 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 10
This year long course guides students through the study of living and non-living systems and how they interact with one another. Students explore the world they live in by posing questions and seeking answers through scientific inquiry. Discovery takes place through observation and data collection. The students will be introduced to the structure, function, diversity, and evolution of living matter. This course encourages curiosity and provides opportunity for students to complete hands on lab activities. Engaging in the study of biological science broadens the picture of the world around us.
Chemistry: 1.0 Science Credit, Prerequisites Algebra I, Physical Science, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This year long course is designed as an interactive, 21st century course focusing on Chemistry. Topics include the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter and their applications. This course is designed to serve as a foundation for the study of Chemistry. Students will demonstrate a vast understanding of the importance of Chemistry in the world around them; enabling them to apply these properties to their everyday lives.
Medical Terminology (Dual Credit): 0.5 High School Science Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This semester long course focuses on the component parts of medical terms: prefixes, suffixes and word roots. Students practice formation, analysis and reconstruction of terms. There is an emphasis on spelling, definition, and pronunciation. Students will be introduced to operative, diagnostic, therapeutic and symptomatic terminology of all body systems, as well as systemic and surgical terminology. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Body, Structure, & Functions (Dual Credit): 1.0 High School Science Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This year long course focuses on the structures and functions of the human body. It also integrates and correlates applicable principles and concepts of cell biology and histology. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Earth Space Science: 1.0 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 - 12
This year long course is a laboratory course focusing on the study of space, geologic structures and forces, the waters on our planet, and the atmospheric forces that shape our world. Through experimentation and investigation, students will explore the earth cycles including the geosphere, hydrosphere, crysosphere, atmosphere, and the carbon cycle. Students will learn about scientific inquiry, geologic time, space exploration, the solar system, and the universe. Upon completion of the course, students will have a clear understanding of the dynamic forces at work in the world around them, becoming better caretakers of our planet, Earth.
Forensic Science I: 0.5 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to explore science in action! Fingerprints. Blood spatter. DNA analysis. The world of law enforcement is increasingly making use of the techniques and knowledge from the sciences to better understand the crimes that are committed and to catch those individuals responsible for the crimes. Forensic science applies scientific knowledge to the criminal justice system. This course focuses on some of the techniques and practices used by forensic scientists during a crime scene investigation (CSI). Starting with how clues and data are recorded and preserved, the student will follow evidence trails until the CSI goes to trial, examining how various elements of the crime scene are analyzed and processed.
Forensic Science II: 0.5 Science Credit, Prerequisite Forensic Science I, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to further explore Forensic Science. Although the crime scene represents the first step in solving crimes through forensic science, the crime laboratory plays a critical role in the analysis of evidence. This course focuses on the analysis of evidence and testing that takes place within this setting. We will examine some of the basic scientific principles and knowledge that guides forensic laboratory processes, such as those testing DNA, toxicology, and material analysis. Techniques such as microscopy, chromatography, odontology, entomology, mineralogy, and spectroscopy will be examined.
Environmental Science: 1.0 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This year long course focuses on our relationship to the natural world and how our decisions influence the sustainability of society and the life support systems of the planet. Topics covered throughout the year include: ecological principles, energy resources, land resources, living resources/biodiversity, human effects (issues/action), air resources, and water resources. Class format will include lecture, demonstrations, videos, projects and various other assignments to promote environmental awareness and understanding to foster an environmental ethic. Let's explore our magnificent planet and learn how to protect its resources that not only support life, but also provide us the opportunities to pursue hobbies and recreation which makes our lives that much more rewarding.
Marine Science: 0.5 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to introduce students to a unique science topic. Have you wondered about the secrets of the deep and how the creatures below the ocean's surface live and thrive? Understand more about the aquatic cycles, structures, and processes that generate and sustain life in the sea. In the marine science course, students will delve deep into Earth's bodies of water and study geologic structures and how they impact the oceans. Students will investigate characteristics of various populations, patterns of distribution of life in our aquatic systems, and ongoing changes occurring every day in our precious ecosystems.
Veterinary Science: 0.5 Science Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is designed to introduce students to a unique science topic. As animals play an increasingly important role in our lives, scientists have sought to learn more about their health and well-being. Taking a look at the pets that live in our homes, on our farms, and in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, this course will examine some of the common diseases and treatments for domestic animals. Toxins, parasites, and infectious diseases impact not only the animals around us, but at times...we humans as well! Through veterinary medicine and science, the prevention and treatment of diseases and health issues is studied and applied.
RVA High School Online Social Studies Courses
World History: 1.0 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 9
This year long course is an introduction to high school social studies. Students will learn how the Roman Empire developed in two very distinct directions. Next, students will discover the great intellectual and cultural contributions of Islamic Empires. Journey through the Middle Ages of Europe and Japan to learn how knights and samurais lived. Students will also investigate the rise and fall of some of the great kingdoms of the Americas and Africa and then travel back to the Europe of the Renaissance and Reformation era.
U.S. History: 1.0 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 10
This year long course is a study of United States History. The United States began as an experiment in freedom and democracy. Since its establishment, the country and its people have endured social, political and economic revolutions. In this course, students will investigate the people, events and ideas that have shaped the United States from the end of the Civil War through today. Students are asked to analyze and evaluate decisions made by political, business and military leaders. Emphasis is placed on connections between events of the past and present.
U.S. Government: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 11
This semester long course explores the United States Government. Responsible citizenship, including civil and political participation is essential to maintain a representative government that truly represents the people of the United States. In this course, students learn about the structure of government and how it shares power at the local, state and federal levels. This course also explores founding principles that inspired the Constitution and Bill of Rights, preserving the freedoms that students experience daily. Students will examine the processes of each branch of government, the election process, and how citizens can impact public policy. Students will examine the U.S. Court system, and become a part of the process by participating in the judicial decision making process.
Introduction to Sociology (Dual Credit): 1.0 High School Social Studies Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This year long course introduces students to the basic concepts of sociology: culture, socialization, social stratification, multi-culturalism, and the five institutions, including family, government, economics, religion, and education. Other topics include demography, deviance, technology, environment, social issues, social change, social organization, and workplace issues. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Introduction to Psychology (Dual Credit): 1.0 High School Social Studies Credit, 3.0 Collegiate Credits; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This year long course is a survey of the multiple aspects of human behavior. It involves a survey of the theoretical foundations of human functioning in such areas as learning, motivation, emotions, personality, deviance and pathology, physiological factors, and social influences. It directs the student to an insightful understanding of the complexities of human relationships in personal, social, and vocational settings. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Cents & Sensibility (Dual Credit): 0.5 High School Social Studies Credit, 1.0 Collegiate Credit; No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 - 12
This semester long course is a practical study of consumer problems and consumer choice. This course has an emphasis on developing the skill of consumer decision-making. Selected topics include: budgeting and family resource management, sources of consumer information, help in solving consumer problems and consumer decision-making in such areas as transportation, insurance, financial institutions, consumer goods and services, housing and credit. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Criminology I: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course introduces students to the field of criminology, the study of crime. Student’s will look at possible explanations for crime from psychological, biological, and sociological standpoints, explore the various types of crime and their consequences for society, and investigate how crime and criminals are handled by the criminal justice system. Why do some individuals commit crimes but others don't? What aspects in our culture and society promote crime and deviance? Why do individuals receive different punishments for the same crime? What factors shape the criminal case process, from arrest to punishments?
Law & Order: Introduction to Legal Studies: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course introduces students to the legal studies. Every society has laws that its citizens must follow. Laws help provide society with order and structure. Consumer laws help protect us from faulty goods; criminal laws help to protect society from individuals who harm others; and family law handles the arrangements and issues that arise in areas like divorce and child custody. By understanding the workings of our court system, as well as how laws are actually carried out, we become more informed and responsible citizens in our communities and of our nation.
Anthropology I: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 – 12
This semester long course studies Anthropology, the study of various aspects of humans within past and present societies. This course will explore the evolution, similarity and diversity of humankind through time. It will look at how we have evolved from a biologically and culturally weak species to one that has the ability to cause catastrophic change. Exciting online video journeys to different areas of the world will also be presented in the course.
History of the Holocaust: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course explores the history of the Holocaust. Holocaust education requires a comprehensive study of not only times, dates, and places, but also the motivation and ideology that allowed these events. In this course, students will study the history of anti-Semitism; the rise of the Nazi party; and the Holocaust, from its beginnings through liberation and the aftermath of the tragedy. The study of the Holocaust is a multi-disciplinary one, integrating world history, geography, American history, and civics. Through this in-depth, semester-long study of the Holocaust, high school students will gain an understanding of the ramifications of prejudice and indifference, the potential for government-supported terror, and they will get glimpses of kindness and humanity in the worst of times.
Native American Cultural Studies: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is an introductory survey of Native American culture and history. Topics explored include Wisconsin’s Indigenous Peoples, language, oral history, art, and more! This course is for any students wishing to enrich their understanding and awareness of the Native American culture.
World Religions – Exploring Diversity: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is an introductory survey of World Religions. Throughout the ages, religions from around the world have shaped the political, social, and cultural aspects of societies. This course focuses on the major religions that have played a role in human history, including Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Shintoism, and Taoism. Students will trace the major developments in these religions and explore their relationships with social institutions and culture. The course will also discuss some of the similarities and differences among the major religions and examine the connections and influences they have.
Terror on the High Seas – A History of Piracy: 0.5 Social Studies Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course is an introductory survey of a unique genre of history. Throughout history, the open seas and waterways have served as a vital means of transportation for human society. Since humans gained the means to sail they have used boats for travel and to transport goods. For just as long, people have used this knowledge to plunder and profit, both legally and illegally. This course will dive into the history of theft by boat, aka piracy. You will learn that there is a lot more to pirates than peg legs and Tricorn hats. The course will span from Ancient Times to the modern-day.
RVA High School Online Physical Education and Health Courses
Fitness Fundamentals I: 0.5 Phy-Ed Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 9
This semester long course is designed to provide students with the basic skills and information needed to begin a personalized exercise program and maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Students participate in pre- and post-fitness assessments in which they measure and analyze their own levels of fitness based on the five components of physical fitness: muscular strength, endurance, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and body composition. Throughout this course students participate in a weekly fitness program involving elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility.
Fitness Fundamentals II: 0.5 Phy-Ed Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 10
This semester long course is designed to provide students with the basic skills and information needed to begin a personalized exercise program and maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Students participate in pre- and post-fitness assessments in which they measure and analyze their own levels of fitness based on the five components of physical fitness: muscular strength, endurance, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and body composition. In this course, students research the benefits of physical activity, as well as the techniques, principles, and guidelines of exercise to keep them safe and healthy. Throughout this course students participate in a weekly fitness program involving elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility.
Comprehensive Physical Education: 0.5 Phy-Ed Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 11
This semester long course is designed to have students explore concepts involving personal fitness, team sports, dual sports, and individual and lifetime sports. Students will focus on health-related fitness as they set goals and develop a program to improve their fitness level through cardio, strength, and flexibility training. In addition, they will learn about biomechanics and movement concepts, as they enhance their level of skill-related fitness. Students will learn about game play concepts and specifically investigate the rules, guidelines, and skills pertaining to soccer, softball, volleyball, tennis, walking and running, dance, and yoga. Students take a pre- and post-fitness assessment. Throughout this course students also participate in a weekly fitness program involving elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility, as well as participating in a variety of dual, individual, and group sport activities.
Health and Personal Wellness: 0.5 Health Credit, No Prerequisites, Required Grade 9
This semester long course provides students with essential knowledge and decision-making skills for a healthy lifestyle. Students analyze aspects of emotional, social, and physical health and how these realms of health influence each other. Students apply principles of health and wellness to their own lives. In addition, they study behavior change and set health goals to work on throughout the semester.
Nutrition: 0.5 Health Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course takes students through a comprehensive study of nutritional principles and guidelines. Students will learn about world-wide views of nutrition, nutrient requirements, physiological processes, food labeling, healthy weight management, diet related diseases, food handling, nutrition for different populations, and more. Students will gain important knowledge and skills to aid them in attaining and maintaining a healthy and nutritious lifestyle.
Fitness Lifestyle Design: 0.5 Health Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course will promote lifelong health and wellness. Students will discover habits of body and mind that will lead to a healthier lifestyle. Students will measure their current fitness level and nutrition knowledge and create a plan for achieving their individual goals.
Walking Fitness: 0.5 Health Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course will help students establish a regular walking program for health and fitness. Walking is appropriate for students of all fitness levels and is a great way to maintain a moderately active lifestyle. In addition to reviewing fundamental principles of fitness, students learn about goals and motivation, levels of training, walking mechanics, safety and injury prevention, appropriate attire, walking in the elements, good nutrition and hydration, and effective cross-training. Throughout this course students also participate in a weekly fitness program involving walking, as well as elements of resistance training and flexibility.
Strength Training: 0.5 Health Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester long course focuses on the fitness components of muscular strength and endurance. Throughout this course students establish their fitness level, set goals, and design their own resistance training program and cross-training. They study muscular anatomy and learn specific exercises to strengthen each muscle or muscle group. Students focus on proper posture and technique while training.
RVA High School Online Elective Courses
Technology & Study Skills: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 10
This semester-long course is designed to promote student success in a virtual setting by exploring technology tools and learning to develop good study skills. Topics covered in this class include technology resources, time management, organizational habits, reading strategies, communication skills, test taking strategies, and more. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Foundations of Leadership: 1.0 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 11 – 12
This year-long course is designed to have students explore the foundations of leadership and success while learning to develop the skills needed to transform their lives and the communities they live in. Content areas include decision-making, goal setting, effective communication, organization, time management skills, attitude, preparation, perseverance, respect, honesty integrity, courage, appreciation, composure, empathy, gratitude, tolerance, sacrifice, loyalty, responsibility, compassion, leadership, character, and more! This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Spanish I: 1.0 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This year-long course is designed to introduce students to the Spanish language as well as culture. Throughout the course, students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Spanish II: 1.0 Elective Credit, Prerequisite Spanish I, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This year-long course is designed to further students’ Spanish language skills as well as culture. Throughout the course, students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Spanish III: 1.0 Elective Credit, Prerequisite Spanish II, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This year-long course is designed to further students’ Spanish language skills as well as culture. Throughout the course, students will develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
History of Rock & Roll I: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course is a guided tour through the background and history of popular music from the early-mid 20th Century through the mid 1970’s. It will mainly focus on the rock and roll genre of music, but will also touch on other genres as they impact rock and roll. The goal is for students to get an appreciation of past music and cultures, to discover music they haven’t been introduced to yet, and to open their minds to discover music in the world.
History of Rock & Roll II: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course is a guided tour through the background and history of popular music starting with the mid 1970’s through the present day. The course will mainly focus on the rock and roll genre of music, but may also touch on other genres as they impact rock and roll. This course is a fun survey of popular music through the generations. The goal is for students to get an appreciation of past music and cultures, to discover music they haven’t been introduced to yet, and to open their minds to discover more music in the world.
Art for Absolute Beginners: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course is an introduction to art. Have you always wanted to learn how to draw, paint, or sculpt, but never had the time in your schedule? Do you feel self-conscious about creating art? If so, this is the class for you. We will start with the basic fundamentals and begin to grow our skills and confidence. Subjects studied may include but are not limited to drawing nature, basic painting skills, and overall development of how to approach artistic endeavors.
Digital Photography I: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course introduces students to digital photography and covers the basic concepts of digital photography. We will learn the basic uses of the camera and address aesthetic principles as they relate to elements and principles of design and art such as composition, space, exposure, light, and color. Students will also learn the basics of photo editing and manipulation.
Digital Drawing: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course introduces students to the various tools used for drawing digitally. Students are taught about the basics of composition as well as drawing strategies and techniques. Students begin by learning basic drawing foundation skills and then building upon those skills as well go into more complex ideas and concepts. We will explore digital drawing and learn the advantages of learning to draw digitally.
2D Art I – Drawing & Painting: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course introduces students to the various tools used for drawing and painting. Students are taught about the basics of composition as well as drawing and painting strategies. Students begin by learning basic drawing foundation skills and then building upon those skills as well go into more complex ideas. Students will go through units about perspective, proportion, and accuracy. Each unit corresponds with projects that the students will complete at home. Emphasis is placed on personal growth!
2D Art II – Drawing & Painting: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course builds upon a student’s 2D Art skills. Students expand on their knowledge of the basics of composition as well as drawing and painting strategies. Students review the basic drawing foundation skills and then building upon those skills as well go into more complex ideas. Each unit corresponds with projects that the students will complete at home.
Sculpture & 3D Art: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course introduces students to sculpture and 3 dimensional art. Students will be introduced to sculpture techniques with various kinds of media. Students will work with polymer and air dry clay to create 3-dimensional art that does not need a kiln to complete! Projects will include basic sculpture and hand-building techniques and will progress to more intermediate skills such as building functional art and mixed media.
Design for Beginners: Create Your Own Business: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 10 – 12
In this semester-long course students will discover a passion, hobby or interest and then develop the design skills to create a business website for it with supporting marketing assets such as a logo, brand guide, photography, videography, and a marketing strategy and more!
Advertising & Sales Promotion: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course introduces students to advertising. What comes to mind when you think of marketing? Perhaps a familiar television jingle plays in your head? Or maybe you think of those irritating sales phone calls? Every year companies spend approximately $200 billion promoting their products and services and that is just in the United States alone! You may be familiar with being on the receiving end of marketing, but what is it like on the other side? In Advertising and Sales Promotions, you will see how these marketing campaigns, ads, and commercials are brought to life and meet some of the creative folks who produce them.
Sports & Entertainment Marketing: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Grades 9 – 12
This semester-long course introduces students to different fields of marketing. In this course, you'll have the opportunity to explore basic marketing principles and delve deeper into the multi-billion dollar sports and entertainment marketing industry. You'll learn about how professional athletes, sports teams, and well known entertainers are marketed as commodities and how some of them become billionaires as a result. If you've ever wondered about how things work behind the scenes of a major sporting event such as the Super Bowl or even entertained the idea of playing a role in such an event, then this course will introduce you to the fundamentals of such a career.
Resource: 1.0 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Required for Special Education Students in Grades 9 – 12
This year-long course is designed to help students in special education meet their IEP goals. In Resource, students will be able to get additional support from a special education teacher. During this daily time, students will work on organization, pacing, and assignments. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
Life Management Skills: 0.5 Elective Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended for Special Education and At-Risk Students in Grades 11 – 12
This semester-long course is designed to help students make good life choices. Topics covered in this course include making healthy choices, family and friendships, decision making, stress management, conflict resolution, communication, wellness, and being a smart consumer. Sharing of community service ideas and experiences as well as academic and career planning will also be discussed.
Driver’s Education: No Credit, No Prerequisites, Recommended Age is 15 or Older
This semester-long course is designed to help students get their Driver’s License! Driver’s Ed teaches teens who are looking at getting their driver’s license the facts, theories, and techniques of safe driving in a classroom setting. This class will satisfy the “classroom” component. Students wanting to get their license will need to complete the “behind the wheel”’ course on their own. This course has limited earned flexibility and daily attendance is required.
RVA High School Online
Other RVA Online elective courses can be taken independently by students, with a teacher overseeing them.
To see a listing of RVAHS Online offerings visit:
https://wen.geniussis.com/publicstudentcourselist.aspx?id=1636
Go to “Click Here to View Course Catalog”
Odysseyware
Odysseyware is an online curriculum. Odysseyware includes courses in the core subjects of social studies and history, math, language arts, and science, as well as a variety of electives. Students complete these courses independently with an RVAHS teacher providing support for these classes. Core courses can be taken by students that need remediation in a subject or in special circumstances. Odysseyware offers a large selection of elective courses which are open to all students.
To see a listing of Odysseyware offerings visit:
Go to “Course Catalog”
American School
American School offers both book/paper-based and online curriculum choices. Students can choose from courses in the core subject areas as well as elective courses. American School is an independent, self-paced curriculum. Students choosing this option will complete the courses independently with very limited support from RVAHS teachers. Students will submit their unit tests and final exams to American School. American School will do the grading of the tests and submit a transcript to the RVA at the end of the semester. American School will only be an option to students who have first demonstrated that they can meet the requirements of the RVAHS.
To see a listing of American School offerings visit:
https://www.americanschoolofcorr.com
Go to “Course Descriptions”
Consortium Districts
If you are enrolled through a consortium district, you may choose to take courses in your resident district. To enroll into courses within the building of your consortium resident district, please meet with their building principal or guidance department to enroll in a class. Daily attendance in the building is required. Please note which classes you have enrolled in within the building on your Course Sign Up sheet along with the times. We will fit them into your RVA schedule.
To see a listing of your consortium course offerings, visit your resident district’s building principal or school counselor.