High School Curriculum

* Indicates the course is required to graduate 

BIBLICAL STUDIES – 1 credit (2 semesters) required for each year at RCCS 

Bible 9: Old Testament Studies – An overview of the structure, history, theology and covenants of the Old Testament 

During their freshman year, our students will be given a study Bible and put the tools and skills of inductive Bible study methods into practice.  The focus of their studies will be from the content of the Old Testament.  Many Christians struggle to understand the Old Testament and its relevance to modern day Christianity.  This course is designed to help our students see how understanding the Old Testament will enrich their comprehension of the New Testament and the gospel.  They will also see how the so-called “heroes of the faith” are regular people just like them in desperate need of a Redeemer.  As the students engage with the history, culture, and various genres of the Old Testament they should begin to see the overall story of how God works through His people to bring redemption to a fallen world. 

Bible 10: New Testament Studies – An introduction to the history, literature, and theology of the first Christians 

“The New Testament in its World,” is just that – a deep-dive into the world of the New Testament; the writers, the characters, the culture, and the Christ that came into that world. Contemporary people, and even Christians, often make the mistake of trying to read the New Testament with 21st century eyes and understanding. The problem is that it was not written in the 21st century. While it was written for us, it was not originally written to us. This course is a journey back into the era of Jesus, the apostles, Paul, and the Greco-Roman culture in which they lived and ministered. 

Introduction to Missions 

Introduction to Missions raises issues Christians need to process as we strive to obey God’s call on our lives individually and corporately to make disciples of all nations. This is a stand-alone course for high school students who will explore the Biblical foundations on many issues that are part of missions, forming a deeper understanding and respect of cultures God is at work in around the world, and who will explore the historical background and lessons we’ve learned about God and effective approaches (or strategy) to making disciples. Students will need to read outside of class from sources and be prepared to discuss issues in class. Beyond reading assignments and discussions, students will also need to write to a missionary every month, pray for a missionary every week/day, serve in a church, read a missionary biography, watch selected movies about missionaries, memorize key verses, and either contribute to writing a missionary biography, making a missionary movie, or taking a short-term service and learning trip that they help plan. The course is divided into six units with passages from various books of the Bible. 

Apologetics of the Faith  

Apologetics of the Faith is designed to assist the student in understanding and solidifying their Christian Worldview in order that he or she may provide a clear and rational defense of this Worldview according to the mandate of 1 Peter 3:15. This course will build on Apologetics 1 and will delve deeper into the basics of Christian Theology, the history of the Christian faith, noteworthy historical defenders of the faith, and the influence of these Christian Apologists in defending Christianity against heresy. This course will also provide instruction and discussion of controversial/heretical questions and accusations directed against the Christian faith. The student will then learn how to develop his or her own methods, techniques, and skills to effectively provide a well-reasoned defense of their Christian faith against these questions and heresies. The course will provide assessments addressing theological terms and ideas, historical figures and influences, and heresies and their refutation. Students will also be given practical debate/discussion opportunities and assessments reflecting their ability to provide a well-reasoned and articulated defense of Biblical Truths. 

Christian Leadership 

Every person is a leader, regardless of title, career, or level of education. All Christians are called to make disciples – whether it is in the home, through vocational ministry, or among one’s coworkers or neighbors. To do this, Christians must lead like Jesus. This course will answer the question of what it means to be a Christlike leader. We will dive into the gospels and examine the leadership qualities Jesus modeled, and more importantly, why Jesus led as He did. This course will also examine the lives of other Biblical leaders and learn from their successes and failures as leaders. Throughout the semester, students will take the leadership principles they learn and apply them to the contemporary world. 

Engaging the Culture 

The objective of this course is to learn to engage in the current world’s controversial moral challenges biblically and intelligently. Students will explore applying a biblical worldview to cultural shifts that are happening in the West. As a result, they will gain confidence to engage the culture about the life-affirming and positive view of the human person that God created and deemed worthy. The main texts for this course are the Bible, Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions About Life & Sexuality by Nancy Pearcey, and a variety of non-fiction articles.  

Worldviews: Understanding the Times 

This course curriculum serves as a landmark guide to understanding the ideas and forces shaping our times. Understanding the Times offers a fascinating, comprehensive look at how the tenets of the Christian worldview compares with five major competing worldviews of our day: Islam, Secularism, Marxism, New Spirituality, and Postmodernism.  

ENGLISH / LANGUAGE ARTS (4 credits required) 

*English 9 (Comp & Literature) 

English 9 combines reading and discussing literature selections that support a Christian worldview with expanding vocabulary, improving writing skills, and learning research techniques. Students learn and analyze the elements found in stories (conflict, character, theme, structure, viewpoint, and moral tone) and reading skills for engaging informational text. Students will write paragraphs, essays, letters, and creative pieces and conduct a research project.  

*Choose 2 from the following 3 writing courses for graduation requirements: 

Composition 1 

This composition course is devoted to developing grammar and writing skills. Students learn and practice the entire composition process, from pre-writing to editing. Students write various essay types such as expository, cause/effect, compare/contrast, and research-supported persuasive.  

Composition 2 

Building on the concepts and skills in Composition 1, this course will give students opportunities to develop personal strategies for improving their writing skills and written products. Students will use mentor texts to learn how to elaborate with tools used by notable writers. Daily activities will emphasize using diction, detail, imagery, syntax, and tone to enhance students’ personal writing. Besides providing support for students working on their National History Day (NHD) projects, this course will require writing several types of essays and at least one research-based paper. Composition 2 is a pre-requisite to taking (dual enrollment) College Composition.  

Creative Writing 

Creative Writing offers students the opportunity to develop and improve their writing technique and individual style from a Christian worldview in poetry, short story, drama, essays, and other forms of prose. The emphasis of the course is on writing; however, students may study exemplary representations and authors to obtain a fuller appreciation of the form and craft.  

*Speech 

Speech offers students the opportunity to prepare and present a variety of speech forms. Students learn to use organization skills, practice audience awareness, use appropriate grammar, and apply both verbal and nonverbal skills to effectively deliver oral presentations. Students acquire strategies and techniques that will assist them in presenting a Christian worldview effectively through spoken communication. 

*American Literature 

This course allows students to apply a biblical worldview to their interpretation and application of works written by American authors. This class will explore a variety of genres, styles, and literary movements. As they read and analyze underlying assumptions and values within the selected essays, poetry, short stories, plays, and novels, students will understand how the literature reflects the society of the time. Responding to literature will include both informal and formal responses through journals, discussions, essays, and research.  

*Choose 1 of the following 2 literature courses for graduation requirements: 

British Literature 

Authors covered in this course will include John Bunyan, John Milton, C.S. Lewis, and William Shakespeare. Students will be challenged to understand the problem of the human condition and to discern the difference between the solutions offered by man and those found in God’s Word as they prepare for college-level reading and critical thinking. As they determine the underlying assumptions and values in the works they read and understand how the literature reflects culture, students will strengthen their critical thinking skills and expand their analytical techniques.  Students will write at least two works of literary analysis in a specific format (MLA, APA, etc.) during the semester. 

World Literature 

In this course students will explore various genres of non-Western literature, both classical and contemporary, Christian and non-Christian. Students will be challenged to understand the problem of the human condition and to discern the difference between the solutions offered by various human cultures and those found in Scripture as they prepare for college-level reading and critical thinking. As they determine the underlying assumptions and values in the works they read and understand how the literature reflects culture, students will strengthen their critical thinking skills and expand their analytical techniques. Students will write at least two works of literary analysis in a specific format (MLA, APA, etc.) during the semester. 

College Composition (dual enrollment with Colorado Christian University) 

College Composition class gives students the opportunity to grow in their ability to express themselves clearly in writing. The study of composition includes reading, thinking critically, and discussing topics and sample writing.  The course focuses on the effective use of the English language and exploration of rhetorical modes in written composition, as well as the review of structure, purpose, and audience awareness in developing essays.  Students will learn how to generate an idea, develop it, organize it into a particular mode, compose an appropriate and effective essay in that mode, revise, and prepare it for final submission in a proper academic format.   

College Oral Communication (dual enrollment with Colorado Christian University) 

This course is an investigation of basic principles of speech communication and their application to intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, and public communication. The course provides a practical interweaving of communication theory, principle, and practice as it explores many of the communication situations the student will encounter in his/her career, personal relationships and ministry.  

MATHEMATICS (3 credits required) 

Pre-Algebra  

Pre-Algebra is a very complete pre-algebra course. Students will be well prepared for Algebra I. Specific topics include operations with integers, order of operations, simplifying algebraic expressions, evaluating algebraic expressions, solving algebraic equations, solving algebraic inequalities, arithmetic sequences, geometric sequences, proportions, scientific notation, percent application problems, graphing on the coordinate plane, graphing linear functions, linear function application problems, probability, statistics, permutations, combinations, radicals, perimeter, area, and volume. 

*Algebra 1 

Algebra 1 is a very thorough first-year algebra course. Specific topics include real number operations, simplifying and evaluating expressions involving signed numbers, order of operations, exponents and radicals, properties of real numbers, absolute value, scientific notation, unit conversions, solutions of equations, solve inequalities, solve literal equations, percent equations, the algebra of polynomials and rational expressions, arithmetic and geometric sequences, word problems requiring algebra for the solution, linear equations, direct and inverse variation, solutions to systems of equations, Pythagorean theorem, functions, solutions of quadratic equations by factoring and completing the square, quadratic formula, and computation of the perimeter and area of two-dimensional regions. 

*Geometry 

Geometry covers topics such as points, lines, planes, parallel relationships, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, trigonometry, circles, areas, volumes, polygons, and co-ordinate geometry. Inductive and deductive reasoning will be used to write formal and informal proofs. The student will observe and study many applications to the real world. Cooperative learning will also be incorporated into the traditional classroom teaching structure. 

*Algebra 2 

This course is a traditional second-year algebra class, but also covers basic trigonometry. Specific topics include the following: properties of real numbers, solving equations, linear functions, solving systems of equations, inequalities and systems of inequalities, graphing translations of different functions, matrices, roots of quadratic equations including complex roots, solving third and fourth degree polynomial equations, radicals, exponential equations, logarithms, rational expressions and equations, basic trigonometric functions, unit circle, and a wide spectrum of algebraic application problems. 

Consumer Math 

Consumer Math helps students develop the knowledge and skills they need to successfully handle their personal finances. Topics include developing a budget, filing taxes, and planning a vacation. Stewardship & Scripture features encourage students to view their handling of money in light of scriptural teaching. 

Precalculus 

Pre-Calculus hones, refines, and builds on skills developed in Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. This course is designed to be the final preparation for college-level calculus courses. This course explores real-world applications for radical, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions along with vectors, matrices, analytic geometry, sequences, series, and statistics. It culminates by introducing some of the fundamentals of college-level calculus, including limits, derivatives, and integrals. 

College Algebra (dual enrollment through Colorado Christian University) 

College Algebra covers topics from algebra and trigonometry at a level and emphasis appropriate for applied technology majors who will continue with at least one semester of applied calculus. Topics are chosen from the following: functions and their graphs, angles and triangles, systems of linear equations with determinants, trigonometric functions, equations and identities, exponential and logarithmic functions, a general treatment of conic sections. Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental concepts and theories from algebra, geometry and pre-calculus; utilize various algebra and pre-calculus, problem-solving and critical-thinking techniques to set up and solve applied problems in geometry, sciences, and other fields; communicate accurate mathematical terminology and notation in written and/or oral form in order to explain strategies to solve problems as well as to interpret found solutions; and use calculators effectively as a tool to solve such problems as those described above. 

College Pre-Calculus (dual enrollment through Colorado Christian University) 

Pre-Calculus includes the study of functions – polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric. There is an emphasis on representing these functions numerically, graphically, symbolically. 

SCIENCE – 3 credits (6 semesters) required 

*Physical Science 

Physical Science is designed to set the foundation for understanding the method and limitations of the scientific method. A systematic study is engaged using the Bob Jones text, Physical Science, giving the student a fundamental understanding of the concepts and methods within the disciplines of chemistry and physics. The students will be presented with integrated Biblical thought, within these content areas, to further sharpen their appreciation of the Creator and his creation. 

*Biology 

This biology course explores God’s creation through the study of life ranging from cellular mechanisms to entire ecosystems. This is a lab science course with special emphasis on biochemistry, cellular organization and function, genetics, invertebrate and vertebrate body designs, plant design and functions, and ecology. This course gives special attention to understanding the truth of Biblical creation and the theory of evolution via natural selection. 

Environmental Science 

This course is designed to allow students to understand and evaluate how we can care for God’s creation while meeting the needs of people through exploring the topics of toxicology and risk, ethics, population dynamics, nonrenewable and renewable energy sources, water as a resource, solid waste landfills and land use practices.  This is a laboratory science, and students will perform many hands-on experiments including LD-50’s, wood gasifier construction, biogas generator construction, simple motor and electromagnet construction, water quality testing and field trips.  

Chemistry 

This course is designed to be a continuation and advancement of the study of chemistry begun in Physical Science. Topics such as the review of the scientific method, the arrangement and history of the Periodic Table and its uses, arithmetic relationships with chemicals in a balanced equation, and the various gas laws are taught. This course also covers the principals of chemical thermodynamics as well as solutions and the basics of organic chemistry. Laboratory procedures and experiments are an integral part of this course. Throughout the course, students are presented with evidence for a designer of creation. 

Physics 

This physics course is designed to give the students a basic understanding of the physical laws of God’s creation. Initial study focuses upon the mechanics of motion, kinematics and dynamics. Major emphasis is given to problem solving, with the application of discovered mathematical relationships. Students are then introduced to simple harmonic motion, thermal physics, and electromagnetic phenomena including ohms law. Students will be prepared for continued and advanced study in physics in readiness for career and ministry. 

Anatomy and Physiology 

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the basic anatomical and physiological features of the human body through a lab-intensive, hands-on course with live time Vernier sensor labs and many dissections.  Students will learn how the organ systems God designed function together to maintain a healthy human body.  Major topics include tissues, skin, digestion, cardiovascular organs, the skeleton, all external muscles, the nervous system and brain, the respiratory system, urinary system and reproductive system.  

Forensics 

This one-year introductory course examines the principals, theories and practices of forensic science utilized within the law enforcement community and the American legal system. Forensic science is the study and application of science to the process of law and involves the collection, examination, evaluation, and interpretation of evidence. Students will gain a basic understanding of the scientific and analytical approach to determining the value of evidence as it relates to the court of law.  This class will also aim to give you reading and studying strategies to help you become a more effective reader, learner, and thinker. The students will be presented with Biblical thought, within this content area, to further sharpen their appreciation of the Creator and his creation. 

College Biology (dual enrollment through Colorado Christian University) 

Biological Life is designed to provide students with an introduction to the field of Biology. We will broadly discuss those life processes common to plants and animals. This course will cover Cell structure, and function as well as introduce the subjects of genetics, biological diversity, and ecology. Importantly, throughout the course we will be discussing the many aspects of biology that highlight the role of God in creation! 

SOCIAL STUDIES (3 credits required) 

*World Geography 

World Geography is taught over two semesters and is divided into six units, teaching physical, political and cultural factors that influence people. This course develops students’ critical thinking and social awareness skills, using content-area reading and in-class cultural experiences. Students gain further recognition of the many ways our lives are affected by and connected to people who live in other parts of the world. We believe God moves people around the world (sometimes voluntarily and sometimes involuntarily) to trade resources and to spread the Gospel. 

*World History 

Course is taught each year for two semesters. The first semester begins with ancient civilizations of the Near East, moves through the Roman Republic and Empire, covers ancient civilizations of Byzantium, Russia, Islam, India, Japan, China, and Africa, and then settles on Western Europe for the remainder of the course. The first semester ends with an examination of the Middle Ages. The second semester begins with the Renaissance, Reformation and Age of Exploration and Discovery, examines the absolute monarchs, the French Revolution, the Napoleonic era, the Congress of Vienna, the Industrial Revolution, and examines the factors that led to World War I and the impact on politics, geography and society from the events of World War I.  Students will be expected to do projects that support the topics as well as participate in all activities inside and outside of class; (i.e. Specialty days with dress and food).   

*US History 

Course is taught each year for two semesters. The standards for this course will be shared between grades eight and eleven. The eighth-grade history course will cover, in depth, from the “Age of Exploration and Discovery” through the Civil War. The eleventh grade U.S. History course will begin with an overview of the period from “Manifest Destiny” to the Civil War, beginning in depth with the Civil War Era and the period of U.S. History known as “Reconstruction.” The eleventh-grade history course will then continue through the “Gilded Age,” World War I, the 1920s and ending with the Great Depression. The course examines the Thirties, the lead-up to World War I, the lead-up to World War II, the war itself and the aftermath known as the “Cold War.” The course covers the Korean War, the Space Race, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf Wars I & II. 

*US Government 

This course begins with a study of what the Bible says about decision-making and the foundations of government and continues with historical documents like George Washington’s Farewell Address, Mayflower Compact, Declaration of Independence, and Constitution within the first three units. Each branch of the federal government is studied in the last three units. The course includes applying students’ knowledge with practical citizenship activities, such as attending a city council meeting and writing to their representatives. 

*Economics 

Economics builds on the background students have from US History and their own personal experiences from working at jobs to paying for cars and future expenses. Economics is the study of the ways people use resources to increase material wealth and why. The units cover the basic building blocks of economies starting with what types of work fuel the growth of an economy, how a free market allows people to trade surpluses voluntarily while weighing other values including moral values, what are the challenges of saving wealth considering US monetary policy, how can people invest their wealth and grow businesses considering the US stock market, how do people trade their wealth including donating to charities and missionaries so as to alleviate poverty and help people who may be unemployed, and finally how does the government stop exploitation in the economy without regulating it too much. 

College American History (dual enrollment through Colorado Christian University) 

This course covers the history and development of the United States of America beginning with its colonial origins. The nature and principles of American political, economic, intellectual, cultural, and religious traditions and thought that have shaped America will be covered, as well as key individuals and events. 

College Western Civilizations (dual enrollment through Colorado Christian University) 

Western Civilization broadly refers to a set of cultural and ethical values, religious beliefs, and political systems. These were developed in the Judeo-Christian and Greco-Roman roots, through Medieval Western Europe, the Renaissance and the Reformation, culminating in the Scientific Revolution and struggle against absolute monarchy. In this course, we will identify the contributions of various cultures to Western Civilization that provide the foundation for our way of life. Our study and discussions will center upon those Western Civilization principles that brought about individual freedom, scientific inquiry, literature, and political freedom to name a few. We will also determine the unique contributions of Christianity to Western Civilization. For over a century Western Civilization has been a staple of university education in America. In recent years a growth in multiculturalism has caused many universities to terminate their Western Civilization programs. But we should not fail to educate young people on the values which have sustained our way of life for centuries. 

FINE ARTS – 1 credit (2 semesters) required 

High School Art – Functional 

In this semester-long course, students will explore the intersection of creativity and practicality by creating art with a functional purpose. Through hands-on, craft-based projects, students will learn techniques such as rug making, loom beading, weaving, quilling, and paper making. Emphasis will be placed on craftsmanship, design, and problem-solving as students produce unique, purposeful works of art. This course encourages both artistic expression and practical application, allowing students to develop skills that blend creativity with utility. 

High School Art – Elements 

This introductory course emphasizes the student’s uniqueness as an artist, teaching foundational skills in drawing and painting. Students will learn to draw using a range of pencil values and paint with acrylics on canvas, building confidence and ability through a series of guided exercises. Major projects are assigned to provide opportunities for students to apply their skills and create meaningful works of art, laying the groundwork for future artistic growth. 

High School Art – Principles 

This year-long course emphasizes the development of the student’s artistic voice while building a strong understanding of the principles of art: movement, unity, proportion, pattern, variety, emphasis, and balance. Through a series of exercises and major projects, students will explore these principles while working with a wide variety of mediums, including acrylic, tempera, and watercolor paint, Prismacolor pencils, drawing pencils, and markers. The class provides opportunities for students to refine their technical skills, make creative decisions, and experiment with different styles and mediums. By the end of the course, students will have gained confidence in their artistic abilities and developed a personal approach to creating meaningful and visually engaging works of art. 

High School Art – Studio Art 

This advanced course is designed for students who have completed Elements of Art and Principles of Art and are ready to work more independently. Studio Art offers students the freedom to choose their own subject matter and mediums while focusing on creating full compositions that reflect their personal artistic vision. With an emphasis on self-direction and creativity, students will have the opportunity to refine their skills, experiment with techniques, and produce meaningful, polished works of art. This course encourages artistic growth and independence, providing a space for students to explore their unique style and develop a strong portfolio of work. 

High School Band/Marching Band 

This is a multi-grade performing band ensemble of standard concert band instrumentation. If the student was not in the RCCS band program the previous year, then there is a required placement test with the band director, showing competency through the Method 2 book level, to register for this course, which shows the student is prepared to read high school level band music. Students work to learn excellence in the performance of concert band music and achieve high music artistry through practice and performance. Students will perform in both the December and Spring Concerts, the Graduation ceremony, as well as our Region Solo & Ensemble Contest. We also serve as the school’s Pep Band and events will be scheduled for football, volleyball, and basketball games, where students are expected to participate. Opportunities are available for students to audition for the South Dakota All-State Band, SDSU Honor Band and BHSU Northern Hill’s Honor Band. The HS Band will participate in Dordt College’s Christian High School Choir/Band Festival every other year according to their rotating schedule. Students may take this course every year and receive credit. All music courses reflect and teach the belief that we are creative creatures of a Creator God. 

The RCCS marching band is a co-curricular performing art that coincides with the H.S. Band and H.S. Drumline courses offered to 9th-12th grade students at Rapid City Christian School.  Marching band is considered the fall semester curriculum of the H.S. Band and Drumline class. Students enrolled in these courses are expected to participate in evening rehearsals, home varsity football games, and other community performances as part of the marching band co-curricular class. The marching band’s sole purpose is to bring glory to God through musical performance, student leadership, and visual arts at halftime events at every home varsity football game. The marching band reflects all musical skills and expectations developed in the H.S. Band/Drumline Class. The marching band is the face of the instrumental music program and represents Rapid City Christian School.  

High School Jazz Band 

This course will expose students to America’s original music, Jazz. This ensemble rehearses from August through May based on the interest of band students. This performing ensemble is composed of experienced 9th and 12th-grade musicians who have demonstrated advanced musical knowledge and skill. Students study and perform a variety of jazz styles including blues, swing, funk, Latin, and ballad. Students will be introduced to basic music theory and must have an advanced understanding of their instrument. This ensemble will focus on the art of improvising with the focus on glorifying God with the creative and musical skills he has given us. This ensemble performs numerous times during the school year at school concerts, community outreach, small performances, and festivals. Performances that take place during co-curricular times (outside of the school day) are an expected component of this course. Students that are interested in Jazz Band, please contact Mr. Poto for more details. 

High School Percussion Ensemble / Drumline 

The percussion ensemble is made up of intermediate to advanced percussion student musicians who will meet during the school day for class. High school percussionists are required to take this course. Students wishing to participate in this ensemble must have at least 2 years of piano and/or private percussion lessons. Students will continue to advance their learning in proper percussion technique. Members in this ensemble will continue to work towards achieving high music artistry through practice and performance. In the fall, members of this ensemble will be part of the RCCS drumline to serve at pep band and football events. Additionally, students will perform in a separate percussion ensemble working on diverse percussion ensemble repertoire. Students in this ensemble will be split up for concerts to provide the percussion parts for the middle school concert band. Percussion band members will have the chance to perform at additional small performances throughout the year. Opportunities are available for students to audition for the South Dakota Middle School All-State Concert Band and the BHSU Northern Hills Honor Band. All music courses reflect and teach the belief that we are creative creatures of a Creator God. 

High School Strings 

This ensemble is for students who have at least 3 years of experience on their instrument, or at the discretion of the ensemble director. This ensemble is designed for students to apply musical skills as they continue to create and experience music as an ensemble. Students will continue developing mastery of music notation, 2-octave major and minor scales, bow strokes, and musical vocabulary. Students work to learn proper string technique utilizing finger exercises and achieve excellence in music literacy and performance from diverse music repertoire. Students are expected to perform in both the December and Spring Concerts, and our Region Solo & Ensemble Contest. Opportunities are available for students to audition for the South Dakota All-State Orchestra. Students may take this course every year and receive credit. All music courses teach that when we sing or play our music for God’s glory, we are offering our gifts and talents as a dedication and offering to Him. 

High School Comet Chorale (non-audition) 

There are no prerequisites for this course. Comet Chorale is designed for students to apply musical skills as they continue to create and experience music as a musical ensemble. Students are split into separate men’s and women’s choirs: The Noblemen and Stella Cantus, respectively. Students will continue developing mastery of solfege, major and minor scales, and 4-part harmonies. Students work to learn proper vocal technique and aural skills tailored to their voice types, utilizing vocal exercises and solfege, training in education on their vocal instrument, and achieving excellence in music literacy. Students are expected to perform in both the December and Spring Concerts, Graduation, Large Group Contest, and Dordt University’s Choir Festival. Opportunities are available for students to audition for the South Dakota All-State Choir and Senior Honor Choir, and 9th graders are eligible to audition for the South Dakota Junior Honor Choir. Students may take this course every year and receive credit. Students may take this course every year and receive credit. All music courses teach that when we sing or play our music for God’s glory, we offer our gifts and talents as a dedication and offering to Him. 

High School Radiance (auditioned) 

This is an auditioned choir for students who already possess intermediate to advanced skills in vocal production and music literacy (this is determined by audition). Students will continue developing mastery of solfege, major and minor scales, and 4 or more-part harmonies. Students will learn a variety of choral styles with an emphasis on classic choral singing and vocal jazz. Students are expected to perform in both the December and Spring Concerts, various Pep Band games, Holiday programs, Solo & Ensemble Contest, Large Group Contest, Dordt University’s Choir Festival, and the Center Stage Vocal Jazz Contest. Students may take this course every year and receive credit. All music courses teach that when we sing or play our music for God’s glory, we offer our gifts and talents as a dedication and offering to Him. 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (1 credit required)  

*Health 

The purpose of this class is to present the Bible as the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. This class investigates health issues as presented with the integration of the physical, mental, social and spiritual dimensions of life. 

Personal Fitness 

This course would look at different training principles as well as types of fitness activities that individuals can participate in over the one semester class. Activities may include resistance training, kickboxing, circuit training, Pilates, etc. 

Individual/Team Sports 

This course will introduce students to a variety of lifetime activities. Students will learn rules, skills and strategies for each activity covered over the semester. Activities may include: Tennis, Pickleball, Frisbee Golf, Target Games, Flag Football, whiffleball, basketball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, etc. 

 Weightlifting 

Weight Training courses help students develop knowledge and skills with free weights and universal stations while emphasizing safety and proper body positioning; they may include other components such as anatomy and conditioning. Student will also learn key biblical principles including: 

Stewardship of the Body: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20  

Discipline and Diligence: Proverbs 12:24, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27  

Encouragement and Community: Hebrews 10:24-25   

Humility and Gratitude: James 4:6.  

Focusing on Inner Character:  1 Samuel 16:7, 1 Timothy 4:7-8  

Rest and Recovery:  Genesis 2:2-3  

Setting Godly Goals:  Proverbs 16:3  

Fleeing from Vanity:  Ecclesiastes 1:2  

Resilience and Overcoming Challenges:  John 16:33   

MODERN LANGUAGES (1 credit required) 

Spanish I 

Course introduces students to the basic conversation, vocabulary and grammar skills of the Spanish language. They will also learn about different cultural aspects of various Spanish- 9 speaking countries. Students will not only acquire basic speaking, writing and reading skills in Spanish, but will also learn about attributes of God and memorize Bible verses in Spanish. Through a variety of speaking, reading and listening activities, students will develop a solid foundation of the Spanish language. Some projects that will be included in this class are: a family tree project called “Mi Familia Loca”, Mi Casa Ideal, and an end of the year video project. Students will also create skits throughout the semester demonstrating their understanding and abilities of the language. If time permits, the students will also read a short Spanish novel in the second semester. 

Spanish II 

Course continues to build upon the language foundation laid in Spanish 1. Spanish 1 (or documentation of a basic knowledge of language learned in Spanish I) is a prerequisite for this course. Grammar and constructions from Spanish 1 are reviewed and expanded upon. In the second semester, students will also learn to converse using past tenses of the Preterit and Imperfect. Students will continue to learn new scripture verses, with the goal being to share their testimony and the gospel message in Spanish during the second semester. Some projects that will be included in this class are: Mi Comida – a food/country project, Mi Testimonio – writing/sharing their personal testimony in Spanish, and an end of the year video project. Students will also create skits throughout the semester demonstrating their understanding and abilities of the language. Also, as time permits, students will have the opportunity to read a few Spanish novels throughout the year. Completion of Spanish 2 will provide the students with a very solid understanding of the Spanish language and how to use it effectively in a variety of settings. 

American Sign Language I 

This course introduces basic skills of American Sign Language (ASL) including vocabulary, finger spelling, numbers, conversation and grammar. Deaf Culture and ways to communicate appropriately within Deaf Culture will be addressed. Christian vocabulary will be taught through memorization of Bible verses and songs. 

American Sign Language II 

This course builds on the skills learned in ASL I. There will be a review of past vocabulary and new vocabulary will be introduced. There will be a deeper focus on conversation skills and using classifiers. Deaf Culture and ways to communicate appropriately within Deaf Culture will continue to be addressed. New Christian vocabulary will be taught through memorization of Bible verses and songs. 

ELECTIVE COURSES 

Personal Finance 

Course ) is a one-semester course intended to prepare students to understand the rudiments which enable a person to become economically prosperous and financially independent. It is based upon biblical foundation of being a steward of God’s materials and money, which He has entrusted to every Christian man or woman to follow in obtaining a life free from debt and financial worry. During this course the students will learn the basic foundations of economic strategies and plans. The student will also learn to discern the pitfalls to avoid when embarking on a life of financial independence. The course uses the Foundations in Personal Finance curriculum, authored by Dave Ramsey. 

Yearbook 

Course is an elective class that combines writing skills, photography, and design. Students construct Rapid City Christian School’s annual yearbook. This is a class for motivated students who are highly responsible and can work to a large degree on their own. Students take all the photographs, write all the stories, and do the page design for the entire yearbook. 

Entrepreneurs (Boss Club) 

This course is a highly engaging, turn-key semester course that helps students design, launch, and run a real small business from a Biblical worldview. They aren’t just reading about business or learning how to write a business plan. They’re doing the real thing! The online modules are worked through with the help of one of our RCCS instructors. 

Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA)  

The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) course, in partnership with Monument Health, prepares students to become certified nursing assistants by teaching them the essential skills to provide basic patient care, including personal hygiene assistance like bathing and dressing, taking vital signs, transferring patients, monitoring patient needs, and adhering to infection control protocols, all while working under the supervision of a licensed nurse in various healthcare settings.  The course includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice to prepare students for the state-administered CNA certification exam.   

Multimedia Design 

Multimedia Design gives students experience and knowledge in all forms of mixed media and content. Multimedia presentations combine text, graphics, animation, images and sound from a wide range of media, such as films, newspapers, magazines, online information, television, videos, streaming and electronic media-generated images. Students will learn how to select the appropriate medium for each element of the presentation and gauge the needs of clients and the intended audience. In addition to their general academic and technical knowledge and skills, students gain an understanding of career opportunities available in technology and what employers require to gain and maintain employment in these careers. The course may concentrate on a particular medium within the selected pathway(s). 

OTHER DUAL CREDIT COURSES  

Computer Aided Design 1 (CAD) (1 semester through Western Dakota Tech) 

2D CAD (AE 139) 

This course introduces the concept of 2D CAD using the latest release of AutoCAD, and covers skills ranging from basic to advanced. Basic Draw, and Modify commands will be studied, as well as advanced concepts such as Layers, Blocks, Annotations, X-Referencing and Document Creation. Students will also learn proper computer care, file manipulation and storage. 

 Architectural 3D CAD (AE 141) 

This course introduces the industry standard 3D CAD application in the architectural field. The course covers the basics of parametric 3D modeling with BIM (Building Information Modeling) software. 

Architectural Drafting I (AE 111) 

This course is an introduction to architectural drafting and design. Students will build on their knowledge of residential construction and learn to apply that knowledge toward the development of residential construction documents which conform to code requirements, industry standards, and proper drafting techniques. 

Grand Canyon University – Dual Enrollment Online Courses

Ignitia High School Course List