Course Guide

French 1A

This is a yearlong course for students who have had little or no previous experience with French. Students will learn the skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking the target language. Students will also learn about aspects of French culture. Students are required to pass standards-based assessments with an IB Score of 5 or higher during the 4th quarter in order to progress to the next level the following school year. Study time outside of class is necessary.

French 1B

Prerequisite: French 1A
Students who passed the 1A standards-based assessments with an IB score of 5 or higher during the 4th quarter of the previous school year may sign up for this course. Students will continue to build upon skills learned in French 1A. Upon successful completion of this course students will be prepared to enter French II in high school. Students are required to pass standards-based assessments with an IB score of 5 or higher during the 4th quarter in order to progress to the next level the following school year. Study time outside of class is necessary.

Spanish 1A

This is a yearlong course for students who have had little or no previous experience with Spanish. Students will learn the skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking the target language. Students will also learn about aspects of Hispanic culture. Students are required to pass standards-based assessments with IB Score of 5 or higher during the 4th quarter in order to progress to the next level the following school year. Study time outside of class is necessary.

Spanish 1B

Prerequisite: Spanish 1A
Students who passed the 1A standards-based assessments with an IB score of 5 or higher during the 4th quarter of the previous school year may sign up for this course. Students will continue to build upon skills learned in Spanish 1A. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be prepared to enter Spanish II in high school. Students are required to pass standards-based assessments with an IB score of 5 or higher during the 4th quarter in order to progress to the next level the following school year. Study time outside of class is necessary.

Spanish I

Designed to introduce students to Spanish language and culture, Spanish I emphasizes basic grammar and syntax, simple vocabulary, and the spoken accent so that students can read, write, speak, and understand the language at a basic level within predictable areas of need, using customary courtesies and conventions. Spanish culture is introduced through the art, literature, customs, and history of Spanish-speaking people. Spanish I is an accelerated course, covering Spanish 1A & 1B in one year. Study time outside of class is necessary.

Spanish II

Spanish II builds upon skills developed in Spanish I, extending students’ ability to understand and express themselves in Spanish and increasing their vocabulary. Typically, students learn how to engage in discourse for informative or social purposes, write expressions or passages that show understanding of sentence construction and the rules of grammar, and comprehend the language when spoken slowly. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of Spanish-speaking people to deepen their understanding of the culture(s). Study time outside of class is necessary.

Band 6

This class is a beginning to intermediate level of band instruction designed as a continuation of elementary and middle school instruction. We do invite beginners to the class who welcome the challenge that reading music and playing an instrument provides. Emphasis will be placed on learning to read and write musical notation, learning to play correct articulation, an understanding of dynamics, playing a wide variety of music representing many cultures and styles, listening critically to music, creativity and working together as an ensemble. Home practice is expected of all students. Classes are performance-oriented; students must attend all concerts.
Expected Concert Wear: Black long-sleeved shirts, black slacks or black skirts with opaque black tights, black shoes.
Expenses: All woodwind and brass players must provide their own instrument unless arrangements have been made to rent an instrument from the school. The school has limited instrument selection and rental is determined on a need and availability basis ($50/semester). All students will also be required to purchase a band method book. The information about purchasing the method book will be available at the beginning of the school year. A band lock is provided by the school. If the lock is lost or damaged, a new one may be purchased for $5.00. Any other equipment needed, such as reeds, valve oil, cleaning kits, neck straps, mutes, etc. must be purchased by the student.

Advanced Band 6

Advanced Band students must demonstrate playing ability above beginning level. This class is designed for students with 2 or more years experience. Students will expand on the skills and concepts they learned in Beginning/Intermediate Band. This will allow them to continue to grow and develop what they have learned on their chosen instrument, as well as begin to learn more advanced musical ideas. Students will continue to perform in a large group and are encouraged to break off and participate in small ensemble groups. Our class provides rich experiences, in order to foster a students choice of direction and what to pursue. The performing arts provide essential skills for communicating through music. Home practice is expected of all students. Classes are performance-oriented; students must attend all concerts.
Expected Concert Wear: Black long-sleeved shirts, black slacks or black skirts with opaque black tights, black shoes.
Expenses: All woodwind and brass players must provide their own instrument unless arrangements have been made to rent an instrument from the school. The school has limited instrument selection and rental is determined on a need and availability basis ($50/semester). All students will also be required to purchase a band method book. The information about purchasing the method book will be available at the beginning of the school year. A band lock is provided by the school. If the lock is lost or damaged, a new one may be purchased for $5.00. Any other equipment needed, such as reeds, valve oil, cleaning kits, neck straps, mutes, etc. must be purchased by the student.

Orchestra 6

The class is a beginner/intermediate level orchestra experience with emphasis on reading, skill development, theory and ear training, and ensemble playing. Several concerts are presented throughout the year both in school and away from school. These performances include festivals and concerts. Attendance is required at all performances. Home practice is expected of all students.
Expenses: All orchestra players must provide their own instrument unless arrangements have been made to rent an instrument from the school. The school has limited instrument selection and rental is determined on a need and availability basis ($50/semester).

Choir 6

No previous singing experience required, but highly encouraged! Students begin or continue developing their skills in singing, music-reading, and ensemble performance. In the course, elements of comprehensive musicianship such as: creating music, reading music, singing/playing music and analyzing/transcribing music are approached through the lens of large ensemble performance. Vocal Ensemble courses help students develop vocal techniques and refine their ability to sing parts in small ensembles (e.g., madrigal, barber shop, gospel). Course goals may include helping students develop their solo singing ability and emphasize one or several ensemble styles. Each class requires occasional after-school rehearsals and several evening performances. Choir at RVMS provides and develops  essential skills for communicating through music. Class is performance-oriented: students must attend all concerts.

Band 7/8

This class is a beginning to intermediate level of band instruction designed as a continuation of elementary and middle school instruction. We do invite beginners to the class who welcome the challenge that reading music and playing an instrument provides. Emphasis will be placed on learning to read and write musical notation, learning to play correct articulation, an understanding of dynamics, playing a wide variety of music representing many cultures and styles, listening critically to music, creativity and working together as an ensemble. Home practice is expected of all students. Classes are performance-oriented; students must attend all concerts.
Expected Concert Wear: Black long-sleeved shirts, black slacks or black skirts with opaque black tights, black shoes.
Expenses: All woodwind and brass players must provide their own instrument unless arrangements have been made to rent an instrument from the school. The school has limited instrument selection and rental is determined on a need and availability basis ($50/semester). All students will also be required to purchase a band method book. The information about purchasing the method book will be available at the beginning of the school year. A band lock is provided by the school. If the lock is lost or damaged, a new one may be purchased for $5.00. Any other equipment needed, such as reeds, valve oil, cleaning kits, neck straps, mutes, etc. must be purchased by the student.

Advanced Band 7/8 (Symphonic)

Advanced Band students must demonstrate playing ability above beginning level. This class is designed for students with 2 or more years’ experience. Students will expand on the skills and concepts they learned in Beginning/Intermediate Band. This will allow them to continue to grow and develop what they have learned on their chosen instrument, as well as begin to learn more advanced musical ideas. Students will continue to perform in a large group and are encouraged to break off and participate in small ensemble groups. Our class provides rich experiences, in order to foster a student’s choice of direction and what to pursue. The performing arts provide essential skills for communicating through music. Home practice is expected of all students. Classes are performance-oriented; students must attend all concerts.
Expected Concert Wear: Black long-sleeved shirts, black slacks or black skirts with opaque black tights, black shoes.
Expenses: All woodwind and brass players must provide their own instrument unless arrangements have been made to rent an instrument from the school. The school has limited instrument selection and rental is determined on a need and availability basis ($50/semester). All students will also be required to purchase a band method book. The information about purchasing the method book will be available at the beginning of the school year. A band lock is provided by the school. If the lock is lost or damaged, a new one may be purchased for $5.00. Any other equipment needed, such as reeds, valve oil, cleaning kits, neck straps, mutes, etc. must be purchased by the student. 

Orchestra 7/8

The class is a beginner/intermediate level orchestra experience with emphasis on reading, skill development, theory and ear training, and ensemble playing. Several concerts are presented throughout the year both in school and away from school. These performances include festivals and concerts. Attendance is required at all performances. Home practice is expected of all students.
Expenses: All orchestra players must provide their own instrument unless arrangements have been made to rent an instrument from the school. The school has limited instrument selection and rental is determined on a need and availability basis ($50/semester).

Choir 7/8 (Treble) 

No previous singing experience required, but highly encouraged! Students begin or continue developing their skills in singing, music-reading, and ensemble performance. In the course, elements of comprehensive musicianship such as: creating music, reading music, singing/playing music and analyzing/transcribing music are approached through the lens of large ensemble performance. Vocal Ensemble courses help students develop vocal techniques and refine their ability to sing parts in small ensembles (e.g., madrigal, barber shop, gospel). Course goals may include helping students develop their solo singing ability and emphasize one or several ensemble styles. Each class requires occasional after-school rehearsals and several evening performances. Choir at RVMS provides and develops essential skills for communicating through music. Class is performance-oriented: students must attend all concerts.

Electronic Publishing (Yearbook)

*Application Required - due by March 13, 2026. Click HERE for the application.

This is a yearlong course focusing on using a computer and other technologies as a publication tool. The students will learn elements of publishing including page layout, graphic design, digital photography and journalism all with the end goal of creating the school yearbook and other print products. Students will use the eDesign program as well as Canva to work independently and collaboratively. Students need to possess the ability to complete projects on deadline, a strong sense of responsibility and the ability to produce high quality products. Students and families also need to be aware that there is an after-school commitment for taking photographs and covering sporting events, concerts, dances, plays and other performances.

**(Students who are selected by application will be automatically registered for this course)

$20 course fee

Student Government

*Application Required - due by March 13, 2026. Click HERE for the application.

This course provides opportunities for students to promote school spirit, be active leaders in the school and in the community, and participate in authentic, service learning activities. Students will develop leadership techniques through organizing and planning school dances, school assemblies, community and service learning projects, and experiential learning opportunities.

Art 6

Art (grade 6) courses provide to students activities that foster creative expression, communication through artistic endeavor, and appreciation of culture and heritage. Activities may include those that enable students to refine their technique, increase their artistic vocabulary, express themselves and their world view, make connections to other content areas, develop their own aesthetic, and strengthen their critical abilities. Although typically involving the visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, and the like), these courses may also include other forms of art (for example, dance, music, and theater).

$20.00 course fee

Art A & Art B

Art courses are designed to offer high-impact activities that build creative agility, effective visual communication, and cultural competency. Students will engage in work that refines their technical skills, expands their artistic vocabulary, and provides a platform for personal and global expression. The curriculum focuses on developing a student's individual aesthetic and strengthening their critical thinking about art and the world. Course content is always structured to meet current state educational standards.

$20.00 course fee

Drama

Students in Drama will learn about the history of theater, pantomime, group work, monologues, and scene work. They will also learn about the audition process, audience etiquette, research, and other relevant areas. They will explore new acting skills, improvisation, and memorization. They will learn self confidence and get more at ease with public speaking.

Theater StageCraft

Theater Stagecraft provides students with experience and skill in one or more aspects of theatrical production, such as lighting, costuming, sound, set construction, makeup, and stage management. Initial courses are usually introductory in nature, while more advanced courses emphasize improving technique, expanding students’ exposure to different types of techniques and traditions, and increasing their chances of helping mount public productions.

Dimensions In Literacy 

Targeted, small group instruction for students who need extra support with their literacy development.  This class is designed to increase students’ literacy self-confidence and enjoyment of reading and writing through high interest materials on a variety of topics, while remediating topics covered in core Language Arts classes. Students are placed in this class based on a body of evidence and it is offered according to literacy need. 

Dimensions Of Mathematics 

This course is designed to target students who need reinforcement with mathematics skills. The students will use technology and hands-on projects to bring mathematics to life and develop insights and conceptual knowledge necessary to achieve in mathematics.

Speech and Debate

This dynamic and engaging course is designed to hone students’ communication skills through the exciting realms of speech and debate. Focused on fostering confident public speakers and critical thinkers, the curriculum integrates hands-on projects, including the creation of TED Talks and participation in structured debates. Students will receive comprehensive training in effective public speaking techniques, covering aspects such as voice modulation, body language, and audience engagement. Harnessing the power of storytelling, students will craft and present their own TED Talks, exploring topics of personal interest while developing the art of compelling narrative and persuasive communication. Through structured debate formats, students will learn the art of constructing persuasive arguments, defending their viewpoints, and gracefully countering opposing opinions. This fosters critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to articulate well-reasoned opinions. The course encourages teamwork through group debates and collaborative project work. ;By blending the structured discipline of debate with the creativity of TED Talks, this course aims to instill a passion for effective communication, critical thinking, and self-expression in middle school students, preparing them not only for academic success but also for a lifetime of confident and articulate communication.

Creative Writing 6

A rigorous semester long writing course designed to engage students in writing for a variety of purposes and formats. Students will utilize critical thinking skills to explore principles and generate generalizations about writer’s craft, develop and research ideas and topics, draft, revise and edit pieces to create meaningful complex writing. Students will be given opportunities to practice, improve and demonstrate the techniques of effective informational, literary and persuasive writing through written and spoken communication.

Family & Consumer Science

Family and Consumer Science  introduces students to problem solving skills and practical knowledge that they will need to function in the world outside of the school environment. This includes but is not limited to basic life skills through introductory cooking, sewing, child development, community involvement. Critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity are all integrated into authentic learning tasks that allow students to apply their learning in fun and meaningful ways. 
$40.00 course fee
 

Intro to Business & Entrepreneurship

This Career and Technical Education (CTE) course introduces basic business and entrepreneurship concepts to students through the exploration of key business topics and the development of business ideas. The goal of this course is to provide both an overview and hands-on experience in the areas of marketing, business management, business ownership, finance and accounting, economics, operations, human resources, and business ethics. Students will be given opportunities to connect their learning with the student organization, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and collaborate with the FBLA chapter at ThunderRidge High School. Opportunities in real business enterprise will also be explored.

eSports

This class is an opportunity for students to use gaming concepts and eSports competition as tools for learning. Students will utilize hands-on experiences with eSports to learn academic skills while exploring a variety of career pathways available in the growing eSports market. This course will provide opportunities for ALL students to use eSports as a platform to acquire critical communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in work and in life.

Digital Design

Digital Design is intended for middle level students to gain understanding of digital print media. Students will design and create original works using a variety of software in order to communicate, and will learn principal concepts of photography and graphic design. This course will focus on the use of computer technology for the creation of digital print media. Students will use digital photography equipment, photo editing software, and graphic design software to demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using digital photography and computer technology. Students will communicate information and ideas effectively using a variety of digital print media.
$20.00 course fee  

Exploring Computer Science

In this course, students will learn how to create programs and games using computer coding concepts. Students will learn the basics of a computer system from hardware to operating systems. They will learn problem solving techniques using computational thinking concepts. This course will prepare students for entry level computer science high school courses.
$35.00 course fee  

Innovation & Design 6

The Innovation and Design Lab will focus on developing student creativity, design, inventive, and technical skills. Students will be provided authentic experiences and design challenges in which they will interact with the Design Thinking process. Through authentic experiences, students will individually and collaboratively learn to:

• Define, identify, communicate, and test a problem
• Explore, empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test their innovative solutions
• Determine the importance of perspective
• Learn to be resilient learners
• Utilize the design process to enhance critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Enhance the development of modern technological skills

Students will be provided a multitude of interest-based experiences through programming, graphic design, improvisation, leadership, robotics, sculpture, woodworking, computer technology, creative writing, rocketry, flight, animation, wellness, video production, architecture, engineering, photography, ecology, and a variety of other mediums.

Innovation & Design 7/8

In a semester, students will have the opportunity to work on several different projects. The course focuses on the design cycle and how to be an innovative thinker. Students will hone their creativity, problem solving, engineering and research skills. The curriculum is hands-on in nature because we know that students are engaged when they are using their hands to apply what they have learned. Students can expect to work in teams, with partners, and independently over the course of the semester. Students are encouraged to be creative, think outside the box, and consider all the possibilities!
$30.00 course fee 
 

Conditioning and Wellness

Elective PE Course 
The Physical Education department offers an elective class that gives students an opportunity to enhance their physical conditioning and overall well-being. Students can use this class to achieve their personal fitness goals and/or as a foundation for sports conditioning. All activities in the class will focus on health-related components of physical fitness (cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility). Activities and principles covered are lifelong oriented and go beyond the typical team and individual sports and games covered in the Physical Education curriculum. Activities may include, but are not limited to, aerobics, functional fitness, running, weight training, circuit training, fitness games, yoga, interval training, and Pilates. Physical and writing assessments will also be included.

E-Media

*Application Required - due by March 13, 2026.  Click HERE for the application.  

This semester-long course will focus on mass media communication with emphasis in video production.This course requires an application to be completed and submitted via google form. The application can be found on the RVMS website. Students will work in teams to create regularly scheduled RVTV broadcasts that air during the school day. The students will learn elements of storyboarding, videography, video editing, and staying up to date with the most current events at RVMS and in the community. Students will use WeVideo and Canva as well as other programs to work independently and collaboratively. Students need to possess the ability to complete projects on a fast deadline, possess a strong sense of responsibility, be a self-starter, and have the ability to produce high quality products on a quick timeline. Students and families also need to be aware that there is an after-school commitment for capturing video footage and interviews that cover sporting events, concerts, dances, plays and other performances at RVMS.

**(Students who are selected by audition will be automatically registered for this course)

$20.00 course fee