The Freshman Book - gwinnett.k12.ga.us
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the freshman book a planning guide to help you prepare for the transition from middle to high school 2008–09 It’s your book. It’s your plan. It’s your future. name class of
Transcript of The Freshman Book - gwinnett.k12.ga.us
the freshman book
a planning guide to help you prepare for
the transition from middle to high school
2008–09
It’s your book. It’s your plan. It’s your future.
name class of
Welcome to ‘the Freshman Book’… Your PrevieW oF the 9th Grade
are you counting the days yet? High school is right around the corner, and with it, a lot of new and exciting opportunities.
so, what’s that mean for you? For one thing, more choices. In fact, “The Freshman Book” is a preview of your choices for the 9th grade and a sampling of a bigger, more comprehensive book that you’ll get next fall, called “The Choice Book.” From a range of academic options and a host of elective classes to career pathways and dozens of extracurricular opportunities, the next four years are full of choices for you and your classmates. While you’ll have lots of choices to make now and in high school, you’re not alone. You’ll have advisors, coun-selors, teachers, and your family helping you all along the way, answering your questions and offering support.
one question you may have right now is What will i find in “the Freshman Book”?— If you’re like most kids, you’re probably wondering what to expect in high school. Look for answers to
some of the most frequently asked questions on pages 2 and 3. If you (or your family) have other ques-tions, you’ve got some space to write them down so you can ask your counselor later.
— You’ll also find some tips on page 4 that will help you get and stay on track for a great high school career.
— Not to say that high school has a language all its own, but there are a few terms that may be new to you. Check out those need-to-know words on pages 5 and 6.
— Just to make sure we’ve covered the bases, you’ll find some specific information about eligibility require-ments for competition as well as specifics on graduation requirements, the grading scale and report cards, testing, and attendance on pages 6 and 7. You’ll get more detailed information in these areas in August.
— Next fall, you’ll be looking ahead and working out a four-year plan (see page 8), but you can get started with your 9th grade worksheet on page 9. How will you know which classes you can take next year? Course descriptions make up the rest of the preview book on pages 11–15.
By the way, “the Freshman Book” is designed for students, but share it with your family, too, ok? They may be having a tough time with you leaving middle school and moving on to high school. It might make them feel better to know what your freshman year will be like.
so, like it says on the cover, “the Freshman Book” is your book. We hope you’ll use it to develop your plan
for high school and beyond. after all, it’s your future.
Good luck with your transition to high school!
remember, “the Freshman Book” and “the choice Book” are important planning tools.
Really read them. Write in them.
Use the worksheets to map out
your options and keep track of your
accomplishments. And, perhaps most
importantly, hold onto these books.
In just a few short years, you’ll be
putting together college applications
and résumés. Those completed
worksheets will be very useful as you
look back at high school and your
record of achievement.
table of contents | 1
table of contents
welcome to ‘the freshman book’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .inside front cover
frequently asked questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
getting the most out of high school . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
words you need to know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
eligibility for competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
online resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
state and school system information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
state graduation requirements
grading scale
reports to parents
end of course tests
attendance policies
four-year plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
9th grade worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
recommended math sequence chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
course descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
language arts
science
math
social studies
health/physical education
modern/classical languages
english to speakers of other languages (esol)
special education
coming soon… the choice book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2008–09 calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . inside back cover
2 | frequently asked questions
FrequentlY asked questions
I want to make sure I’m ready for college. How do I decide what classes to take?
The best advice… Challenge yourself to take the toughest classes in which you can be successful. You’ll be better prepared for success in college and many colleges consider the difficulty of an applicant’s high school curriculum in making admission decisions.
But, how do I decide which courses will be most challenging for me?
In the course descriptions in this book (pages 11–15), you’ll notice that a number of courses are required— for instance, certain courses in math, science, language arts, and social studies— and that each class has several options or levels, with some offering an accelerated format or a more in-depth approach for students who excel in that area of study. For some courses, especially upper-level ones, you may be able to take Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Students who take these college-level courses and do well on AP exams may earn college credit or skip required entry-level classes in college. Talk to your parents, your teachers, and your counselor about which option best suits your academic strengths and prepares you for the courses you’ll take in college.
How can I make sure I’ll do well in my classes?
On page 4, check out some advice from counselors about how to get the most out of high school. Your teachers, your counselor, your advisor, and your family will all be behind you and encouraging you to do your best work from the first day, but a lot of your success in high school depends on you!
What are some things I can do at home?
Be organized, and keep up with homework assignments and projects. Study class lecture notes to review what was taught in class, even when you do not have assigned homework in a subject. Begin studying for a test several days ahead, so you have time to review the material and retain it.
If I am not doing well in a course, what should I do?
The first step is to speak with your classroom teacher and set up a time after school (or during school, depending upon your schedule) for extra help from your teacher. You also may sign up for student tutoring sessions if they are available at your school. If you need additional suggestions, speak with your advisor or schedule an appointment with your school counselor.
If I am failing a class, can I drop it mid-semester?
No. Dropping a class mid-semester is not an option.
How do I make up a course if I fail?
Courses can be made up during summer school, through School-Plus or Phoenix High School courses after the school day, or through Gwinnett County Online Campus. See your counselor or advisor for more information.
If a student fails a course and retakes the course, is the first failed grade cancelled out?
No. Once a student earns a semester grade, it will never be removed from the academic record (transcript). Required courses must be retaken if failed. Both semester grades will be a part of the academic record and the high school grade percent average, and also will be considered for HOPE scholarship eligibility.
Do high schools award grades for “effort”?
No. High school students do not earn effort grades. Semester grades reflect your academic achievement in the class.
When are final exams and how much do these grades count in my semester grades?
Final exams have two parts— performance and written. The performance portion counts 5% and the written portion counts 15% of the final semester grade. Final written exams are given the last few days of the semester and each exam is approximately two hours long. Students take two exams per day. High school students are released early on these exam days.
frequently asked questions | 3
What tests do I have to pass in high school before I graduate?
You will take the High School Gateway in the spring of the 10th grade year. It contains four sections that must be passed: Science, Science/Language Arts, Social Studies, and Social Studies/Language Arts. You will take the five sections of the Georgia High School Graduation Tests in 11th grade, including subtests in the areas of Science, Social Studies, Math, English, and Writing. Students are given multiple opportunities to retake sections of these tests if they are not successful in passing them the first time.
Are PE and Health required courses? Do I have to take them in 9th grade?
Yes, Introduction to Lifetime Fitness (PE) and Introduction to Health are required for graduation. You do not have to take these courses in 9th grade, although that schedule is best for most students. Students who want room in their schedules for extra electives— for example, art, music, or technology— may choose to take PE and/or Health during the summer before or after 9th grade through face-to-face summer school classes or through Online Campus. (See page 6 for more information.)
When will I get the drug and alcohol card I need for my driver’s license?
You will participate in the one-week seminar on drugs and alcohol during Health class. You will receive a card to show you completed the course. Keep the card, as you will need it when you apply for your driver’s license. This card is not required when you apply for your learner’s permit.
Should I take another language as my elective in the 9th grade?
A minimum of two years of coursework in the same modern or classical language is required for admission to Georgia four-year colleges and universities. Many students enjoy language courses and continue to take them for four years. Specific out-of-state colleges require up to four years of modern or classical language study. Beginning study of another language in the 9th grade allows you to take additional years of study if you want or need these classes.
When will I have an opportunity to take elective courses that interest me?
Consider possible careers that interest you, and select elective courses accordingly. If you are interested in taking courses at Maxwell High School of Technology or in the Grayson High School Technical Education Program, schedule an ap-pointment with your school counselor to determine when you can best fit these courses into your high school schedule.
Students who are interested in visual or performing arts (for instance, band, drama, or photography) and in pursuing a scholarship in the arts, may choose to take these elective courses every year as part of their high school course schedule. Taking additional electives will require advanced planning. See your advisor or school counselor for more information.
How important is it to be involved in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, and volunteer projects?
Counselors recommend that all students participate in one or more extracurricular activity while in high school. Students who are involved in activities feel more connected to the school. Also, colleges and scholarship committees frequently request information on extracurricular participation and demonstrated leadership while in high school.
Why do the high schools start so early?
The time of day high school begins is determined by the bus schedule in that school cluster. High schools begin earlier and get out earlier than other schools in the cluster, allowing students to participate in after-school sports and activities.
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One more question...
4 | getting the most out of high school
GettinG the most out oF hiGh school
making a successful transition from middle school to high school
A few months from now, you’ll make the transition to high school. If you thought the move from 5th grade to middle school was a big change, get ready for this next leap! Although this is an exciting time, it can be stressful, too. Here are some tips for making a smooth transition and getting the most out of high school:
Get there!Come to school every day. You will be able to keep up with work in your classes and ask for extra help when you need it most.
Get involved! You’ll feel more a part of the school if you join a club, play a sport, or participate in the band or theater. Your high school has lots of options. Check it out!
Get organized! Use your agenda book as an assignment book, planner, and organizer. Write down assignments for every class, every day. Write the date that long-term projects are due on a calendar, and refer to it often. Begin long-term projects long before they are due.
Get started! Do your homework from the first day. Keep up with assignments, and ask for help from your teacher or advisor if you get behind or have questions. If you are absent, ask the teacher what you missed and complete make-up work by the deadline your teacher gives you.
Get settled!Set a time and specific place at home to do your homework. Choose a place where you will not be distracted and interrupted. Get into this daily routine. Read over class notes you wrote down even if you don’t have homework in that subject. Daily review strengthens your ability to remember important information.
Get connected! Find good study partners in subjects that are more difficult for you. Get phone numbers so you can call them from home while you are doing your homework. Write down teachers’ e-mail addresses or web sites, if available, for at-home assistance if you need it.
Get ahead! Your high school academic record begins from your first day in the 9th grade. Freshman course grades count JUST AS MUCH in your grade percent average as your senior course grades. Get them right the first time!
Get positive! Choose a positive attitude every day and make every day a good one! Be the kind of person you would like to be around.
Get going!These four years will fly by! Whether you have college, work, or other plans in mind, begin thinking about what you want to do after you finish high school. Consider careers and know requirements for the colleges you’re considering.
Choose high school courses that will help you get where you want to go!
words you need to know | 5
Advisement Program: A structured, non-graded portion of the day in which students receive school information and discuss grade-level appropriate topics with their advisor.
Agenda Book: An organizational tool for students that includes the school handbook, calendar of school events, assignment book, and reference information.
AKS (Academic Knowledge and Skills): Gwin-nett’s custom, Board-approved curriculum that spells out the essential things students are expected to know and be able to do for each subject.
AP (Advanced Placement): Rigorous, college-level coursework taken in high school. Students who make a 3 or better (1–5 scale) on the AP exams at the end of the year may earn college credit or skip entry-level college classes.
Class Rank: A student’s standing based on his or her cumulative grade percent average as compared with that of other members of the class. In a class of 100, the student with the highest grade percent average would be Number 1 and the lowest Number 100.
Core Courses: Refers to Language Arts, Mathemat-ics, Science, and Social Studies coursework. (For college admission standards, Modern/Classical Language credits also are included in the Core Course category.)
Credits/Units: The terms credits and units are used to identify how much each course passed counts toward meeting the 23 credits/units required for graduation from high school.
Career Pathway: A career pathway is a grouping of courses in Technical Education/Core Courses that pro-vide knowledge and skills to use in postsecondary stud-ies and in the workplace. Careful planning is required if a student wants to include technical classes in his or her high school schedule. See your advisor or school coun-selor for more information.
End of Course Tests (EOCT): EOCT measure learn-ing of the statewide curriculum in selected courses to ensure that high academic standards are being met in all Georgia high schools as required by the State Board of Education.
Elective Courses: Classes that may be selected by the student and are included in the 23 credits required for high school graduation.
Eligibility: Mandatory guidelines for student participa-tion in sports and extracurricular activities. Check with your local school athletic director for details.
Four-Year Plan: This plan is an outline of the courses a student plans to take while in high school. It will take into consideration the student’s academic history, career goals, interests, and plans for additional education be-yond high school.
Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT): A series of five exit exams that all high school students in Georgia must pass to graduate. The GHSGT is taken in 11th grade.
Gifted Courses: Accelerated and rigorous coursework for students who qualify for gifted education services.
High School Gateway: An essay test that measures a student’s ability to write effectively about science and social studies AKS covered in 9th and 10th grades. The test is taken in spring of the 10th grade year.
Honors Courses: Coursework designed at an ad-vanced level or pace for students who excel in that content area.
HOPE Grant: (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educa-tionally) An educational program funded through the Georgia Lottery. HOPE Grant pays tuition, mandatory fees, and book allowance for qualified students enrolled in eligible diploma or certificate programs at public or private technical colleges and institutes in Georgia.
HOPE Scholarship: (Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally) An educational program funded through the Georgia Lottery. HOPE Scholarship pays tuition, mandatory fees, and book allowance for eligible students enrolled in public colleges and universities in the state of Georgia. Eligible students enrolled in one of Georgia’s private colleges or universities may qualify for a $3,000 HOPE Scholarship plus a $900 Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant.
Words You need to knoW…
6 | words you need to know / eligibility / online resources
Hospital/Homebound (Teleclass): This program is offered to students who cannot attend in a regular setting due to illness or accident. To participate in the program, students must expect to be absent from school for at least 10 consecutive school days. Check with your counselor for the necessary form to enter the program.
Online Courses: Offered through Gwinnett County Online Campus (GCOC), these required or elective courses are available, as a part of or outside a student’s regular schedule. See your counselor for more information.
Postsecondary: Referring to college or technical col-lege/institute coursework.
Prerequisites: Courses, test scores, and/or grade level that must be completed before taking the next sequential course, grade, etc.
Required Courses: Specific courses that must be successfully completed prior to high school graduation. These courses must be retaken if not passed the first time.
School-Plus Classes: An opportunity for students to retake a course they have previously failed in order to receive credit. This opportunity is provided after the end of the school day, through the community school. There is a fee for these courses. Check with your local community school director. Courses may vary from location to location.
Semester: 18-week instructional period during which students earn .5 credits (traditional schedule) or 1.0 credits (block schedule) for each course passed. The school year is comprised of two semesters.
Summer School: A shorter, more intensive summer session offering students the opportunity to repeat or take additional courses required for high school gradua-tion, either face-to-face at a school or building, or online through GCOC.
Technical Education: Elective courses that focus on knowledge and skills that prepare students for post-secondary studies and for work in business and technical fields.
Transcript: The complete record of all high school courses taken and grades earned. A student’s transcript contains his or her cumulative record.
eliGiBilitY For comPetitionThe governing body for all competitive interscholastic teams is the Georgia High School Association (GHSA). The GHSA by-laws state, “All students establishing eli-gibility as entering 9th graders are automatically eligible for the first semester.”
All entering 9th graders start with a clean slate and are eligible to tryout for all GHSA-sanctioned activities at the high school. At the end of the first semester and all subsequent semesters, a student who wishes to tryout must pass a minimum of five out of six courses and be on track for graduation.
The GHSA requirements for being on track for gradua-tion and the promotion policy are not the same. Please refer to the high school requirements for promotion to see the differences in the requirements.
No student will be permitted to practice or participate in athletic activities on a school day if they have not been in attendance at least one-half of the day.
No students will be permitted to practice or participate in athletic activities on a school day if they have served in-school suspension that day.
online resources
Gwinnett County Online Campus (www.gwinnettk12online.net)
Students may pay to take online classes as a School-Plus course, or may take classes free-of-charge as a part of their regular school day. Online classes are best suited for students who are comfortable learning in a comput-er-based environment. Online classes cover the same AKS curriculum that is offered at a traditional school. Generally, the courses follow a 14-week semester during the fall or spring. Online summer school closely follows the traditional five-week summer school schedule. Inter-ested students must have their local school counselor’s approval to take an online course. Students register and pay at the Online Campus web site.
Gwinnett County Public Schools (www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us)
Follow curriculum link to AKS objectives.
Georgia College 411 (www.gacollege411.org/)
Helping students plan, apply, and pay for college.
graduation requirements / grades / tests / attendance | 7
state oF GeorGia Graduation requirements
Areas of Study Required Units
English/Language Arts 4*
Mathematics 4*
Science 4*(The 4th science unit may be used to meet both the science and an elective requirement)
Social Studies 3*
Modern/Classical Language and/or 3* Technical Education and/or Fine Arts
Health and Physical Education 1
Electives 4
Total Units (Minimum) 23
* Specific courses in each core academic area, including two units of the same Modern/Classical Language, are required for admission to Georgia four-year univer-sities, and are included in calculation of HOPE grade point average for HOPE Scholarship eligibility.
GWinnett countY PuBlic schools GradinG scale
A = 90% and Above
B = 80%–89%
C = 74%–79%
D = 70%–73%
F = Below 70%
rePorts to ParentsProgress Reports
High school teachers give each student a written report of his or her status at the end of each six weeks/nine weeks, depending on the student’s school. Parents may request a student’s grades at other times as well.
Report Cards
Report cards for first semester are given to students dur-ing the first two weeks of the following semester. Report cards for second semester are available approximately seven days after the semester ends.
end oF course testsStudents are required to participate in state-mandated End of Course Tests (EOCT) to earn credit for eight specified high school courses. Any freshmen enrolled in and/or receiving credit for a course requiring EOCT would participate in the assessment at the completion of the course. Results of the test count as 15% of the student’s final average in the semester the test is adminis-tered. Retests are not given for EOCT unless the student is retaking the class again for credit. The following EOCT are currently administered in grades 9–12:Mathematics Integrated Algebra I and Integrated
GeometrySocial Studies United States History and Economics/
Business/Free EnterpriseScience Biology and Physical ScienceEnglish/Language Arts 9th Grade Language Arts and
American Literature and Composition
attendance PoliciesState law requires attendance at school from age 6 to 16. Excused absences are defined by state law and include only the following:
a. Personal illness/death in immediate familyb. Recognized religious holidaysc. Student under orders from court or other govern-
ment agencyd. Service as a page in the General Assemblye. Conditions rendering attendance impossible or
hazardous to health or safetyf. Up to five excused absences per year for students
whose parent/legal guardian is in military service and is being sent overseas for active duty, on leave from active duty, or returning from active duty.
Absences are unexcused for all other reasons, including but not limited to:
a. Missing the bus, oversleeping, power outagesb. Vacations, trips, family visits, college visitsc. Car trouble, babysitting, running errands, traffic
accidents/problems.
Students who miss 30 minutes or more of class will be considered absent from that class.
If you don’t attend school regularly, you lose out on your education and you could lose more… Georgia law requires schools to report students with 10 unexcused absences to the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles, which could result in the loss or denial of a learner’s per-mit or driver’s license.
8 | four-year plan
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12th
Gra
de
For p
rom
otio
n to
12t
h gr
ade:
17
Cred
its
incl
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g no
few
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an 2
.5 C
ore
LA, 2
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Test
Ch
eckl
ist
end
of C
ours
e Te
sts
Int
. Alg
ebra
I I
nt. G
eom
etry
U
.S. H
isto
ry E
cono
mic
s B
iolo
gy P
hysi
cal S
cien
ce 9
th G
r. La
ng. A
rts A
mer
ican
Lit.
Gat
eway
SS
SS/
LA
SC
SC/
LA
GH
SGT
LA
MA
SC
SS
Writ
ing
1st Semester
1st Semester
1st Semester
1st Semester
2nd Semester
2nd Semester
2nd Semester
2nd Semester
worksheet | 9
CourSe CHoiCeS
Language Arts math Science Social Studies
modern/Classical Language, Fine Arts, Technical education
electives/Health and Physical education Total
9th Grade Lang. Arts
9th Grade Lang. Arts (Gifted)
9th Grade Lang. Arts (Honors)
9th Grade Lang. Arts (Technical)
Integrated Algebra I
Integrated Algebra I (Gifted)
Accelerated Integrated Algebra I
Accelerated Integrated Algebra I (Gifted)
Accelerated Integrated Geometry
Accelerated Integrated Geometry (Gifted)
Biology
Biology (Gifted)
Biology (Honors)
Biology (Technical)
World Geography
World Geography (Gifted)
World Geography (Honors)
AP Human Geography
See course description section for choices.
important note: Two credits of the same modern/classical language are required for university admis-sions in the state of Georgia.
See course description section.
6*
9th Grade Worksheet
my classesFirst Semester Second Semester
my clubs/sports/academic teams/theater/dance/music/ community organizations/job/internship/volunteer work/other interests
I would like to be involved in:
*Note: For promotion to 10th grade, a student must pass classes to earn 5 Credits including no fewer than .5 credit in a core Language Arts class, .5 credit in core Math, and .5 in core Science
10 | math sequence
GW
inn
et
t c
ou
nt
Y P
uB
lic
sc
ho
ols
r
ec
om
me
nd
ed
hiG
h s
ch
oo
l m
at
h s
eq
ue
nc
e
8t
h G
rad
e 9t
h G
rad
e 10
th G
rad
e 11
th G
rad
e 12
th G
rad
e
Stat
e of
Geo
rgia
cla
ss n
ames
are
indi
cate
d in
par
enth
eses
.
Four
cre
dits
of M
athe
mat
ics
are
requ
ired
of a
ll st
uden
ts in
hig
h sc
hool
, inc
ludi
ng In
tegr
ated
Alg
ebra
I (M
ath
I), In
tegr
ated
Geo
met
ry (M
ath
II),
Inte
grat
ed A
lgeb
ra II
(Mat
h III
), or
equ
ival
ent c
ours
es.
Cour
ses
may
be
desi
gnat
ed a
s “G
ifted
Edu
catio
n” a
s av
aila
ble
by s
choo
l.
Inte
grat
ed A
lgeb
ra I
(Mat
h I)
Acce
lera
ted
Inte
grat
ed
Alge
bra
I (A
ccel
erat
ed M
ath
I)
Stan
dard
Intro
. to
Al
gebr
a/Ge
omet
ry
Acce
lera
ted
Inte
grat
ed
Geom
etry
(A
ccel
erat
ed M
ath
II)
Hono
rs/G
ifted
Intro
. to
Al
gebr
a/Ge
omet
ry
Inte
grat
ed G
eom
etry
(Mat
h II)
Acce
lera
ted
Inte
grat
ed
Geom
etry
(A
ccel
erat
ed M
ath
II)
Acce
lera
ted
Inte
grat
ed
Prec
alcu
lus
(A
ccel
erat
ed M
ath
III)
Inte
grat
ed A
lgeb
ra II
(Mat
h III
)
Acce
lera
ted
Inte
grat
ed
Prec
alcu
lus
(A
ccel
erat
ed M
ath
III)
AP S
tatis
tics
or
AP C
alcu
lus
AB/B
C
Inte
grat
ed
Trig
onom
etry
(M
ath
IV)
AP C
alcu
lus
AB/B
C
AP S
tatis
tics
or
Stat
istic
s/Di
scre
te
Mat
hem
atic
s
AP S
tatis
tics
or
AP C
alcu
lus
AB/B
C:
Dual
Enr
ollm
ent
plac
emen
t tes
t
course descriptions | 11
lanGuaGe arts
9th Grade Language Arts or Honors 9th Grade Language Arts or Gifted 9th Grade Language Arts or Technical 9th Grade Language Arts - Required - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9 Requires State End of Course Test.
This course supports students’ language development. Each semester will have a balance of composition, applied grammar, and literature. The development of vocabulary, speaking, listening, researching, and test-taking skills will be an integral part of the curriculum.
Reading Intervention - Elective - 8 Semesters
This course is designed to provide special assistance in reading for students who are having difficulty meeting AKS on grade level. Emphasis is placed on reading-relat-ed AKS with attention given to content-area reading and use of graphic organizers.
science
Biology or Honors Biology or Gifted Biology or Technical Biology - Required - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9 Requires State End of Course Test.
This two-semester course includes concepts such as the interdependence of organisms; the relationship of matter, energy, and organization in living systems; the behavior of organisms; and biological evolution. Students will investigate biological concepts through experience in laboratories and field work using the processes of inquiry. (Honors Biology and Gifted Biology require an experi-mental science project.)
mathematics
Integrated Algebra I or Gifted Integrated Algebra I - Required - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9 Requires State End of Course Test. Prerequisite - Successful completion of 8th Grade Mathematics
This is the first in a sequence of mathematics courses designed to allow students to complete trigonometry in their high-school program. It includes radical, polyno-mial, and rational expressions; basic functions and their graphs; simple equations; fundamentals of proof; proper-ties of polygons; coordinate geometry; sample statistics; and curve fitting. With this course, students will com-plete full content of Algebra I.
Accelerated Integrated Algebra I or Gifted Acceler-ated Integrated Algebra I - Required - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9 Requires State End of Course Test. Prerequisite - Successful completion of 8th Grade Mathematics and Teacher Recommendation
This is the first in a sequence of mathematics courses de-signed to prepare students to take Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB or BC in their high school program. The content incorporates 1½ years of the content in the standard math sequence. It includes radical, polynomial, and rational expressions; functions and their graphs; quadratic and radical equations; fundamentals of proof; properties of polygons, circles, and spheres; coordinate geometry; sample statistics and curve fitting. With this course, students will complete full content of Algebra I.
About This SectionFollowing is a list of descriptions for courses typically offered to Gwinnett 9th graders. Whether or not a particular course is offered at a given school depends on faculty expertise, student demand, master schedule, etc.
Most semester courses carry one-half (.5) unit of credit. A course running two semesters would carry one (1.0) unit of credit (1 unit = 1 year-long course). Any prerequisite or required tests are listed with the course. If there are no prereq-uisites or required tests, this space is left blank in the course description.
The course descriptions note the placement levels available for the course. Honors courses indicate placement for stu-dents who have mastered prerequisite skills and knowledge that would allow for a faster pace of instruction and/or more in-depth coverage of the AKS for that course. Gifted education courses are taught by gifted education-certified instruc-tors for students who have been identified for placement in the gifted education program through state-mandated eligi-bility requirements. Sheltered ESOL courses are courses taught by teachers with certification for instruction of English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) for students who have been identified for ESOL services based on state-mandat-ed eligibility requirements. The content AKS are taught to specifically address the needs of ESOL-eligible students.
course descriPtions
12 | course descriptions
Accelerated Integrated Geometry or Gifted Acceler-ated Integrated Geometry - Required - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9 Requires State End of Course Test. Prerequisite - Meeting Placement CriteriaThis is the second in a sequence of mathematics courses designed to prepare students to take AP Calculus AB or BC in their high school program. The content incorpo-rates 1½ years of the content in the standard math se-quence. It includes right triangle trigonometry; exponen-tial, logarithmic, and higher degree polynomial functions; matrices; linear programming; vertex-edge graphs; conic sections; planes and spheres; and population means, standard deviations, and normal distributions. With this course, students will complete full content of Geometry.
Integrated Algebra I Strategies - Elective - Gr. 9–10
The purpose of this elective is to provide additional sup-port to students who have difficulty meeting math AKS on grade level. This course is taken concurrently with a student’s regular math class, giving extra time and using a variety of strategies to help students build a stronger foundation for success in their current and future math-ematics courses.
social studies World Geography or Honors World Geography or Gifted World Geography - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9
This two-semester elective course provides the content knowledge and skills necessary to understand the roles, responsibilities, and relationships of people and places throughout the world, both past and present. The course will prepare students for the three-year required so-cial studies sequence. Topics will include the themes of historical geography, political geography, and economic geography. Extensive opportunities to develop and refine writing competencies will prepare students for the High School Gateway, and geography objectives assessed on the Georgia High School Graduation Tests. Students are instructed on efficient and effective methods and strategies to read, write, think, organize, take notes, and demonstrate what they have learned.
AP Human Geography - Elective - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9
The Advanced Placement program in Human Geography is a college-level course designed to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of the Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to interpret human social organiza-tion and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice.
health
Introduction to Health - Required - 1 Semester - Gr. 9–12
This course is a graduation requirement designed to offer a practical approach to health topics that concern adoles-cents. The course covers knowledge and skills necessary for personal health and well being and the prevention and treatment of injury. Additional information covered includes disease prevention, relationships, consumer health, the life cycle, and preventing abuse of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.
This course includes a one-week seminar on drugs and alcohol required for the drug and alcohol card needed for a driver’s license. You will receive a card to show you com-pleted the course. Keep the card, as you will need it when you apply for your driver’s license. This card is not required when you apply for your learner’s permit.
PhYsical education
Introduction to Lifetime Fitness - Required - 1 Semester - Gr. 9–12
This course is a graduation requirement and a prerequi-site to all elective physical education courses. The course provides students with the basic knowledge and under-standing that physical fitness, exercise, and diet are es-sential in developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. There is no waiver for this course.
Beginning Weight Training - Elective - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Introduction to Lifetime Fitness
This series provides students an opportunity to experi-ence beginning-level weight training and conditioning principles. This program is designed to teach students the academic knowledge and skills needed to improve muscular strength and endurance.
Students have the option of taking Introduction to Lifetime Fitness and/or Health through Online Campus. See page 6 for more information or contact your school counselor.
Currently, GCPS has four programs available for Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, or JROTC. By completing 3 credits of JROTC, a student can receive credit for 1 unit of required Health/PE. Contact your counselor for more details.
course descriptions | 13
classical language
Latin I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 8–12
(Students completing Latin I in 8th grade take Latin II in 9th grade.)The student will develop the ability to read and write Latin through the study of vocabulary and grammar, and be introduced to ancient Roman culture. The influence of Latin upon English will be emphasized.
Honors Latin I or Gifted Latin I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12
Through extensions of Latin I Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
Latin II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Latin I
Students continue to develop skills and acquire the con-tent of Latin and ancient Roman culture begun in Latin I.
Honors Latin II or Gifted Latin II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Honors Latin I or Gifted Latin I and Teacher Recommendation
Through extensions of Latin II Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
modern languages
French I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 8–12
(Students completing French I in 8th grade take French II in 9th grade.)Through realistic use of the language, the student will learn to communicate in oral and written form on a vari-ety of everyday topics and will gain cultural knowledge of French-speaking countries.
Honors French I or Gifted French I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12
Through extensions of French I Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
French II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - French I
Building on the background of French I, the student will learn to interact in more complex situations, read more complicated materials, and write more extended mes-
sages. Cultural understanding increases through reading and discussion of authentic documents.
Honors French II or Gifted French II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Honors French I or Gifted French I and Teacher Recommendation
Through extensions of French II Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
German I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 8–12
(Students completing German I in 8th grade take German II in 9th grade.)Through realistic use of the language, the student will learn to communicate in oral and written form on a vari-ety of everyday topics and will gain cultural knowledge of German-speaking countries.
Honors German I or Gifted German I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12
Through extensions of German I Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
German II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - German I
Building on the background of German I, the student will learn to interact in more complex situations, read more complicated materials, and write more extended messages. Cultural understanding increases through reading and discussion of authentic documents.
Honors German II or Gifted German II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Honors German I or Gifted German I and Teacher Recommendation
Through extensions of German II Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level of speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
Spanish I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 8–12
(Students completing Spanish I in 8th grade take Spanish II in 9th grade.)Through realistic use of the language, the student will learn to communicate in oral and written form on a vari-ety of everyday topics and will gain cultural knowledge of Spanish-speaking countries.
modern/classical lanGuaGes NOTE: In all Modern/Classical Language courses, students must pass the prerequisite course before taking the next course in the sequence.
14 | course descriptions
Honors Spanish I or Gifted Spanish I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12Through extension of Spanish I Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
Spanish II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Spanish I
Building on the background of Spanish I, students will learn to interact in more complex situations, read more complicated materials, and write more extended mes-sages. Cultural understanding increases through reading and discussion of authentic documents.
Honors Spanish II or Gifted Spanish II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Prerequisite - Honors Spanish I or Gifted Spanish I and Teacher Recommendation
Through extensions of Spanish II Academic Knowledge and Skills, students will perform at an accelerated level in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.
Spanish for Native Speakers I - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Teacher Recommendation
Provides native speakers an opportunity to maintain oral competency in the Spanish language and to acquire a more sophisticated level of competency in reading and writing. Promotes a deeper understanding of the native culture and cultures of other Spanish-speaking countries.
Spanish for Native Speakers II - 2 Semesters - Gr. 9–12 Teacher Recommendation
Provides native speakers a continued opportunity to practice communication skills; to maintain, improve and perfect oral competency in Spanish language; and to acquire a more sophisticated level of competency in reading authentic texts and writing. Promotes a deeper understanding of and interest in the native culture and cultures of other Spanish-speaking countries.
enGlish to sPeakers oF other lanGuaGes (esol)These courses are designed for students who qualify for the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. In accordance with state rule 160-4-5-.02, “ESOL classes address English listening, speaking, reading, writing, and American cultural concepts which students need to participate in regular classroom instruction.” The student’s lan-guage proficiency is developed through instruction in literature, applied grammar, and composition. As per state rule 160-4-2-.03, students in the ESOL courses of ESOL I, Communication Skills, and Language Development in the Con-tent Areas (LDCA) 2, 3, and 4 may earn elective credit on successful completion of a course. The LDCA courses focus on the language skills needed to be successful in the content areas of science, social studies and math. An ESOL student may earn up to six semesters of core language arts credit in the following courses: ESOL Language Arts II, ESOL Lan-guage Arts III, and ESOL Language Arts IV. Initially, students are tested for placement with the WIDA-ACCESS Place-ment Test. Students participate in annual ACCESS testing to determine progress and placement.
ESOL I: Literature
This course develops students’ academic language skills within the area of language arts across the four areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing incorporat-ing AKS content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 1—Entering” (first semester) and “Level 2—Beginning” (second semester).
ESOL I: Language
This course develops students’ social and instructional language skills within the content areas of math, sci-ence, and social studies across the four areas of listen-ing, speaking, reading, and writing incorporating AKS content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 1—Entering” (first semester) and “Level 2—Beginning” (second semester).
ESOL I: Language Development in the Content Areas
This course develops students’ academic language skills within the content areas of math, science, and social studies across the four areas of listening, speaking, read-ing, and writing incorporating AKS content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 1—Entering” (first semester) and “Level 2—Beginning” (second semester).
Communication Skills
This course is designed for additional intensive language instruction for students entering high school with low ac-ademic skills in their first language. Students acquire so-cial and instructional language skills within the academic areas of language arts, math, science, and social studies across the four areas of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. This course is appropriate for low-schooled stu-dents scoring at “ACCESS Level 1—Entering.”
course descriptions | 15
sPecial educationThe following courses may be considered by the Individual Education Plan (IEP) team for students with disabilities who will not participate in the regular education classroom. Contact the IEP team for testing requirements
ESOL Language Arts II
This course develops and supports students’ academic language skills across the four areas of listening, speak-ing, reading, and writing within the area of language arts aligned with high school AKS language arts content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 3—Developing.”
ESOL Language Development in the Content Areas 2
This course develops and supports students’ academic language skills within the content areas of math, sci-ence, and social studies across the four areas of listen-ing, speaking, reading, and writing incorporating AKS content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 3—Developing.”
ESOL Language Development in the Content Areas 3
This course supports and enhances students’ academic language skills within the content areas of math, sci-ence, and social studies across the four areas of listen-ing, speaking, reading, and writing incorporating AKS content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 4—Expanding” and “Level 5—Bridging.”
ESOL Language Development in the Content Areas 4
This course enhances students’ academic language skills within the content areas of math, science, and social studies across the four areas of listening, speaking, read-ing, and writing incorporating AKS content. This course is appropriate for students scoring at “ACCESS Level 4—Expanding” and “Level 5—Bridging.”
AKS Academic Courses in a Special Education Setting
Students will participate in the AKS curriculum courses in a special education classroom taught by a special education teacher. Students participating in these courses will work toward completing the course requirements for a regular education diploma.
Adapted Courses
These courses are for students who require a modified curriculum and are taught by a special education teacher. Successful completion of these courses will satisfy course requirements toward a special education diploma, or elective credit.
Vocational Preparatory Program (VPP) CoursesThese courses provide students with a basic under-standing of key concepts. Course emphasis is on practical application of concepts to real-life situations. Successful completion of these courses will satisfy course require-ments toward a special education diploma or elective credit.
State requirements are still to be determined for a regular education diploma for students with significant cognitive disabilities. Schools will share information with affected families as it becomes available.
Other courses meeting state requirements are offered to eligible students through the English to Speakers of Other Languag-es (ESOL) program. Any applicable End of Course Tests are required.
16 | the choice book
Coming to your baCkpaCk in august…the ChoiCe book!
more courses“The Choice Book” includes the full listing of courses available for grades 9–12 in Gwinnett County high schools— from core courses to electives. Keep in mind that every course is not available at every school. Your advisor will give you
more information about your high school’s offerings.
more oPPortunities“The Choice Book” will give you more information about special programs open to Gwinnett County’s
upperclassmen, including programs offered through the Grayson High School Technical Education Program, Maxwell High School of Technology, and Gwinnett’s open campus school, Phoenix High.
more inFormation“The Choice Book” has important information about
special high school programs, planning for college and careers, testing, and more. You’ll also find planning worksheets for all four years of high school, a Q&A on financial aid and the college application process, and additional resources.
notes
2008–09 dates to rememBer
August 11 M FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
September 1 M Labor Day (School Holiday)
October 13 M Student Holiday
November 4 T Election Day (School Holiday)
November 26–28 W–F Thanksgiving Break (School Holidays)
December 17 & 18 W & Th Early Release for High School Exams
December 19 F Early Release for High School Exams/End of 1st semester
December 22–January 1 M–Th Winter Break (School Holidays)
January 2 F Student Holiday
January 5 M Begin 2nd semester
January 19 M Martin Luther King Jr. Day (School Holiday)
March 13 F Student Holiday or Snow Make-Up Day (Priority 1)
April 6–10 M–F Spring Break (School Holidays)
May 18 & 19 M & T Early Release for High School Exams
May 20 W Early Release for High School Exams/ LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
May 21 Th Snow Make-up Day (Priority 2)
SNOW MAKE-UP DAYS: If school is cancelled for inclement weather, the days will be made up as fol-lows: First day missed, make up on March 13; and second day missed, make up on May 21. Snow make-up days not used will be student holidays.
You also may want to write down some dates specific to your high school.
I’ll pick up my schedule on ______________________________.
Tryouts for ______________________________ are on ________________________.
Homecoming is on ______________________________.
Gwinnett county Public schools’ vision: What we aspire to be…
Gwinnett County Public Schools will be a system
of world-class schools where students acquire the knowledge and skills to be successful as they continue their education
at the postsecondary level and/or enter the
workforce.
Gwinnett county Public schools’ mission: Why we
exist…
The mission of Gwinnett County Public Schools is to pursue excellence
in academic knowledge, skills, and behavior for
each student resulting in measured improvement against local, national,
and world-class standards.
Gwinnett county Public schools437 Old Peachtree Road, NW Suwanee, GA 30024-2978
678-301-6000 • www.gwinnett.k12.ga.us
It is the policy of Gwinnett County Public Schools not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice, educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.
