The Freshman Book
A Planning Guide to
Help you Prepare for
the Transition from
Middle to High School
2011-12
It's your book. It's your plan. It's your future.
_______________________________________
WELCOME TO PEACHTREE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
“THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE”
THE FRESHMAN BOOK
…
YOUR PREVIEW OF
THE 9TH GRADE
Our Peachtree Ridge Ninth Grade Academy is here to help you as you transition from middle to high school. The Ninth Grade Academy is located in and near the upstairs “A” pod and houses the core subject areas – Math, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. More than a location, the Ninth Grade Academy is a group of teachers dedicated to the well-being of our newest Lions. An important part of your freshman year is learning the culture and expectations of Peachtree Ridge. You’ll find high school very different from middle school – you will have far greater freedom (for example, you’ll get to sit wherever you want at lunchtime, and talk with your friends as you move from class to class), but also, far greater responsibilities. At Peachtree Ridge, your grade reflects what part of the curriculum you have mastered; there are no “effort” grades. This means you take responsibility to complete all assignments (homework, projects, etc) when they are due. It means that you actively participate in class, asking questions if something is unclear. And it means that you advocate for yourself by asking your teacher for extra help if you find yourself falling behind. Your Ninth Grade Academy teachers will challenge you and stretch you, but they will also work beside you, supporting you each step of the way. Use “The Freshman Book” to learn more about what to expect in high school:
FAQ’s are located on pages 2 and 3. If you or your family has other questions, use the space at the end to write them down so you can ask your teacher/counselor later.
Find tips on page 4 that will help you get and stay on track for a great high school career. High school is a whole new world – with a whole new language. Check out some need-to-know
words on pages 5 and 6.
Do you play sports? You’ll find eligibility requirements for competition as well as specifics on graduation requirements, the grading scale and report cards, testing, and attendance on pages 6 and 7. More detailed information in these areas will be given to you in August.
Use page 8 for a preview of your four-year plan, and get started with your 9th grade Registration Sheet on page 9. To help you select which classes you will take next year, use the course descriptions and sequences on pages 10-22.
We are so glad that you are joining our PRIDE of lions! We’re certain that you will agree that “it’s great to be a P Ridge lion!”
Jon Weyher Nicole Tubbs Luthenya Wright
Ninth Grade Academy Assistant Principals
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 resumes. Your completed worksheets will be very useful as you look back at high school and your record of achievement.
Table of Contents
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
PRHS Credit Checklist & Plan of
Study...8
Course Planning Sheet……...9
9
thGrade Registration Sheet………...10
Core Course Sequence Charts...11
PRHS Accelerated Pathways...15
Visual Arts Pathway
……….……….………16
Career and Technology Pathway
……….…..……….17
Ninth Grade Electives...18
Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC)...21
2
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important for freshman to start the school year prepared for the rigor of high school?
Research has shown that the freshman year is the most critical year in high school. Many ninth graders who have a successful first year will continue to show excellence the remaining years of high school. Additionally, freshmen have shown a decline in grades during this transition time. Those ninth graders who start the year prepared for the challenges of high school have a greater chance of success throughout their high school careers.
What is block scheduling?
Students take four classes per semester. Classes meet daily for approximately 90 minutes. Block scheduling allows students to earn eight Carnegie units per year.
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 most rigorous 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.
Why should I take Advanced Placement classes?
Students who take AP classes outperform their peers when placed into advanced courses, are more likely to take advanced courses in their AP subject areas, are more likely to choose challenging majors, are more likely to graduate with a double major, and are twice as likely to go into advanced study. 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 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 in advance. This will allow you 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 tutoring sessions through the National Honor
Society, the Science National Honor Society or Mu Alpha Theta (the Math National Honor Society). If you need additional suggestions, speak with your Pride teacher or schedule an appointment with your counselor.
If I am failing a class, can I drop it mid-term? No. Dropping a class mid-term is not an option.
If I change my mind, can I change my schedule mid-year?
No. We are not able to change your schedule during the school year. Courses you elect to take in the spring will be your classes for the next school year. The only reason a schedule is changed during the school year is when a student does not have the prerequisite for a class.
How do I make up a course if I fail?
Courses can be made up during summer school, through GCPS Online Campus, or through Phoenix HS after the school day. See your counselor 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 grade, it will never be removed from the academic record (transcript). Required courses must be retaken if failed. Both 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”?
3
When are final exams taken and how much do these grades count in my semester grades?
Final exams have two parts - performance and selected response (multiple choice). The performance and selected response (multiple choice), together count 20% of the final grade.
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 the 11th grade, including subtests in the areas of Science, Social Studies, Math,
English Language Arts, 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. It is highly
recommended that you take these courses in the 9th grade. Students who want room in their schedules for extra
electives-may choose to take PE and Health during the summer before or after 9th grade through face-to-face summer school classes
or through Online Campus.
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. You will have 8 opportunities to take another language while at PRHS.
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 appointment 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 a part of their high school course schedule. Taking additional electives will require advanced planning. See a Fine Arts teacher or your 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 our 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. I’m supposed to ask -
_________________________________________________________________________________________ One more question -
_________________________________________________________________________________________
4
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. Although this is an exciting time, it can be stressful, too. Here are some tips for having 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 them 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 every day 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’ve 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. You can also access this information from the PRHS website:
www.peachtreeridge.org.
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 help you get where you want to go!
WORDS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Academic Letter: Awarded to students
beginning in the sophomore year, who have earned a 94.0 GPA two semesters in a row or who have a cumulative GPA % of 94 at PRHS.
Agenda Book: An organizational tool for
students that includes the school handbook, calendar of school events, assignment book, hall passes and reference information.
AKS (Academic Knowledge and Skills):
Gwinnett’s custom, Board-approved
curriculum that outlines the concepts students are expected to know and be able to do in each course.
AP (Advanced Placement): Students who
take AP classes out perform their peers when placed into advanced courses, are more likely to take advanced courses in their AP subject areas, are more likely to choose challenging majors, are more likely to graduate with a double major, and are twice as likely to go into advanced study.
Class Rank: A student’s standing based on
his or her cumulative grade percent average as compared with 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,
Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies coursework. (For college admission standards, Modern/Classical Language credits are also 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 provides knowledge and skills to use in postsecondary studies and in the workplace. Advanced planning is required if a student wants to include technical classes in his or her high school schedule. See a business teacher or your counselor for more information.
End of Course Tests (EOCT): EOCT
measure learning 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 Course: 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
participation 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. The plan will take into
consideration the student’s academic history, career goals, interests, and plans for additional education beyond high school.
Freshman Academy: The Freshman
Academy helps rising 9th graders transition to high school with the goal of increasing student achievement. The teachers of the academy have been identified to provide a supportive environment while maintaining high
expectations during 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.
High School Gateway: The Essay tests that
measure a student’s ability to write effectively about the science and social studies AKS covered in 9th and 10th grades. The tests are taken in the spring of the 10th grade year.
HOPE Grant: (Helping Outstanding Pupils
Educationally) 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.
Hospital/Homebound (Teleclass): This
program is offered to students who cannot attend in a regular setting due to an illness or an accident. To participate in the program, students must expect to be absent from school for at least 10 consecutive school days. See Ms. Stinson in the Attendance Office 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 of a student’s regular schedule. See your counselor for more information.
Postsecondary: Refers to college or
technical college/institute coursework.
Prerequisites: courses, test scores, and/or
grade level that must be completed before taking the next sequential course, grade, etc.
PRIDE: A structured, non-graded portion of
the day in which students receive school information and discuss grade-level
appropriate topics with their Pride teacher, advisor.
Required Courses: Required courses are
specific courses that must be successfully completed prior to high school graduation. These courses must be retaken if not passed the first time.
Semester/Term: 18-week instructional
period during which students earn 1.0 credit for each course passed. The school year is comprised of two semesters/terms.
Technical Education: Elective courses that
focus on knowledge and skills that prepare students for post secondary studies and for work in the business and the 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 Competition
The governing body for all competitive interscholastic teams is the Georgia High School Association (GHSA). The GHSA by-laws state, “All students establishing eligibility 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 meet all GHSA requirements.
The GHSA requirements for being on track for graduation 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)
Online classes are best suited for students who are comfortable learning in a computer-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. Interested 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.
STATE OF GEORGIA
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Areas of Study Required Units
English/Language Arts 4*
Mathematics 4*
Science 4* 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 areas, including two units of the same
Modern/Classical Language, are required for admission to Georgia four-year universities, and are included in the calculation of HOPE grade point average for the 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 PARENTS
Progress Reports: High school teachers give
each student a written report of his or her status at the end of each 4.5 weeks. Parents may request a student’s grades at other times as well. Parents are encouraged to sign up for the Parent Portal where they can receive daily updates on student achievement, attendance and discipline. Please inquire at PRHS if you have not yet signed up.
Report Cards: Report cards for first
semester are mailed during the first two weeks of the following semester. Report cards for the second semester are mailed approximately seven days after the semester ends.
END OF COURSE TESTS
Students are required to participate in state-mandated End of Course Tests (EOCT) to earn credit for eight specified high school courses. Any freshman 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 administered. 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 and
Integrated Geometry
Social Studies: United States History
and Economics
Science: Biology
English/Language Arts: 9th Grade
Language Arts and American Literature and Composition
ATTENDANCE POLICIES
State law requires attendance at school from age 7 to 16. Excused absences are defined by state law and include only the following:
a) Personal illness/death in the immediate family
b) Recognized religious holidays c) Student under orders from court or
other government agency d) Service as a page in the General
Assembly
e) Conditions rendering attendance impossible or hazardous to health or safety
f) 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 are not limited to:
a) Missing the bus, oversleeping, power outages
b) Vacations, trips, family visits, college visits
c) Car trouble, babysitting, running errands, traffic accidents/problems. Students who miss 45 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 permit or driver’s license.
PRHS Credit Checklist & Plan of Study
Student’s Name: Date: _________________________
Pride Advisor’s Name: _____________________ Student ID#: ___________________
SECTION I: Testing Required for Graduation:
GHSGT- Language Arts Gateway- Science GHSGT- Math Gateway- Science LA Georgia High School Graduation Test: taken in 11th grade GHSGT- Science Gateway: taken in 10th grade Gateway-Social Studies
GHSGT- Social Studies Gateway Social Studies LA GHSGT- Writing
SECTION II: Summary of Credits for Graduation (23 required):
Write a check mark in the corresponding course box below for each credit earned. *EACH BOX is equivalent to .5 units of credit Language Arts
(4 units) LA 9 LA 9 LA 10 LA 10 LA 11 LA 11 LA 12 LA 12
Math
(4 units) Int. Alg. 1 Int. Alg. 1 Int. Geom. Int. Geom. Int. Alg. 2 Int. Alg. 2 Int. Trig. Int. Trig.
Science
(4 units) Biology Biology Chemistry Chemistry Physics Physics 4th science 4th science Soc. Studies (3 units) World History World History US History US History Political Systems Econ
P.E. & Health
(1 unit) 3 units of JROTC may be used to meet the requirement
PE Health
Fine Art and/or Foreign Language and/or CTAE
(3 units) Students planning to enter or transfer into a University System of Georgia institution or other post-secondary institution must take 2 units of the same Foreign Language.
Electives
(4 units)
SECTION III: PLAN OF STUDY: Each line represents one course (2 semester courses require two lines)
10th Grade: 11th Grade: 12th Grade:
__________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ Promotion Requirements:
For promotion to 10th grade: 5 credits including no less than 2 units of a combination of math, language arts and science.
For promotion to 11th grade: 11 credits including no less than 5 core courses, including 1 unit of each language arts, math, science
and social studies.
For promotion to 12th grade: 17 credits including a minimum of 9 core credits of a combination of math, language arts, science, and
social studies.
9
Course Request Planning Sheet for 2011-2012
Alternate Electives: 1. _ ______ ____ _______ ____ ___ 2. ___ ____ __ ______ ____ _______ ____ _ 3. ____ ______ ____ _______ ____ ____
As you select your course requests for 20
11-2012, begin by identifying
the Core Classes that you wo
uld like to complete. You
should select a course for each Core cont
ent area,
work wit
h your current teachers
and parents to identify the appropriate
level for each course, and remember that
you are required to complete at least on
e course in each of
the followin
g areas
each year at PRHS: Language Arts, Math,
Science, and Social Studies. For planning
purposes, use your
registration book to
determine if a course requires 1 or 2 term
s of course work. Once you have identified
your Core Classes, identify Elective
Classes that interest you. Once each of
yo
ur 8 bloc
ks is co
mplete, identify 3 Alt
ernate Electiv
e Classes that you w
ould be
interested in completing in
ord
er of your preference.
Please remember that during the registra
tion process, the classes you select are
re
que
st
s
. Y
ou are making a y
ear long
commitment with your selections,
so please work with your teac
hers and your parents to ensure that your selections are the
best choice for you. You wi
ll have an opportunity to review
your course requests prior to th
e end of the current school year.
Please remember that students cannot reques
t a specific teacher, the order of their
classes, or the semester in which they
would like to complete a course.
Semester One
Semester Two
Block
Class
Block
Class
1
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
PEACHTREE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL Student Name _______________________________
Ninth Grade Registration 2010-2011 Student Number _____________________________
Each ninth grade student takes 4 core classes: LA, Math, Science, Health/ PE. It is also recommended that freshmen take World Geography as 13% of the SS GHSGT comes from this course. Finally, Computer Applications is strongly recommended for all incoming freshmen as it is the prerequisite course for all Business courses and includes time management, study skills, and success strategies for the high school experience. ESOL or Reading may also be an appropriate core classes for some students. Students with an interest in the Fine Arts or in AP course work may want to consider completing the Health/PE requirement during summer school
prior to beginning their 9th grade year. Teachers should place their initials by the course that is recommended for the student.
Language Arts Mathematics Science Social Studies
Pre AP Language Arts Accelerated Integrated Geometry–( MA/SC Pathway)
Pre AP Chemistry-(MA/SC Pathway)
AP Human Geography - 2 Terms
College Prep Language Arts Accelerated Integrated Algebra/Accelerated Integrated Geometry 2 Terms (MA/SC Pathway)
Pre AP Biology Pre AP World Geography
Accelerated Integrated Algebra YL C Prep Language
Arts/Reading
Integrated Algebra College Prep Biology College Prep World Geography
YL Integrated Strategies with
Integrated Algebra
Health and Fitness - Graduation Requirement Must Choose 1 Option Computer Applications
Survey of Intro to Lifetime Fitness & Health – 1 Term Computer Applications Attending in Summer School – Fee Required
Support Services - GFT English To Speakers Of Other Languages
LA ESOL I Communication Skills ESOL Language Arts II
MA ESOL I Language ESOL Language Development/Content II
SC ESOL I Language Dev & Content ESOL Language Arts III (Fr LA – Sheltered) SS ESOL I Literature ESOL Language Development/Content III
Students/Parents select ____ electives to complete 8 requests.
Modern/Classical Languages Firstyear
students must choose 2 terms For All Students
Audition Only
Auditions held at Hull MS prior to registration. Student placement based on audition results.
Spanish Native Speakers I Business Essentials Concert Band – 2 terms Spanish Native Speakers II Computing in the Modern World *Concert Orchestra – 2 terms Spanish I Broadcast/Video Production I Symphonic Orchestra – 2 terms Spanish II Family Consumer Science Pathway Essentials Philharmonic Orchestra – 2 terms Spanish III Marketing Principles Chorale – 2 terms
German I Intro to Engineering Drawing & Design *Introduction to Dance – 2 terms German II Foundations of Engineering & Technology Intermediate Dance – 2 terms
French I *Acting I Advanced Dance I – 2 terms
French II 2-D/3-D Art Design Advanced Dance II – 2 terms
French III Weights – muscle building Glee – Fall Term Only (Advanced Theater)
Latin I Body Sculpting – muscle toning Musical Theater – Spring Term Only (Musical Production)
Latin II ROTC I Advanced Play Production
Chinese I ROTC II
Chinese II *No Audition Required
In the event your elective requests cannot be scheduled, please indicate alternate choices below.
First: Second: Third:
Your student’s teachers have made recommendations regarding placement in 9th grade courses. All course requests are
year-long commitments; therefore, please review the class selections carefully. Sign and return this form to Hull Middle School. If you feel your student’s course selections are incorrect, contact the middle school teacher to discuss the student’s placement. Parent Signature: _______________________________________ Work Number: ______________________________ E-Mail Address: _________________________________________ Home Phone: ______________________________ White Copy – PRHS Yellow Copy – Parents sign and return to Hull MS Pink Copy – Hull MS Goldenrod - Parent
Required Language Arts Courses
4 units required for graduation
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
CP Genre Study
CP World Literature
CP American Literature CP British Literature EOCT Course EOCT CoursePre Ap Genre Study
Pre AP World Literature
Pre AP
A
merican Literature
AP Language & Composition
EOCT Course
EOCT Course
Pre AP American Literature
EOCT Course
andand
AP Language & Composition
AP Literature & Composition
2 terms
Required Math Courses
4 units required for Graduation
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
Integrated Strategies with
Integrated Strategies with
Integrated Strategies with
Math IV-Integrated Trigonometry
Integrated Algebra Integrated Geometry Integrated Algebra II EOCT Course EOCT Course Integrated Algebra Integrated Geometry Integrated Algebra II
Math IV-Integrated Trigonometry
EOCT Course
EOCT Course
Accelerated Integrated
Accelerated Integrated
Accelerated Integrated
AP Calculus AB/BC 2 terms
Algebra Geometry Precalculus Calculus 1 term EOCT Course EOCT Course AP Statistics 2 terms Math/Science
Statistics/Discrete Math 1 term
Accelerated Path
Accelerated Int Algebra
Accelerated Integrated
AP Calculus BC
Ga Tech Distance Learning
Accelerated Int Geometry
Precalculus 2 terms Calculus 2 and 3 EOCT Courses 2 terms 12
Required Science Courses
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
CP Biology CP Chemistry CP Physics Biotechnology EOCT CourseAnatomy and Physiology
CP Physics Forensic Science Biotechnology AP Environmental Science AP Biology AP Physics B Pre AP Biology Pre AP Chemistry AP Physics B EOCT Course 2 terms
MA/SC Pathway: Pre AP Chemistry
AP Biology
AP Physics B/C
AP Chemistry
2 terms
4 units required for graduation
EOCT Course
2 terms
2 terms
Required Social Studies Courses
3 units required for graduation
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
CP World Geography CP World History CP U.S. History CP Economics EOCT Course EOCT Course CP Political Systems Pre AP Pre AP Pre AP Pre AP Economics W orld Geography W orld History U.S. History EOCT Course EOCT CoursePre AP Political Systems
AP Human Geography AP World History AP U.S. History AP American Government t 2 terms 2 terms 2 terms EOCT course AP Macroeconomics OR 2 terms AP World/AP European EOCT in Macroeconomics History 2 terms 14
Pathways: Math & Science or Humanities
Objective: To Provide Math & Science or Humanities Concentration Programs of Study for high ability students.
PRHS Math & Science Accelerated Path
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
Accelerated Integrated Algebra
Accelerated Integrated Precalculus AP Calculus BC 2 Terms GA Tech Calculus 2/3 2 Terms
Accelerated Integrated Geometry
AP Biology 2 terms
AP Physics BC
2 Terms
Pre AP Chemistry
Rationale: Peachtree Ridge High School has developed accelerated programs of study in
Math/Science and in Humanities which allow us to use block scheduling as a tool to meet the needs of a previously untapped population of students. A core team of subject teachers will
work with these students throughout their four years.
PRHS Humanities Accelerated Path
Pre AP 9th Grade LA
Pre AP 10th Grade LA
Pre AP 11th Grade LA
AP Literature
AP Human Geography/Fine Arts
AP World History/AP European History
2 terms
AP US History
2 terms
Modern Classical Language
1 & 2 2 terms Humanities Elective (Publication class/MC Language/Fine Arts) Humanities Elective (Publication class/MC Language/Fine Arts)
Humanities Elective (Publication
class/MC Language/Fine
Art/AP Art History/AP Music Theory/AP Comparative Government, AP Law, Gifted
Internship)
Visual Arts Department Courses
PRHS
Pottery I
Pottery II
Sculpture
Graphic Design **
2-D & 3-D Design *
Photography **
Photography II
Photography III & IV
Drawing & Painting I **
Drawing & Painting II **
AP Studio
Drawing & Painting
Jewelry Design
Printmaking
Crafts
AP Art History
* 2-D and 3-D Design are pre-requisites for all other visual arts classes and for AP Art History. **Graphic Design, Photography, Drawing & Painting I and Drawing & Painting II, as well as teacher recommendation, are required for AP Studio 2-D.
Career and Technical Educati
on
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Small Busin ess D evelo pment Pa thwa y Fin an cial M an ag em ent – Acc ou ntin g Pa thwa y Teachin g as a Profession Pa thwa y All cou rses listed un der a Path way ma y be taken as a sta nd alon e co ur se. But , th e streng th of th e p athway lies in com pl eting a n entir e pr og ram o f study while here at Peachtree Rid ge . Busin ess Essentials 9 th to 12 th Busin ess Essentials 9 th to 12 th Ex am in in g the Teachin g Pro fess io n 10 th to 12 th Legal En vi ronme nt o f Busin ess 10 th to 12 th Prin ciples o f Accou nt in g I 10 th to 12 th Con te m po rary Issues in Ed ucatio n 10 th to 12 th En trepren eurial Ventu res 10 th to 12 th Prin ciples o f Accou nt in g II 10 th to 12 th Teac hi ng as a Pr of ess io n (In tern) 10 th to 12 th All in com in g stud ents are registered fo r Com pu ter App licati on s. Th is cou rse in clud es ti m e man age m ent , stu dy skil ls , and succes s strategie s fo r th e ent ire High Scho ol exp erience. Interactiv e Media Pa thwa y Eng ineering Pa thwa y Nutritio n a nd Fo od Science Pa th way Co m pu tin g in the M od ern Wo rld 9 th to 12 th Fo un dations of E ng ineerin g & Techn ol ogy 9 th to 12 th FCS P athway Essentials 9 th to 12 th Fu nd am ental s o f W eb Des ig n 10 th to 12 th En gi neerin g Con cepts 10 th to 12 th Fo od , Nu trit ion & Welln ess 10 th to 12 th Video Broa dcast Jo urna lism Adv anced W eb Desig n 10 th to 12 th En gi neerin g App lication s 10 th to 12 th Foo d & Nutritio n T hro ugh the L ifespa n * 10 th to 12 thVideo/
Broa
dcas
t
Jour
nalism
I
9 th to 12 th In tro to An im ation & 3 D Des ig n 10 th to 12 th Research, De sign and Pro ject Man age m ent 10 th to 12 th Foo d Science * 10 th to 12 thVideo/
Broa
dcas
t
Jour
nalism
II
(RVN
)
10 th to 12 th Administ rat iv e/Informati on Sup po rt Pa thwa y Arc hite ctur e Pa thwa y Spo rts an d En tertainmen t M arketin g Pa thwa yVideo/
Broa
dcas
t
Jour
nalism
II
I
10 th to 12 th Co m pu ter Ap pl ication s 9 th to 12 th In tro to E ng ineerin g Drawing & D esign 9 th to 12 th Mark eting Pr incip les 9 th to 12 thVideo/
Broa
dcas
t
Jour
nalism
IV
10 th to 12 th Busin ess Co mm un ication 10 th to 12 th Architectu ral Drawing & Des ig n I 10 th to 12 th In tro to Spor ts & En tertainmen t M kt g. 10 th to 12 th Add itio nal St and Alo ne Courses 1. Energy a nd Po wer Tech no lo gy* 2. Fin ancial L iteracy 3. Hum an Gr owth and Develo pm ent 4. Fo undations o f In terio r Des ig n Busin ess Pr ocedu res 10 th to 12 th Architectu ral Drawing & Des ig n II 10 th to 12 th Adv anced S po rts & En tertainmen t M kt g. 10 th to 12 th Computi ng Pa thwa y Ma rketing and M an ag eme nt Pa thw ay Fa shio n M ar keting Pa thwa y Co m pu tin g in the M od ern Wo rld 9 th to 12 th Mark eting Pr incip les 9 th to 12 th Mark eting Pr incip les 9 th to 12 th Work Based Learnin g an d Office A ides All s tud ent s must ha ve a jo b b y the sta rt o f th e se me st er f or WBL. (Appl icati on Required) 11 th and 1 2 Gr ad es Only Begin ni ng Prog ram ming 10 th to 12 th Adv anced M arketin g (Mark eting Lab ) 10 th to 12 th In tro du ction t o Fashio n Mark eting 10 th to 12 th AP Co mpute r Science* 10 th to 12 th En trepren eursh ip - Bui ld ing a Busin ess 10 th to 12 th Adv ance d Fashio n Mark eti ng 10 th to 12 th * T hese c ourses coun t as t he 4 th sci ence cre dit f or gradu ation a nd tow ar d en tran ce require men ts for a Bo ar d of Reg ents colle g e.
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9
thGRADE ELECTIVES
Career and Technology Education
Computer Applications Grades 9-12
This course concentrates on the Microsoft Office suite of applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher and Access. Students also learn time management skills and how to put this software to effective use. The class is a prerequisite for all business, computer, and marketing classes.
Business Essentials Grades 9-12
This course provides an overview of the functions of management and qualifications for becoming a business manager. Topics include management’s role, planning skills, problem solving, management information systems, business ethics, and organizational structure, policies, and procedures for both American and International business. Students will investigate effective manager skills such as communication, quality control, leadership styles, report writing, and human relations.
Computing in the Modern World Grades 9-12
This course provides students with an introduction to the principles of computer science and its place in the modern world. Students gain a fundamental understanding of the operation of computers, networks and software. Simple algorithms will be introduced as well as developing web pages to include images, sound, and text. A working understanding of the internet, common formats for data transmission, and designing human-computer interfaces will be explored as well as ethical use of computer systems.
FCS Pathway Essentials Grades 9-12
Personal development and dating, food & nutrition, textiles & apparel and housing & resource management are covered in this course. Material and elastic are provided by the student for boxer short construction.
Foundations of Engineering and Technology Grades 9-12
This is the introductory course for Georgia Engineering and Technology Education pathways. This course provides students with opportunities to develop fundamental technological literacy as they learn about the history, systems,
and processes of invention and innovation. Foundations of Engineering or Intro to Engineering is a
prerequisite for all additional Engineering courses.
Introduction to Engineering Drawing and Design Grades 9-12
Study the principles of drafting using various materials, instruments, and drafting tools. Drafting techniques are developed and applied to the production of working drawings. Emphasis is placed on laboratory processes to develop manual-drafting skills as well as computer-aided drafting (CAD) techniques. Significant time is spent with
AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor and Revit Architecture software. Foundations of Engineering or Intro to
Engineering is a prerequisite for all additional Engineering courses.
Fine Arts
Acting I
Learn the skills to become a STAR. In the class you get an introduction to improvisation, mime, movement, and
character development. No experience is necessary.
Advanced Play Production
Are you interested in acting but prefer not to sing? This class will rehearse and produce a show each semester at PRHS. Students will have the opportunity to participate in various areas of production and design. After school
rehearsals will be required. Audition and teacher recommendation required.
Glee /Advanced Theater – Semester One Only
This fall term class will explore aspects of singing and acting. Singers will learn contemporary music and will
study how to improve their vocal performance. Skills in reading and arranging music as well as choreography will be
taught. Singers will take all that they have learned and use it in a stage performance. Audition and teacher
recommendation required.
Musical Theater/Musical Production – Semester Two Only Grades 9-12
Rehearse and produce the Spring Musical at PRHS. After school rehearsals will be required for this course.
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Two Dimensional and Three Dimensional Design Grades 9-12
These courses encompass exploration of images, concepts and techniques in drawing, printmaking, lettering, painting, collage, construction, assemblage, and media manipulations. Historical and contemporary developments in two and three dimensional art are explored.
Concert Band Grades 9-12
The Peachtree Ridge Concert Band is a class that focuses on the development of fundamental techniques necessary for performance at the high school level. The development of individual technical ability and group awareness is the class' primary focus. Young band wind/percussion literature will be used to develop these concepts. Students also use a variety of written, listening, and individual playing assignments to demonstrate the mastery of the AKS.
Placement in this class is by Middle School Band Director’s recommendation or by audition. Introduction to Dance Grades 9-12
All dance classes have a mandatory uniform/performance expectation and after school rehearsals.
Open to all students. No audition necessary. This class is for students with little or no prior dance training.
Intermediate Dance Grades 9-12
Audition Required. Open to all grade levels. 2-3 years of dance training recommended.
Advanced Dance I Grades 9-12
Audition Required. Open to all grade levels. 2-3 years of dance training recommended.
Advanced Dance II Grades 9-12
Audition Required. Open to all grade levels. 5 years of dance training recommended.
Concert Orchestra Grades 9-12
Any orchestra student can join concert orchestra, providing they have at least two years experience. Students in this orchestra perform level 3/4 music and build upon the skills learned in previous programs.
Symphonic Orchestra Grades 9-12
Students must audition for this orchestra. Audition requirements include performance of an etude as well as the
Middle School All-State Scales. This orchestra performs level 4/5 music and will work on refining vibrato, shifting and advanced techniques.
Philharmonic Orchestra Grades 9-12
Students must audition for this orchestra. Audition requirements include performance of an etude as well as the
Middle School All-State Scales. This orchestra performs level 5/6 music and will work on refining vibrato, shifting and advanced techniques.
Chorale Grades 9-12
The mixed ensemble class will study basic vocal techniques and how to read music. The choir performs in 4 concerts
throughout the year. Audition is required.
Glee Choir/Advanced Theater – Semester One Only Grades 9-12
This class provides instruction on vocal technique, acting skills and stage choreography. Singers will learn
contemporary music and will study how to improve their vocal performance. Skills in reading and arranging music as well as choreography will be taught. Singers will take all that they have learned and use it in a stage performance.
Audition is required.
Physical Education
:
Pre-requisite to all PE classes: Introduction to Lifetime Fitness Beginning Weight Training
A series of courses that provide a student with the opportunities to develop muscular strength and endurance through the use of weight training and conditioning principles.
Body Sculpting
These courses provide basic instruction in methods to define, condition, and reshape the body through specific exercises. Topics covered are weight training, conditioning exercises, proper nutrition, muscle definition, posture, physical response to exercise and weight control.
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Modern/Classical Languages
It is strongly recommended for students in the Classes of 2012 and beyond to take two years of the same language. Most colleges and universities now require more than two years of language study as evidence of
academic achievement. For this reason, the Modern and Classical Language Department highly
recommends the study of three years of high school language. Level I Modern Language (Chinese, French, German, and Spanish)
In Level I, students will begin the study of modern language by working on all four language skills: speaking, writing, listening, and reading. Students will be introduced to the target cultures and will acquire knowledge through a variety of learning activities. By the end of the course, students will be able to have simple conversations about likes/dislikes, personality traits, school, family, and food.
Level I Latin
In Latin I, students begin acquiring reading skills in Latin as well as strengthening their English reading and vocabulary skills through vocabulary building and analyzing sentence structure. Through reading selections, class discussions, activities, and projects students learn about the daily lives of the Romans and make comparisons relevant to today’s society. Students also begin their study of Greco-Roman mythology.
Level II Modern Language (Chinese, French, German, and Spanish)
In Level II, students will deepen and expand their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in the target
language. Students will be able to communicate in the past, present, and future tenses while discussing topics such as travel, childhood, technology, and health and wellness. Students will perform skits, write compositions, give simple presentations, and work with authentic materials in the target language.
Level II Latin
In Latin II, students refine reading skills in Latin as well as continue to strengthen their English reading and
vocabulary skills through vocabulary building and analyzing sentence structure. Through the reading selections, class discussions, and projects, students acquire a more in-depth knowledge about the daily lives and history of the Romans. Students also continue to make comparisons relevant to today’s society. Students may use Latin orally to initiate and respond to more complex statements and commands as well as read Latin aloud.
Level III Modern Language (Chinese, French, German, and Spanish)
In Level III, students continue to develop speaking, listening, writing and reading skills. Students combine learned material with new concepts to express their thoughts in a more complex manner. Topics explored include: media, careers, health, cultural perspectives, art, and literature of the target cultures. Students will continue to work with authentic materials, as well.
Spanish for Native Speakers I
Spanish for Native Speakers I provides the student with the opportunity to improve and continue to develop their skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking Spanish. An emphasis will be placed on spelling and vocabulary acquisition. This is done through the study of the culture, literature and history of the Spanish-speaking countries as well as through community involvement. SNS I is similar to a combined advanced Level III and IV foreign language course.
Pre-requisite: A placement test is required for students wishing to take SNS I. Spanish for Native Speakers II
Spanish for Native Speaker II provides the student with the opportunity to work on the more complex features of Spanish and continue to communicate on a variety of subjects in oral and written forms of expression. Emphasis is placed on literature as students learn to analyze works through the study of literary elements such as theme, perspective, rhetorical devices, and style. Authentic materials such as short stories, poems, plays, novels, films, and newspapers are heavily used. SNS II is similar to an Advance Placement literature course.
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NAVY JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICERS TRAINING CORPS (NJROTC)
WHAT IS NJROTC?
The Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) is a leadership program designed to give students a head start. NJROTC develops the self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership skills to help you successfully meet life’s challenges. People who are successful in life, who succeed in business,
industry, and education, have developed strong, self-discipline, the ability to lead and motivate others, and a well-rounded character. The NJROTC curriculum and instructional activities are designed to develop your leadership ability regardless of your career path.
WHAT DOES NJROTC TEACH?
The naval science curriculum includes subjects such as leadership, naval history, citizenship, astronomy, oceanography, meteorology, naval ships and aircraft, seamanship, radar and sonar electronics, navigation and sea power. NJROTC is a 3- or 4-year program. It consists of a minimum of 180 class periods per year of formal classroom training, supplemented by training cruises aboard ships, orientation visits and field trips to various naval facilities to enhance classroom studies. Students who complete 3 consecutive courses in NJROTC meet the graduation requirement for Health/PE.
WHO GAINS FROM NAVY JUNIOR ROTC? YOU DO!
Like most young adults, cadets strive to prepare themselves for the future. Navy JROTC can help students who want to compete for an NROTC scholarship to a major university, or an appointment to the US Naval Academy or to the other service academies. While cadets are under no obligation to join the armed services after graduation from high school, some individuals choose to enlist in the military. Successful completion of the NJROTC program allows entry into the armed forces up to two pay grades higher than your fellow enlistees without junior ROTC experience.
Navy JROTC encourages participation in community and school programs and projects. It encourages civic responsibility, and helps to develop strong and informed leaders for the future. In NJROTC you learn to take great pride in your country, your Navy, your uniform, and YOURSELF.
ANY EXTRCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES? YES!!!
Being a Navy JROTC cadet is not all work and no fun. You may attend award ceremonies and military balls sponsored by your NJROTC unit. You can also take part in school activities and athletic events as part of a color guard or a drill team, or participate in a field meet against other NJROTC units. Other activities include field trips and tours to naval installations, and trips on naval ships and naval aircraft. Selected cadets get to attend a mini-boot camp or the NJROTC Leadership Academy in the summer.
WHAT IS PROVIDED?
The Navy provides all books, drill equipment, uniforms, and other teaching materials. All you have to provide is dedication to the Navy’s core values of honor, courage and commitment, and the determination and desire to be a well-rounded young person of high moral character.
WHO CAN ENROLL IN NJROTC?
To enroll in the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, you must be enrolled in grades 9-12 and attending a regular course of instruction at the school hosting the unit, be a United States citizen or national, or alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence, be physically qualified to
participate fully in the physical education program of the school, be accepted by the naval science instructor, maintain acceptable standards of academic achievement and standards of conduct, and comply with NJROTC personal grooming standards.
