Superintendent Dr. Angi Williams

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GALENA

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_NDEPENDENT

_SCHOOL

PARK

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_STRI

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COURSE GUIDE

GALENA

PARK

HI

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S

CHOOL

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GALENA PARK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

14705 Woodforest Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77015 P.O. Box 565

Galena Park, Texas 77547 832-386-1000

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Wilfred J. Broussard, Jr. - President

Joe Stephens - Vice President

Wanda Heath Johnson - Secretary

Jeff Miller

Dawn Fisher

June Harris

Ramon Garza

Superintendent

Dr. Angi Williams

ASSURANCE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

No student shall be denied the right to participate in any school program, education service, or activity because of the student’s race, religion, color, sex, national origin, or disability. The district has designated Dr. Mechelle Epps to coordinate its efforts to comply with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, dealing with rights of students with disabilities. All complaints shall be handled through established channels and procedures beginning with the building principal, followed by appeal to Kenneth Wallace, Assistant Superintendent for Educational Support and School Administration –Secondary, Terri Moore, Senior Director of Elementary

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Table of Contents

Contents Page

Recommended Scheduling Process ... 3

MECA ... 4

Pre-Advanced/Advanced Placement Program... 4-5 Dual Credit, Credit by Exam... 5-6 Distinguished Achievement Program ... 6-7 Career and Technical Education, Special Education Classes... 7

Graduation Credit Requirements... 8-11 Grade Point System... 12-13 Calculating Class Rank... 14

Grade/Course Transfers... 14

Homebound/Community Class/Honors/Pre-AP/AP... 14

Early Graduation ... 15

Valedictorian/Salutatorian Rules ... 15

Preparing a Four-Year Program ... 17

Language Arts ... 18-22 Mathematics ... 22-26 Science... 26-29 Social Studies... 30-33 Physical Education ... 33 Health Education ... 34

Languages Other Than English... 34-35 Speech ... 35-36 Fine Arts ... 36-42 Electives... 42-43 CTE Dual Credit Courses ... 43-47 Career and Technical Education for the Disabled (CTED) ... 48-50 Career Preparation I and II ... 50

Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Cluster ... 50-54 Architecture and Construction Cluster... 54-56 Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications Cluster ... 56-60 Business Management and Administration Cluster ... 60-62 Education and Training Cluster ... 62-63 Finance Cluster ... 63-64 Health Science Cluster ... 64-66 Hospitality and Tourism Cluster ... 66-67 Human Services Cluster ... 67-69 Information Technology Cluster ... 69-71 Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security Cluster ... 71-72 Manufacturing Cluster ... 72-74 Marketing Cluster ... 74

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Cluster ... 74-76 Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Cluster ... 76-77 Career Planning... 78

Achieve Texas ... 79 College Planning... 80-87

Revised Spring 2013

1

Planning Your High School Program ... 3-17

Career and Technical Education (CTE) ...43-77

Post-Secondary Planning ...78-87 Course Descriptions ...18-43

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Planning a four-year high school program is a serious undertaking. Although many of your courses will be determined by the graduation plan you select, you will still have many other choices to make during your years of school. The courses you select will be guided largely by your plans for the future. Will you continue your education in college or in a technical school? Do you want to learn a career skill in order to enter the full-time work force immediately after school? Are you interested in a technical field? Are you thinking of entering a profession that requires many years of specialized education? The answers to these questions are extremely important for making decisions about your course selections for all four years in high school. Those answers should also be guided by your interests and abilities.

Some students are sure of their future plans; others are not. It is also common for young people to change their minds about which career to choose. For this reason, it is important for you to

plan as challenging a program as you can; if your career plans should change, then it will not be as difficult to move into another program. While it may sometimes seem tempting to

schedule a less demanding combination of courses, choosing courses that meet your needs or interests is the best way to prepare for your future.

Galena Park ISD offers you many ways to prepare for a productive adult life--to make certain that you can control your future. The district’s high schools provide a wide range of

programs that prepare students for post-high school experiences: college, business school, technical school, military service, fine arts participation, full-time employment, and other areas.

The programs offered allow a student to choose the high school program best for him/her, whether that program is the traditional college preparatory, and/or career preparatory program.

The course description section lists all of the courses offered with accompanying information about prerequisites and grade level placement. Following that section is important information about the courses offered at each high school and college planning information. We strongly urge that you give the attention to planning for high school that its importance deserves. By planning wisely, you can create the future that is most appropriate for you.

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Focus on the future...

as you develop your graduation plan today.

SCHEDULING PROCESS

In the course description section, you will find brief descriptions of each course offered in Galena Park high schools as well as the grade levels during which specified courses may be taken and any possible prerequisites. Elective courses are offered as a result of student interest. If there is insufficient enrollment for a course, or certified teachers are not available to teach the course, the course will not be offered and alternative selections will be made. Also, some courses included have not yet received final approval. Finally, some elective subjects may not be available at all high school campuses.

Pre-scheduling will take place on each campus in January for the next school year, and students are urged to plan their course selections carefully. Although students will receive specific instructions and assistance from a high school counselor during the pre-registration process, the

responsibility for selecting appropriate career and graduation choices rests with students and parents. Students will choose specific courses with parent approval, and counselors will verify

that those choices will meet graduation requirements. Students may make necessary changes through the remainder of the spring semester before the master schedule is completed. Once school begins the following fall, however, we must all be committed to the decisions previously made in the spring.

PRE-AP/AP/DUAL CREDIT COURSES GUIDELINES

Students who are eligible may take Pre-AP/AP/Dual Credit classes as part of their specific graduation plan.

The following are suggested guidelines regarding student requests for Pre-AP/AP/Dual Credit courses:

1. Students who select three or more of the advanced courses should remember that these courses require more outside reading and work than the regular courses. Students should select advanced courses based on their personal interest, academic strength, and extracurricular involvement to avoid overloading their schedule.

2. Students may not enter full-year Pre-AP/AP/Dual Credit courses after the beginning of

the school year.

3. It should be noted that scheduling conflicts may occur which will cause a student to have to select between Pre-AP/AP or Dual Credit courses offered at the same time.

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METHODS TO EARN COLLEGE CREDIT

A student enrolling in the district for the first time must be accompanied by parent(s) and must provide satisfactory evidence of required immunizations. They must also provide a birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency and a transcript from their former school showing TAKS results.

The Galena Park ISD secondary schools provide curriculum offerings for students with special talents and abilities. Counselors in each secondary school aid these students in assessing their strengths and weaknesses and in determining their goals as they select their courses each year.

M ECA

“M ODIFIED EARLY COLLEGE ACADEM Y ”

This is a two-year academic program, beginning in the Fall of the junior year, that gives high school students the opportunity to earn more college credit than does the Individual Dual Credit Program. MECA students will be enrolled in four courses each semester, 23-26 college credit hours within each year of the MECA program. During the summer, mini terms, and online courses may earn these students additional college credits (about 10-13 credit hours, approximately four more classes) working toward an Associate Degree, or the student may choose to just earn more credits toward completing the Core Curriculum required for most Bachelor’s Degrees. At San Jacinto College the Associate Degree requires 62 hours.

MECA students have access to student services (including tutoring) and other activities at the college.

Policies and guidelines of MECA were developed to comply with policies of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, San Jacinto College District, and with the participating local Independent school districts. A MECA Advisory Committee is made up of representatives from San Jacinto College as well as from each of the school districts participating in this program, Channelview ISD, Galena Park ISD, and Sheldon ISD.

For most students, qualifying for Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) or Advanced Placement (AP) courses is based on achievement/aptitude test results, student interest, past performance, and parental approval. Students identified as gifted/talented are automatically eligible for admission to Pre-AP or AP courses in the content areas in which they show high ability or aptitude. Enrollment in these courses should be based on interest as well as ability since the curriculum requires more advanced and intensive work. Pre-Advanced Placement or Pre-Advanced Placement courses are available in English, mathematics, science, social studies, foreign language, and fine arts. Pre-AP courses are offered in grades nine through eleven. Junior and senior level AP courses are college level classes which prepare the students for the Advanced Placement Examinations given by the College Board. A successful score on an Advanced Placement Examination gives the students college placement and/or credit for the courses taken in high school. Advanced Placement courses offered in the Galena Park Schools include Advanced Placement English III, English IV, French IV, Spanish IV, Spanish V, Calculus, Statistics, U.S. History, World History, Government, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, Psychology, Art, and Music Theory.

ADMISSION

PROGRAMS DESIGNED FOR ACADEMICALLY TALENTED

STUDENTS

Pre-Advanced Placement and

Advanced Placement Program

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Pre-Advanced Placement and Advanced Placement courses offered at the middle school and high school levels seek to provide the more academically talented students with opportunities for creative and critical thinking and problem solving. Additionally, the advanced measures that represent the requirements of the Distinguished Achievement Program provide students numerous opportunities to perform at a professional or college level in significant areas.

In English, the students enroll in high school Pre-Advanced Placement courses in grades nine and ten and in Advanced Placement courses in eleven and twelve. Advanced mathematics is an accelerated program which allows the student to take Pre-AP Algebra I (at the middle school level) and AP Geometry, Pre-AP Algebra II, Pre-Pre-AP Pre-Calculus, Advanced Placement Calculus, and Advanced Placement Statistics in high school.

For science-oriented students, the high schools offer Pre-AP courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as well as Advanced Placement courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. AP Environmental Science is offered as an online course. For students with a strong interest in social studies, the district offers Pre-AP courses in World Geography and World History. They may also participate in Advanced Placement courses in United States History, United States Government and Political Science, Economics, Psychology, and World History. For students with a special interest in languages, levels I-III of French and Spanish are offered. The district also offers Advanced Placement courses in French and Spanish.

Additionally, the high school curriculum includes Advanced Placement in Art and Music Theory.

The goal of the Pre-AP/AP program is to challenge and stimulate the students to the highest level of their abilities. Consequently, quality of work rather than quantity of work is emphasized.

Another option available to students is a provision that allows students to be awarded credit toward high school graduation for completing selected college courses. The district has established a dual enrollment program with San Jacinto College North in which students may enroll in college courses taught on the college campus by qualified college professors.

Students interested in seeking any of the dual college credit options are advised to contact their counselor for guidance on an individual basis.

Students who participate in the college enrollment for dual credit at San Jacinto College must present a copy of the grade report received at the completion of the approved course(s) to the registrar. In order

for the student to receive credit toward high school graduation for course work completed under this provision, he/she must receive a grade of seventy or higher.

Another option available to students is the provision that allows students enrolled in grades nine through twelve to be awarded credit toward high school graduation through credit by examination for acceleration. Students who wish to obtain credit for any class that counts toward graduation may apply to take the examination for acceleration. The student

Credit by Examination

(Without Prior Instruction)

or Credit by Acceleration

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may not have been previously enrolled in the class. Applications may be obtained from the student’s guidance counselor. These applications must be returned to the student’s counselor. Credit is granted to students who attain ninety percent (90%) or above mastery on the examination for acceleration. There is an established testing schedule. Tests will only be administered on the

scheduled testing dates. The schedule

of deadlines for registration and for administration of credit by examination is available from the student’s counselor, the district web page, and the district Advanced Studies Department.

The Distinguished Achievement Program is an option available to students. The State Board of Education has established this program as the highest academic program for graduates within Texas and recommends its completion by those who are most academically talented. To fulfill the requirements of this program, students must complete all course requirements of the SBOE Recommended High School Program, take three years of the same foreign language, and complete a combination of four advanced measures considered representative of, or equal to, college level or professional work. The advanced measures fall within three different Categories: (1) test data, (2) college courses, or (3) original research/projects. Each area is explained below.

Test Data

In Galena Park Independent School District a student may achieve one or more measures in the area of test data by receiving:

• A score on the PSAT that qualifies the student for recognition as a Commended

Scholar or higher in the National Merit Scholarship competition.

College Courses

Students may fulfill one or more advanced measures by maintaining a grade of 3.0 (equivalent to a B or a grade of at least 80) or higher in college courses. Refer to the previous section entitled Dual College Enrollment to review all the students’ options within GPISD.

Original Research/Project

The program described below has been proposed to fulfill the original research/project component of the Distinguished Achievement Program. Specific information will be shared with interested students who want to consider this option.

Junior and senior students who are pursuing the Distinguished Achievement Program may apply to participate in the

Independent Research/Mentorship Program to fulfill one or two of the

required advanced measures. Up to one unit of credit will be awarded for a successfully completed year-long, in-depth research study of an area of special interest to a student. A student is limited to one project each year in the junior and senior years. The student’s work will be supervised by a teacher experienced in research and presentation skills who will help the student narrow his/her field of study and enhance the following skills: time-management, personal and interpersonal communication, interviewing ability, and goal setting. In some content areas, a participating student may also work closely with at least one faculty sponsor from the subject area of special interest. Each student enrolled in the program will conduct in-depth research and prepare a product of professional quality.

Each student enrolled, working independently or in collaboration with a mentor either within or outside the school setting, will identify and investigate a problem, issue, or concern; research the topic using a variety of technologies; and

Distinguished Achievement

Program

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present a product of college or professional quality to an appropriate audience including a district evaluation panel whose members have a special interest in the problem studied. The district panel will review the project or product (1) to determine that the work represents college or professional level work and (2) to evaluate its overall quality.

Career and Technical Education provides competency-based applied learning which contributes to academic knowledge, higher order thinking skills, problem solving skills, work attitudes, general employability skills, and occupationally-specific skills needed for success in the workplace or in post-secondary education. Various types of programs are offered: laboratory program classes, cooperative (on-the-job training) classes, internships, and a variety of courses centered on technology. In the laboratory classes, the student learns both technical and practical occupational information in a one-, two-, or three-hour class. In addition the student is enrolled in the required academic classes for his/her grade level. Most of the courses in the laboratory program are available to , , and grade students.

In the cooperative training classes, the student learns the technically related information about specific occupations in a one-hour class. Related job skills are learned three or four hours each day in a job in the community for which the student receives compensation. The required academic classes for the grade level are also taken by the student. The cooperative training program is available to students in the and/or grades who are 16 years of age or older. They must have a social security card. Interested

students must complete an application for the program of their choice in the spring prior to the fall term in which they expect to enroll. Final student selection for each program is made by the teacher of that program.

Family and Consumer Science offers a variety of courses that develop knowledge and skills necessary for independent and family living. Sequential courses in family and consumer education offer a comprehensive study of this area.

The major concern of the technology-centered courses is the interaction of people, society, and technology. Activities involve situations where students actively learn by being directly involved in the use of computing tools, machines, materials, and processes. Technology education offers opportunities for students to engage in learning activities relevant to their future roles as members of an industrial/technical society with an emphasis on the high technology which is utilized in industry. Enrollment in career and technical education programs, accompanied by a careful selection of appropriate core and elective courses, may prepare students for immediate employment upon graduation and/or entry to most technical schools, colleges, and universities.

A continuum of special education services is offered to students who meet the guidelines of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). In keeping with the District’s philosophy of appropriate inclusion, most students remain in regular classes with supplemental accommodations and services supported by the special education staff. Special education classes are offered in English, Mathematics and Lifeskills in core areas and occupational preparation. An ARD (Admission, Dismissal and Review) committee determines placement in these classes.

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

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♦ College Board advanced placement and college-level concurrent/dual enrollment courses may be substituted for requirements in appropriate areas.

Graduation Credit Requirements

Discipline Minimum HSP Recommended HSP Distinguished Achievement Program*

English Language Arts ♦ Four credits:

• English I, II, and III

• English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency.

• The fourth credit of English may be selected from any of the following:  English IV

 Research/Technical Writing  Creative/Imaginative Writing  Literary Genres

 Business English (CTE)  Journalism

 English IV Practical Writing

Four credits:

• English I, II, III, and IV

• English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II only for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency.

Four credits:

• English I, II, III, and IV

• English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II only for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency.

Mathematics ♦ Three credits:

• Algebra I • Geometry

• The third credit may be selected from any of the following:

 Algebra II  Precalculus

 Mathematical Models with Applications  AP Statistics

 AP Calculus AB  AP Calculus BC

 Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (CTE)  Engineering Mathematics (CTE)  Statistics and Risk Management (CTE)

Four credits:

• Algebra I • Geometry • Algebra II

• The additional credit may be selected from either of the following and must be successfully completed prior to Algebra II:

 Mathematical Models with Applications  Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food,

and Natural Resources (CTE)

• The fourth credit may be selected from the following after successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II:

 Precalculus  AP Statistics  AP Calculus AB  AP Calculus BC

 Engineering Mathematics (CTE)  Statistics and Risk Management (CTE)

Four credits:

• Algebra I • Geometry • Algebra II

• The fourth credit may be selected from any of the following after successful completion of Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry:

 Precalculus  AP Statistics  AP Calculus AB  AP Calculus BC

 Engineering Mathematics (CTE)  Statistics and Risk Management (CTE)

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* Distinguished Achievement Program requirements also include student achievement of four advanced measures.

Science ♦ Two credits:

• Biology

• Integrated Physics and Chemistry May substitute Chemistry or Physics for IPC but must use the other as academic elective credit

Four credits:

• Biology or AP Biology • Chemistry or AP Chemistry • Physics or AP Physics

• The additional credit may be IPC and must be successfully completed prior to chemistry and physics.

• The fourth credit may be selected from any of the following:  Environmental Systems  AP Biology  AP Chemistry  AP Physics B  AP Physics C  AP Environmental Science

 Scientific Research and Design (CTE)  Anatomy and Physiology (CTE)

 Engineering Design and Problem Solving (CTE)  Medical Microbiology (CTE)

 Pathophysiology (CTE)  Advanced Animal Science (CTE)  Advanced Biotechnology (CTE)  Advanced Plant and Soil Science (CTE)  Food Science (CTE)

 Forensic Science (CTE)

Four credits:

• Biology or AP Biology • Chemistry or AP Chemistry • Physics or AP Physics

• After successful completion of a biology course, a chemistry course, and a physics course, the fourth credit may be selected from any of the following:  Environmental Systems  AP Biology  AP Chemistry  AP Physics B  AP Physics C  AP Environmental Science

 Scientific Research and Design (CTE)  Anatomy and Physiology (CTE)

 Engineering Design and Problem Solving (CTE)  Medical Microbiology (CTE)

 Pathophysiology (CTE)  Advanced Animal Science (CTE)  Advanced Biotechnology (CTE)  Advanced Plant and Soil Science (CTE)  Food Science (CTE)

 Forensic Science (CTE)

Social Studies ♦ Two and one-half credits:

• U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (one credit)

• U.S. Government (one-half credit) • The final credit may be selected from the

following:

 World History Studies (one credit)  World Geography Studies (one credit)

Three and one-half credits:

• World History Studies (one credit) • World Geography Studies (one credit) • U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (one

credit)

• U.S. Government (one-half credit)

Three and one-half credits:

• World History Studies (one credit) • World Geography Studies (one credit) • U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (one

credit)

• U.S. Government (one-half credit)

Economics with emphasis on the free enterprise system and its benefits ♦

One-half credit One-half credit One-half credit

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Academic Elective One credit from any of the following:

• World History Studies • World Geography Studies

• Any science course approved by SBOE (If substituting Chemistry or Physics for IPC, must use the other as academic elective credit here.)

None None

Languages Other Than English ♦ None Two credits: The credits must consist of any two levels

in the same language. Three credits: The credits must consist of any three levels in the same language.

Physical Education One credit:

• The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses:

 Foundations of Personal Fitness  Aerobic Activities

 Team or Individual Sports • In accordance with local district policy,

credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities:

 Athletics  JROTC

• In accordance with local district policy, up to one credit for any one of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in any of the following activities:

 Drill Team  Marching Band  Cheerleading

• All allowed substitution activities must include at least 100 minutes per five-day school week of moderate to vigorous physical activity.

• Credit may not be earned for any TEKS- based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions.

One credit:

• The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses:  Foundations of Personal Fitness  Aerobic Activities

 Team or Individual Sports

• In accordance with local district policy, credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities:

• Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions.

One credit:

• The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses:  Foundations of Personal Fitness  Aerobic Activities

 Team or Individual Sports

• In accordance with local district policy, credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities:

• Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions.

Health Education None None None

Speech One-half credit from either of the following:

• Communication Applications • Professional Communications (CTE)

One-half credit from either of the following:

Technology Applications ♦ None None None

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* Distinguished Achievement Program requirements also include student achievement of four advanced measures. Fine Arts ♦ None for students who entered Grade 9 before

2010-11.

One credit for students who enter Grade 9 in

2010-11 or later from any of the following: • Art, Level I, II, III, or IV

• Dance, Level I, II, III, or IV • Music, Level I, II, III, or IV • Theatre, Level I, II, III, or IV;

• Principles and Elements of Floral Design (CTE)

One credit from any of the following:

• Art, Level I, II, III, or IV • Dance, Level I, II, III, or IV • Music, Level I, II, III, or IV • Theatre, Level I, II, III, or IV

One credit from any of the following:

• Art, Level I, II, III, or IV • Dance, Level I, II, III, or IV • Music, Level I, II, III, or IV • Theatre, Level I, II, III, or IV

Elective Courses ♦ Seven and one-half credits from any of the following:

• The list of courses approved by the SBOE for Grades 9-12 (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills) • JROTC (one to four credits)

* For students who enter Grade 9 in 2010-11 or later, the number of electives will be six and one-half credits.

Five and one-half credits from any of the following:

• The list of courses approved by the SBOE for Grades 9-12 (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills)

• JROTC (one to four credits)

Four and one-half credits from any of the following:

• The list of courses approved by the SBOE for Grades 9-12 (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills)

• JROTC (one to four credits)

Total Credits ₂₂ ₂₆ ₂₆

1

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Numerical Grade Advanced Placement Courses Dual Credit Courses Pre-AP/ Honors Courses Academic Courses Basic Courses

100

6

5.75

5

4

3.5

99

5.9

5.65

4.9

3.9

3.4

98

5.8

5.55

4.8

3.8

3.3

97

5.7

5.45

4.7

3.7

3.2

96

5.6

5.35

4.6

3.6

3.1

95

5.5

5.25

4.5

3.5

3

94

5.4

5.15

4.4

3.4

2.9

93

5.3

5.05

4.3

3.3

2.8

92

5.2

4.95

4.2

3.2

2.7

91

5.1

4.85

4.1

3.1

2.6

90

5

4.75

4

3

2.5

89

4.9

4.65

3.9

2.9

2.4

88

4.8

4.55

3.8

2.8

2.3

87 4..7

4.45

3.7

2.7

2.2

86

4.6

4.35

3.6

2.6

2.1

85

4.5

4.25

3.5

2.5

2

84

4.4

4.15

3.4

2.4

1.9

83

4.3

4.05

3.3

2.3

1.8

82

4.2

3.95

3.2

2.2

1.7

81

4.1

3.85

3.1

2.1

1.6

80

4

3.75

3

2

1.5

79

3.9

3.65

2.9

1.9

1.4

78

3.8

3.55

2.8

1.8

1.3

77

3.7

3.45

2.7

1.7

1.2

76

3.6

3.35

2.6

1.6

1.1

75

3.5

3.25

2.5

1.5

1

74

3.4

3.15

2.4

1.4

0.9

73

3.3

3.05

2.3

1.3

0.8

72

3.2

2.95

2.2

1.2

0.7

71

3.1

2.85

2.1

1.1

0.6

70

3

2.75

2

1

0.5 Below 70

0

0 For students who enter high school in the

2010-2011 school year or later

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Applies to all students entering 9th Grade

2009-2010 or earlier

GRADE AP HONORS REGULAR BASIC

100 6.5 5.5 4.5 3.5 99 98 97 6.2 5.2 4.2 3.2 96 95 94 5.9 4.9 3.9 2.9 93 92 91 5.6 4.6 3.6 2.6 90 89 88 5.3 4.3 3.3 2.3 87 86 85 5.0 4.0 3.0 2.0 84 83 82 4.7 3.7 2.7 1.7 81 80 79 4.4 3.4 2.4 1.4 78 77 76 4.1 3.1 2.1 1.1 75 74 73 3.8 2.8 1.8 0.8 72 71 70 3.5 2.5 1.5 0.5

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Calculating Class Rank

Seniors shall be ranked for graduation according to Grade Point Average (GPA) at the end of the fifth six weeks of the senior year. An estimated class rank shall be given to seniors at the end of the first semester. Weighted factors shall be designated for each semester grade earned with the exception of the following: summer school,

evening/night school, high school courses taken prior to grade 9, correspondence work, credit by examination, A.C.E. (alternative high school program), office aides/laboratory managers, virtual courses, home school, credit from foreign countries, and courses with pass/fail status. Advanced Placement and Dual Credit virtual courses shall be weighted and shall be included in a student’s grade point average. All courses that count in a

student’s GPA must be on the student’s schedule. A student is limited to eight classes per semester that will earn GPA points.

Grade/Course Transfers

When a student transfers from another district, grade points will only be given for those classes in which the student received credit. Any letter grade(s) will be equated to the middle of the grade point scale for that class. If a student has taken honors level courses other than those offered by the Galena Park ISD, these courses will be treated as regular grade level courses in determining class rank.

Homebound/Community Class/Honors/Pre-AP/AP

Pre-AP/AP students who are placed on (1) homebound by a physician for health reasons for four or more consecutive weeks or (2) are enrolled in the district’s community class services following a pregnancy for up to six weeks will be allowed to maintain their educational status and receive honors/AP credit as long as they are able to complete the required coursework.

Eligibility

In order to be ranked, a student must have earned at least 18 credits by the beginning of their senior year. Courses taken through summer school, correspondence,

evening/night school, high school courses taken prior to grade 9,credit by exam, A.C.E.

(alternative high school program), and home schooling do not qualify towards students GPA.

Estimated class rank shall be computed for all students applying for college admission at the end of the eleventh grade and end of the first semester of the senior year.

A final calculation of GPA and class rank is determined at the end of the fifth six-weeks grading period of the senior year and shall be reflected on the final transcript which is sent to colleges.

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Early Graduation

Juniors who petition by June 1 of their sophomore year for early graduation and who complete all requirements, including state assessments, by the last instructional day of their junior year shall be unofficially ranked with the senior class. In order to be eligible to graduate “Magna Cum Laude” or “Cum Laude”, a student must be enrolled in the high school from which he/she is graduating prior to the end of the first six-week period of his/her senior year and continuing until the end of the second semester of his/her senior year. Early graduates will be given an official ranking if they qualify according to their GPA.

An early graduate may not be considered for valedictorian/salutatorian. Students who are enrolled in an off-campus program for gifted learners shall not be ranked, but may participate in commencement as regular students. These students may not participate in junior/senior activities.

Rules for Valedictorian / Salutatorian

In order to qualify for valedictorian/salutatorian, a student must be enrolled in the high school from which he/she is graduating prior to the end of the first six-weeks grading period of his/her junior year. Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be named at a designated school function.

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Tutorial sessions (no fee charge) are conducted on each high school campus during the school year. Students who need extra help with their studies or who are unable to achieve satisfactorily should avail themselves of this opportunity. Parents should encourage students to attend tutorial sessions when the need exists.

Any student who has failed a course may take credit by examination if that student meets the following criteria: (a) the student failed the course with at least a grade of 60 or (b) in the case of excessive absences, the attendance

committee has granted approval to take the exam. A grade of seventy or higher is required to earn credit for the course in which the examination was attempted. Further information may be obtained in the counseling office at each campus.

The attendance zone shall be determined by the primary residence of the parent, guardian, or person having lawful control of a student eligible for admission to Galena Park Independent School District. Specific information relating to school attendance zones may be obtained at each campus or at the central office.

A. Students shall attend the high school as determined by the attendance zone in which they reside. Juniors and Seniors may attend either Galena Park High School or North Shore Senior High School. Galena Park High School 9th - 12th

North Shore Senior High 9th Grade Campus North Shore Senior High School 10th - 12th

B. Students may continue to attend the school in which they are presently enrolled. However, students moving

within the district during the first semester of the sophomore year may remain in the high schools in which

they are currently enrolled only until the end of the grading period, after which time they must attend the high school designated by their attendance zone. Students moving within the district after the first semester of their

sophomore year may remain in the high school currently attended.

C. All students new to the district must attend the school in their designated attendance zone, unless classified as a Junior or Senior.

D. Pre-registration does not entitle attendance in a particular school if students move within the district during the

summer before the first day of the new school year.

E. The office of the superintendent may approve certain extreme hardship cases for transfer to another campus.

Tutorials

Retrieving Credit for Prior Instruction

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How to Choose Your Program . . .

This section serves as a planning guide as you make decisions about your four-year high school program. You are urged to consider each decision carefully. In selecting a program of studies, you will want to consider all the possibilities. There are certain steps to follow that can help you make your choices:

•Find out all you can about the programs of studies offered.

•Compare the programs. Think about yourself and how each program might help you.

•Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each program. Weigh these carefully.

•Choose the program of studies which seems to have the most advantages for you. To follow these steps, you will need to know about high school programs of studies, about yourself, and about careers.

Know about High School Programs

Your counselor and teachers will be helpful in advising you more specifically about the high school programs of studies offered. Find out:

•What kind of transcript you will earn.

•The number of units of credit in specific subject areas needed for graduation under each plan.

•The courses required to begin certain high school sequences of courses.

•The elective courses you may take that are not required.

•The kinds of education or work for which the program can prepare you. As you think about this issue, look at the section on Career Planning.

Know about Careers

In planning your high school program, you will need to know about the education required for careers that are of interest to you.

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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

This section of the planning guide contains descriptions of all courses offered in grades nine through twelve in Galena Park I.S.D. Descriptions are divided into content areas and include information about course content, grade placement, prerequisites, and credits. Unless otherwise indicated for the specific course description, credit is awarded or denied at the end of each semester.

LANGUAGE ARTS

English I 102501/102502

English I develops the skills in standard language, vocabulary, composition, use of the library, and reading in an integrated thematic approach.

Grade Placement: 9 1 credit

Prerequisite: None

English I for Speakers of Other Languages 133501/133502

These courses provide listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities from simple to complex in order to increase the student’s language usage and comprehension skills. Each course is for students with limited English skills.

Grade Placement: 9-12 1 credit

Prerequisite: Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) Approval

English I Pre-AP 104501/104502

This course will begin an extensive and intensive study of language, literature and composition designed to fulfill the goals of the Advanced Placement curriculum: to become skilled and careful readers of literary and informational text by reading and analyzing challenging works; to become mature writers of expository, analytical and argumentative essays through extensive practice and helpful criticism; to develop an awareness of the effect of and an ability to skillfully use the conventions of language: syntax, word choice, and tone. Students should be willing to read complex texts outside of class in preparation for class discussion and analysis.

English II 106501/106502

English II includes multicultural literature and attention to standard language, composition, research, and vocabulary skills.

Prerequisite: English I

English II for Speakers of Other Languages 134501/134502

These courses provide listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities from simple to complex in order to increase the student’s language usage and comprehension skills. Each course is for students with limited English skills.

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English II Pre-AP 108501/108502

Stretching students’ reading, writing, listening, speaking, and thinking skills, this in-depth study of world literature emphasizes critical and creative responses to works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama as it concurrently provides occasions and audiences for all types of expository discourse.

English III 111501/111502

Through representative readings from historical documents, essays, dramas, short stories, poetry, and novels, this course provides a survey of American literature that integrates the studies of grammar, vocabulary, and research in meaningful writing experiences that stem from the core readings.

Prerequisite: English II

English III AP 115501/115502

English III AP engages students in becoming skilled readers and writers of prose through rhetorical, diction, syntax, and structural analysis of others’ and one’s own writing. Students prepare to take the Advanced Placement Language and Composition test.

English IV 117501/117502

This integrated study of English literature, World composition, grammar, research, and vocabulary reinforces the critical reading and writing skills essential for college entrance and success beyond formal education.

Prerequisite: English III

English IV AP 119501/119502

English IV AP concentrates on active reading and critical analysis of structure, style and themes of complex literature. Students write to explore and evaluate literature and to develop their own stylistic maturity. Students prepare to take the Advanced Placement Literature Composition Test.

English IV Dual Credit 127501/127502

In this college freshman English class taught by an instructor at San Jacinto College, a student can earn up to six semester hours college credit while concurrently earning high school honors credit. The student must either pass the THEA/COMPASS test prior to beginning the class or meet TAKS, SAT, or ACT exemption.

Grade Placement: 12 6 hrs./1 credit

English Language Arts Elective Courses

Broadcast Journalism I-III (I- 137501/137502, II- 138501/138502, III-139501/139502)

Broadcast Journalism teaches students broadcast reporting, announcing and technical skills required to plan, produce and broadcast radio and/or television news programs using locally available equipment on that campus. Students should learn editing, news judgment, ratings, shot selection and ethics. Students will be required to complete some

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assignments outside of class, at night and on weekends. Students may be required to provide their own transportation.

Grade Placement: 10-12 ½ - 3 credits

Prerequisite: Journalism

Business English (BUSENGL) 592501/592502

Students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies. Students enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and reasoning skills and apply them to the business environment. Students will plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis, and edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English. This course will count as a fourth English credit for students on Minimum

Graduation Plan.

Grade Placement: 11-12 Credit: 1

Creative Writing 126000

Students will enjoy several types of writing such as a personal journal, expressive writing, and fiction as they experiment with form and technique.

Grade Placement: 9-12 ½ - 1 credit

English Literary Genres 120101

Literary Genres is a reading review course designed to strengthen students reading comprehension skills. TAKS objectives are covered in detail in a study of short story, drama, and poetry. Writing requirements are fairly minimal. Non-mastery of reading or writing TAKS is prerequisite.

Grade Placement: 12 ½ credit

English Practical Writing 123202

Practical Writing is a composition review course with emphasis on types of writing such as resumes, business letters, and letters of inquiry are also covered.

Grade Placement: 12 ½ - 1 credit

Humanities Honors (Decathlon) 124101

Humanities Honors examines and analyzes historical and cultural movements as reflected in various art forms; the conditions that encourage creativity; and the manner in which art responds to political, social and philosophical movements. Critical reading and writing are stressed.

Prerequisite: Meet Specific Requirements

Journalism 921000/921001

This class is an introduction to reporting, design and publishing. The majority of the class focuses on the skills necessary to work as a modern media reporter. Students will study interviewing, news gathering, copy writing, editing, design technique, ethics, desktop publishing and history. Students who successfully complete Journalism are eligible to apply for membership on the newspaper or yearbook staff.

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Literary Magazine I–III 125000/139000/140000

The magazine staff publishes literary magazine in the Spring semester. Students will be involved in editing, desktop publishing, advertising and sales. Students may be required to attend after school meetings and sell advertising as required on the course syllabus as a part of the course grade.

Newspaper Productions I–III (I– 927501/927502, II – 928501/928502, III929501/929502)

Students are responsible for the production, design and content of the newspaper every six weeks. Students will learn skills in copy writing, editing, design, photography, desktop publishing, ethics, leadership and advertising. Students will be required to attend after school meetings and sell advertising as required on the course syllabus as a part of the course grade.

Prerequisite: Journalism or Photojournalism and specific requirements. (Student must sign up for the entire yearlong course)

Photojournalism 924000/924001

Photojournalism teaches basic photography skills with an emphasis on publication of the photos. Students study black and white, color and digital photography methods; ethics, history, photographic composition, and photo editing. Students who successfully complete Photojournalism are eligible to apply for membership on the newspaper or yearbook staff. Students may be required to purchase some items such as film, camera, paper, etc. as required on the course syllabus.

Reading Dyslexia 144601/144602

This class is open to students who exhibit characteristics of dyslexia or a related disorder. Students work to improve their reading, writing, and spelling skills in a sequential, sequenced, and multi-sensory program.

Prerequisite: Dyslexia Screening

Reading for College 132000

This elective provides strategies and experiences to provide both meaning and pleasure from reading. Students read deliberately and thoroughly across the curriculum as they develop skills necessary for college and professions. This course is recommended for all college bound students.

Reading I 131000/131502

Students learn how to read for different purposes including all their academic and elective subjects. Students work on decoding and comprehensive skills.

Reading I ESL 143501/143502

This class is open to beginning language learners who are transferring and developing decoding and comprehension skills in English.

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Reading II 141501/141502

Students continue to develop their comprehension skills. Much more emphasis is placed on critical thinking including application to students’ everyday lives. The importance of literacy both in print form and the computer will be stressed.

Reading II ESL 144501/144502

This class is open to intermediate language learners with an emphasis on comprehension skills necessary to pass the state exam.

Prerequisite: Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) Recommendation

Reading III 142501/142502

Students read a variety of literary forms in support of their becoming active life-long readers. Students respond to literature through writing and on the computer.

Research/Technical Writing Honors (Decathlon) 125602

Through practice and hands-on experience, students learn the fundamentals of business writing and produce research papers following formats required by most colleges and universities. In addition, students gain understanding of primary research and practice modern research techniques.

Research/Technical Writing 125702

Through practice and hands-on experience, students learn the fundamentals of business writing and produce research papers following formats required by most colleges and universities. In addition, students gain understanding of primary research and practice modern research techniques.

Yearbook Productions I-III (I 911501/911502, II 912501/912502, III 913501/913502)

The yearbook staff publishes the school yearbook in the Spring semester of each year. Students are responsible for the production, design and editing, design, photography, desktop publishing, ethics, leadership and advertising. Students will be required to attend after school meetings and sell advertising as required on the course syllabus as part of the course grade.

Grade Placement 9-12 1 credit

(Students must sign up for entire yearlong course)

MATHEMATICS

Algebra I 211501/211502

Algebra I is the branch of mathematics characterized by the use of variables (letters used to represent numbers) and operations relating these variables. Students will develop

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their understanding of algebraic functions through the use of tables, graphs, equations, and verbal descriptions.

Geometry 220501/220502

This builds on concepts from Algebra I and prepares students for Algebra II. In addition, the course consists of a study of measurements, constructions, and terminology essential to Geometry. It includes drawing conclusions by using both inductive and deductive reasoning skills. Problem solving using algebraic and geometric properties and definitions is included. Relations, properties, applications of congruence, basic properties of polygons, and measurement of surfaces, lines, and angles are also investigated.

Prerequisite: Algebra I

Geometry Pre-AP 222501/222502

This course is an intensified study of the concepts presented in Geometry.

Grade Placement: 9 - 10 1 credit

Prerequisite: Algebra I

Mathematics Models with Applications 225501/225502

Students will use algebraic, graphical, and geometric reasoning to recognize patterns and structure, to model information, and to solve problems from various disciplines. Topics involved are probability, personal finance, budgeting, personal taxes, banking services, investments, decision-making strategies, mortgages, automobile purchases, and insurance. Students will also experience how mathematics is involved with biology, ecology and music. (Course must be taken prior to Algebra II to count towards the four years of Math for graduation requirements, and may not be taken concurrently with Algebra II).

Grade Placement: 10-12 1 credit Prerequisite: Algebra I

Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

(MATHAFNR) 581501/581502

Students will acquire technical knowledge in the discipline as well as apply academic skills in mathematics. Students should apply knowledge and skills related to

mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and data analysis in the context of

agriculture, food, and natural resources. To prepare for success, students are afforded opportunities to reinforce, apply, and transfer their knowledge and skills related to mathematics in a variety of context. This course will count as a third year Math credit.

Prerequisite: Must be taken before Algebra II

Algebra II 214501/214502

A continuation of the topics studied in Algebra I and Geometry, this course will extend the development of the real number system and will include a study of the complex numbers as a mathematical system. Students will study the ideas of relations and functions and will develop the processes of logic necessary to write deductive algebraic proofs. Students who plan to attend college should study algebra since familiarity with concepts and an understanding of a structured approach to a discipline will be needed.

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Prerequisites: Algebra I

Algebra II Pre-AP 216501/216502

Emphasis will be placed on the applications of concepts and skills covered in Algebra II. In addition to the material usually covered in Algebra, topics such as probability and statistics as well as matrices and determinants will be studied. Emphasis will be placed on the application of concepts and skills introduced in Algebra II. Algebraic proofs will be stressed along with extensive problem solving.

Prerequisites: Algebra I

Statistics and Risk Management (STATSRM) 580501/580502

Students will use a variety of graphical and numerical techniques to analyze patterns and departures from patterns to identify and manage risk that could impact an organization. Students will use probability as a tool for anticipating and forecasting data within business models to make decisions. Students will determine the

appropriateness of methods used to collect data to ensure conclusions are valid. This course will count as a fourth year Math credit.

Prerequisites: Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry (Accounting I is recommended)

Engineering Mathematics (ENGMATH) 581601/581602

Engineering Mathematics is a course where students solve and model robotic design problems. Students use a variety of mathematical methods and models to represent and analyze problems involving data acquisition, spatial applications, electrical

measurement, manufacturing processes, materials engineering, mechanical drives, pneumatics, process control systems, quality control, and robotics with computer programming. This course will count as a fourth year Math credit.

Prerequisites: Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry

Pre-Calculus 231501/231502

This course not only provides a thorough grounding in trigonometry, including the trigonometric ratios, their graphs and their use in solving triangular relationships. It also covers extensive work with identities, inverse functions, vectors, complex numbers, and the polar coordinate system.

Prerequisite: Algebra II

Pre-Calculus Dual Credit 229501/229502

In this college freshman math class taught in the fall and spring semesters by an instructor at San Jacinto College, a student may earn up to 6 college hours for Elementary Functions and Trigonometry concurrently earning Pre-Calculus credit. The student must either pass the THEA/COMPASS prior to beginning the class or meet TAKS, SAT, or ACT exemption.

Grade Placement: 11- 12 up to 6 hours/1 credit

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Pre-Calculus Pre-AP 230501/230502

This course provides a thorough study of functions and the various properties associated with functions. The course provides an intensive study of trigonometry, identities, vectors, complex numbers, polar coordinates, and parametric equations.

Intense Algebra Course 242501/242502

This course will offer the students in GPISD a 4thyear math course selection. The intention of this course is to bridge the gap between high school Algebra II and College Algebra. The course will study sets, variation, polynomials, exponents, radicals and functions. It will be a study of quadratic and rational equations and inequalities, as well as graphing those situations and other nonlinear equations. This course emphasizes applications in both single- and multi-step real world word problems and situations.

Grade Placement: 12thGrade 1 credit

Statistics AP 238501/238502

Students will study the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. They will observe patterns and departures from patterns, decide on how to measure data, produce models using probability theory and simulations, use hypothesis testing, and confirm models. Opportunity will be provided for students to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam in AP Statistics in the Spring.

Statistics Dual Credit 270000

College Statistics taught by an instructor at San Jacinto College will earn high school honors credit and up to 3 college hours. The student must either pass the THEA/COMPASS before beginning the class or meet the TAKS, SAT or ACT exemption.

Grade Placement: 11-12 up to 3 hrs./½ credit

Calculus AB AP 233501/233502

The topics of study for this course are limits and continuity, the derivative, the

fundamental theorem of calculus, special functions, techniques of integration, partial derivatives, and multiple integration. Opportunity will be provided for students to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam in Calculus AP in the spring.

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

College Algebra Dual Credit 213501/213502

College Algebra taught by an instructor at San Jacinto College will earn high school honors credit and up to 3 college hours. The student must either pass the

THEA/COMPASS before beginning the class or meet the TAKS, SAT, or ACT exemption.

Grade Placement: 11- 12 up to 3 hrs./½ credit Prerequisite: Algebra II

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Calculus Dual Credit 235601/235602

College level Calculus taught by an instructor at San Jacinto College will earn high school honors credit and up to 6 college hours. The student must either pass the THEA/COMPASS prior to beginning the class or meet the TAKS, SAT, or ACT exemption.

Grade Placement: 12 up to 6 hrs./1 credit

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

Advanced Quantitative Reasoning 244501/244502

This course is designed as a 12th_{grade course to follow Algebra II, either as an}

alternative to Pre Calculus or as an elective to accompany or follow Pre Calculus. AQR includes a strong emphasis on statistics and financial applications, as well as the use of mathematical models involving discrete mathematics, algebra, geometry, and

trigonometry to solve complex problems in a range of applied context. This course offers student activities in a range of applied contexts and helps students develop College – and – Career Readiness skills such as collaborating, conducting research and making presentations.

Accelerated Math Intervention 905001

This course provides instruction in math objectives for students who have not passed the state assessment.

Grade Placement: 9-12 ½ Local Credit

SCIENCE

Biology 313501/313502

Biology is a course that uses laboratory investigations, the scientific method and critical thinking skills to study a variety of topics that include structure and function of cells, genetics, nucleic acids, evolution, taxonomy, homeostasis and energy ecosystems and plants.

Biology Pre-AP 315501/315502

Biology Pre AP is a course that uses laboratory investigations, the scientific method and critical thinking skills to develop solutions to problems that cover topics such as cells, cell division and reproduction, photosynthesis, ecosystems, populations, nucleic acids, genetics, living systems, taxonomy, metabolism, evolution, biochemistry, homeostasis and cellular respiration. The course will prepare students for AP Biology.

Chemistry 321501/321502

This is a lab and math oriented science course which covers such concepts as scientific measurement, atomic theory, classification of matter, chemical and physical changes, periodic table, chemical reactions, solutions, acids and bases, gas laws and nuclear chemistry.