Charles County Public Schools
8th Grade Transition Guide
2014-15
Board of Education
Roberta S. Wise, Chairman
Maura H. Cook, Vice Chairman
Jennifer S. Abell
Patricia Bowie
Michael Lukas
Pamela A. Pedersen
Donald M. Wade
Amit Patel, Student Member
Superintendent of Schools
Kimberly A. Hill, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent of School Administration
Sylvia Lawson, Ph. D.
Assistant Superintendent of Instruction
Amy. L. Hollstein
Assistant Superintendent of Finance
Paul T. Balides
Assistant Superintendent for Supporting Services
Keith L. Hettel
Mission
The mission of the Charles County Public Schools is to provide an opportunity for all school-aged children to receive an academically challenging,
quality education that builds character, equips for leadership, and prepares for life, in an environment that is safe and conducive to learning.
Nondiscrimination statement
The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation,
age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Dr. Patricia Vaira, Title IX Coordinator and
Section 504 Coordinator (students), or Pamela Murphy, Section 504 Coordinator (employees/adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse
L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, Maryland 20646; (301) 932-6610/870-3814. For special accommodations call
(301) 934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ENROLLMENT ...................................................................................................................................... 1
ATTENDANCE ....................................................................................................................................... 1
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ....................................................................................................... 2
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................................... 3
DIPLOMAS ............................................................................................................................................ 3
MARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL CERTIFICATE ......................................................................................... 3
CHARLES COUNTY REQUIREMENTS FOR A MARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA…………….. 3
HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS (HSA) ................................................................................................ 4
STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING .......................................................................................................... 4
PROMOTION STATUS .......................................................................................................................... 4
GRADUATION PATHWAYS .................................................................................................................. 4
REQUIREMENTS FOR CHARLES COUNTY ACADEMIC AWARDS OF DISTINCTION ...................... 4
CLASS RANKING .................................................................................................................................. 4
GRADING SCALE ................................................................................................................................. 5
WEIGHTED CUMULATIVE GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA) ............................................................. 5
CERTIFICATE OF MERIT ...................................................................................................................... 5
CHARLES COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOLARS COURSE OF STUDY ...................................... 5
MARYLAND SCHOLARS ……………………………………………………………………………………….5
ACADEMIC LETTER ............................................................................................................................. 5
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE FOR SCHEDULING .................................................................................. 6
REQUIRED COURSE SELECTIONS ..................................................................................................... 6
ACADEMIC LEVELS ............................................................................................................................. 6
COLLEGE PREPARATION ................................................................................................................... 6
CODES .................................................................................................................................................. 6
ACADEMIC CORE COURSE OFFERINGS ........................................................................................... 7
ENGLISH ............................................................................................................................................... 7
MATHEMATICS ..................................................................................................................................7-8
TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTINUED
SCIENCE ............................................................................................................................................... 8
SOCIAL STUDIES ................................................................................................................................. 9
ELECTIVES ........................................................................................................................................... 9
ACADEMIC SUPPORT ELECTIVES ..................................................................................................... 9
WORLD LANGUAGES .......................................................................................................................... 9
CAREER & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION COMPLETER PROGRAMS .........................................10-11
CHARLES COUNTY SCHOOLS GRADUATION STATUS REPORT .................................................. 12
GRADUATION PATHWAY OPTIONS-RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FRESHMEN IN 2014-15 ............ 13
CHARLES COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS AND CENTERS ..................................................................... 14
TRANSITIONING FROM MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HIGH SCHOOL
Going to high school is a big transition and there are many changes from middle school that you will need to know. The
most important step in preparing for high school is selecting the classes you will take as a ninth grader. This guide will
help you learn about the scheduling process and find some tools to help plan out your next four years. It will also give you
valuable information about the differences between middle and high school such as how you are promoted, grades &
academic awards, activities & clubs, and things that will help you plan for your future.
This guide is intended only for students entering the 9th grade for school year 2014-2015. The more comprehensive
CCPS High School Program of Studies is posted on the school system website under “Students” at
http://www2.ccboe.com/students/programofstudies.cfm. It includes descriptions of all courses available in the county and
additional academic information that you will use once you are attending high school.
ENROLLMENT
In order to officially enroll in your high school, you will need to submit the following things to your middle school before
the end of 8th grade so they can add them to your high school folder:
Course Selection Sheet (CSS) – you will use the rest of this guide to complete your CSS for 9th grade
Two current Proofs of Residency- Any proof of residency, bill, or other document must be in its entirety with parent/guardian name and
both the residence/service address as well as the mailing address including city, state, and current date. (Within 45 days)
Acceptable Proofs of Residency:
 Deed
 Current signed verifiable lease or rental agreement ( with signatures of both parties)
 Current utility bill, (complete bill with name and address)
 Statement of Residence Verification form accompanied by two acceptable proofs of
Residency for the owner/lessee of the property
 Ratified purchase contract and letter with settlement date
 Property tax bill for domicile (not assessment)
 Most recent property insurance bill
 Current pay check with name and address
 Property title record
 Current court document with name, date, and home address
 Current government issued document that include name, date, and home address such as
Documentation of benefits from Social Security Administration
 Written documentation of home visit by a pupil personnel worker
ATTENDANCE
The attendance policy in high school is strictly enforced and has serious penalties. (Policy 5122.7)
Students are expected to be in school and in every class every day.
 Any absence requires a note within three days.
 Two unlawful absences from any class and the student may fail that class for the marking period.
 An unlawful absence notification can be issued for an absence or tardies.
 Continued absence from school (with or without notes) can result in referral for an administrative
attendance review and/or referral to the State’s Attorney’s Office.
1
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
In high school, you are able to participate in a wide variety of sports, clubs, and activities that might differ from what you
had in middle school, both in terms of the activities offered and the requirements to participate.
ELIGIBILITY INFO
All 9th graders are eligible to participate in extracurricular activities in the fall of their high school career.
After first quarter of 9th grade, to be eligible to participate in any sport, club, or other extracurricular activity, students must
maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 with no more than one F and no more than 4.5 absences in any quarter (9-week grading
period).
EXTRACURRICULAR OFFERINGS
Each high school offers an assortment of clubs and organizations and competes in athletics within the Southern Maryland
Athletic Conference. Extracurricular activities are an excellent way to get involved in your school, meet people with similar
interests, and supplement things you are learning in the classroom. Many of our clubs and organizations will help you
explore different career options while having fun, volunteering in the community, and learning more about the things you
already enjoy. To find out which extracurricular activities are offered at the high school you will be attending, please go to
that high school’s website.
CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
While not all schools offer all clubs & activities every year, some common opportunities in CCPS include:
Band/Orchestra
Chess Club
Choir
Community Service Groups
Dance/Step Teams
Destination Imagination
Drama Club
Fashion/Modeling Club
Future Business Leaders of America
(FBLA)
Future Educators of America (FEA)
Gaming & Animé clubs
Key Club
Math Team
Mock Trial
SADD
Student Government Association
(SGA)
World Language Clubs
Yearbook
STEM
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses are offered throughout our high schools and many
have corresponding extracurricular activities:
Charles County FIRST Robotics Team
Computer Bowl
Cyber Security Team
Destination Imagination Teams
Engineering Challenges
Environmental Engineering Club
Envirothon Team
High School Math Challenge
(MESA) Mathematics, Engineering,
Science Achievement
(SMART) Students Modeling a Research
Topic
VEX Robotics
SPORTS
While not all schools offer all sports every year, general athletic opportunities in CCPS include:
Baseball
Basketball
Cheerleading
Cross Country
Field Hockey
Golf
Lacrosse
Indoor Track
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
Unified Sports
Volleyball
Wrestling
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ATHLETICS
Charles County Public Schools require several parental consent and medical clearance forms to be completed in order
to participate in interscholastic athletics. All forms must be submitted to the high school athletic director for final
clearance prior to student tryouts or practice. All forms may be accessed online on the CCPS website under “Students”
and then “SMAC Sports” at http://www2.ccboe.com/sports/sports.cfm
NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (NCAA) – Divisions I and II
Students interested in competing in athletics during their initial year of college must meet the eligibility requirements set
by the NCAA, including specific high school coursework, a minimum Grade Point Average and ACT/SAT score. Eligible
coursework and GPA calculations begin in the 9th grade of high school! To obtain the latest requirements, parents and
students should contact their athletic director, school counselor or the NCAA directly either by consulting the NCAA
online at www.ncaa.org or by telephone at (877) 262-1492.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
The culminating experience of high school is graduation. To meet the requirements for graduation from Charles County
Public Schools students are required to earn a minimum of 23 credits, passed the Maryland High School Assessments for
English II, Algebra/Data Analysis, Biology and Government, and completed Student Service Learning components. This
section will help you understand what you must do to earn a diploma or certificate of completion at graduation in four
years!
CHARLES COUNTY REQUIREMENTS FOR A MARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA
To be awarded a diploma, a student shall be enrolled in Charles County Public Schools and have earned a minimum of 23 credits that
include the following:
Subject
Area
English
Mathematics
Science
Social
Studies
Financial
Literacy
Fine Arts
Health
Physical
Education
Technology
Education
Students entering high
school Fall 2014
Specific Credit Requirements
4 credits
3 credits
2 in algebra
1 in geometry
3 credits
1 Biology and 2 other lab sciences
Recommended sequence:
Earth and Space
Biology
Chemistry (Physical Science)
3 credits
Recommended sequence:
LSN Government
U. S. History
World History
1 credit
All Students
High School
Assessment (HSA)
Students must take the
Maryland High School
Assessments for English II,
Algebra/Data Analysis,
Biology and Government.
Students must achieve one
of the following: (1) the
passing score on each test,
(2) a combined overall score
of at least 1602, (3) a
specific score on an MSDEapproved comparable
assessment, or (4) the
Bridge Plan for Academic
Validation.
1 credit
½ credit
½ credit Fitness for Life
1 credit
2 credits of world language and at least 4 credits of academic/career
electives OR
Graduation
Pathway
2 credits of advanced technology coursework and at least 4 credits of
academic/career electives OR
6 credits through the completion of a state-approved career and
technology education program and academic/career electives
DIPLOMAS
The Maryland State Board of Education awards diplomas to all students who have met the requirements for graduation.
MARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL CERTIFICATE
The Maryland State Board of Education awards the Maryland High School Certificate to special education students whose
individual Education Program (IEP) was developed based on functional living and independent/career skills.
3
HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENT (HSA)
Students must take the Maryland High School Assessments for English II, Algebra/Data Analysis, Biology and Government.
Students must achieve one of the following: (1) the passing score on each test, (2) a combined overall score of at least 1602, (3) a
specific score on an MSDE-approved comparable assessment, or (4) the Bridge Plan for Academic Validation.
STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING
Student service learning (SSL) is an MSDE graduation requirement. In Charles County, components of SSL are
embedded in grades 6, 7, 8, and 9th grade course work. Your report card indicates if you have completed this
requirement. Students who have not completed their SSL for any grade should see their counselor.
PROMOTION STATUS
Unlike middle school where you must pass specific classes to be promoted to the next grade level, high school promotion
status is based just on the number of high school credits earned, as follows:
10th Grade – Minimum of 6 credits
11th Grade – Minimum of 12 credits
12th Grade – Minimum of 16 credits and the completion of at least three years of high school
GRADUATION PATHWAYS
In addition to core academic requirements in English, Social Studies, Mathematics, and Science as well as required
electives in Financial Literacy, Fine Arts, Health, Physical Education, and Technology Education, MSDE requires that
students also complete at least one of the following three College & Career Readiness Pathways:
Pathway 1: 2 credits World Language
Pathway 2: 2 credits Advanced Technology
Pathway 3: 6 credits through a state-approved Career and Technology Education Completer Program *
*In the CTE Completer Pathway, there are 12 different options that are shown in more detail in the Career & Technology
Education Completer Programs section of this guide.
A “Graduation Pathways Planning Tool” is provided for you in the Student Planning section at the end of this guide.
REQUIREMENTS FOR CHARLES COUNTY ACADEMIC AWARDS OF DISTINCTION
This section will help you understand how grades are calculated and used in high school to help you earn academic
awards of distinction. These awards are very prestigious in our county and some will help colleges and universities
determine how you measure up with students from all over the country!
CLASS RANKING
Students attending Charles County Public Schools are ranked based on the weighted cumulative Grade Point Average
(GPA) achieved in all coursework taken in high school. Class rank is recorded on the high school transcript and is
acknowledged in academic awards. The cumulative GPA is the average of all final grades earned in high school, rounded
to the hundred-thousandths place.
Middle school students are able to take advanced courses in mathematics and world language that carry high school
credit. Earning a grade of “D” or higher indicates completion of a course and will be recorded with a “P” on the student
high school transcript, indicating that they have passed and received high school credit for the course. Credit may only be
earned once for any course listed in the CCPS High School program of Studies. These credits are not included in the
high school GPA and do not contribute to class ranking.
If a student repeats a course in high school that was taken in middle school, the grade and credit earned in middle high
school is forfeited. Proper documentation and approval for this are required.
4
GRADING SCALE
Semester and final grades will be computed by averaging numerical grades. Quarterly grades will be calculated by
deriving a quarterly arithmetic average, then translating that average into a letter grade using the scale listed below:
A Superior (90-100%)
B Above Average (80-89%)
C Average (70-79%)
D Below Average (60-69%)
F Failure (0-59%)
WEIGHTED CUMULATIVE GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)
Weighted classes are identified in the course description with the Code "W".
Designated Honors courses are weighted by adding one-half point (.5) for each grade (A = 4.5, B = 3.5, C = 2.5, D =1.0
and F = 0.0) in a year-long course and .25 in a semester Honors course. No weighted points are given for a D or failing
grade.
CERTIFICATE OF MERIT
In addition to the high school diploma, students may be awarded a Charles County Certificate of Merit. This recognition is
based on a student’s weighted cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher with no failing final grades during the high school years.
CHARLES COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOLARS COURSE OF STUDY
In addition to pursuing the high school diploma, students may wish to participate in the CCPS Scholars Course of Study.
Within the 23 credits required for graduation, students must
(a) Earn 17 advance credits which must include:
4 English (Honors, Advanced Placement)
3 Lab Sciences (Honors, Advanced Placement)
3 Social Studies (Honors, Advanced Placement)
3 mathematics – taken in grades 9 through 12 (Honors or Advanced Placement Math Courses beyond Algebra I)
3 World Languages - at least two in the same language ( Credit can be awarded based on successful completion
of designated high school level World language courses taken during middle school)
1 additional advanced course
(b) Achieve a cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.5 ( weighted)
If your report card indicates that you are a participant of the CCPS Scholars Course of Study in middle school,
you should consider taking Honors courses in all subjects but must take English I Honors in 9th grade to
maintain that designation. More specific information about the CCPS Scholars Course of Study is available through
school counseling offices and in the CCPS Program of Studies.
MARYLAND SCHOLARS
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has partnered with the Maryland Business Roundtable for
Education to acknowledge students who have completed a course of study that is beyond the basic requirements for
graduation.
 Students are designated as Maryland Scholars by completing MSDE graduation requirements including two
credits of the same World Language. Students must attain a 3.0 weighted cumulative GPA to qualify.
ACADEMIC LETTER
Students may be awarded an Academic Letter if they have been enrolled in the school issuing the letter for a minimum of
three consecutive semesters and have a weighted GPA of 3.5 or higher with no D or F grades for any quarter or
semester. See individual school handbooks for more details.
5
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE FOR SCHEDULING
In this section, you will learn about the courses that are available to 9th graders in CCPS. Each listing shows the course
title, academic level, credit you will earn upon successful completion, any codes associated with the course, and a brief
description. For upper-level courses, you will also see a “Prerequisite” listed. This means that you have to have completed
another course before you can take the one you are reading about.
 You received a Course Selection Sheet (CSS) with this guide. The CSS is a list of all classes available to
students in a particular high school. It is updated annually and used as a guide in selecting courses for the
following school year. Not all courses or programs in this guide are available at all high schools but your CSS lists
the classes offered to you as a 9th grader at the high school you will attend. You will use the CSS to choose your
classes for next year and will have to submit your CSS to your middle school counselor very soon.
 Your CSS must be completely filled out including indicating all courses and alternates you wish to take, teachers’
initials next to those courses, your signature, and your parent’s signature. If you do not turn in a completed CSS,
your counselor will select courses for you and these selections will be final.
REQUIRED COURSE SELECTIONS
All 9th graders must sign up for English I, Math, Earth & Space Science, LSN Government, and electives. Please refer to
the course selection sheet for your high school to determine which electives you may take as a 9th grader.


All students are also required to select Alternate Electives. These are courses that you would want to take in
place of your first elective choices if there is a scheduling conflict.
Schedule changes in high school are difficult and are only made in extreme circumstances with administrative
approval so you must carefully select your electives and alternates. Make sure these are classes you will be
happy in. There will be no opportunity for schedule changes of electives or alternate choices. Read the course
description of a course before selecting it. Required course descriptions can be found later in this section or
online in the CCPS Program of Studies.
ACADEMIC LEVELS
 Honors courses are designed for students who have demonstrated the ability to move to an enrichment level in
content and skill acquisition based on achievement and interest, and the willingness to work independently on
projects. The honors student wishes to be prepared to enter a competitive four-year college or university at the end
of his/her high school career. Independent study, outside reading, and research may be required. These courses
carry additional weight in GPA calculations.
 A Level courses are designed for students who have demonstrated mastery of appropriate basic skills and who wish to
improve their reading and writing skills. Post-high school plans may include entry into postsecondary education or
significant employment. Opportunities for the further development of skills and understanding of concepts will be
provided. Supplementary research projects and reading may be required.
 Inclusion courses (on CSS) are only available to students on recommendation of the IEP (Individualized Education
Program) Committee
 Individualized courses are only available to students on recommendation of the IEP Committee
College Preparation
All students are encouraged to exceed the minimum college entrance requirements by taking Honors or Advanced
Placement (AP) courses, as well as additional academic electives including a fourth year of all core subjects and a third
year of world language. If you are planning to go to college, it is important to take the most challenging courses possible.
 Note: AP Programs/Courses are available for students in grades 10 through 12. The College Board’s AP Program
enables students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school. AP courses provide challenging learning
opportunities that parallel the expectations of college-level courses. These courses carry additional weight in GPA
calculations. Students are encouraged to take Honors level courses in preparation for AP courses.
CODES
Some courses listed in the next section have codes that represent special designations. These terms were discussed
previously in the Requirements for Charles County Academic Awards of Distinction section of this guide.
EOC = End-of-Course Assessment
W = Weighted
6
ACADEMIC CORE COURSE OFFERINGS
ENGLISH
ENGLISH I (HONORS)
011010 1 credit Grade 9 Codes: EOC, W
This course is provided for students who wish to pursue an enriched English program. It focuses on reading, writing,
speaking, listening, and language. It builds upon prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and the
mechanics of writing. An intensive study of literary and informational genres will also be addressed. Writing will be linked
to the reading selections. Summer reading is required.
ENGLISH I (A LEVEL)
011011 1 credit Grade 9 Code: EOC
This course is designed to develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language. It builds upon prior
knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and the mechanics of writing. It includes the study of various genres of
literature and informational texts which will be linked to writing assignments.
MATHEMATICS
Most colleges will require FOUR credits of high school math as a basic entrance requirement. For any public college or
university in Maryland, you will be required to take a math class at the Algebra II or higher level in your senior year of high
school. This rule applies even if you earned a high school math credit in middle school or fulfill the CCPS graduation Math
requirements prior to your senior year.
The high school mathematics program is designed to provide students the opportunity to prepare for the world of work or
continue to pursue their interests in mathematics. It takes into consideration students who are planning for careers in
business and industry as well as those who are preparing for college. All courses are designed to motivate students to use
higher-level thinking and to transfer this knowledge to everyday experiences. Technology is an integral part of instruction.
The chart below provides guidelines for a recommended sequence of mathematics courses that will fulfill CCPS
graduation requirements. Please use this chart to plan ahead for the level of math you want to reach by your senior year of
high school. Consult with your school counselor about which sequence will best help you reach your goals.
MATHEMATICS: Recommended Sequence of Mathematics Courses
9th Grade
Algebra I
Foundation of Algebra/
Algebra I
10th Grade
11th Grade
Geometry
Geometry (Honors)
12th Grade
Algebra 2
Algebra with Trig and Stats
College Prep Math/ English
Algebra 2 (Honors)
Pre- Calculus
AP Statistics
Advanced Algebra with Trig
Geometry ( Honors)
Pre- Calculus
AP Calculus
AP Statistics (elective)
AP Statistics
Advanced Algebra with trig Pre-Calculus
AP Statistics
Algebra 2 (Honors)
Some Science, Industry and Technology (STI) Programs offered at North Point High School may require applicants to have completed specific
mathematics courses prior to grade 9. More information regarding the required mathematics courses can be found in the North Point High School “Guide
to Career Majors” at
http://www.edline.net/files/_WDEY3_/0c2029e6f74d7f9a3745a49013852ec4/FINAL_Guide_to_Career_Majors.pdf
ALGEBRA I
031514 1 credit Grades 9, 10 Code: EOC
This course develops the algebraic skills and concepts that are critical to success in future mathematics courses.
Students will apply algebraic concepts in a variety of problem solving solutions. Topics include linear, quadratic and
exponential equations, real and complex numbers, expressions with rational and irrational numbers, functions and
modeling, and descriptive statistics.
7
FOUNDATIONS OF ALGEBRA
03051T 1 credit Grade 9
This course is designed for selected students to help build a foundational knowledge of algebraic concepts prior to
enrollment in Algebra I. Topics will include integers, rational numbers, algebraic expressions, linear equations,
inequalities, coordinate plane graphing and patterns.
GEOMETRY (HONORS)
033010 1 credit Grades 9, 10 Code: W
Prerequisite: Algebra I
This course is designed for students who have shown interest and ability in above level mathematics work. The course
will include a more in-depth study of the topics covered in the geometry course. Additional topics will include the laws of
sine and cosine, deriving formulas and constructing tangent lines.
SCIENCE
BIOLOGY (HONORS)
042510 1 credit Grade 10 Codes: EOC, W
Must be taken concurrent with PLTW Biomedical Sciences Program ONLY
This course provides an in-depth investigation of biological principles and concepts with a special emphasis on
open-ended laboratory investigations and an individual science project. Higher level process skills (i.e.,
analyzing, synthesizing, evaluating data) are emphasized
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (HONORS)
041510 1 credit Grade 9 Code: W
This course provides an in-depth investigation of earth and its place in the universe, with a special emphasis on openended laboratory investigations and an individual science project. Higher level process skills such as analyzing,
synthesizing, and evaluating data will be emphasized.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (A LEVEL)
041511 1 credit Grade 9
This course provides an investigation of earth and its place in the universe and emphasizes an interpretive method of
investigation utilizing process skills such as organizing, analyzing, and graphing. Class activities include numerous
laboratory exercises.
SOCIAL STUDIES
LOCAL, STATE, AND NATIONAL GOVERNMENT (HONORS)
022510 1 credit Grade 9 Code: EOC, W
This course challenges students who have demonstrated the highest level of achievement and interest in social studies.
Students will study the foundations and institutions of the United States system of government at the national, state, and
local levels. Students will apply their knowledge of foundations to contemporary issues facing the local, state, and national
governments. Students enrolled in this course will be provided an opportunity to complete their Student Service Learning
requirement as part of the course of study.
LOCAL, STATE, AND NATIONAL GOVERNMENT (A LEVEL)
022511 1 credit Grade 9 Code: EOC
This course engages students in basic understanding of government and citizenship. Students will study the function,
operation, and challenges that face government at the local, state, and national levels. Second semester students will
examine contemporary issues facing local, state, and national government. Students will be provided an opportunity to
complete Student Service Learning as part of the course of study.
8
ELECTIVES
In addition to the academic cores (English, Math, Science, Social Studies), you will also take electives each year to help
you fulfill other graduation requirements. Electives are courses that allow you to explore different topics while deciding
which college and career path is best for you. We offer electives in all of the following categories:
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
BUSINESS EDUCATION
COMPUTER SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY
FAMILY & CONSUMER
SCIENCE
FINE & PERFORMING ARTS
JUNIOR ROTC
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
WORLD LANGUAGES
Please use the Graduation Pathways Planning Tool provided in the Student Planning Section of this guide to determine which electives fit
best with your post-high school plans. Descriptions of other 9th grade electives shown on your CSS can be found online in the CCPS
High School Program of Studies at http://www.ccboe.com/community/students/programofstudies.php.
Academic Support Electives
On your CSS, you will notice several classes that are not included in this guide. Generally, these are courses that you
cannot sign up for because you must be selected based on certain criteria: math level, test scores, GPA, or on
recommendation of the IEP Committee. More information on these courses can be found in the CCPS Program of
Studies. Unless you are told to do so, do not select the following courses:
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Foundations of Algebra
Literacy
Maryland’s Tomorrow
Prep Plus
Strategies for Personal Management
Supplemental Reading
World Languages
Most colleges and universities require two or three years of high school study in the same world language.
Successfully completing two years of the same world language is also one of the Graduation Pathways. If you
have taken a world language in middle school and plan to continue that language in high school, you should
strongly consider taking the next level of that language in your 9th grade year.
French I
French II Prerequisite: French I
Latin I
Latin II: Prerequisite: Latin I
German I
German II Prerequisite: German I
9
Spanish I
Spanish II: Prerequisite Spanish I
CAREER & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION COMPLETER PROGRAMS
MSDE, in partnership with statewide industry advisory groups, identified ten Career Clusters that represent core business
functions across broad industry areas in Maryland. The completion of a CTP sequence of courses within one of these
clusters is one option for graduation completion. CTP Completer sequences are college and career preparation that may
include certification, licensure, apprenticeship, college credit and/or work-based learning experience. Students must
successfully complete each course in the selected sequence to fulfill graduation requirements through the completer
option. Completer program availability varies by each high school.
Career Cluster
Career Cluster
Completer Program
Course sequence
SCHOOL
Credits
Arts, Media, and Communication
Completer Program
Course sequence
SCHOOL
Credits
Human Resource Services
Interactive Media Production
Principles of Arts, Media, and Communication
Interactive Multimedia Production
Advanced Interactive Multimedia Production
Total
RSEC
1.0
1.0
2.0
4.0
Business Management and Finance
Fire Science/Firefighting
Fire & Rescue Cadet
ALL
4.0
4.0
Total
Teacher Academy of Maryland (TAM)
Human Growth & Development
Teaching as a Profession
Foundations of Curriculum & Instruction
Education Academy Internship
Total
ALL
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
4.0
Manufacturing, Engineering & Technology
Administrative Services
Computer Applications & Concepts
Advanced Computer Applications & Concepts
Principles of Business & Management
Investment & Financial Management
Total
Business Management
Principles of Business & Management
Investment & Financial Management
Entrepreneurship & E-Commerce
Accounting with Computer Applications or
College Accounting
Total
ALL
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
4.0
ALL
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
4.0
General Office Clerk
LHS, LPHS, MHS, TSHS, WHS
No new enrollment in this completer after the 2012-13 school year.
Computer Utilization and Keyboarding
1.0
Computer Applications & Concepts
1.0
Advanced Computer Applications & Concepts
1.0
Specialization Course*
1.0
Total
4.0
*Must be one of the following courses: Accounting w/ Computers, College
Accounting, or Principles of Business & Management
Construction & Development
Project Lead The Way (PLTW)Pathway to Engineering
LHS, LPHS, MHS, TSHS, WHS, SCHS
Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)
Principles of Engineering
Digital Electronics
Specialization Course*
Engineering Design & Development
Total
TE**
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
4.0
*Must be one of the following courses: Civil Engineering and
Architecture, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Biotechnical
Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering.
**IED is required for students completing this sequence and fulfills the
1.0 credit of TE requirement for graduation but does not count toward
the credit total of this PLTW sequence.
Transportation Technologies
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Foundations of Building & Construction Technology
HVAC Level I
HVAC Level II
Total
RSEC
1.0
1.0
2.0
4.0
Automotive Technician
RSEC
Suspension & Steering
Brakes
Electrical/Electronic Systems
Engine Performance
Total
Environmental, Agricultural, and Natural Resources Systems
Horticultural Services
Foundations of Horticulture
Plant Propagation
Landscaping Design
Capstone Experience
Total
Career Research & Development (CRD)
RSEC
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
4.0
10
Career Research & Development
Career Development, Preparation, & Transition
Work-based learning
Total
1.0
1.0
2.0
1.0
5.0
ALL
1.0
1.0
2.0
4.0
Health and Biosciences
Consumer Services, Hospitality, and Tourism
PLTW Biomedical Sciences
LHS, LPHS, SCHS, TSHS, WHS
Principles of the Biomedical Sciences
1.0
Human Body Systems
1.0
Medical Interventions
1.0
Biomedical Innovations
1.0
Total
4.0
AHP Pharmacy Technician
Foundations of Medicine & Health Science
Structures & Functions of the Human Body
Pharmacy Technician Medical Specialty
Allied Health Internship
Total
ProStart-Food and Beverage Management LHS
Becoming a Food Service Professions (Level 1)
Becoming a Food Service Professions (Level 2)
Practical Experience as a Food Service Professional
Total
1.0
1.0
2.0
4.0
RSEC
1.0
1.0
1.0
2.0
5.0
ALL = All CCPS high schools
LHS = Lackey High School
MHS= McDonough High School
NPHS = North Point High School
LPHS = La Plata High School RSEC = Robert D. Stethem Educational Center TSHS= Thomas Stone
WHS = Westlake High School
SCHS=St. Charles high School
Information on other completer programs offered at North Point High School for Science, Technology and
Industry is published in the Guide to Career Majors available on the school website at:
http://www.ccboe.com/northpoint/departments/Admissions/default.htm.
11
CHARLES COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS GRADUATION STATUS REPORT
You should use this form to check off the credits you have earned and the credits you are working on now. This
will help you select your courses for next year. If you have any questions about graduation requirements or how
to use this chart, please make an appointment with your counselor as soon as possible.
High School Graduation Requirements – 23 Credits
This chart is intended for students entering high school in fall 2014 and beyond.
English – 4 credits
Social Studies – 3 credits
Math – 3 credits
Algebra (2)
Geometry
Science – 3 credits
Choose ONE of the following options
English I
English II
English III
English IV
2 credits of World
Language and electives
LSN Government
US History
World History
OR
Algebra
Algebra
Geometry
2 credits of Advanced
Technology and electives
Biology
Lab sciences (2)
Earth Science
Biology
Chemistry
Career and Technology
P. E. – ½ credit
P.E.
Education Completer
Health – ½ credit
Health
Program and electives
OR
Fine Art – 1 credit
Technology – 1 credit
Financial Literacy - 1 credit
Electives
ALL students must earn a
HSA Exams
Total (1602) ___________
Student Service (SSL)
Algebra (412) _______
Biology (400) _______
English (396) _______
Gov’t (394) _______
minimum of 23 credits
to earn a diploma. The
number of electives
needed will vary based
Completed
upon the option chosen
above.
12
GRADUATION PATHWAY OPTIONS
Recommendations for Freshman 2014-15
GRADUATION PATHWAY OPTIONS – Recommendations for Freshmen in 2014-15
All students must choose one of the following 3 pathways to graduation. Although students are strongly
encouraged to make this decision before starting high school, it is possible that some students will switch to
other pathways during the high school years.
Students who meet the requirements for 2 pathways will be classified as dual completers at graduation.
Some may be able to complete all 3.
Pathway 1: 2 credits of World Language plus 4 electives (strongly recommended for students who plan to
attend college after high school)
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take a World Language course and 1elective
Pathway 2: 2 credits of Advanced Technology plus 4 electives
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology and 1 elective
Pathway 3: Career and Technology Education Completer program plus electives to total 6 credits
(strongly recommended for students who plan to attend college after high school)

Academy of Health Professions: Pharmacy Technician – Application process, must apply in 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Administrative Services – may begin in 9th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Computer Application & Concepts and 1 elective

Automotive Technician – must begin in 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Business Management – must begin in 10th or 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions
(Algebra I req.) and 1 elective

Career Research and Development – must begin in 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Fire Science/Firefighting – taken in 11th or 12 grade - MUST BE 16 TO APPLY
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) – must begin in 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Horticultural Services – must begin in 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Interactive Media Production – must begin in 11th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

PLTW Biomedical Sciences –must begin in 9th or 10th grade, Prerequisite: Algebra 1
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Principles of Biomedical Science and 1 elective;
freshmen in this program must take Biology Honors instead of Earth Science

PLTW Pathway to Engineering – must begin in 9th or 10th grade, Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra 1
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Introduction to Engineering Design and 1 elective

Prostart-Food and Beverage Management – must begin in 10th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE - take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Teacher Academy of Maryland – must begin in 10th grade
RECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective
13
CHARLES COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS AND CENTERS
Henry E. Lackey High School
3000 Chicamuxen Road
Indian Head, Maryland 20640
301-743-5431 & 753-1753
Counseling Department 301-934-7472
Counseling FAX 301-743-6850
School FAX 301-743-9076
http://www.edline.net/pages/lackey
St. Charles High School
5305 Piney Church Road
Waldorf, Maryland 20602
Phone: 301-753-2090
Counseling Department
Counseling FAX
School FAX
http://www.ccboe.com/stcharles/
La Plata High School
6035 Radio Station Road
La Plata, Maryland 20646
301-934-1100 & 753-1754
Counseling Department 301-934-7448
Counseling FAX 301-392-5506
School FAX 301-934-5657
http://www.edline.net/pages/La_Plata_High_School
Thomas Stone High School
3785 Leonardtown Road
Waldorf, Maryland 20601
301-645-2601 & 753-1756
Counseling Department 301-392-5508
Counseling FAX 301-392-5503
School FAX 301-932-4278
http://www.edline.net/pages/Thomas_Stone_High_
School
Maurice J. McDonough High School
7165 Marshall Corner Road
Pomfret, Maryland 20675
301-934-2944 & 753-1755
Counseling Department 301-392-5510
Counseling FAX 301-934-8005
School FAX 301-753-8408
Westlake High School
3300 Middletown Road
Waldorf, Maryland 20603
301-645-8857 & 753-1758
Counseling Department 301-392-5509
Counseling FAX 301-392-5502
School FAX 301-932-8583
http://www.edline.net/pages/WestLake_HS
http://www.edline.net/pages/Maurice_J__McDonough_High_School
North Point High School For Science, Technology
and Industry
2500 Davis Road
Waldorf, MD 20603
301-753-1759
Counseling Department 301-934-7470
Counseling FAX 301-392-5505
School FAX 301-885-2347
http://www.edline.net/pages/North_Point_High_School
Lifelong Learning Center
3155 John Hanson Drive
Waldorf, Maryland 20601
301-753-1774
FAX 301-645-4863
www.ccboe.com/adulted
 GED
 External Diploma
English For Speakers of Other Languages
Robert D. Stethem Education Center
7775 Marshall Corner Road
Pomfret, Maryland 20675
301-932-1003 & 753-1757
FAX 301-934-0165
www.ccboe.com/stethem
 NOVEL
 Home and Hospital
 Teen Parenting
 Alternative Programs
 Career Explorations
The CCPS High School Program of Studies can be found online at http://www2.ccboe.com/students/programofstudies.cfm.
14