Curriculum Night
February 3, 2016
WELCOME!
Agenda
Miss Herbaugh: School Counselor
Mrs. Swales and Mrs. Taneyhill: GACTC Counselors
Mrs. Hurd: Social Studies Department Chairperson
Mrs. Rosas: English Department Chairperson
Mrs. Craig: Mathematics Department Chairperson
Mr. Tinker: Science Department Chairperson
Additional Course Information
World Languages: Mrs. Stern, Department Chairperson
Family and Consumer Sciences
Technology Education
Art Education
Music Education
Humanities and Other Electives
Are You Ready For 9th Grade?
Things to Consider:
– High School Students Housed at the JH
– Transcripts Generated
– Credits Earned
– NCAA Eligibility
– Course Expectations Increase
– Independence/Maturity Expected
NCAA Considerations
Attention Student Athletes:
If you plan to play a sport in college, NCAA has eligibility requirements that you
must meet in order to play. If you do not meet these requirements, you cannot
play.
Certain Hollidaysburg Area School District courses are not NCAA eligible. At
the Junior High School, these include: Science 9, English 9, History 9, and
Algebra 1B 9.
If you have questions or concerns, please speak to your coach or visit the
NCAA Eligibility Center website.
Scheduling Musts
Schedule no less than 7 units/credits per year
Must accumulate 27 units/credits to graduate
4 units each of: Communications, Social Science,
Natural Science and Math
2 units each of: Physical Education (.5 units x 4 years)
and Health (.5 units x 4 years)
1 unit of Computer Science
1 unit of Humanities
5 units of Electives
Foreign Language is not a graduation requirement, but is
highly recommended by prospective post secondary
institutions.
Criteria for Course Enrollment
Students are scheduled for classes based on prior
performance/grades and teacher
recommendations.
NEW: Successful Completion of the Keystone
Exam is now a prerequisite for certain courses.
See Scheduling Sheet and Course Description Booklet for more details.
Prerequisites for the Core
Classes
•
95% or higher in 8th grade course of a
lower level to advance to the next level
•
84% or higher to remain at Honors and
Pre-honors levels
•
77% or higher to remain at College bound
level
Items to Consider
•
Class rank is calculated at the end of every school year during grades 9-12.
•
Honors courses are weighted and count more toward GPA and class rank.
•
If students are eligible to take an Honors level course in grade 9, but elect
not to, this can impact scheduling for grades 10-12.
•
Example: To take an Advanced Placement course, a student must be coming from an
Honors level course, obtain an 84%, and pass a screener. If a student opts out of the Honors
course they qualify for, students need to be aware that this impacts future scheduling and
class rank/GPA.
Scheduling Timeline
Transition to HS Conferences/Career
Conferences begin February 8, 2016.
Scheduling Sheets, signed by parent/guardian,
and all applications due to Guidance Office
March 4, 2016
Individual selections entered in system
Course Request Verifications mailed home
Master schedule for entire building is completed
Students receive schedule in August
Transition to High School
Conferences/Career Conferences
 Career and Educational Planning Session
 Individual conference with a Junior High School counselor
 Preparation for 9th grade
 Review of Guidance Curriculum/Career Pathways Activities
 PLEASE SIGN UP FOR THESE CONFERENCES AFTER THE
PRESENTATION OR BY CALLING THE GUIDANCE OFFICE
STARTING FEBRUARY 4, 2016
Education with a purpose
Pathway Option with
Cluster Areas
Business
– Computer Information Systems
– Business Administration,
Marketing, Mathematics, Sales
Pathway Option with
Cluster Areas
Communications
– Journalism, Language Arts,
Media, Public Relations
– The Arts – Music, Theater, Visual
Pathway Option with
Cluster Areas
Engineering and Industrial
– - Architecture, Construction,
Manufacturing
– - Material Sciences and Nanofabrication
Pathway Option with
Cluster Areas
Human Services
– Consumer Services and Human
Development
– Education, Government, Law
Pathway Option with
Cluster Areas
Science
– Biomedical, Physical, Earth
Science
– Environmental
Greater Altoona Career and
Technology Center
CIVICS
Three levels
• Honors
• CB
• Level 9
Curriculum
Citizenship
Foundations of U.S. Government
The U.S. Constitution
Guaranteed Rights
Branches of Government
Elections
State and Local Government
Paying for Government
Foreign Policy
Main Points to Consider
• Intellectual Ability
•
•
•
•
•
• Reading comprehension
• Writing ability
Independence
Interest in Subject Matter
Initiative/Work Ethic
Study Skills
Instructional Pace
Long-term planning - FYI
10th Grade AP European History
Prerequisites
– Honors Civics
– Honors English
– 92% average in both
– Screener test
English
Mrs. Tricia Rosas
Level 9
College Bound
Honors
Core Curriculum
Short Stories - Varied
Poetry - Varied
Edgar Allan Poe Mini Unit – Multiple Works
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Accelerated Reader Program
Literature, Grammar, and Composition Terms & Definitions
One grammar unit (chapter) per marking period
Three to five compositions per marking period
• Narrative, Expository, and Persuasive
• Writing in response to literature
• Poetry and Creative writing
CB English 9
With the higher expectations at the College Bound level,
there is a higher rigor of work. The class works at a faster
pace; therefore, additional novels and short stories are
incorporated into the core curriculum.
Examples:
- The Odyssey
- A Light in the Forest
- A Tale of Two Cities
- Animal Farm
Honors English 9
Honors English is a rigorous class that is intended to
prepare students to continue on in the High School
Honors Curriculum. Students must be excellent readers
and writers, with a strong work ethic. They must be
prepared to complete assignments, including a great
deal of independent reading.
Additions to the Core Curriculum
The Alchemist – Paulo Coehlo
The Book Thief-- Markus Zusak
Great Expectations – Charles Dickens
Night – Elie Wiesel
Julius Caesar – William Shakespeare
The Harlem Renaissance – Thematic Unit
The Holocaust – Thematic Unit
“My Year With” – A year long reading
project with a student-selected author.
Mathematics
Mrs. Craig
Curriculum
Criteria
Expectations
Honors Geometry
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Algebra 2 with at least an 84% or
an overall average of 95% or higher in Algebra 1 and
pass the Keystone Algebra 1 exam.
Topics to be covered:
Interrelationships Between Points, Lines, and Planes, Angle
Relationships, Parallel Lines, Polygons and Similarity,
Conditionals and Logic, Triangle Relationships and Right
Triangle Properties, Perimeter, Area, Surface Area, and
Volume, Circles, Introductory Trigonometry
Direct and indirect proofs are done in a manner which
follows rigid mathematical procedure.
Sequence through Grade 12
9
Honors Geometry
10
Honors Trigonometry & Pre-calculus or
Honors Algebra 2
11
AP Calculus AB
Honors Calculus or Calculus
Honors Trigonometry & Pre-Calculus
AP Statistics or Honors Probability & Statistics
12
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus AB or Calculus
AP Statistics or Honors Probability & Statistics
Students must maintain an 84% or higher average in each course to stay
in this level. AP courses require a certain score on a screener test.
CB Geometry
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Algebra 1 with at least a 77%
average and Pass the Algebra 1 Keystone Exam or be
enrolled in a remedial course.
Topics to be covered:
Interrelationships Between Points, Lines, and Planes,
Angle Relationships, Parallel Lines, Polygons and
Similarity, Conditionals and Logic, Triangle Relationships
and Right Triangle Properties, Perimeter, Area, Surface
Area, and Volume, Circles, Introductory Trigonometry
Course includes some, but not an extensive amount of
proofs and deals mainly with geometric concepts.
Sequence through Grade 12
9 CB Geometry
10 CB Algebra 2
11 Honors Trigonometry & Pre-calculus
CB Probability and Statistics
12 CB Calculus
Students must maintain a 77% in each course to remain in
this level.
Students must earn a 95% to move up and schedule an
honors level course the next school year.
CB ALGEBRA 1
Prerequisite:
A 77% in CB Pre-Algebra.
Topics to be Covered:
Review of solving equations, Solving Systems of Linear Equations
and Inequalities, Functions, Working with Polynomials, Factoring
Polynomials, Exponents, Rational Expressions, Radical
Expressions.
Students will take the Algebra 1 Keystone Exam in May.
Students must pass this exam for graduation requirements.
Student which do not pass the test will be scheduled for a
remedial course.
College Bound
9
10
11
12
CB Algebra 1
CB Geometry
CB Algebra 2
CB Trigonometry & Pre-Calculus
Students must maintain an 77% in each course to
remain in this level.
Students must earn a 95% to move up and schedule
an Honors Level course the next school year
ALGEBRA 1B
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Algebra 1A
or below a 77% in CB Pre-Algebra
Topics to be Covered:
Review of Algebra 1A, Solving Systems of Linear Equations and
Inequalities, Working with Polynomials, Factoring Polynomials,
Quadratic Functions, Exponents, Rational Expressions and
Equations, Radical Expressions and Equations
Students will take the Algebra 1 Keystone Exam in May. The test
covers all content from the Algebra 1A course and Algebra 1B
course. Students must pass this exam for graduation
requirements.
Sequence through Grade 12
9 Algebra 1B
10 Integrated Math 1
11 Integrated Math 2
12 Integrated Math 3
Students which do not pass the Algebra 1
Keystone will be scheduled for a remediation
course.
Science
Mr. Tinker
Curriculum
Criteria
Expectations
9th Grade Science Courses
Science 9
College Bound Science 9
Honors Biology
Science 9
Course Description: Science 9 continues
the Junior High sequence based upon
content and the state standards. This course
for general education students is broken into
four major areas of scientific study: Chemical
Interactions, Sound Light & Electricity,
Astronomy and Environment & Ecology.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of
Science 8.
College Bound Science 9
 College-bound Science 9 is a predominately physical science
course that incorporates fundamental concepts presented in Honors
Biology.
 It is designed to provide concepts and teach skills common to both
the physical and biological sciences.
 Students will build upon the physical science concepts they learned in CB
Science 8.
 Students will be introduced to biological topics such as biochemistry, the cell,
genetics, and organisms.
 This course offers the challenges of moving at a fast pace along with an
introduction to a number of biology topics in order to prepare students
for a full year of biology in 10th grade.
 Requirements:
Students will be expected to successfully complete homework, projects,
and lab activities. Tests and quizzes will be given at the completion of
each chapter.
Honors Biology
Geared to academically accelerated students who show an
interest in and aptitude for the sciences
Designed to challenge the student to incorporate and apply the
basic content of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics,
microbiology, botany, and ecology and to foster skills of
independent learning
Emphasizes laboratory skill development and empirical
observation through laboratory and classroom activities
Designed to develop an interest in the biological sciences
and to stimulate creative thought through application of
biological concepts and laboratory investigations.
The Biology Keystone Exam will be administered in mid-May.
Students must pass this exam in order to meet graduation
requirements.
Anatomy/Physiology
A one-semester ninth grade elective
An introduction to the structure and function of
the human body
Students are introduced to various occupations
within the medical field through in-class visits
from medical professionals and field trips.
Prerequisites:
Students are required to write a one-page essay
explaining their reasons for requesting the class
and their interest in the medical profession.
Class size is limited.
Science Progression
8th Grade
9th Grade
Pre-Honors Science
84% and up……………………………………………………Honors Biology
83% and below…………………………………………………CB Science 9
CB Science 8
95% and up and teacher’s recommendation………………Honors Biology
77% - 94%.........................................................................CB Science 9
76% and below………………………………………………..Science 9
Science 8
95% and up and teacher’s recommendation……………….CB Science 9
94% and below....................................................................Science 9
Foreign Languages
Mrs. Stern
Curriculum
Criteria
Expectations
World Language Options
French
German
Latin
Spanish
Russian
Why take a World Language?
Helps with understanding English
– Vocabulary
Develops an appreciation of other cultures
Opens more doors in the work place
– Business, Government
Improves SAT scores
Is this a graduation
requirement?
No!
However…
– Students are encouraged to take a minimum
of two years of the same language
– Required for some colleges and/or degrees
(Check with potential colleges)
Language Instruction Today
We focus on all four skills.
– Listening
Real-life dialog
Music
– Reading
Short stories and novels
– Writing
Skits, letters, compositions, etc.
– Speaking
Student interaction
How to choose a language
What language or place interests you the
most?
What is your heritage?
Advantages of
High School World Language
Obtain College in High School credit
through St. Francis University in Level 4
Participate in foreign language clubs
Opportunity for travel and immersions
Fulfill college entrance requirements and
possibly continue earning credits toward a
minor degree in a foreign language.
Family & Consumer Sciences
Basic Foods
Areas of Study
–
–
–
–
–
Meal Management
Food Science
Nutrition
Consumerism
Careers
Class Structure
– Performance Based
– Labs 2-3 times a week
– Long Term Projects, both in class and for homework
Credit = .5
Note: Regular attendance is necessary for this hands-on
course and most work is completed in class (Minor
Homework)
Advanced CLS
Areas of Study
– Foods and Nutrition
– Resource Management
– Careers
Class Structure
– Performance based
– Labs 2-3 times a week, during the foods and nutrition unit
– Long term projects, both in class and for homework
Credit = .5
Notes: Resource management includes budgeting and
check writing. Careers include conducting a job
search, interviewing skills and filling out a job
application.
Technology Education
Introduction to Engineering
Areas of Study
– STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
Engineering Design
Forces
Problem Solving
Solid Modeling
Transportation
Class Structure
– Students work independently and also in small groups
– Performance based
Credit = .5
Projects will include, but not be limited to, CO2 cars, bridge
building, problem solving activities and Solid Modeling using
the 3D printer
Introduction to Robotics
Areas of Study
– STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
Signals Lab
Current and Voltage
Motors
Gear Ratios (Speed and Torque)
Programming using ROBOTC
Class Structure
– Students will work in small groups (2 or 3)
– Performance based
Credit = .5
Art
Education
Introduction to Art
Proceeding through the many art
processes, during the year-long Intro to Art
course, the students experience the
benefits of stimulating their creative minds.
“We critique, laugh, socialize, learn new
processes, finish what we start, appreciate
nature, and feel passion for something
good!"
INTRO TO ART
PHOTO EXHIBITON
Exploratory Art
Exploratory Art will enable ninth grade students to develop his/her art
abilities and appreciation for art. Problem solving, self expression,
aesthetic awareness, and critical thinking skills will be enhanced.
Students in Exploratory Art class will explore a variety of different
materials and will develop skills and techniques in two and threedimensional art production. Projects will include the areas of drawing,
painting, printmaking, graphic design, calligraphy, collage and mixed
media. Students will search for meaning and direction in their work by
choosing and evaluating ideas and subject matter that communicate
self expression. Art works from various cultures and master artists will
be viewed and discussed as each unit dictates.
Sculpture
Sculpture will provide ninth grade students with a hands-on approach to
develop their art abilities and appreciation for art mainly through threedimensional projects. Problem solving, self expression, aesthetic awareness,
and critical thinking skills will be emphasized.
The semester of sculpture will follow a semester of exploratory art and provide
the student with an opportunity to develop skills and techniques in three
dimensional art productions. Students continue to concentrate on the basics of
drawing to develop ideas and design compositions for each unit. Projects
completed may include, but are not limited to, paper sculpture, relief copper
repousse, star sculptures, ceramic hand building, wheel throwing, plaster
carving, wire sculpture, and wood/found object sculptures. Students will
explore Art History to assist in motivation for subject matter. All art work
created will be original and copyrighted material will not be accepted.
.
Music Education
Advanced Music
Semester Course
Students will:
• Listen to, discuss, analyze, create, and synthesize various musical
aspects in a knowledgeable manner
• Have hands-on experiences with rhythmic, melodic, harmonic and
expressionistic elements of music through class activities and the
creation of their own original works of music
• Be required to complete the fevaluative procedures such as written
and aural quizzes, unit tests, listening analysis, classroom seatwork,
creative writing assignments, composition, performance, and
classroom discussions
• Successfully complete the Music 8 course and/or active participation
in at least one school ensemble (band, chorus, or orchestra) and/or
private music lessons.
Other Music Courses
Band
Chorus
Orchestra
Jazz Band
Additional 9th Grade Courses
Drama
Speech
Journalism
Writer’s Workshop
TV Production
Guitar
Courses Continued
Introduction to Business
Desktop Publishing
Special Entrance Requirements
Tiger TV: Application
Intro to Art: Portfolio
Anatomy/Physiology: Essay
Due: March 4, 2016
to the Guidance Office
Dates To Remember
Transition to High School Conference Request:
Available After Tonight’s Presentation or by calling the
Guidance Office at 695-4426 ext. 6520.
Scheduling Sheets, Applications, Portfolios and
Essays:
Due March 4, 2016
Resources
Miss Herbaugh, School Counselor
695-4426 ext. 6522
Allison_herbaugh@tigerwires.com
Mrs. Boose, Guidance Office Secretary
695-4426 ext. 6520
elda_boose@tigerwires.com
Closing Remarks
Please see the back table for additional
information and for an opportunity to sign
up for a transition to high school/career
conference.