2014-15

Charles County Public Schools 8th Grade Transition Guide

Board of EducationRoberta S. Wise, Chairman

Maura H. Cook, Vice ChairmanJennifer S. AbellPatricia BowieMichael Lukas

Pamela A. PedersenDonald M. Wade

Amit Patel, Student Member

Superintendent of SchoolsKimberly A. Hill, Ed.D.

Assistant Superintendent of School AdministrationSylvia Lawson, Ph. D.

Assistant Superintendent of InstructionAmy. L. Hollstein

Assistant Superintendent of FinancePaul T. Balides

Assistant Superintendent for Supporting ServicesKeith 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 statementThe 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 SCHOOLGoing 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.

ENROLLMENTIn 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

ATTENDANCEThe 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.

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIESIn 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 INFOAll 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 OFFERINGSEach 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 & ACTIVITIESWhile not all schools offer all clubs & activities every year, some common opportunities in CCPS include:Band/OrchestraChess ClubChoirCommunity Service GroupsDance/Step TeamsDestination ImaginationDrama Club

Fashion/Modeling ClubFuture Business Leaders of America (FBLA)Future Educators of America (FEA)Gaming & Animé clubsKey ClubMath Team

Mock TrialSADDStudent Government Association (SGA)World Language ClubsYearbook

STEMScience, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) courses are offered throughout our high schools and many have corresponding extracurricular activities:Charles County FIRST Robotics Team Environmental Engineering Club (SMART) Students Modeling a ResearchComputer Bowl Envirothon Team TopicCyber Security Team High School Math Challenge VEX Robotics Destination Imagination Teams (MESA) Mathematics, Engineering,Engineering Challenges Science Achievement

SPORTSWhile not all schools offer all sports every year, general athletic opportunities in CCPS include:

Baseball Golf Swimming VolleyballBasketball Lacrosse Tennis WrestlingCheerleading Indoor Track Track & FieldCross Country Soccer Unified SportsField Hockey Softball

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ATHLETICSCharles 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 IIStudents 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 REQUIREMENTSThe 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 DIPLOMATo 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

Students entering high school Fall 2014

Specific Credit Requirements

All Students

High School Assessment (HSA)

English 4 creditsStudents 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.

Mathematics3 credits 2 in algebra 1 in geometry

Science

3 credits1 Biology and 2 other lab sciencesRecommended sequence: Earth and Space Biology Chemistry (Physical Science)

Social Studies

3 creditsRecommended sequence: LSN Government U. S. History World History

Financial Literacy

1 credit

Fine Arts 1 creditHealth ½ credit

Physical Education

½ credit Fitness for Life

Technology Education

1 credit

Graduation Pathway

2 credits of world language and at least 4 credits of academic/career electives OR

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

DIPLOMASThe Maryland State Board of Education awards diplomas to all students who have met the requirements for graduation.

MARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL CERTIFICATEThe 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.

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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 LEARNINGStudent 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.

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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.

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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 SELECTIONSAll 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 9 th 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 PreparationAll 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.

CODESSome 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

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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.

MATHEMATICSMost 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 Courses9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade

Algebra IGeometryGeometry (Honors)

Algebra with Trig and StatsAlgebra 2College Prep Math/ English

Foundation of Algebra/Algebra I Algebra 2 (Honors)

Pre- CalculusAP StatisticsAdvanced Algebra with Trig

Geometry ( Honors) Algebra 2 (Honors)Pre- CalculusAP Statistics (elective)

AP CalculusAP Statistics

Advanced Algebra with trig Pre-CalculusAP Statistics

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.

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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.

SCIENCEBIOLOGY (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 open-ended 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.

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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 SUPPORTBUSINESS EDUCATIONCOMPUTER SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCEFINE & PERFORMING ARTS

JUNIOR ROTC

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY EDUCATIONWORLD 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:

Foundations of AlgebraLiteracyMaryland’s Tomorrow

Prep PlusStrategies for Personal ManagementSupplemental 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 Latin I German I Spanish IFrench II Prerequisite: French I Latin II: Prerequisite: Latin I German II Prerequisite: German I Spanish II: Prerequisite Spanish I

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CAREER & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION COMPLETER PROGRAMSMSDE, 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.

Consumer Services, Hospitality, and TourismProStart-Food and Beverage Management LHS

Becoming a Food Service Professions (Level 1) 1.0Becoming a Food Service Professions (Level 2) 1.0Practical Experience as a Food Service Professional 2.0

Total 4.0

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Career ClusterCompleter Program SCHOOL

Course sequence Credits

Career Cluster Completer Program SCHOOLCourse sequence Credits

Arts, Media, and CommunicationInteractive Media Production RSEC

Principles of Arts, Media, and Communication 1.0Interactive Multimedia Production 1.0Advanced Interactive Multimedia Production 2.0

Total 4.0

Human Resource ServicesFire Science/Firefighting ALL

Fire & Rescue Cadet 4.0Total 4.0

Teacher Academy of Maryland (TAM) ALLHuman Growth & Development 1.0Teaching as a Profession 1.0Foundations of Curriculum & Instruction 1.0Education Academy Internship 1.0

Total 4.0Business Management and Finance

Administrative Services ALL Computer Applications & Concepts 1.0

Advanced Computer Applications & Concepts 1.0Principles of Business & Management 1.0Investment & Financial Management 1.0

Total 4.0

Business Management ALLPrinciples of Business & Management 1.0Investment & Financial Management 1.0Entrepreneurship & E-Commerce 1.0 Accounting with Computer Applications or 1.0

College AccountingTotal 4.0

General Office Clerk LHS, LPHS, MHS, TSHS, WHSNo new enrollment in this completer after the 2012-13 school year.

Computer Utilization and Keyboarding 1.0Computer Applications & Concepts 1.0Advanced Computer Applications & Concepts 1.0Specialization Course* 1.0

Total 4.0*Must be one of the following courses: Accounting w/ Computers, College Accounting, or Principles of Business & Management

Manufacturing, Engineering & TechnologyProject Lead The Way (PLTW)Pathway to Engineering LHS, LPHS, MHS, TSHS, WHS, SCHS

Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) TE**Principles of Engineering 1.0Digital Electronics 1.0Specialization Course* 1.0Engineering Design & Development 1.0

Total 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.

Construction & DevelopmentHeating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) RSEC

Foundations of Building & Construction Technology 1.0HVAC Level I 1.0HVAC Level II 2.0

Total 4.0

Transportation TechnologiesAutomotive Technician RSEC

Suspension & Steering 1.0Brakes 1.0Electrical/Electronic Systems 2.0Engine Performance 1.0

Total 5.0Environmental, Agricultural, and Natural Resources Systems

Horticultural Services RSECFoundations of Horticulture 1.0Plant Propagation 1.0Landscaping Design 1.0Capstone Experience 1.0

Total 4.0

Career Research & Development (CRD) ALLCareer Research & Development 1.0Career Development, Preparation, & Transition 1.0Work-based learning 2.0

Total 4.0

Health and Biosciences PLTW Biomedical Sciences LHS, LPHS, SCHS, TSHS, WHS

Principles of the Biomedical Sciences 1.0Human Body Systems 1.0Medical Interventions 1.0Biomedical Innovations 1.0

Total 4.0

AHP Pharmacy Technician RSEC

Foundations of Medicine & Health Science 1.0Structures & Functions of the Human Body 1.0Pharmacy Technician Medical Specialty 1.0Allied Health Internship 2.0

Total 5.0

ALL = All CCPS high schools

LHS = Lackey High School MHS= McDonough High School NPHS = North Point High School WHS = Westlake High School LPHS = La Plata High School RSEC = Robert D. Stethem Educational Center TSHS= Thomas Stone 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.

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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 English I Choose ONE of the following options English II English III 2 credits of World English IV Language and electives

Social Studies – 3 credits LSN Government US History OR World History

Math – 3 credits Algebra 2 credits of Advanced Algebra (2) Algebra Technology and electives Geometry GeometryScience – 3 credits Earth Science ORBiology BiologyLab sciences (2) Chemistry Career and TechnologyP. E. – ½ credit P.E. Education CompleterHealth – ½ credit Health Program and electivesFine Art – 1 creditTechnology – 1 creditFinancial Literacy - 1 credit Electives

ALL students must earn aHSA Exams Algebra (412) _______ minimum of 23 credits

Biology (400) _______ to earn a diploma. TheTotal (1602) ___________ English (396) _______ number of electives

Gov’t (394) _______ needed will vary basedStudent Service (SSL) Completed upon the option chosen

above.

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GRADUATION PATHWAY OPTIONS Recommendations for Freshman 2014-15

GRADUATION PATHWAY OPTIONS – Recommendations for Freshmen in 2014-15All 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 electivesRECOMMENDATION 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 gradeRECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Administrative Services – may begin in 9th gradeRECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Computer Application & Concepts and 1 elective

Automotive Technician – must begin in 11th gradeRECOMMENDATION 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 gradeRECOMMENDATION 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 gradeRECOMMENDATION 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 gradeRECOMMENDATION 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

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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 gradeRECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE - take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

Teacher Academy of Maryland – must begin in 10th gradeRECOMMENDATION FOR 9th GRADE – take Foundations of Technology or Designing Technology Solutions and 1 elective

CHARLES COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS AND CENTERS

Henry E. Lackey High School3000 Chicamuxen RoadIndian Head, Maryland 20640301-743-5431 & 753-1753Counseling Department 301-934-7472Counseling FAX 301-743-6850School FAX 301-743-9076http://www.edline.net/pages/lackey

St. Charles High School5305 Piney Church RoadWaldorf, Maryland 20602Phone: 301-753-2090Counseling DepartmentCounseling FAXSchool FAXhttp://www.ccboe.com/stcharles/

La Plata High School6035 Radio Station RoadLa Plata, Maryland 20646301-934-1100 & 753-1754Counseling Department 301-934-7448Counseling FAX 301-392-5506School FAX 301-934-5657http://www.edline.net/pages/La_Plata_High_School

Thomas Stone High School3785 Leonardtown RoadWaldorf, Maryland 20601301-645-2601 & 753-1756Counseling Department 301-392-5508Counseling FAX 301-392-5503School FAX 301-932-4278http://www.edline.net/pages/Thomas_Stone_High_School

Maurice J. McDonough High School7165 Marshall Corner RoadPomfret, Maryland 20675301-934-2944 & 753-1755Counseling Department 301-392-5510Counseling FAX 301-934-8005School FAX 301-753-8408http://www.edline.net/pages/Maurice_J__McDonough_High_Scho ol

Westlake High School3300 Middletown RoadWaldorf, Maryland 20603301-645-8857 & 753-1758Counseling Department 301-392-5509Counseling FAX 301-392-5502School FAX 301-932-8583http://www.edline.net/pages/WestLake_HS

North Point High School For Science, Technologyand Industry2500 Davis RoadWaldorf, MD 20603301-753-1759Counseling Department 301-934-7470Counseling FAX 301-392-5505School FAX 301-885-2347http://www.edline.net/pages/North_Point_High_School

Robert D. Stethem Education Center7775 Marshall Corner RoadPomfret, Maryland 20675301-932-1003 & 753-1757FAX 301-934-0165www.ccboe.com/stethem NOVEL Home and Hospital Teen Parenting

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Lifelong Learning Cente r 3155 John Hanson DriveWaldorf, Maryland 20601301-753-1774FAX 301-645-4863www.ccboe.com/adulted GED External DiplomaEnglish For Speakers of Other Languages

Alternative Programs Career Explorations

The CCPS High School Program of Studies can be found online at http://www2.ccboe.com/students/programofstudies.cfm.

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