Preparing for Senior Year

Scheduling & Helpful Tips for the Class of 2016

Graduation RequirementsHow many credits for a TJ diploma?

CLASS OF 2016 Language Arts (English) 4

Social Studies 4

Science 3

Mathematics 3

Computers 0.5

Physical Education 1.3

Health 0.3

Arts and/or Humanities 1

Graduation Project Yes

TOTAL CREDITS 25.00

What’s the plan after high school?

4 year college/university Technical/Vocational/Trade School Military Workforce

Career Planning Utilize www.careercruising.com▪ User: thomas▪ Pass: jefferson

There isn’t one path that’s right for everyone, but you have to make an effort to plan for what’s coming up.

Do you like school? Do you have a particular interest? How will you support yourself? Tough, but important questions

Trade/Vocational/Technical School

4 year College is not for everyone Some people prefer to learn through hands-on

methods and train for a specific skill Trade/Vocational and Technical Schools offer programs

that provide the opportunity to do just that http://

www.usnews.com/news/articles/2014/05/02/the-return-of-vocational-high-schools-more-options-or-the-kiss-of-death

There are many jobs out there that can provide a solid living without having to earn a bachelor’s degree

Almost 50% of students that attend 4 year schools don’t graduate with in 6 years; so they end up spending a lot of money and not having a great way to earn money

Trade/Vocational/Technical School

Check out a number of different jobs that earn more than $35,000/yr with a 2 year degree or less

Spreadsheet of Jobs/Careers in Trades and Technical Schools

Radiation Therapists – earn more than $75,000/yr

Medical Lab Technicians – up to $55,000/yr

Truck Drivers – Median Wage: $35,000-$54,000/yr

4 Year College/University

4 year College/University What’s important in a school for you?

▪ Campus, location, major, cost

What types of students are they looking for? Have I done enough to get accepted?

▪ QPA, Class Rank, SAT/ACT Scores▪ Collegeboard.org – College Search Option

Take SAT/ACT end of junior year and then again in the fall of senior year

Visit schools, talk to students that attend Consider cost – student loans can be crippling. College is a

huge investment, and a worthwhile one, but you need to understand that you’re getting what you put in.

4 Year College/University

Challenging courses are preferred by the most competitive schools

Advanced Placement classes are a way to earn college credit at the high school level and look impressive on college applications

Important to schedule realistically as well – if a student is a C student he or she is likely to struggle in a college level course

Check college admission requirements and compare to course selections

Class Rank and QPA Calculation

Your class rank and QPA are calculated based upon your year end gradesSubject Year End

GrQuality Pts

Credits QP Total QPA

English 1 A 4 1.0 4.0 QPA = QP Total/Credits

Algebra 1 B 3 1.0 3.0

Biology A 4 1.2 4.8

US History 2

A 4 0.5 2.0

Global I B 3 0.5 1.5

PE 9 A 4 0.4 1.6

Spanish 1 C 2 1.0 2.0

Band A 4 1.0 4.0 QPA

7.1 22.9 3.23

Class Rank and QPA Calculation with Honors and AP Courses

Your class rank and QPA are calculated based upon your year end grades

Bonus weight will be given for AP and Honors classes. .2 will be added to the unweighted GPA for each AP course and .1 will be added for each honors course

Class rank is based upon cumulative QPA at end of junior year!Subject Year

End GrUnweighted Quality Pts

x Credits =

QP Total QPA = QP Total/Credits

AP+Honors Value Added

English 3AP

A 4 1.0 4.0 +.2

Honors Pre-Calc

B 3 1.0 3.0 +.1

AP Chem. A 4 1.4 (2 labs) 5.6 +.2

AP US Hist.

A 4 1.0 4.0 +.2

PE 11 A 4 0.4 1.6

Spanish 3 C 2 1.0 2.0

Band A 4 1.0 4.0 Simple QPA

Weighted QPA

6.8 24.2 3.56 4.26

What do I need to take next year?

English class Social Studies Physical Education Lunch Electives /Core Classes so that you

have no more than 1 study hall every day

What should I take next year? Colleges prefer to see 4 years of core classes

Math – not required to have a 4th year Science – not required to have a 4th year Challenging courses that prepare you to not only be

admitted to colleges, but to be successful once you get there

Electives that either confirm or rule out possible career areas If you think you might want to get into business, taking

business courses; If you’re considering programming, take programming courses

Worst case scenario is you find out you don’t want to spend money trying to become something you don’t really have much interest in

Core Sequences/Options10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade

English Honors English*Academic English 2English 2

English 3AP*Academic English 3English 3

English 4AP*English 4-1English 4

Math Honors Algebra II*Algebra IIGeometry

Honors Pre-Calculus*Pre-CalculusAlgebra 2

AP Calculus*CalculusPre-CalculusProbability/Statistics

Science Academic ChemistryChemistryPhysical Science

AP Chemistry*, Honors Physics*Academic PhysicsPhysicsEnvironmental Science

AP Biology*AP PhysicsAnatomy & PhysiologyEnvironmental Science

Social Studies

GovernmentEconomics

AP US History *(Full Yr)US History 3US History 4

AP European History*Global IIGlobal III

* = .1 added to QPA for each Honors level class; .2 added to QPA for each AP class

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

English English 4AP*Academic English 4English 4

English 4 AP Admission to this course is based on the provisions set forth in this handbook. This course includes classical, world, and English literature. After reading significant poetic works, plays, and novels, the students should be able to clearly express and logically defend their ideas. Critical thinking is balanced with creative expression so that these supporting ideas are not limited to discussions and compositions, but also include oral presentations and dramatic interpretations. Accordingly, the ability to work well in group situations is essential. A major requirement is an extensive research project. Taking the AP test in May is an important component of this course and is highly encouraged. Quality points for this course are awarded under the advanced placement scale.

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

English English 4AP*Academic English 4English 4

Academic English 4 (formerly English 4-1)The twelfth grade Academic English course is designed to emulate the requirements of first year collegiate literature and composition courses in preparation for students’ first year at institutions of higher learning. British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period through the twentieth century is studied chronologically and thematically using both an objective viewpoint and various critical literary theories known as “lenses.” Special emphasis is paid to the application of knowledge acquired from the course’s curriculum to cooperative group learning assignments, critical analyses, and creative writing projects. A major collegiate–style research essay based on a current issue facing mankind or a foreign policy simulation is required.

English 4 (formerly known as English 4-2)This twelfth grade English course is based on a chronological study of British Literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to modern day. Integrated within the interpretive study of literature of various genres is a refinement/enrichment of critical thinking/reading, and effective writing/oral expression. A research project is required.

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

Math AP Calculus*CalculusPre-CalculusStatistics & Probability

AP Calculus is an advanced placement course offered to selected students who have been successful in Honors Pre-Calculus. This course will include the study of rate of change, differentiation and integration methods. Applications to curve sketching, max-min problems and related rates will also be studied. Area, volumes, length of a curve, surface area, centroid and work applications will also be discussed. A detailed study of natural log, exponentials, trig functions and inverses will also be included. Admission is based on previous demonstration of qualifications leading to faculty recommendation. Students successfully taking the AP test may also earn college credit or entrance into an honor course depending on the college and the score. Quality points for this course are awarded according to the advanced placement scale. Taking the AP test in May is an important component of this course and is highly encouraged.

CalculusThis course is designed to provide a firm background and understanding of the basic concepts of calculus, including limits, differentiation, applications of derivatives, exponential/logarithmic functions, and an introduction to techniques and applications of integrations.

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

Math AP CalculusCalculusPre-CalculusStatistics & Probability

Pre-Calculus/TrigonometryThis course includes advanced techniques using a graphing calculator with special emphasis in the areas of polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometry, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices, sequences, counting, and probability.

Statistics and Probability – New course for 15-16This course is designed to provide an introduction to the foundations of probability and statistics. Topics will include probability, normal distributions, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, and Chi-Square tests and distributions. This is course is designed for the students that have already completed Algebra II successfully.

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

Science AP BiologyAP PhysicsAnatomy & PhysiologyEnvironmental Science

Advanced Placement BiologyThis collegiate level course is designed to prepare students for the AP Biology test and is equivalent to an introductory biology course offered to college freshmen intending to major in a biological science. This is a broadly based course encompassing such diverse areas of biology as molecules and cells, genetics and evolution, organisms and populations. Extensive laboratory work includes the use of various types of laboratory apparatus and instruments which are incorporated into exercises designed to complement and supplement lecture topics. Taking the AP test in May is an important component of this course and is highly encouraged. Students must have successfully completed chemistry before taking this course. AP classes require a summer work assignment. Students selecting this course must see the appropriate teacher before the end of the previous school year.

Advanced Placement PhysicsThis is a calculus based physics course intended for senior students who plan to enter the fields of engineering and/or physics. The course is designed for those students to earn college credit (4 or 8 credits) with the appropriate passing score on the AP Exam(s) as designated by the college or university of their choice. This course focuses on vectors, kinematics and dynamics in one and two dimensions as well as electricity and magnetism. This physics course integrates the mathematical concepts of limits, derivatives and integrals. Less time in AP Physics C is devoted to lab work since most of the lab work will have been done in Honors Physics the previous year. The remaining time will be spent on rigorous problem solving, conceptual development and preparation for the AP Exam in May. Taking the AP test in May is an important component of this course and is highly encouraged. Students can register for the AP Physics C Exam in Mechanics or Electricity and Magnetism. Some may choose to take both exams. It is highly recommended that students have successfully completed or have concurrent enrollment in Calculus. To be successful in this class, it is also recommended that students have performed above average in their previous physics course.

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

Science AP BiologyAP PhysicsAnatomy & PhysiologyEnvironmental Science

Anatomy and Physiology This course is offered to students who wish to further their study of human anatomy and its systems. The course focuses on the biological, biomedical and physiological bases of human body. Included in the course is an in-depth study of the development and anatomy of the various systems of the human body. The student will gain an understanding of the interrelationships of the body systems and an appreciation of the relationship which exists between the human body and nature and society. Students may choose to take Anatomy & Physiology after completing Academic Biology as long as they continue to follow the required science course sequence.

Environmental ScienceThis course will focus on society’s impact on the environment, natural resources and energy use. The course is dynamic in the sense that it addresses issues of current concern regarding the environment. Activities include case studies of historical environmental cases and issues, organized debates, group presentations, labs that simulate various environmental conditions, outside field sampling and water quality analysis utilizing chemical test kits as well as digital probes linked to the computer system. This course is recommended to a student with a background in biology that wants to further their studies of environmental topics. A background in chemistry is recommended but not required. This course will meet the third year science requirement needed for graduation for students who have completed Physical Science.

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

Social Studies

AP European History*Global IIGlobal III

Advanced Placement European HistoryThis course will provide an intensive study of European history for selected seniors. Extensive collateral reading will be required. There will be an emphasis on a critical and interpretative approach to the study of European history from the Renaissance to the present. Admission will be based on previous demonstration of qualifications leading to faculty recommendation. Taking the AP test in May is an important component of this course and is highly encouraged. In conjunction with LaRoche College, underclassmen will have the opportunity to participate in the Scholar Program. Students in this dual enrollment program will receive one credit at Thomas Jefferson High School for the Advanced Placement European History course and three additional college credits. These credits are transferable to over fifty different colleges/universities. For more information visit www.laroche.edu/academcs/scholar/index.htm

Core Sequences/Options12th Grade

Social Studies

AP European History*Global IIGlobal III

Global Studies II (1450-1789)This course will provide students with a knowledge and understanding of Global history and culture from 1450 AD to 1789 AD. Possible topics in this course will be as follows: the Renaissance, the Reformation, Colonization, Absolutism, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, and the unification of Germany and Italy. Map assignments, worksheets, quizzes, homework, class participation, projects, reports, and examinations will be used to evaluate student progress. Global Studies III (1600 – Present)This course will provide students with a knowledge and understanding of global history and culture from 1600 with an emphasis on 1945 to the present. As countries around the world strive to be contributors in the global community and economics, industrialization becomes the foundation from which new global patterns emerge. Leadership decisions that ultimately impact millions of lives must be based on respect, integrity, and responsibility. Topics may include Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Terrorism. Map assignments, worksheets, quizzes, homework, class participation, projects, reports, and examinations will be used to evaluate student progress.

Electives

Rank your electives in order of preference.

You may not always get your first choices.

Choose classes based on your interests.

Look on the website for class descriptions at www.wjhsd.net under TJHS Student Resources Approved Courses 15-16

Electives

Foreign Language Spanish and French▪ Colleges typically like to see two years of a

foreign language, sometimes more English Electives

Creative Writing, Intro to Film Criticism, Film Criticism, Intro to Public Relations, Journalism, Performing arts, Public Speaking, Theatre Orientation

Electives

Science You may take multiple science courses

beginning in 10th grade Anatomy & Physiology is a full year

elective science class; Students need to understand this course is similar to another core course

Electives

Business and Information Tech (teacher provided information) Personal Finance - In the words of so many of the kids that are or have taken this

class (and many of their parents)... Everyone should take this class.  You will learn about taxes, credit, identity theft, investing, savings, checking, financing cars, mortgages, etc.  Super practical for any student, not just business students.  Full year course worth 1.0 credit.

Marketing - This is for anyone considering going to college for business (even accounting or finance) because these students will have to take at least one marketing course in college.  This gives the students a good introduction to the marketing concepts they will apply in their own businesses or when working for someone else.  Many of the kids who have taken this class were surprised by how much they enjoyed it and have gone on to major in marketing in college. 

Retail Mgmt - This is the class that runs the Jaguar Den.  Only students who have taken at minimum of two business classes (or at bare minimum, will be enrolled in their second simultaneously with Retail) may take this class.  Also, they are required to get a teacher recommendation. Only serious business students should be enrolled in this class. You have to be available to work at least two days a week before school. It is an awesome opportunity for any business student because they will get a chance to apply what they learn in a real business!

Electives

Business and Information Tech (Teacher Info)

Accounting-Helpful for ALL students considering a career in business. You will learn the “language of business”, such as: recording business transactions calculating employee paychecks what taxes are withheld determining profit or loss developing Financial Reports Accounting is the FIRST core course many business

college students take. Why not get a head start while in high school?

Electives

Technology Education Students who have taken Computer

Aided Drafting and Technology Systems are able to take any of the other Tech Ed classes

TJTV and Construction Tech are open to anyone sophomores or older

Electives

Family & Consumer Sciences Child Development 1 is a pre-requisite

for Child Development 2 Fab Fashion 1 is a pre-requisite for Fab

Fashion 2 and 3 Foods/Nutrition and Interior Design are

open to any student 10th grade or older

Electives

Fine Arts Two sections of Choir – Varsity and

Concert▪ Concert requires an audition

Band Courses▪ Typically Mr. Mirabella will tell us who needs

to be in which section of Symphonic or Concert Band▪ Other band electives can be taken in addition

to Concert & Symphonic

Steel Center Vo-Tech(SCVT)

Students attend TJ for core classes and then go to SCVT for career & technical education.

Information will be given to all 9th graders during class presentation on 2/13/15.

You can take a tour of SCVT on 2/20/15 if interested in attending next year.

You must return signed permission form for the tour!

SCVT counts as 3 elective credits.

Reminders

You must get teacher signatures this year! Did you take your required computer class?

Software Applications or Visual Basic Were you Proficient on Keystone Algebra &

Literature? – Any students not proficient will be place in remediation or have to do a project based assessment depending on the state’s decision

You need Health credit - summer class available

Do you need to retake any classes?

Next Steps…

Think carefully about your class choices. Get teacher and parent/guardian signatures. Listen to your teachers’ recommendations. Turn in signed form on:

Tuesday, February 10th in Social Studies Class

You will schedule in Computer Lab on Thursday February 12th

No signed form= No scheduling

Next Steps…

Summer Health Form If you wish to take health over the

summer, you will need to return the yellow summer health form to the guidance office with your preferred session selected