Rising 9th

The following courses will be offered to rising 9th grade students.

Each core class (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) will be pre-determined based on a recommendation from the student's 8th grade teachers. Parents/Guardians will have the opportunity to review their student's schedule in Power School to request a change during an allotted window of time.

ENGLISH

English 9

Grade 9 Credit 1

In this course, students will read a variety of literature, exploring the characteristics of different forms and relating life situations to literary themes. Through varied and frequent writing assignments, students will build on their understanding of writing as a process. Students will practice discussion skills and will give oral presentations to develop poise and confidence.

English 9 Honors

Grade 9 Credit 1

In this course, students learn the skills needed to be successful in upper level English courses, including research, close reading, literary analysis, study of rhetoric, vocabulary development, and writing detailed analyses.

SCIENCE

Environmental Science

Grade 9 Credit 1

This course serves as a foundation course for students enrolling in Earth Science or Biology the following year. Major concepts studied include energy, earth’s surface and interior, renewable and nonrenewable resources, pollutions, and environmental issues of the world. Students analyze and identify environmental problems both natural and human made and evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems.

Biology

Grades 9 -10 Credit 1

*Based on recommendation from middle school teacher

This course acquaints the student with living organisms, their cellular makeup, their life processes, and their diversity. Microscope use and dissection are among the many laboratory activities utilized. This course, developed within a framework of principle biological theories, also emphasizes critical thinking and science process skills. This is an SOL class.

Biology Honors

Grades 9-10 Credit 1

*Based on recommendation from middle school teacher

In this advanced-level course, students will use scientific research methods to investigate scientific principles. Students will explore the animal, plant, and protean kingdoms and the life processes of the major groups of each kingdom. Students who select this course should be interested in pursuing a science-related career and should have strong study and organizational skills. This is an SOL class.

SOCIAL STUDIES

World History & Geography to 1500 AD

Grade 9 Credit 1

This course enables students to explore the historical development of people, places, and patterns of life from ancient times until 1500 A.D. Students will engage in historical thinking, raise questions, and marshal evidence in support of answers. They will draw on chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical analysis and interpretation, and decision-making to study topics including prehistory, classical civilizations, and the Middle Ages.

World History & Geography to 1500 AD Honors

Grade 9 Credit 1

This advanced-level course enables students to explore the historical development of people, places, and patterns of life from ancient times until 1500 A.D. Students will engage in historical thinking, raise questions, and marshal evidence in support of answers. They will draw on chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical analysis and interpretation, and decision-making to study topics including prehistory, classical civilizations, and the Middle Ages. Students will participate in classroom discussions and research.

Advanced Placement Human Geography

Grades 9-10 Credit 1

In this first-year college-level course, students focus on the systematic study of patterns and processes that shaped human understanding and alteration of the Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organizations and environmental consequences. Students also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. This is an SOL class.

Please note: There is an AP exam associated with this course. AP exams are not required. Students electing to take an AP exam are responsible for paying the exam fee.

MATH

Algebra 1, Part I

Grade 9 Credit 1

Co-requisite: Algebra I

This course extends students’ understanding of the real number system and its properties through the study of variables, expressions, inequalities, factoring, and analysis of data derived from real- world phenomena. Algebra 1, Part I includes some of the Virginia Standards of Learning for Algebra I.

Students will take this course fall semester.

Algebra I

Grade 9 Credit 1

This course extends students’ knowledge and understanding of the real number system and its properties through the study of variables, expressions, equations, inequalities, factoring, and analysis of data derived from real-world phenomena. This is an SOL class.

Students will take this course spring semester.

Accelerated Algebra I (Semester only)

Grade 9 Credit 1

This course, taken in the fall term, extends students’ knowledge and understanding of the real number system and its properties through the study of variables, expressions, equations, inequalities, factoring and analysis of data derived from real-world phenomena. This is an SOL class.

Geometry

Grades 9-11 Credit 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I

This course is designed to teach the student how to recognize terms, symbols ,and figures of plane geometry, to develop certain sequences of theorems, and to develop a way of thinking in a logical, mathematical manner using deductive and inductive reasoning. Direct and indirect proofs used to apply basic relationships of geometry involved in congruence, similarity, parallelism, perpendicularity and area, and to perform basic geometric constructions is the focus of this course. This is an SOL class.

Algebra II

Grades 9-12 Credit 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and Geometry

This course expands and clarifies concepts in Algebra I. New topics include sequence and series, polynomial functions, logarithms, quadratic systems, and conics. Emphasis is on algebraic processes and t heir use in problem solving. This course will enhance the students’ understanding of the function of concept and deductive reasoning in Algebra. This is an SOL class.

Algebra II Honors

Grades 9-12 Credit 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and Geometry

Algebra II continues the students’ study of advanced algebraic concepts including functions, polynomials, and rational expressions, systems of functions and inequalities, and matrices. Students will describe and translate among graphic, algebraic, numeric, tabular, and verbal representations of relations and use those representations to solve problems. Emphasis will be placed on practical applications and modeling. This is an SOL class.

ELECTIVES

REQUIRED

Health and Physical Education 9

Grade 9 Credit 1

Students will participate in classroom instruction and in individual and team activities designed to develop attitudes, knowledge, and skills necessary to maintain personal fitness for a lifetime. Fifty percent of the course focuses on classroom instruction in personal fitness, nutrition, mental health, First Aid CPR AED, family relationships, disease prevention and control, and substance abuse prevention. Selected Family Life Education (FLE) topics are included in this course.

REQUIRED

Requirements for graduation include at least two sequential electives. Rising 9th grade students will choose one paired elective option below to meet this requirement.

Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Option 1

Elective 1: Independent Living

Elective 2: Nutrition and Wellness

Independent Living

Credit 1

This course allows students to explore successful strategies for living independently by actively participating in practical problem solving focusing on relating to others, applying financial literacy, managing resources in the areas of apparel, nutrition and wellness, and housing, using leadership skills to reach individual goals, planning careers, and making consumer choices in a global environment.

Nutrition and Wellness

Credit 1

Students enrolled in this course focus on making choices that promote wellness and good health. Additionally, students analyze relationships between psychological and social needs. This course focuses on food choice, wellness, preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks. That promote optimal nutrition and wellness.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM)

Elective 1: Engineering Computer Science

Elective 2: Engineering Explorations I

Engineering Computer Science

Credit 1

Through an engineering lens, Engineering Computer Science offers students the opportunity to explore the seven big ideas of computer science (creativity, abstraction, data, algorithms, programming, internet, and impact); apply mathematical and scientific principles to solve problems through programming, and learn and apply the foundations of computer science to address real-world problems. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

The course is based on concepts outlined by the College Board and prepares students to take the Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles Examination.

Engineering Explorations I

Credit 1

In Engineering Explorations I, students examine technology and engineering fundamentals in relation to solving real-world problems. Students investigate engineering history, including major engineering achievements, and they examine the principle engineering specialty fields and their related careers. Students practice engineering fundamentals, using mathematical and scientific concepts, and they apply the engineering design process through participation in hands-on engineering projects. Students communicate project-related information through team-based presentations, proposals, and technical reports. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Fine and Performing Arts Option 1

Elective 1: Theater I

Elective 2: Theater II

Theatre I

Credit 1

Theatre I is an introductory course that will focus on foundational theatre concepts, ensemble work, and basic acting skills development, and will study theatre history from around the world from origins. This course will require students to perform in front of their classmates and in front of audiences. This course will require a performance at the end of the year as the culminating final exam. Time after school is required.

Theatre II

Credit 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Theatre I

This course builds upon the skills and knowledge learned in Theatre I. Students will study theatre history from around the world from origins to the present. This course will require students to perform in front of their classmates and in front of audiences. This course will require a performance at the end of the year as the culminating final exam. Time after school is required.

Fine and Performing Arts Option 2

Elective 1: Theater I

Elective 2: Technical Theatre

Theatre I

Credit 1

Theatre I is an introductory course that will focus on foundational theatre concepts, ensemble work, and basic acting skills development, and will study theatre history from around the world from origins. This course will require students to perform in front of their classmates and in front of audiences. This course will require a performance at the end of the year as the culminating final exam. Time after school is required.

Technical Theatre

Credit 1

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Theatre I

The standards for Technical Theatre help students apply and expand their knowledge of theatre design, production, and management. Students develop problem-solving, communication, organizational, and management skills. Drawing on fine arts and other disciplines, they work individually and collaboratively to explore the interrelated components of design, production, and management. Students practice safe operating procedures, including the care, maintenance, and storage of tools, materials, and equipment.

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

Elective 1: Sports and Entertainment Marketing

Elective 2: Strategic Marketing

*These are paired electives and would need to be selected together.

Sports and Entertainment Marketing

Credit 1

This course helps students develop a thorough understanding of fundamental marketing concepts and theories as they relate to the sports and entertainment industries. Students will investigate the components of customer service, branding, product development, pricing and distribution, business structures, sales processes, digital media, sponsorships and endorsements, as well as promotion needed for sports and entertainment events. The course explores career options and develops workplace readiness skills. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Strategic Marketing

Credit 1

In this course, students learn to leverage marketing activities to best differentiate themselves and their businesses. They will participate in supervisory and management activities focusing on the marketing mix, purchasing, financing, human resources, global marketing, pricing, distribution, selling, operations research, and promotion. Students will prepare for marketing careers and postsecondary education, continuing to enhance self-presentation, communication, and leadership skills. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

OTHER OPTIONAL ELECTIVES

The following electives will also be offered to rising 9th grade students if there is room in their schedule.

Art I

Credit 1

A fundamental drawing and design class covering skills necessary to develop two-dimensional line drawings into drawings having depth and dimension. Students will learn perspective, shading and graphic design techniques. Mixing tempera paint to achieve new colors and use of watercolor paint with varied media will be a focus for future art classes.

Entrepreneurship

Credit: 1

This course introduces students to the exciting world of creating, owning, and launching their own business. Students will learn concepts and techniques for planning an entrepreneurial venture, using design thinking and business model development. Students will learn about financial statements, marketing principles, sales and customer service, and basic economic principles for successful operation. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Computer Information Systems

Credit: 1

Students apply problem-solving skills to real-life situations through word processing, spreadsheets, databases, multimedia presentations, and integrated software activities.

Students work individually and in groups to explore computer concepts, operating systems, networks, telecommunications, emerging technologies, and career opportunities

related to the information technology field. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will

develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals

and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Concert Band (Fall Term Only)

Credit 1

Prerequisite: Audition and prior band experience

In this course, students will play a wide variety of music from classical to popular. Students will be required to perform evening concerts, festivals, and participate in occasional after-school rehearsals prior to these events.

MP Singers Bass Chorus & Bella Voce Treble Choir

(tenor and bass singers & alto and soprano singers)

Credit 1

Prerequisite: Audition

These courses designed for the beginning level singer, emphasize correct vocal performance techniques through the singing of appropriate choral literature. Students will be required to perform evening concerts, festivals, and to participate in after-school rehearsals prior to these events.

French I

Credit 1

French I emphasizes the development of students’ communicative competence in the foreign language and their understanding of the culture (s) of the people who speak the language. Emphasis is on the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Focus on vocabulary building, grammar study, and oral participation is a daily activity. Students take part in simple conversations and learn to read and write basic questions and answers.

Spanish I

Credit 1

The basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing will be emphasized. Daily preparation for class and completion of homework are expected. Vocabulary study, spelling, sentence structure, grammar and oral participation on a daily basis will be stressed. Students take part in simple conversations and learn to read and write basic questions and answers. Facts about the geography, customs, and culture of the country are studied.

Spanish II

Credit 1

Prerequisite: Spanish I

Spanish II continues a more in-depth study of structure and grammar. Culture reading selections present customs and mores of various Hispanic countries. Applied use of the language is increased.

Omitting A Grade For A High School Credit Taken In Middle School

The Regulations Establishing Standards of Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia have provided families with the option of requesting that grades be omitted from a student's transcript for any high school credit-bearing course taken in middle school. Requests to have a high school credit-bearing course grade removed from a student's transcript must be submitted using the form available in the counseling office or on the school website to the appropriate principal before the deadlines established by the school division. Families who elect to have a grade removed from the transcript should be aware that the decision to have the grade removed is binding and that no grade or associated credit will be awarded for the course once the request has been granted.