District Vision, Mission, & Goals...1 Prohibition of Discriminatory Practices...1 School Mission and Introduction...2 General Information...

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1 Traverse City West Middle School COURSE SELECTION GUIDE

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3 Table of Contents District Vision, Mission, & Goals...1 Prohibition of Discriminatory Practices...1 School Mission and Introduction...2 General Information...3 Secondary Programs s 6-8th International Baccalaureate Programme...6 s 9-12th Middle School Standardized Testing...9 High School Standardized Testing...10 Graduation Requirements...11 Opportunities (Fast Track Your College Degree) High School Credit in Middle School...15 Dual Enrollment...16 TCAPS Early College...16 Advanced Placement...17 Business Enthusiasts Earn College Credit...17 AP+NMC...18 Online s Middle School - List Curriculum Descriptions Business...29 English Language Arts...29 General Electives Health and Physical Education Mathematics Science...32 Social Studies...33 Visual, Performing and Applied Arts (ART) Visual, Performing and Applied Arts (MUSIC) Visual, Performing and Applied Arts (VPAA)... 3 Technology World Language Planner Follow the Pathways...42 English Language Pathways...43 Math Pathways...44 Science Pathways...45 Social Studies Pathways...46 World Language Pathways...47 Career Pathways...48 Middle School Planner Guide...49 Middle School Planner...50 TCAPS High School Future Planner Guide...51 TCAPS High School 4-Year Future Planner...52

4 Traverse City Area Public Schools Vision Statement Every learner will reach his or her potential in an engaging, inspiring, and challenging environment. District Goals TCAPS will become a destination district. Families and organizations will choose to move to the Traverse City area to be a part of TCAPS. 1. TCAPS provides the strongest academic and extracurricular programming; any time, any place, any way. 2. TCAPS students achieve the highest student performance per educational dollar invested. Mission Statement Through actively engaged local and global communities, Traverse City Area Public Schools will inspire students to achieve: Academic excellence; Productive citizenship; Global competency, and Healthy and innovative skills for life-long learning. 3. All community members have a genuine and dynamic relationship with TCAPS. TCAPS Learner Outcomes Problem Solving Self Motivation Strong Communication Community Contributor Adaptability / Innovation Learn from Experiences and Practice Resiliency Prohibition of Discriminatory Practices The Board of Education is committed to a policy of non-discrimination in the Traverse City Area Public Schools District. Such policy shall be consistent with state and federal statutes, which apply to public schools. The school district of the Traverse City Area Public Schools hereby noti es all employees, citizens, and students that it does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, height, weight, marital status, or against otherwise quali ed handicapped individuals with respect to district educational programs, activities, and employment practices. It is the policy of the Traverse City Area Public Schools District to comply with Title IX of the Education Act Amendment of 1972, Section # 504, of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Michigan law. The Board shall strive to accommodate the handicapped by making buildings accessible in regard to public meetings, voting precincts, and educational programs. Further, the Board designates individuals in the following positions as compliance of cers for the aforementioned regulations: Title IX (Discrimination based on sex) and Title VI (Discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, age, height, weight, arrest record, or marital status): Christine Davis, Executive Director of Human Resources. Section # 504 (Discrimination based on handicaps): Jame McCall, Executive Director of Student Services. Page 1

5 Traverse City West Middle School School Mission Statement The Mission of Traverse City West Middle School, as a safe, caring, responsive environment, is to guide each student to realize his/her fullest potential through well designed cooperative educational experiences, which promote academic excellence, diversity, personal and civic responsibility with enthusiasm for lifelong learning. Introduction Welcome to West Middle School. We offer a variety of programming to prepare our young people for the upcoming challenges and opportunities embedded in their ever-changing educational pathways. Stimulating curiosity, wonderment, critical thinking skills, empathy, and perseverance promotes a strong avenue for all learners. Offering an array of classes to service diverse needs will promote the success of all learners. This catalog was designed to assist you in planning for your student s educational future. During the next few years, students will build upon their strengths, address areas of concern, explore new possibilities, and learn more about themselves. We look forward to developing successful pathways for every student with exciting, productive patterns of thinking in all walks of life. Pam Al eri, West Middle School Principal Steve Urbanski, Wing Principal Ryan Ranger, Wing Principal Dan Tiesworth, Wing Principal Page 2

6 General Information Accelerated Schedule Opportunities Class Rank Students are given the opportunity to earn high school credit for Algebra I, Earth Science and/or any level I or greater foreign language course. If students successfully complete the required assessments they will enter 9th grade with high school credits earned. Accelerating the student s ability to ful ll high school graduation requirements and elect courses eligible to earn college credit is encouraged in grades TCAPS offers a variety of programs promoting credit acceleration: e.g. Advanced Placement, Dual Enrollment, Online courses, and Early College opportunities. See the Fast Track Your College Degree section and/or contact your school counselor for more details. A student s cumulative grade point average along with speci c classes is used to determine the student s percentile rank in class. The grade point average is computed by dividing the total accumulated honor points by the number of credits attempted. Only courses graded on the A - F scale are used in this computation. Numerical class rank is no longer used; however, a percentile standing is determined. Personal Curriculum Opportunities Scheduling The courses in this catalog will be scheduled only if registration gures indicate a suf cient enrollment demand for the course. Before planning the high school program, students are to review graduation requirements with their parents. During the second semester of each school year, students meet with their counselors to discuss and nalize their course selections for the following year. At this time, counselors urge students to examine their 4-year high school plan, taking into consideration their personalities, interests, abilities, and post-secondary education and career plans. Students take copies of their course selections to their parents for approval and signature. It is the student s responsibility to return the parent-approved course selection sheet to the counselor. New State Assessments Excerpt from The and school years will bring substantial change in state required summative assessments. In June of 2014, legislation was passed requiring the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to develop a new summative assessment for use in Spring Unlike the previous MEAP assessments, the new assessment will be aligned to Michigan standards, administered in the spring, and measure current year versus past year student knowledge. English language arts and mathematics will be assessed in grades 3-8 and 11. Science will be assessed in grades 4, 7, and 11; and social studies in grades 5, 8, and 11. This assessment will be administered for one year, online with a paper and pencil option for schools not technology-ready. The legislation also requires the department issue a Request For Proposal by September 1, 2014 for a new summative assessment system to begin in the school year. *If a student chooses to increase the academic rigor of his/her schedule by taking more than the required Math, Science, English Language Arts, and/or World Language credits, he/she may modify the following requirements with those extra academic credits: 1 Physical Education Credit (.5 PE credit would still be required) 1 Social Studies Credit (.5 Civics would still be required) 1 Visual, Performing and Applied Arts Credit A Personal Curriculum is required and more information is available from your school counselor. Schedule Change Request and Withdrawal Every effort is made to determine the most appropriate courses for students commensurate with their needs, interests, and abilities. assignments are arranged to accommodate courses selected by students. Therefore, any request for a schedule change will be considered only for the most compelling of reasons. Such reasons are: (1) Your schedule does not include the courses and alternate courses previously approved by parents and counselor. (2) Your schedule does not include a requirement for graduation, which must be made this year. If your schedule contains such an error or omission, see your counselor before regular classes begin in the fall. During the year, withdrawals from courses and schedule changes are quite rare, but may be justi able under certain circumstances. The following guideline applies: Any decisions regarding withdrawals from scheduled courses must involve the student, his or her parents, and counselor. The principal has the nal authority to drop or add a student s class(es). The intent of this policy is to arrive at decisions in the best interest of the student based on the involvement of both the student and parents, and the judgment of the professional staff. The process also seeks to prevent students from sampling subjects without providing suf cient effort required for successful achievement. Page 3

7 Secondary Programs 6-8 Both middle schools are organized as a school-within-a-school concept. Each wing of ce has a team consisting of an administrator, support personnel, and an administrative assistant. This team uses a family approach to guide each student through the middle school years. Continuity is achieved by having the same resources supporting students as they progress from year to year. * The middle school principal oversees and works with the students, parents, and staff from all grades. The middle school principal is responsible for curriculum, budget, communications, and staf ng. * The wing level principal works closely with students, teachers, and parents to provide a safe learning environment based on dignity and respect. The wing level principal holds each student responsible for appropriate behavior. * The administrative assistants are the of ce managers for wing level functions. They are the rst contact for parents and students who need access to school services. * The behavioral intervention specialist provides strategies for students struggling with social, emotional, and/or academic issues that impede their ability to fully access the curriculum. He/She will provide clinical support for students through individual or group counseling. The intervention specialist will administer and interpret a variety of diagnostic assessments to be used in creating intervention plans speci c to both affective and learning needs of students. The intervention specialist reports to the middle school principal. * The counselor is a primary source of help for students, parents, and teachers, and can help resolve concerns that may hinder learning. Counselors and students meet frequently to discuss personal, social, academic, and career issues. The family/team concept is used when parents and teachers join with counselors and students toward the goal of the best education possible for each student. * The school social worker is available for consultation and counseling of any student as requested by staff, parents, or students. In addition, the social worker coordinates referrals for students with special needs to community resources and the TASC Program. Academically Talented Program Earn High School Credit in Middle School Academically Talented classes are available for academically talented students as determined by eligibility criteria. Advanced English LA Initiative (AELAI) (6-8) Students have the opportunity to earn high school credit in 8th grade math, science, and world language. Students taking Algebra I, Earth Science, and/or any high school eqivalent World Language course will have the potential to earn high school credit by passing the required assessments. See Fast Track Your High School Degree section of this guide for more details. Contact your school counselor for more information. Advanced English LA Initiative (AELAI) is designed to prepare students for the literacy demands of their content area classes. Students will learn a variety of strategies to accelerate comprehension with a focus on informational text, making inferences and identifying text structures. Note taking skills and study strategies for academic classes will also be covered. Students will examine how they learn, eliminate miscues from their reading and writing processes, and increase their vocabulary through the independent application of strategies. Due to the prerequisites of this intervention, an administrator must refer students for this course. Curriculum Alignment Assessment Program (CAAP) The CAAP committees have aligned TCAPS curriculum with the state curriculum by grade level. District level assessments have been developed for content standards at each grade level in order to gauge student achievement. All students district-wide, kindergarten through twelfth grade, are administered CAAP assessments in each subject area. English as a Second Language English as a Second Language provides a foundation for English language acquisition and the academic development of students who are identi ed as limited English pro cient. The goal is to support students in their English language acquisition in the areas of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students will be tested to see if they qualify and as to which level of ESL class they will be placed. Administrator approval is required to enroll. International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme TC East Middle School and TC West Middle School are candidate schools** for the Middle Years Programme. These schools are pursuing authorization as an IB World School. IB World Schools share a common philosophy a commitment to improve the teaching and learning of a diverse and inclusive community of students by delivering challenging, high quality, programmes of international education that share a powerful vision. **Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its three academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), or the Diploma Programme (and in addition, the IB Career-related Certi cate). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit See IB Middle Years in this guide for more information. Page 4

8 Secondary Programs 6-8 New Programs Special Education TCAPS has expanded the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. TCAPS International School at Bertha Vos has been in operation for three years working on full IB accreditation, and TCAPS has been working with the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District (TBAISD) to implement a grant that assists schools with transition costs associated with opening International Baccalaureate programmes. Interlochen Elementary School is an IB transitional school working on full accreditation, and both East and West Middle Schools have implemented an optional program available to all 6th -8th grade students. See the Middle School Programs section in this guide for more information and/or see your counselor for details. TCAPS International School at Bertha Vos and Interlochen Community School are candidate schools** for the Primary Years Programme. TC East Middle School and TC West Middle School are candidate schools** for the Middle Years Programme. These schools are pursuing authorization as an IB World School. IB World Schools share a common philosophy a commitment to improve the teaching and learning of a diverse and inclusive community of students by delivering challenging, high quality, programmes of international education that share a powerful vision. **Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its three academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), or the Diploma Programme (and in addition, the IB Careerrelated Certificate). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit TCAPS offers an Early College Program designed to provide high school students an opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and an Associate Degree from Northwestern Michigan College (NMC). See the Fast Track Your College Degree section in this guide for more information and/or see your counselor for details. Watch for periodic updates as these programs develop. Virtual Middle School Online s High schools and middle schools provide courses (all taught by certi ed teachers) and other learning tools online. Online course provider organizations work in cooperation with individual school districts to grant course credit and diplomas through online courses. Students may select from a variety of courses and can participate any place there is a computer with an Internet connection. Additionally, high school students can prepare for tests such as the ACT and Advanced Placement exams. All students are eligible for virtual courses. Virtual online courses are available for Art, Business, English Language Arts, General Electives, Health & Physical Education, World Languages, Math, Music, Science, Social Studies, and Visual, Performing and Applied Arts. Please see the comprehensive course list available in this guide and see your counselor for more information. Special education courses are designed for students certi ed as physically or otherwise health impaired, mentally impaired, learning disabled, hearing impaired, emotionally impaired, or speech and language impaired. work is offered in Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, and Personal Adjustment, with emphasis on basic learning skills, improving social behavior, and communication skills. The middle school provides a continuum of special education programs to meet the individual needs of students in the least restrictive setting. All programs operate according to state and federal mandates. World Language Scope and Sequence The new course titles for World Language offerings in French, German, and Spanish at the middle schools re ect the importance of and focus on, pro ciency and performance in World Language, as highlighted by ACTFL, (The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) World Readiness Standards. Students can earn up to 2 High School credits for World Language study while at the Middle School. These courses, Foundational, Extending, and Re ning, give students the opportunity of 2 ½ years of language study before they are assessed for High School credit in their language of choice. The credit assessment would take place at the end of their 8 th grade year (although students may test at the end of 7 th grade to earn a maximum of 1 credit), and students will be placed in level 1, 2, or 3 language at the high school based on their performance. The additional exposure to the language assures that middle school students are practicing and performing at the same level of pro ciency in all areas as the students at the high school level. In addition, it assures that students take some of their World Language credits at the high school level. Selective universities prefer that if students take World Language at the middle school, they take at least one of their years in high school. Foundational French, German, and Spanish provide an initial exposure to the language and culture, focusing on verbal communication, and cultural competence and understanding. For Spanish students it can act as a continuation of their elementary experience. For students new to a language it provides an introduction to the language and the cultures associated with it. This class meets every other day for the entire year and is designed as an option for 6 th grade students, as opposed to a full year course. Extending French, German, and Spanish focuses on the same, but with more in-depth performance expectations and more attention to grammar, including interpersonal, interpretive and presentational (written and spoken) assessments. This class meets daily for the entire year. (Foundational French, German, and Spanish is not required as a prerequisite to Extending French, German, or Spanish however, it will provide students with a strong base in vocabulary and culture.) This class is intended for 7 th and 8 th grade students. Re ning French, German, and Spanish continues to build on the material learned in Extending, revisiting some vocabulary and grammar concepts and building on them by adding new concepts and contexts. This class meets daily for the entire year. This class is intended for 8 th grade students. Page 5

9 International Baccalaureate Programme Middle Years-s 6-8 The International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) is designed for students in middle school to learn and promote international mindedness. It provides a framework of learning which encourages students to become creative, critical and re ective thinkers. The MYP emphasizes intellectual challenge, encouraging students to make connections between their studies in traditional subjects to the real world. It fosters the development of skills for communication, intercultural understanding and global engagement, qualities that are essential for life in the 21st century. The MYP encompasses the national and local curriculums. Students participate in eight subject groups to achieve the goals of the programme. The subject areas are Humanities, Sciences, Language A (English), Language B (Mandarin or Spanish), Mathematics, Arts, Physical Education and Technology. Students also participate in a personal project which provides the opportunity for students to undertake an independent project in an area of interest. Sample International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme Schedule 6 th 7 th 8 th IB Language A (English) (G01100) IB Language A (English) (G01200) IB Language A (English) (G01300) IB Humanities (G12400) IB Humanities (G12500) IB Humanities (G12600) IB Sciences (G22000) IB Sciences (G22100) IB Sciences (G22200) # IB Mathematics (G32600) IB Mathematics (G32700) IB Mathematics (G32800) # IB Language Acquisition (Chinese I-G40720) OR (Spanish I-G40840) OR (Spanish II-G44420) IB Language Acquisition (Chinese I-G40720) OR (Chinese II-G41610) OR (Spanish I-G40840) OR (Spanish II-G44420) IB Language Acquisition # (Chinese I-G40720) OR (Chinese II-G41610) OR (Spanish I-G40840) OR (Spanish II-G44420) Arts (VPAA Elective) Arts (VPAA Elective) Arts (VPAA Elective) PE (G71800)/Technology (G97000) PE (G71900)/Technology (G97100) PE (G72000)/Technology (G97200) The Arts portion of the programme allows IB students to select electives from many of the courses listed within the visual, performing and applied arts (VPAA) categories. This would include elective classes in orchestra, band, choir, theater, drawing and painting, pottery and sculpture, and a few others listed on the IB enrollment form. Each middle school offers courses based on participation. Only courses with enough enrollments will be offered, therefore second choices are important. As directed on the IB enrollment form, enter second choice electives. The Physical Education and Technology portion of the programme will be offered at the end of each day. This portion of the programme will focus on providing physical education and preparing students to participate in a personal project. These courses will alternate daily, providing students with ve days of physical education and ve days of technology every two weeks. Please see your counselor for more information. # Passing CAAP pro ciency assessments may result in high school credit. Page 6

10 Secondary Programs s 9-12 Academic Assistance Career-Tech Center The State of Michigan appropriates special funding to address the needs of students at-risk of failing. These funds have enabled the high school to create special plans for helping at-risk students. Interested students should ask their counselors about this opportunity. Career-Tech Center programs (grades 11-12) offer an educational block of time designed to assist students in pre-vocational training, reading, writing, and mathematics skills, in addition to on-site career exploration. For further information, call the Career-Tech Center at Advanced Placement The College Board s Advanced Placement courses are college-level classes in a wide variety of subjects that you can take while still in high school. They offer you challenging course work and a taste of what college classes are like. TCAPS offers many Advanced Placement (AP) courses in a variety of subjects. See Fast Track Your College Degree in this guide for a complete list of AP courses offered. Completing an AP course and scoring successfully o n the related AP exam, can possibly save on college expenses. See speci c colleges guidelines on accepting AP scores for credit and placement. Advanced English LA Initiative (AELAI) Advanced English LA Initiative (AELAI) is designed to prepare students for the literacy demands of their content area classes. Students will learn a variety of strategies to accelerate comprehension with a focus on informational text, making inferences and identifying text structures. Note taking skills and study strategies for academic classes will also be covered. Students will examine how they learn, eliminate miscues from their reading and writing processes, and increase their vocabulary through the independent application of strategies. Due to the prerequisites of this intervention, an administrator must refer students for this course. Business Track- Earn Free College Credit TCAPS Business Education Department is excited to offer the opportunity for college credit (articulation) at NMC or Davenport University for students who receive a B+ or higher in the selected high school business courses: * Accounting I, and II * Business Technology A and B * Marketing-How to Start a Business * Marketing-Advertising See Fast Track Your College Degree section of this guide. Interested students should ask their counselors about this opportunity. Dual Enrollment The Dual Enrollment program offers students, who qualify, an opportunity to enroll in college level courses. Qualifying students are eligible to earn tuition free college credit in approved courses while completing their high school education. This guide includes some college courses available to students on their high school campus. In addition, TCAPS Advanced Placement (AP) courses earn NMC college credit when AP Exam results meet speci ed scores. Not all colleges and universities recognize dual enrollment credit. See Fast Track Your College Degree section for NMC requirements and credit information. Meet with your high school counselor for more details. General Equivalency Diploma (GED) We encourage each person who has not completed his/her high school graduation requirements to do so. Information is available on the GED from high school, adult education, and youth employment counselors. Independent Research Project This program is designed speci cally for those students in their junior or senior year who are highly and intrinsically motivated, and desire an opportunity for a very focused and intensive research experience. The student will meet with the instructor and prepare a proposal to be submitted for approval. Students and their instructor may coordinate a work schedule that falls outside of the normal class period structure. The course will culminate with the student writing a formal paper and presenting their project to their peers and advisor. For details, see your counselor. Page 7

11 Secondary Programs s 9-12 Special Education Special Education courses are designed for students certi ed as physically handicapped, cognitively impaired, learning disabled, hearing impaired, emotionally impaired, or speech and language impaired. work is offered in reading, math, social studies, vocational education, work study, personal adjustment, and resource. Special emphasis is placed on basic learning skills, improving social behavior, and communication skills. Programs are based on the talents and abilities of the student. All programs operate according to state and federal mandates. Special education students have access to the general education curriculum. Traverse Bay Area Early College TCAPS Early College Program Traverse City Area Public Schools invites you to make the most of high school as you: Prepare for college by experiencing college classes Earn college credit that will transfer Reduce your overall cost of college Reach your full potential as a student Join the TCAPS Early College Program! Early College provides students with a de ned pathway of courses through high school and college, if completed successfully, results in the student earning both a high school diploma and an associate degree from NMC. That means you can earn up to two years of college credits while completing high school! See Fast Track Y our College Degree section of this guide for more information. Test Out High school students may request the opportunity to test out of any high school class they select. A student who successfully tests out of a course will receive credit toward graduation for the course. The test out grade will simply be a pass and will not be included in the calculation of a student s grade point average. The option to test out will be offered in the spring of each year. Students interested in pursuing test out opportunities are encouraged to discuss the option with their counselor. To test out, students are expected to produce the same quality of work as students who attend the class and score a 78% or higher on the test-out exam. Traverse City High School Traverse City High School is an alternative high school for students who have not been successful in their traditional high school program. Traverse City High School offers: Individualized Educational Plans, Career Tech Experience, Work Experience, Counseling Support, First Time Classes, Class Completion, and Intramural Sports. TBA Early College is a program for students to earn college credits by completing course work at their home high schools, at TBAISD Career-Tech Center, on college campuses, via online and blended learning environments and/or through eld experiences. This program is delivered through a collaborative partnership among the TBAISD, NMC, and Ferris State University. Students who will be enrolled in the TBAISD Career-Tech Center Allied Health, Business Careers, Manufacturing Technology Academy and Drafting & Design Technology programs are eligible to apply for admission into the Early College program. Visit tbaearlycollege.org/ to view sample course sequences and learn more about the program. See your counselor to apply. Virtual High School Online s High schools and middle schools provide courses (all taught by certi ed teachers) and other learning tools online. Online course provider organizations work in cooperation with individual school districts to grant course credit and diplomas through online courses. Students may select from a variety of courses and can participate any place there is a computer with an Internet connection. Additionally, high school students can prepare for tests such as the ACT and Advanced Placement exams. All students are eligible for virtual courses. Virtual online courses are available for Art, Business, English Language Arts, General Electives, Health & Physical Education, World Languages, Math, Music, Science, Social Studies, and Visual, Performing and Applied Arts. Please see the comprehensive course list available in this guide and see your counselor for more information. Work Experience Program A work-based learning program coordinated by the school with an employer providing an educational experience related to the school instruction. Students can earn up to a full credit in this course depending upon the hours worked. Students must be concurrently or previously enrolled in a job related academic course during the same academic year to gain credit for work experience. To enroll in this course students and employers must ll out the Work-Based Education Programs Training Agreement. See your counselor for more details. Page 8

12 Middle School Standardized Testing MI-Access (Michigan s Alternative Assessment Program) The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that all students with disabilities be assessed at the state level. In response to this legislation, the Michigan State Board of Education approved the Michigan Educational Assessment System (MEAS). MI-Access is designed for students for whom the IEP Team has determined that the Smarter Balanced and/or Michigan developed assessments, even with assessment accommodations, are not appropriate. Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) NWEA s computerized adaptive tests are called Measure of Academic Progress, or MAP, and assess both reading and mathematics. When taking a MAP test, the dif culty of each question is based on how well a student answers all the previous questions. As the student answers correctly, questions become more dif cult. If the student answers incorrectly, the questions become easier. In an optimal test, a student answers approximately half the items correctly and half incorrectly. The nal score is an estimate of the student s achievement level. TCAPS administers the MAP assessment to all students 3rd through 8th grade, and all high school special education students, 3 times during the school year. State Assessments Excerpt from The and school years will bring substantial change in state required summative assessments. In June of 2014, legislation was passed requiring the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to develop a new summative assessment for use in Spring Unlike the previous MEAP assessments, the new assessment will be aligned to Michigan standards, administered in the spring, and measure current year versus past year student knowledge. English language arts and mathematics will be assessed in grades 3-8 and 11. Science will be assessed in grades 4, 7, and 11; and social studies in grades 5, 8, and 11. This assessment will be administered for one year, online with a paper and pencil option for schools not technologyready. The legislation also requires the department issue a Request For Proposal by September 1, 2014 for a new summative assessment system to begin in the school year. World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) The spring WIDA ACCESS (Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State to State) replaces the English Language Pro ciency Assessment (ELPA) taken by all English Language Learners (ELLs). This summative assessment is aligned to the newly adopted Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and is administered in 31 other states. WIDA ACCESS will be administered to all identi ed K-12 ELL students. Page 9

13 High School Standardized Testing s 9 through 12 State Testing Excerpt from The and school years will bring substantial change in state required summative assessments. In June of 2014, legislation was passed requiring the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to develop a new summative assessment for use in Spring Unlike the previous MEAP assessments, the new assessment will be aligned to Michigan standards, administered in the spring, and measure current year versus past year student knowledge. English language arts and mathematics will be assessed in grades 3-8 and 11. Science will be assessed in grades 4, 7, and 11; and social studies in grades 5, 8, and 11. This assessment will be administered for one year, online with a paper and pencil option for schools not technology-ready. The legislation also requires the department issue a Request For Proposal by September 1, 2014 for a new summative assessment system to begin in the school year. ACT Compass Test The ACT is a college admission test accepted by all colleges in Michigan and most colleges across the country. The ACT assessment measures high school students general educational development and their capability to complete college-level work with the multiple choice tests covering four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science. The optional Writing Test measures skill in planning and writing a short essay. ACT states that its scores provide an indicator of college readiness, and that scores in each of the subtests correspond to skills in entry-level college courses in English, algebra, social science, humanities, and biology. Since the spring of 2006, the State of Michigan has provided ACT testing as part of the 11 th grade Michigan Merit Exam (MME) which is currently required for graduation. Spring of 2015 high school testing has not been nalized. Advanced Placement Examinations Tests are given at the end of the Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The high school offers AP classes in a variety of subjects. A passing score may earn college credit. Students may take AP tests in subjects other than those offered by the AP classes. Test sign-up occurs through the Counseling Of ce. An examination fee, per test, is due prior to testing. The testing takes place during a two-week period in May. All AP students are strongly encouraged to take the AP exam(s). Scholarships for the exam(s) are available through the counseling of ce. MI-Access (Michigan s Alternative Assessment Program) The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that all students with disabilities be assessed at the state level. In response to this legislation, the Michigan State Board of Education approved the Michigan Educational Assessment System (MEAS). MI-Access is designed for students for whom the IEP Team has determined that the Smarter Balanced and/or Michigan developed assessments, even with assessment accommodations, are not appropriate. Tests in reading, writing, and math are given at Northwestern Michigan College for those students who wish to dual enroll. Passing these tests is necessary for dual enrollment. Tests are taken during the semester prior to dual enrollment. All registration information is available in the Counseling Of ce. PSAT/SAT I/SAT II PSAT provides practice for the SAT. The results are used to determine National Merit recognition and the test is given in mid- October. This test is normed for 11th grade students. SAT I is a college admissions test accepted by many colleges in Michigan and across the country. Highly selective colleges require the SAT I and II. May or June of the 11th grade year, or November of the 12th grade year, are most appropriate for testing. Registration materials are available in the Counseling Of ce. The SAT II assessments are hour-long tests in certain subject areas. Highly selective colleges require or recommend the SAT II. Since both the SAT I and SAT II cannot be taken on the same test date, careful planning is needed to accommodate both tests in a timely fashion. Registration materials are available in the Counseling Of ce. World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) The spring WIDA ACCESS (Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State to State) replaces the English Language Pro ciency Assessment (ELPA) taken by all English Language Learners (ELLs). This summative assessment is aligned to the newly adopted Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and is administered in 31 other states. WIDA ACCESS will be administered to all identi ed K-12 ELL students. Page 10

14 TCAPS Graduation Requirements s Graduates must earn 25 credits Graduates must earn 23.5 credits Graduates must earn 22 credits. Science Credits Class Credits Class 9th 1 credit English Language Arts-9 Required 10th 1 credit English Language Arts-10 Required 11th 1 credit From the following English courses: English Lang Arts-11, Front Street Writers-Adv Creative Writing Workshop I, AP Language & Composition, AP Literature & Composition 12th 1 credit From the following English courses: English Lang Arts-12, Front Street Writers-Adv Creative Writing Workshop I and/or II AP Language & Composition, AP Literature & Composition Total 4 credits Required 9th-12th Mathematics Credits Class 9th 1 credit Algebra I or Geometry 10th 1 credit Geometry or Algebra II 11-12th 1 credit each year (Total of 2 credits) Algebra II, Algebra II a & b Trig/Pre-Calc, AP Calc AB, AP Calc BC, AP Statistics, AP Statistics Math Extensions, Math Made for Me, Math Boot Camp, Intro to Statistics (Acct. I, Acct. II, Personal Finance, and/or Physics may satisfy the MMC requirement for the one math course taken in the nal year of high school.) Total 4 credits Required 9-12th must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II World Languages Credits Class World Language graduation requirements for students graduating 2016 and after. K-12th 2 credits of the same world language course study 9-12th grade or equivalent learning experience K-12th. (For the class of , students may substitute an additional VPAA course or a CTE course for the 2nd credit.) 9th 1 credit Biology 10th 1 credit Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Physics, or Honors Physics 11-12th 1 credit Environmental Science, Forensic Science, or Nutrition Science Prin. of Technology, Physiology, Physics, Honors Physics, Physics Extended Topics, AP Biology, or AP Chemistry Total 3 credits Required 9th-12th Social Studies Credits Class 9th 1 credit U.S. History & Geography 10th 1 credit World History & Geography, or AP World History 11-12th.5 credit Economics, AP Macroeconomics, or AP Microeconomics,.5 credit Civics, or AP U.S. Gov t & Politics Total *3 credits Required 9th-12th Health & Physical Education Credits Class 9th 1 credit Health & Physical Education I and II or Working on Wellness I and II 9-12th.5 credit Personal Fitness, Intro to Dance, Sports Activities, Physical Outdoor Ed, or Weights & Conditioning Total *1.5 credits Required 9-12th Visual, Performing, and Applied Arts (VPAA) Credits Class 9-12th *1 credit VPAA *If a student chooses to increase the academic rigor of his/her schedule by taking more than the required Math, Science, English Language Arts, and/or World Language credits, he/she may modify the following requirements with those extra academic credits: 1 Physical Education Credit (.5 PE credit would still be required) 1 Social Studies Credit (.5 Civics would still be required) 1 Visual, Performing and Applied Arts Credit A Personal Curriculum is required and more information is available from your school counselor. Page 11

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17 Fast Track Your High School Experience (GRADES 6-12) COURSE OPPORTUNITIES Page 14

18 Fast Track Your High School Degree High School Credit Earned at the Middle School Subject that Earns Credit Assessment used to determine pro ciency High School Credit Award Criteria Math 7th AT Algebra I, 8th Algebra I, 8th AT Geometry IB Mathematics Curriculum Assessment and Alignment Program (CAAP) Pro ciency assessment ending each semester Must have an average of 78% (C+) pro ciency on both assessments. Science 8th Earth Science IB Science TCAPS CAAP Pro ciency Assessments Must have an average of 78% (C+) pro ciency on all assessments. World Language (Classroom delivery) (Everyday delivery, taken 7th or 8th grade) Extending or Re ning French, Extending or Re ning German, Extending or Re n- ing Spanish, Chinese I or II, IB Language Acquisition Spanish I or II, IB Language Acquisition Chinese I or II, OR Anishinaabemowin I TCAPS CAAP Pro ciency Assessments Must have an average of 78% (C+) pro ciency on all assessments. World Language (Online delivery) (Online course taken any grade level) French I, German I, Spanish I, Chinese I, OR higher level from online instructor must be at or exceed 78% (C+). *Middle school courses earning high school credit will appear on the student s transcript as a CR. No letter grade will be indicated. Page 15

19 Fast Track Your College Degree Dual Enrollment The Dual Enrollment program offers students, who qualify, an opportunity to enroll in college level courses. Qualifying students are eligible to earn tuition free college credit in approved courses while completing their high school education. This guide includes some college courses available to students on their high school campus. In addition, TCAPS Advanced Placement (AP) courses earn NMC college credit when AP Exam results meet speci ed scores. Not all colleges and universities recognize dual enrollment credit. See Fast Track Your College Degree section for NMC requirements and credit information. Meet with your high school counselor for more details. Early College Program at TCAPS with NMC Traverse City Area Public Schools invites you to make the most of high school as you: Prepare for college by experiencing college classes Earn college credit that will transfer Reduce your overall cost of college Reach your full potential as a student Join the TCAPS Early College Program! Early College provides students with a de ned pathway of courses through high school and college that, if completed successfully, results in the student earning both a high school diploma and an associate degree from NMC. That means you can earn up to two years of college credits before graduating high school at no cost to you! Early College is different than dual enrollment, here s how: Early College vs. Dual Enrollment Pathway of high school and college classes de ned for you College courses preselected based on transferability Your high school pays for classes Designed to give you both high school graduation and up to two years of college credit, or an associate degree from NMC You choose the pre-approved classes from NMC Classes may or may not transfer Your high school pays for pre-approved classes, some classes will not be approved Helps you earn some college credits before graduating from high school Is Early College best for you? If you can answer yes to any of the following, Early College at TCAPS might be for you: You want to begin completing college general education classes before graduating high school. You want to focus your college readiness efforts in robotics or other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics courses. You are ready to begin college classes with the full academic support of the high school and local community college, NMC. How does it work? Application 1. Complete the online application form for Early College at 2. Submit a high school transcript and $20 application fee to NMC. 3. Take the FREE Compass test at NMC anytime the Library at NMC is open ( and upload your Compass test scores to your online application. Cost Enrolling in the Early College program can save you money. Your high school will pay for all college courses completed successfully as part of the Early College program. For more information contact: Lindsey Dickinson, dickinsoli@tcaps.net Page 16

20 Fast Track Your College Degree Advanced Placement (AP) (Program of the College Board) This rigorous program exposes high school students to college-level material through involvement in an AP course and it gives them the opportunity to show they have mastered the material by taking an optional exam. All AP students are strongly encouraged to take the AP exam(s). Scholarships for the exam(s) are available through the counseling of ce. Colleges and universities may then grant credit, placement, or both, to students (based on qualifying scores). Although the AP exam is an assessment for college credit, it is only one component. The AP program allows students to learn a subject in greater depth, practice higher-level thinking skills, lay the groundwork for future challenges, and acquire the self-discipline necessary for high academic achievement. AP classes offered at the high school this year include (see course description in each department section): AP Biology AP Calculus/AB AP Calculus/BC AP Chemistry AP English Language and Composition AP English Literature and Composition AP History - European AP History - United States AP Macroeconomics AP Microeconomics AP Psychology AP Statistics AP Statistics with Mathematical Extensions AP Studio Art-Drawing AP Studio Art-2-D Design AP Studio Art-3-D Design AP Studio Art-Photography AP United States Government & Politics AP World History BUSINESS ENTHUSIASTS EARN FREE COLLEGE CREDIT WHILE IN HIGH SCHOOL TCAPS Business Education Department is excited to offer the opportunity ty for college credit (articulation) at NMC or Davenport University for students who receive a B+ or higher in the selected high school business courses: (Articulation is a method of granting university-level course credit for learning and skills accomplished as part of secondary school instruction.) Traverse City West & Central Senior High Accounting I and II Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) ACC 121 Accounting Principles (4 credits) Davenport University ACCT 201 Accounting Foundations (4 credits) Business Technology A and B CIT 100 Computers in Business (3 credits) CISP 100 Introduction to Computers (3 credits) Marketing-How to Start a Business and Marketing-Advertising MKTG 211 Marketing Foundations (3 credits) Page 17