Rowan-Salisbury Schools High School Guide Book

Transcription

1 Rowan-Salisbury Schools High School Guide Book

2 Rowan-Salisbury Schools High School Guidebook Edition The High School Guidebook provides general information about the academic expectations and course offerings of all Rowan-Salisbury High Schools. This guidebook is intended to provide information to students and their parents as they decide on course selections for the school year. If you have any questions, please contact your high school guidance department for assistance. Rowan-Salisbury High Schools Jesse C. Carson High School Guidance Department ext. 5020, 5025, 5032, 5033, 5034, 5040 East Rowan High School Guidance Department ext. 117, 119, 120, 125, 145, 149 Henderson Independent High School Guidance Department ext. 118, 121, 127 North Rowan High School Guidance Department ext. 115, 116, 118, 119, 137 Salisbury High School Guidance Department ext. 452, 453, 450, 454, 455, 459 South Rowan High School Guidance Department ext. 243, 263, 269, 270 West Rowan High School Guidance Department ext. 126, 127, 128, 137, 138, 149 Rowan County Early College In compliance with federal law, the Rowan Salisbury Schools System administers all educational programs, employment activities and admissions without discrimination because of race, religion, national or ethnic origin, color, age, military service, disability, or gender, except where exemption is appropriate and allowed by law.

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS General Information 1 Graduation Requirements 6 Valedictorian and Salutatorian Selection 7 Grade Placement 7 Testing Requirements for High School 8 Grade Reporting 10 Weighted Course Program 10 NC Virtual Public School 11 College and Career Promise 12 High School Program for Students with Disabilities (IEP) 12 English as a Second Language 12 Homebound Instruction 12 High School Remediation 12 Scholastic Requirements for High School Athletic Participation 13 Academic Attendance Requirements 13 Acceptance of Transfer of Student s Grades 13 Home School Credit Acceptance 13 Driver s Education 14 College Preparation and Planning 14 High School Fees 15 Academic Offerings English Math Science Social Studies World Languages Healthful Living Arts Education Electives Career and Technical Education Agricultural Education Business Education Career Development Family and Consumer Sciences Education Health Occupations Education Marketing Education Trade and Industrial Education Work-Based Learning Experiences

4 Rowan-Salisbury School System Mission: To develop globally competitive schools that inspire, challenge, and empower students to meet high academic standards, lead ethical lives, and demonstrate knowledgeable, responsible citizenship in an increasingly challenging world. Rowan-Salisbury School System Vision: An exemplary system whose schools are recognized for the outstanding quality of their graduates, staff, and programs. These graduates allow Rowan County to successfully compete regionally, nationally, and globally for high quality business and economic development. The guiding mission of the North Carolina State Board of Education is that every public school student will graduate from high school, be globally competitive for work and post-secondary education, and be prepared for life in the 21st century. Goal: NC public schools will produce globally competitive students. Goal: NC public schools will be led by 21st century professionals. Goal: NC public school students will be healthy and responsible. Goal: Leadership will guide innovation in NC public schools. Goal: NC public schools will be governed and supported by 21st century systems. In order for all students to reach their full potential, everyone connected to the schools has responsibilities to fulfill. Student Responsibilities: High personal standards and goals Regular Attendance Honest effort Responsible behavior Respect for teachers and administrators Respect for self and other students Respect for property Staff Responsibilities: Support student goals and aspirations Provide a challenging and meaningful curriculum Create a positive learning environment Parental Responsibilities Encourage and reinforce educational values Monitor student progress Be involved in school events and activities Support teachers and administrators with the educational process Community Responsibilities Recognize and reward student achievement Provide support services and activities Assist in fundraising and booster programs

5 Dear Students and Parents, Dear Students and Parents, Welcome to the High School Guidebook and registration process. For many of you this will be the last year you participate in this process because you or your child will be graduating in For others, you are in various stages of your high school career. Regardless of the stage of your high school experience, registration is an opportunity reflect on your goals and and continue the journey toward earning your high school diploma. It is my hope that the High School Guidebook will provide you with the information you need to complete the registration process. As you begin looking at the course offerings, keep in mind your interests and your future goals. The high school guidance departments will provide additional information as you move through the registration process. Course offerings at each high school are determined by student interest and electives may vary. Students are encouraged to register for the 8 courses they wish to take but also include alternate courses. Alternate courses will be scheduled if first choice courses are not available. North Carolina schools began implementing the Common Core and Essential State Standards throughout K-12 classrooms beginning with the school year. These standards define the knowledge and skills students should acquire during their K-12 careers to graduate from high school prepared to succeed in credit-bearing academic college courses, workforce training programs or entry level jobs. The courses are designed to better prepare our students for college and the work world of the 21st century. We are excited to begin a new school year and partner with families as our students set and achieve goals and make choices about their future. A successful high school experience is dependent upon the hard work and dedication of students and the partnership between home and school to support and encourage students along the way. Together, we will help your child achieve his/her goals and graduate prepared to succeed along life s journey. Sincerely, Eisa M. Cox Executive Director of Secondary Education Rowan-Salisbury Schools

6 Graduation Requirements for Ninth Graders Entering in 2012/13 & Later Future Ready Core Course of Study ENGISH Entered High School Credits of English (must be sequential) English I English II English III English IV Occupational Course of Study Credits of OCS English (must be sequential) OCS English I OCS English II OCS English III OCS English IV MATH 4 Credits of Math Math I Math II Math III 1 Additional Math (Based on student s Post Secondary plans) 3 Credits of OCS Math OCS Introduction to Math OCS Integrated Math OCS Financial Management SCIENCE 4 Credits of Science Earth Environmental Science Biology Physical Science/Chemistry 1 Science Elective 2 Credits of OCS Science OCS Applied Science OCS Biology SOCIAL STUDIES 4 Credits of Social Studies World History American History I American History II Civics and Economics American History I & II can be replaced by AP US History II & one (1) social studies elective 2 Credits of OCS Social Studies OCS Social Studies I OCS Social Studies II HEALTH/PE 1 Credit of Health/PE 1 Credit of Health/PE ART 1 Credit of Art Education (Art, Band, Chorus, Theatre, Dance,etc) 1 Credit of Art Education (Art, Band, Chorus, Theatre, Dance,etc) OTHER CREDITS TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED 10 Elective Credits 2 elective credits must be any combination from either: CTE Arts Education World Languages *World Lang is not required for graduation. College Minimum Admission Requirements requires 2 Credits for admission. Required OCS Courses OCS Preparation I-II III-IV (6 Credits) 4 courses CTE (passing grades) Completion of Vocational/Employment Hours 300 hours School-based vocational training 240 community-based vocational hours 360 hours competitive employment hours * A completed Career Portfolio is also a requirement. 28 Credits 23 Credits

7 Graduation Project North Carolina leaders have embraced the challenge of preparing students for a 21st century global society. Rowan-Salisbury Schools students will be required to complete a Graduation Project as part of the local graduation requirements. This model provides each student with the opportunity to demonstrate learning in a culminating product that requires 21 st century skills, such as critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, communication, technology skills, and selfdirected learning. A student will be evaluated on his/her performance in such elements as presentation, design, problem solving, academic content, work ethic, and time management. The Graduation Project includes the following components: A Research Paper: An 8 to 10 page paper that demonstrates the student s research and writing skills. A Portfolio: A portfolio documents tasks, insights, learning experience as the student progresses through the project. A Product: A tangible product related to the field of study or research topic, which students select, design, and develop. Oral Presentation: A formal oral presentation summarizing the Graduation Project, from the topic selection to project completion and self-growth. For additional information, please visit the Rowan-Salisbury Schools Graduation Project website at Early Graduation Early graduation approval is contingent upon the recommendation of the principal. If a student wishes to apply for early graduation (after the 1st semester of his/her senior year), a conference must be held with the student, parent and the principal. Valedictorian/Salutatorian Selection The following guidelines will be used for Valedictorian/Salutatorian at each Rowan-Salisbury high school. Selection for Valedictorian/Salutatorian will be determined at the end of a student s 8th semester or at the end of the spring semester of the senior year. A student: must be enrolled in the recognizing high school for three complete and consecutive semesters immediately prior to the recognition. must have taken a full load (8 credits) of courses for credit in each of his/her eight semesters of high school.

8 Academic Scholars Program Requirements for Future-Ready Core Course of Study Credits Program Area 4 English Language Arts I, II, III, IV 4 Mathematics (Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and higher level math course with Algebra II as prerequisite or Integrated Math I, II, III, & a higher level math course with Integrated Math III as a prerequisite) 3 Science (Physics or Chemistry course, Biology, and an Earth/Environmental Science course) 3 Social Studies Entered High School 2012/13 & Beyond: World History, Civics/Economics, and American History I, & II) 1 Healthful Living (Health/Physical Education) 6 2 elective credits in a second language required for the UNC System 4 elective credits constituting a concentration recommended from one of the following: Career and Technical Education JROTC Arts Education Second Language Any other subject area 3 Higher level courses taken during the junior and/or senior year which carry 5 or 6 quality points OR... 2 Higher level courses taken during the junior and/or senior year which carry 5 or 6 quality points and the completion of the NC Graduation Project. 26 Minimum Credits (or 25 credits plus the Graduation Project) needed for NC Scholars Qualification plus a Cumulative Un-weighted GPA of 3.5 or above. Must meet all local and state requirements for a NC high school diploma. Rowan-Salisbury Schools requires 28 credits for students. For more information visit Grade Placement Grade 10 Sophomore: Grade 11 Junior: Grade 12 Senior: To be classified as a sophomore, a student must have earned 5 credits. To be classified as a junior, a student must have earned 12 credits. To be classified as a senior, a student must have earned 20 credits or be registered for classes that satisfy graduation requirements by the end of the school year.

9 Testing Requirements for High School 1. NORTH CAROLINA END-OF-COURSE (EOC)EXAMS: All students enrolled in a course with an End-of-Course exam must take the exam. Students who do not take the End-of-Course exam will not receive credit for the course. The exam grade will count 20% of the final course grade. For the school year, End-of-Course exams will be administered for the following courses: Math I Biology English II 2. PLAN: The PLAN is a curriculum based achievement test in English, Math, Reading, and Science, that measures college and career readiness, serves as a midpoint assessment, and is also a predictor for the ACT. The PLAN is administered to all students in Grade ACT: The ACT Plus Writing assessment will be administered to all students in Grade 11 at no cost to the student. The ACT is a curriculum based achievement test in English, Math, Reading, and Science that measures college and career readiness. 4. WORKKEYS: WorkKeys will be administered to students in Grade 12 who are CTE concentrators with at least one Level II credit. The purpose of WorkKeys is to assess a student s job skills so that future employers can select, hire, train, develop and retain a high performance workforce. 5. ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) EXAMS: Students enrolling in an AP course(s) are strongly recommended to take the AP exam(s). Each AP exam has a fee which is determined by the College Board. Please see your high school counselor for current AP exam fees. (Fee waivers may be available for qualified students.) Students who take Advanced Placement courses and take the Advanced Placement Exam offered by College Board may receive higher consideration for admission to colleges and universities along with college/university course credit and/or placement. 6. CTE POST ASSESSMENTS: All students enrolled in courses in which CTE POST ASSESSMENTS are administered must take the tests. Students who do not take the CTE POST ASSESSMENTS will not receive credit for the course. The CTE POST ASSESSMENT counts 20% of the final grade. (Occupational Course of Study students will be tested according to their CTE Blueprint based on their IEP.) 7. NORTH CAROLINA FINAL EXAMS: are North Carolina s Common Exams for select courses. The final exam grade will count 20% of the final course grades. 8. TEACHER-MADE EXAMS: All courses will have a final exam. For courses without a state-made final exam, the final exam will be made by the teacher. Teacher-made exams count 20% of the final grade. 9. OPTIONAL ASSESSMENTS: a. PRELIMINARY SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST (PSAT): Students may take the PSAT in preparation for the SAT. The PSAT is administered in every high school in October. A student will receive a comprehensive analysis of his/her results after the test. b. ARMED SERVICES VOCATIONAL APTITUDE BATTERY (ASVAB): The ASVAB is a test of mechanical and technical skills that can be used to predict vocational aptitudes and interests. The results can be helpful in making career choices. The ASVAB is used to qualify for all branches of military service and is administered in the 11 th or 12 th grade to interested students.

10 Grade Scale and Grade Reporting All students are expected to master standards and course outcomes before credit is awarded. Report cards will be issued to students at the end of each nine-weeks grading period. High schools will provide Progress Reports every 3 weeks to keep parents and students informed. All exam grades count 20% of final course grade. The grading scale for all official grade reports in Rowan-Salisbury Schools is as follows: A = B = C = D = F = Below 70 INC = Incomplete FF = No Credit due to absences Only grades of D and above result in the awarding of credit. Rowan-Salisbury High School Weighted Course Program A weighted system is used to encourage students to take more challenging and rigorous courses, to reward successful completion of these classes and to determine class rank and grade point averages (GPA). Class rank will be determined by weighted GPA. Courses Eligible for Weighting: 1. Each honor course will receive one additional weighted point provided the course is above and beyond the standard course of study. 2. Advanced Placement courses recognized by national curricula and validated with standardized assessments will receive an additional two weighted points. 3. Select college level courses may receive one weighted point. (Prior approval is required by the high school principal and the college.) Weights are figured as follows: In the Rowan-Salisbury Schools, all courses will be designated as 4.0, 5.0, or 6.0. Only courses designated as weighted courses are eligible to receive a designation above 4.0 and have additional weighted points awarded for grades above failure. As the degree of difficultly increases from 4.0 to 5.0, to 6.0, the number of weighted points which can be earned for a particular grade increases. Weights are assigned to courses in accordance with state guidelines. (Refer to scale below) Grade Scale A B C D F Regular Weights Honor Weights AP ALL COURSES, WEIGHTED AND NON-WEIGHTED, ARE OPEN TO ANY STUDENT WHO MEETS THE COURSE PREREQUISITES AND DESIRES TO ENROLL. Availability of specific course offerings may vary from school to school, year to year, according to student enrollment and school scheduling. Please check with your guidance department for availability.

11 The weighted grade point average will be used to determine the following: Honor Roll (4.0 GPA) Class Rank Junior Marshals Honor Graduates (3.5 GPA calculated at the end of the 8 th semester) Distinguished graduates (3.0 GPA calculated at the end of the 8th semester) Eligibility for honor societies and other academically oriented organizations at the high school level Scholarship competitions Other school-based honors or recognitions at the discretion of the principal and/or the Rowan- Salisbury Board of Education Supplemental Educational Opportunities NC Virtual Public Schools (NCVPS) NC Virtual Public School is a leader in virtual learning for students. Nearly 50,000 secondary students across the state are enrolled in courses from over 150 Advanced Placement, Honors, Traditional, Credit Recovery, and Occupational Course of Study Blended course offerings. Our students come from all115 school districts in North Carolina as well as many charter schools. Additionally, NCVPS is open to non-public school students. Collaborative learning is core to the NCVPS model, so courses will utilize real-time and asynchronous collaborative tools, audio and video, blogs, and cutting-edge assessment tools. Most importantly, courses pair students with highly qualified NC licensed faculty members from around the world. By virtue of our online course delivery, students from all areas of our state now have access to courses and highly qualified teachers in subjects that they may not have available at their local school. Our state has truly achieved the goal of providing quality learning opportunities to every North Carolina student regardless of zip code. The purpose of the North Carolina Virtual Public School (NCVPS) is to provide courses students are unable to take at their local high schools. NCVPS will provide courses to supplement the local high school s program of study. All courses will be taught by teachers who are certified by the state of North Carolina to teach the course. Once the on-line course is completed the student receives credit on his/her school transcript. On-line learning is not for everyone. It takes commitment, self-motivation and conscientious time management. The student should have strong computer skills, the ability to comprehend written instructions, effectively communicate through the written word and be an independent learner. To register, a student must receive approval from the principal and guidance counselor. All courses require a class period during the day; yearlong courses require a class period in both the fall and spring semesters. Students may take 2 year-long courses in the same class period. Successful completion of a yearlong course will only earn 1 credit. All students will be given a school specifically for use with coursework. Free Additional Courses Offered at Catawba College for 11th and 12th Graders....See Guidance Counselor for details

12 College and Career Promise Career and College Promise provides seamless dual enrollment education opportunities for eligible North Carolina high school students in order to accelerate completion of college certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees that lead to college transfer or provide entry-level job skills. North Carolina community colleges may offer the following Career and College Promise pathways aligned with the K-12 curriculum and career and college ready standards adopted by the State Board of Education: 1. A Core 44 College Transfer Pathway leading to a minimum of 30 hours of college transfer credit; 2. A Career and Technical Education Pathway leading to a certificate, diploma or degree. High School Program for Students with Disabilities (IEP) The Rowan-Salisbury School System offers courses that meet the individual needs of students identified with a disability. All high schools offer the basic courses needed for graduation in an environment and structure necessary to meet individual student needs. Specialized programs are offered only at designated locations. Appropriate school staff works with identified students and their parents to develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for each student. Exceptional needs students may register for courses listed in this handbook as provided for in the Individualized Education Plan. English as a Second Language The Rowan-Salisbury School System has chosen English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to meet the needs of English Language Learners. The goal of the program is to provide students whose first language is not English with the opportunity to develop communication skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, thereby, enabling them to be successful within the mainstream classroom. The program will assist students through their cultural adjustment by helping develop an understanding of American culture while realizing the importance of their role in a multicultural society. The ultimate goal is for each ESL student to successfully reach grade-level proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and understanding English as measured by English language proficiency testing and annual state academic assessments. Homebound Instruction Homebound instruction is provided by the Rowan-Salisbury School System to a student who has a medically diagnosed physical or mental condition which confines the student to the home or the hospital and whose activities are restricted for a period of more than two (2) weeks. A medical professional s (doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist) written recommendation is necessary. Instruction in the home is limited (3.5 hrs. per week) and is not intended as a long term plan. While services help the student maintain skills during the time he/she is unable to attend school, limited instruction will not provide for continued growth in learning. A student receiving homebound instruction is required to follow all standard course of study requirements, and take al state and local exams. High School Remediation Each high school offers remediation and tutorial opportunities to assist students with gaining the skills needed to be successful in the courses in which they are enrolled. Tutoring may be offered before and /or after school. Credit recovery, as well as attendance recovery, is offered at each high school. Students should contact their teachers or school counselors for assistance.

13 Scholastic Requirements for Participation in High School Athletics A student must have earned credit for a minimum of 3 courses (block schedule) during the preceding semester to be eligible at any time during the current semester to participate in athletics. Summer school work may be used to meet part of the minimum load to determine fall eligibility. A student must also meet promotion standards set by the local board of education and be present for at least 85% of the previous semester at an approved high school. A student not academically eligible at the beginning of the semester is not eligible at any time during the semester. (Reference NC High School Athletic Association Handbook) Athletic Wait Period Upon approval of any 7th grade, 8th grade, or high school transfer, there will be a one-year (365 days) athletic wait period before athletic eligibility can be established. This wait period would also include all students transferring from outside the RSSS district. This wait time will begin on the date of enrollment at the transfer school (enrollment begins the day a student begins attending classes). If a high school student is legally enrolled and in attendance on the first day of classes at the transfer school, he/she will be eligible for athletics the week of August 1 of the next school year. Students of full-time employees receiving benefits of the RSSS are exempt from the athletic wait period for their first transfer during a grade span. (Reference RSS Code of Conduct Student Transfer Policy.) Students approved for transfer into a Board approved academy or under the provision of school choice may be eligible to exempt the 365 day athletic wait period. Scholastic Requirements for Students Considering Participation in College Sports To be certified by the NCAA Clearinghouse, a student must apply for certification before graduation if he/she wishes to participate in athletics as a freshman at the college to which he/she will be admitted. It is recommended that the student complete an application during his/her junior year. The clearinghouse will issue a preliminary certification report when all student materials are sent to the clearinghouse. School counselors can provide additional information. Academic Attendance Requirements A student who is absent from a high school class more than 8 days (excused or unexcused) in a semester will receive a grade of FF (failed due to attendance). Absences are calculated on a periodby-period basis for each class. A student must be in attendance at least one-half of a class period in order to be counted present for that class. A student who enrolls after the 15th day of school must be in attendance 92% of the remaining days in the semester in order to be eligible for class credit. High school students are provided the opportunity to recover absences per class per semester through participation in an attendance recovery program at each high school. Students will make up time (minute for minute per absence) outside the normal instructional day at times approved by the principal. Medical absences may be waived by the principal as long as the child has completed all missing assignments and is making appropriate progress. Acceptance of Transfer of Students Grades Rowan-Salisbury high schools will honor all courses, grades, and credits received on a North Carolina standardized transcript. Transcripts received from other states will be evaluated using guidelines for North Carolina transcripts in accordance to the course coding structure of North Carolina schools. These guidelines are: 1. Time in the course 2. Conversion of numerical grades 3. Identification of course content and curriculum 4. Weighted/non-weighted status 5. Eligibility for credit approval

14 Home School Credit Acceptance Students entering into public school from a state approved home school must produce verification of skills to be granted credit for specific core subjects. Transcripts will be reviewed, evaluated, and equated (where possible) according to the current requirements of the Rowan-Salisbury Board of Education. All transferred credit and class standing must be approved by the principal. Drivers Education The Rowan-Salisbury Board of Education offers a student the opportunity to complete a North Carolina sanctioned drivers education program. Any student who is at least 14 ½ years of age may participate in the Drivers Education Program. For information regarding classes, proficiency tests, and drivers education general information, see the drivers education contact person at your high school. College Planning North Carolina University System Admission Requirements The University of North Carolina system entrance requirements are specific to your graduating class. Check with your guidance department for the most up to date information regarding the UNC system entrance requirements. All applicants for first-time admission as freshmen must meet minimum high school GPA & SAT scores. Please review these requirements.htm In addition to courses completed and credits earned, admissions boards consider high school grades, class rank, ACT/SAT scores, extracurricular activities, and recommendations. Colleges also review transcripts for rigorous, advanced level courses as compared to the opportunities available at the student s high school. Private College/University Admissions Requirements Private colleges and universities have similar requirements for admission along with institution specific requirements. Students need to consult the college s current catalogue or website for specific requirements. Community or Technical College Requirements For some career choices, the community college is the best post-secondary educational option. For other students, the community college offers the opportunity to earn the first two years toward a fouryear college degree through the college transfer program. Most community colleges require a placement test before admission. Students need to consult with the community or technical college s admissions office or website for specific requirements.

15 High School Fees The Rowan-Salisbury Board of Education has approved the following fees: Course Fee Explanation Nursing Fundamentals & TBD The student is responsible for the purchase of clinical uniforms. Medical Science II AP Exams PSAT TBD Cost determined by the College Board non-refundable. Waivers for fees may be granted by making application through the school guidance office. $14.00 This fee is for students who choose to take PSAT. Art $25.00 This fee is for art courses above Art I. Band CTE Certification Exams CTE Courses TBD This fee is for uniform maintenance cost and is charged to all students who are issued a band uniform. TBD Cost will be determined by the cost of the certification exam. Waivers for fees may be granted by making an application through the Career Development Coordinator. TBD To be charged based on the course and the student product to be taken home by the student. (CTE Courses-Carpentry and Foods) College and Career Promise $20.00 This fee is for students who choose to take this course taught by a CTE or dual-enrollment instructor. Graduation Cap & Gown Gym Suits Lifetime Recreational Sports Locks Elective P. E. Courses Parking Permits Science Lab Sports Medicine/ Kinesiology $35.00 The cap and gown unit includes: cap, gown, tassel, & hood. $20.00 The requirement for gym suits is determined by each school. $20.00 This covers the entrance/participation fees and transportation costs for all off-campus activities. $10.00 Schools require school-purchased locks as a safety issue which allows school personnel access when deemed necessary. $15.00 This fee will cover the cost of towels, detergent, and any needed supplies for all elective PE courses above the 9th grade required course. $50.00 This fee covers costs related to parking lot maintenance. $10.00 To be charged to cover the cost of lab materials. $10.00 To be charged to cover supplies needed. Fees for High School Transcripts Transcripts: $5.00 for each official transcript requested by a student or former student. Each student will receive a final official transcript, free of charge, upon graduation. Medical/Immunization Records: A transcript for medical or immunization records will be provided free of charge if it is required as part of a course requirement or a scholarship application while the student is enrolled in the school system. $2.00 for medical or immunization records. Transcripts & other school records required for the Dream Act A $5.00 charge for the first 25 pages of school records (transcripts, etc) required for the Dream Act. Additional pages will be $0.10 per page.

16 ENGLISH Most courses carry a weight of 4.0. Courses designated Honors carry a weight of 5.0. Courses designated Advanced Placement carry a weight of 6.0. All Advanced Placement (AP) courses have an exam which includes a fee. English I (9) This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas. An emphasis is placed on literary and informational texts and the use of verbal and written skills. English I is a graduation requirement. Honors English I (9) This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas. An emphasis is placed on the use of crosscurricular informational texts. This course will follow a more rigorous pace and may require additional readings and related assignments. English I is a graduation requirement. English II (10) Prerequisite: English I This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas. An emphasis is placed on verbal and written skills and informational texts. English II is a graduation requirement. Honors English II (10) Prerequisite: English I or Honors English I This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas at a more rigorous pace. Students will experience more complex literary texts as well as challenging informational texts in a range of subjects. English II is a graduation requirement. English III (11) Prerequisite: English I, II This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas. An emphasis is placed on (American) literature, as well as informational texts in a range of subjects. Students will complete the research paper required for the Graduation Project during this course. English III is a graduation requirement. Honors English III (11) Prerequisite: English II or Honors English II This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas at a more rigorous pace. An emphasis is placed on more complex (American) literature, more challenging informational texts in a range of subjects and additional readings and related projects. Students will complete the research paper required for the Graduation Project during this course. English III is a graduation requirement. English IV (12) Prerequisite: English III This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas. An emphasis is placed on (British) literature, as

17 well as informational texts in a range of subjects. Students will complete the Graduation Project Presentation component during this course. English IV is a graduation requirement. Honors English IV (12) Prerequisite: English III or Honors English III This course incorporates the literacy skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and using language effectively in a variety of contexts and content areas at a more rigorous pace. An emphasis is placed on more complex (British) literature, as well as more challenging informational texts in a range of subjects. Students will complete the Graduation Project Presentation component during this course. English IV is a graduation requirement. AP English IV Literature and Composition (12) Prerequisite: English III or Honors English III Designed for students wanting to undertake studies on a college level. This course engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. This AP course follows a more rigorous pace and may require additional readings and assignments. As they read, students consider a work s structure, style, and themes, as well as specific elements such as the use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Students will complete the Graduation Project Presentation component during this course. Students are expected to take the AP exam and are responsible for the exam fee. This course meets the English IV graduation requirement. ENGLISH ELECTIVES Success 101 (9) Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation This course is designed to provide additional basic skills assistance in reading, writing, and grammar to 9th graders before taking English I. Creative Writing (9,10,11,12) This course is for students who want to develop skills and techniques for the creative writing of short fiction, poetry, and drama. This course can be taken twice for course credit. AP English III Language and Composition (11,12) Prerequisite: English III or Honors English III Designed for students wanting to undertake studies on a college level. An AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects, as well as the way genre conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. This course does not meet the English III graduation requirement.

18 English 111/112/241 (Dual Credit through RCCC) This combination course satisfies the requirement for English IV. This course will be offered at West and South but may be offered at other schools if enough interest is gained. This course is through the College & Career Promise agreement through Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Upon successful completion of the courses, students will earn 9 semester hour credits at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College in addition to 1 high school credit. Each part must be passed to receive credit. English 111 This course is the required first course in a series of three designed to develop the ability to produce clear expository prose. Emphasis is placed on the writing process including audience analysis, topic selection, thesis support and development, editing, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English. Three to four formal essays are required to successfully complete this course (in both MLA and APA formats). This course has been approved to satisfy the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement general education core requirement in English composition. English 112 This course, the second in a series of three, introduces research techniques, documentation styles, and argumentative strategies. Emphasis is placed on analyzing data and incorporating research findings into documented argumentative essays and research projects. Upon completion, students should be able to summarize, paraphrase, interpret, and synthesize information from primary and secondary sources using standard research format and style. This course has been approved to satisfy the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement general education core requirement in English composition. English 241 British Literature This course, the third in a series of three, covers selected works in British literature from its beginnings to the Romantic Period. Emphasis is placed on historical background, cultural content, and literary analysis of selected prose, poetry, and drama. Upon completion, students should be able to interpret, analyze, and respond to literary works in their historical and cultural contexts. This course has been approved to satisfy the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement general education core requirement in humanities/fine arts. This course may satisfy a general education requirement for Catawba College. This course is through the College & Career Promise agreement through Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. Upon successful completion of this course, students will earn 9 semester hour credits at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College in addition to 1 high school credit.

19 MATHEMATICS Most courses carry a weight of 4.0. Courses designated Honors carry a weight of 5.0. Courses designated Advanced Placement carry a weight of 6.0. All Advanced Placement (AP) courses have an exam and an additional a fee. Common Core Math I This is a first year course in algebra, statistics, geometry, functions, and modeling. Students will develop their higher order mathematical reasoning skills through collaborative discovery. Students are required to take the Math I End-of-Course exam. This course is a graduation requirement. Common Core Math II Prerequisite: Common Core Math I or Integrated Math I This is a second year course in algebra, statistics, geometry, functions and modeling. Students will develop higher order mathematical reasoning skills through collaborative discovery. This course is a graduation requirement. Honors Common Core Math II Prerequisite: Common Core Math I or Integrated Math I This is a rigorous fast paced second year course in algebra, statistics, geometry, functions and modeling. Students will continue to develop higher order mathematical reasoning skills through collaborative discovery. This course is a graduation requirement. Common Core Math III Prerequisite: Common Core Math II or Integrated Math II (or equivalent) This is a third year course in algebra, statistics, geometry, functions, and modeling. Students will continue to develop higher order mathematical reasoning skills through collaborative discovery. This course is a graduation requirement. Honors Common Core Math III Prerequisite: Common Core Math II or Integrated Math II (or equivalent) This is a rigorous fast paced third year course in algebra, statistics, geometry, functions and modeling. Students will continue to develop higher order mathematical reasoning skills through collaborative discovery. This course is a graduation requirement. Advanced Functions & Modeling Prerequisite: Math II and Math III (or equivalent) This course extends the concepts and skills developed in Algebra II and Geometry. It serves as a higher level math course beyond Algebra II/Integrated Math II and meets the graduation requirements for the fourth math course. Pre-Calculus Prerequisite: Math III (or equivalent) This course extends the concepts and skills developed in Algebra II and Geometry. It is a higher level advanced math and integrates the state advanced math curriculum with standard pre-calculus concepts and language needed to take calculus and/or AP Calculus. This course carries a 5.0 weight.

20 Calculus Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or Advanced Functions with teacher approval This course is designed primarily for those students who plan to major in mathematics or science in college. Topics will include continuity, limits, differential and integral calculus, analytic geometry, and exponential and logarithmic functions. This course carries a 5.0 weight but does not meet the minimum UNC entrance requirements. Discrete Math Prerequisite: Math 1 and Math II (or equivalent) This course introduces students to the mathematics of networks, social choice, and decision-making. It extends students applications of matrix arithmetic and probability. Applications and modeling are central to this course of study. This is an advanced course for students in preparation for AP Statistics. AP Calculus AB Prerequisite: Calculus This course is designed for students who want to undertake studies on a college level. It emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus, with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and orally. Students are expected to take the AP exam and are responsible for the exam fee. AP Calculus BC Prerequisite: AP Calculus AB This course is designed for students who want to undertake studies on a college level. The emphasis is on the building of concepts explored in AP Calculus AB and includes topics related to differentials, integrals, infinite series, convergence, divergence, parametric and differential equations. Students are expected to take the AP exam and are responsible for the exam fee. AP Statistics Prerequisite: Math III or Algebra II This course is designed for those students who want to undertake studies on a college level. The emphasis is on measures of central tendency, measures of variability, probability, and exploratory data analysis. Students are expected to take the AP exam and are responsible for the exam fee. Alternative Mathematics I (Principal Approval) Prerequisite: Algebra I & Algebra II or Algebra I & Geometry or Integrated Math I & Integrate Math II, Principal Approval This course provides learners an opportunity to apply mathematical concepts and skills from earlier high school mathematics courses in practical situations while focusing on learning skills associated with information and communication technology. Only students who have been approved to exempt the Future Ready Core Mathematics sequence may take this course. Alternative Mathematics II (Principal Approval) Prerequisite: Alternative Mathematics I, Principal Approval This course provides learners an opportunity to apply mathematical concepts and skills from earlier high school mathematics courses in practical situations while focusing on learning skills associated with information and communication technology. Only students who have been approved to exempt the Future Ready Core Mathematics sequence may take this course.