PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT

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3 PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT Although this student course guide was prepared on the basis of the best information available at the time of publication, all information included herein is subject to change without notice or obligation.

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS AISD CONTACT INFORMATION... 2 ASSETS ACADEMY... 3 SELECTING HIGH SCHOOL COURSES... 4 ALVIN ISD REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS... 4 RANDOM DRUG TESTING PROGRAM... 5 GENERAL INFORMATION... 5 GENERAL GRADUATION REQUIREMENT INFORMATION... 7 STUDENT CLASSIFICATION... 7 AWARDING OF CREDITS... 7 TEXAS SCHOLAR REQUIREMENTS... 7 GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS for students who entered high school beginning HOUSE BILL 5 (HB5) GRADUATION PLANS... 9 GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS for students who entered high school prior to LEVELS OF INSTRUCTION CLASS RANK GRADE POINT VALUES FOR THE THREE ACADEMIC LEVELS COURSE DESCRIPTIONS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS COMMUNICATION APPLICATIONS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS ELECTIVES ACADEMIC DECATHLON MATHEMATICS SCIENCE HEALTH SOCIAL STUDIES ECONOMICS SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES HUMAN RELATIONS ELECTIVES OTHER LANGUAGES BAND CHOIR DANCE QUICK GUIDE TO THEATRE ARTS CLASSES THEATRE VISUAL ART COURSE OFFERINGS AT A GLANCE VISUAL ART COURSE DESCRIPTIONS CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION COURSES CAREER DEVELOPMENT AGRICULTURE, FOOD, & NATURAL RESOURSES CAREER CLUSTER ARCHITECTURE & CONSTRUCTION CAREER CLUSTER ARTS, AUDIO/VIDEO TECHNOLOGY, AND COMMUNICATIONS CAREER CLUSTER BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION CAREER CLUSTER EDUCATION & TRAINING CAREER CLUSTER FINANCE CAREER CLUSTER HEALTH SCIENCE CAREER CLUSTER HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM CAREER CLUSTER HUMAN SERVICES CAREER CLUSTER INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CAREER CLUSTER LAW, PUBLIC SAFETY, CORRECTIONS, & SECURITY CAREER CLUSTER MANUFACTURING CAREER CLUSTER MARKETING CAREER CLUSTER SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, & MATHEMATICS CAREER CLUSTER TRANSPORTATION, DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS CAREER CLUSTER MCJROTC LEADERSHIP DEPARTMENT PHYSICAL EDUCATION/PHYSICAL EDUCATION EQUIVALENTS OFFICE ASSISTANT OPEN PERIODS SPECIAL EDUCATION ACHIEVE TEXAS ARTICULATION ACC & AISD DUAL CREDIT COURSES AND CORRESPONDING NUMBERS ACC & AISD DUAL CREDIT INFORMATION ACC & AISD DUAL DEGREE PROGRAM AISD SAMPLE FOUR-YEAR PLAN for students who entered high school prior to AISD RHSP/DAP (WORKSHEET) for students who entered high school prior to

5 Alvin Independent School District SUPERINTENDENT: Fred Brent, Ed.D. ALVIN HIGH SCHOOL MANVEL HIGH SCHOOL 802 S. Johnson St Highway 6 Alvin, TX Manvel, TX Principal: Johnny Briseño, Ed.D. Principal: Charlotte Liptack ASSETS Academy 605 W. House St. Alvin, TX Principal: Tracy Hummel 301 E. House St Alvin, TX

6 ASSETS Academy AISD Academic Alternative Campus for 9 th -12 th Grades Our Mission: It is the mission of ASSETS Academy to alter our students perceptions of the value of education and the opportunities it provides. ASSETS accomplishes this by creating a positive learning environment, maintaining high expectations, and challenging students to make choices that will result in life-long learning. Students who attend ASSETS are in need of a non-traditional school setting where they can be successful learners. These students are academically at-risk, have gaps in their education for various reasons, and are potential high school dropouts. Our goal is to intervene, change perspectives, and close the gaps that would keep them from succeeding in a traditional high school setting. In addition, the learning environment is critical in helping these students to succeed. At ASSETS, we provide a nonthreatening and nurturing environment that allows students to feel safe, both emotionally and physically. Instructional Focus: Our instructional focus is child-centered. Each child s strengths and weaknesses are analyzed in each content area. Students are then individually counseled so they can actively participate in decisions about which areas they need instruction to master certain objectives. Our instructional focus is driven by the needs of our students and changes to accommodate these needs. Our intent is to provide our students with a battery of learning strategies and problem-solving techniques that will serve them well as they move through high school and on to post-secondary education. School Climate: If one word were chosen to reflect our school climate, it would be teamwork. We, as a staff, recognize that we are the example of teamwork. Through our team planning and professional interactions, we set the stage for what happens in our school. We often have meetings with students to address their educational needs. These meetings often include parents and the uniform message is: Together we can solve our problems and move forward. Through our Boys Town Social Skills Curriculum and our Adventure Based Counseling programs, our students develop respect for themselves, for each other and for their teachers. The overwhelming sense of achieving goals together empowers students to continuously set new goals and experience success. Our school climate fosters a safe environment in which students and teachers are aware that failure does not exist in a place where students are encouraged to take risks that ultimately lead to trust and confidence in oneself, and others. In such a climate, students gain character as well as academic success. Full Value Contract (Practiced at ASSETS by Faculty, Staff, and Students as part of the Adventure Based Counseling Program): 1. I will help my group PLAN for success by setting group goals and determining appropriate behavior for group members. 2. I will be aware of and PRACTICE safe behavior at all times. 3. I will PROVIDE honest, constructive feedback to my group members and will receive feedback appropriately. 4. I will PROMOTE a positive attitude and atmosphere. ASSETS Varied Learning and Teaching Strategies: Instruction includes a variety of learning and teaching strategies: 1. Individual learning 2. Cooperative learning 3. Student-teacher interaction 4. Student-student interaction 5. Teacher to whole group instruction (as opposed to self-paced instruction.) ASSETS Selection Process: Held each Spring 1. 8th grade students are initially identified and referred through classroom teachers, counselor, and/or principal. 2. Parents are notified by mail that their child may be a candidate. 3. Informational meeting held at home-campus for candidates and their parents; applications are distributed. 4. Once ASSETs receives applications, letters will be sent home with interview date and time. 5. Data is collected: test scores, attendance history, discipline report, and grade reports. 6. Personal interview with candidate and parent on home campus. 7. Interviewer uses a matrix and a point system. 8. ASSETS selection committee meets after all interviews. 9. Letters sent home: acceptance or waiting list 10. Orientation held at ASSETS every June: campus tour, contract, and paperwork Acceptance is not granted on a first come-first served basis. Spots are given to students with the most need. For students in high school, applications are accepted at any time throughout the school year. When data is collected, and if a spot is available, we will contact you for an interview. If you are accepted, you can enroll at ASSETS at a grade report period. ASSETS students are allowed to take limited elective classes at Alvin High School. This is on an individual basis and is coordinated through the counseling center with AHS teacher and/or coach requests at their discretion. 3

7 SELECTING HIGH SCHOOL COURSES High school course selections made during the freshman and sophomore years may well be among the most important academic decisions a student will make. While they may not determine what career the student will pursue or which college he/she will attend, these decisions may very well remove certain colleges and certain careers from the range of choices. Careful planning of the four years of high school is most important. A graduation plan form is provided in the Course Offering Guide to use for this purpose. This form is a worksheet for students and parents to use to determine what courses the student needs for the next year and/or in the future. During the eighth grade year, students will complete a graduation plan using a college and career planning tool, Naviance. This graduation plan is not binding and may be changed at any time, but it does help a student and his/her parents to plan the years in high school. The four years of high school should be planned to preserve a student's options. Too much math and science cannot harm either college or career prospects, but too little may affect a vast range of career possibilities in which the student may later become interested. A student who decides to enter engineering or attend a very selective college during the junior or senior year may discover too late that the college or career required four years of math or chemistry, physics and foreign language. Each high school year, every student is one step closer to the future. With each decision, he/she may either preserve options or restrict future possibilities. The following information can be used to help parents and students plan for high school and beyond. ALVIN ISD REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS PROCEDURE 1. Counselors will meet with 8 th, 9 th, and 10th grade students in classroom settings to distribute Course Guides and review requirements for graduation. 2. Counselors will meet with each junior student through an individual academic conference. 3. Students will discuss course choices with parents, coaches, and current teachers before completing the registration form. 4. Teachers will be asked to review student selections and make recommendations for Pre-AP, AP, athletics, and other courses requiring teacher approval. 5. Late spring, students will be provided a verification sheet to confirm their course selections. Students must notify their counselor of any requested changes. REGISTRATION FOR OFFICE ASSISTANT 1. Office assistant gives local credit only; therefore, this course is open only to students who meet certain guidelines. Counselor/administrator approval required. The counselor will assign the student to an office. Students must complete an application. REGISTRATION FOR OPEN PERIODS 1. Seniors only who have enough credits for graduation may register for one open period. Students must complete an application. 2. A student cannot have an open period in the middle of the day. 4

8 REGISTRATION FOR COURSES REQUIRING RANDOM DRUG TESTING 1. Which students are subject to random drug testing? All students in grades 9-12 who participate in any extra-curricular activity and/or drive and park a vehicle on campus property will be subject to the Random Drug Testing Program. The activities and organizations subject to testing include, but are not limited to, the following: Academic Decathlon Business Professionals of America Cheerleaders and Mascot Color Guard Drill Team FCCLA FFA FBLA HOSA Class Officers National Honor Society JROTC Robotics Student Council Speech and Debate Theatre Arts Fine Arts Activities UIL activities (including athletics, academic competitions, band, choir, art) VICA SkillsUSA 2. Does a student need to have a signed consent form from the parent/guardian authorizing participation in the drug-testing program in order to try out for an activity or run for office? Yes. Before a student is allowed to participate in any competitive extracurricular activity and/or obtain and/or maintain a permit to park on campus, the student and the parent and/or person otherwise in lawful control of the student must present written consent to the testing. Both the student and the parent must sign the consent form authorizing the student's participation in the drug-testing program. 3. What happens if a parent or guardian does not consent to testing? The student will not be able to participate or have parking privileges at any Alvin ISD campus. For more information on the Random Drug Testing Program, please refer to Alvin ISD s Official Policy FNF (Local) at GENERAL INFORMATION Correspondence Courses: A student may apply no more than five credits (10 semesters) from courses taken by correspondence to the required graduation requirements. The course must be taken through an extension program approved by the state, and the student must have counselor or administrator approval before registering for a course. Students and parents are responsible for all fees. Student and parent must sign an agreement contract. Grade points will be awarded. Texas Tech Brigham Young University Advanced Academics Credit Recovery: A computer-based instructional program through which students work individually in order to regain credit. Students must have approval from the counselor to enroll. 5

9 GENERAL INFORMATION (continued) Credit by Exam: Accelerated: Credit Recovery Exam: Summer School: AchieveTexas: Articulation: Dual Credit: Exams for credit in high school subjects are administered in June and July of each year. A student can have no prior formal instruction in the course being tested and must score an 80 or better on the exam to receive credit. Students entering high school in and thereafter must also meet state assessment requirements. The test grade and credit will be recorded on the transcript. The school pays the fees for these exams; however, a refundable deposit must be paid when the student registers for the exam. Students can also take this exam during the school year by signing up with his/her counselor. Student is responsible for all fees related to the exam. Grade points will be awarded. A student who has previously taken a course and failed with at least a 60 may, pending TEA state assessment requirements, be permitted to earn credit for the failed course by taking a credit recovery exam. A student with excessive absences can only take a credit recovery exam with approval from the Attendance Review Committee. A student must score at least 70 on the exam to receive credit; the grade will be recorded on the transcript. No grade points are awarded. CRE cannot be used to regain eligibility in extra-curricular activities. The student is responsible for the exam fees and paperwork. Check with a counselor for eligibility. Students required to take the STAAR EOC may not qualify for CRE. Summer school is available for credit acceleration and recovery. Summer school occurs at both high schools. Check with a counselor for course eligibility. Information is usually available in early May. Grade points will be awarded for initial credit. AchieveTexas is an education initiative designed to prepare students for a lifetime of success. It allows students to achieve excellence by preparing them for secondary and postsecondary opportunities, career preparation and advancement, meaningful work, and active citizenship. AchieveTexas incorporates 16 career clusters identified by the U.S. Department of Education. Students can make informed decisions when they know what coursework and experiences are necessary for the various careers. The complete career pathway models can be found at Articulation is a way to start a college technical major in high school. In an Articulated program, students begin a course of study in high school and continue in a community or technical college. The result is a certificate or associate degree in a career field. Alvin ISD has a cooperative arrangement with Alvin Community College and stateu.com, which allows students to earn college and high school credit in the same class. Students must get prior approval from the counselor and dual credit academic advisor before enrolling in dual credit courses. Grade points will be awarded. Alvin Community College Students must be academically advanced, must attain approval from the high school counselor and/or the ACC Academic Advisor located on the high school campus, and must take the TSI Assessment unless exempt. See ACC s Dual Credit/Dual Degree TSI Testing Requirements on page 63 for more information. These courses may count as one or two of their seven required high school courses when taken during the regular school year. It is the student s responsibility to make payment to the college for all applicable tuition charges, fees, textbooks, and supplies. Dual Degree Program: The Alvin Independent School District and Alvin Community College have entered into an agreement which offers qualified students the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree at the same time by successfully completing courses for dual credit and concurrent enrollment (Early College Admission). The Dual Degree Program will allow a participating high school graduate to directly enter a Texas state supported university as a college junior. 6

10 GENERAL GRADUATION REQUIREMENT INFORMATION All graduates will be awarded a diploma, but only their transcripts will reflect the completion of any graduation plan above the Minimum Graduation Plan (Recommended Program or Distinguished Achievement Program). Students will receive credit for high school courses completed in the 7 th and 8 th grade. Algebra I, Geometry, Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance, and Spanish are the only courses for which junior high students can receive high school credit. The numerical grade and credit earned for these courses will be posted on the student s high school transcript. If a student repeats one of these courses after the 8 th grade, it will be an audit course and receive no credit. For example, if a student passes Algebra I in the 8 th grade and repeats it in the 9 th grade, the grade earned in the 8 th grade will be the official grade earned in the course. Students who successfully complete Algebra I OR Algebra I and Geometry for high school credit in junior high shall be required to complete three additional credits of mathematics during grades NO STUDENT WILL BE PERMITTED TO TAKE PART IN COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES UNLESS ALL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED. The school cannot predict nor can it assume responsibility for the performance of a student in his/her coursework. It is, therefore, the student's responsibility to determine his/her status relative to graduation. Invitations, rings, caps and gowns, pictures, and other graduation expenses incurred by a senior will not guarantee his/her graduation from high school. He/she will be permitted to order these materials if it is possible to complete his/her graduation requirements; whether he/she does so or not is dependent upon successful completion of the required courses and credits and passing all parts of the TAKS or STAAR EOC. STUDENT CLASSIFICATION Graduating Class of 2011 and Beyond Freshman - Less than 6 credits Sophomore Minimum of 6 credits Junior Minimum of 12 credits Senior Minimum of 19 credits Students will be classified according to their year in high school as long as they meet the above credit criteria. Students must be in attendance in a course for 90% of a semester in order to receive credit for that course. With the exception of approved level changes, a student may not add, drop, or change a course and receive credit if he/she will not meet the 90% attendance requirement. AWARDING OF CREDITS Credits are awarded at the completion of each semester. A student must attend 90% of a semester and earn a minimum grade of 70 to receive credit in a course. Courses taken at a private or out-of-state school will be awarded credit only if the course is equivalent to a course approved by the Texas State Board of Education or the student passes a credit by exam. TEXAS SCHOLAR REQUIREMENTS In order to qualify as a Texas Scholar, a student must satisfactorily complete the following: Graduating Class of 2014 and beyond 1) Recommended or Distinguished Plan 2) Complete at least 2 courses eligible for college credit (AP, Dual Credit, and certain articulated CTE courses) 3) One full credit of math beyond Algebra 2. 4) Must obtain the appropriate grade points: 5.0 out of 6.0 (end of junior year GPA; 6 semesters of high school) 5) Must complete 100 hours of community service by the end fall semester of senior year. 7

11 GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS For Students Who Entered High School Beginning (Cohort ) * Also available for students who entered high school prior to See counselor for details. 8

12 HB 5 Graduation Plan HB 5 Resources: Foundation- Only 22 Credits* 4 credits English ELA I, II, III, and an additional ELA credit 3 credits Math Algebra I, Geometry, and an additional math credit 3 credits Science Biology, two additional science credits 3 credits Social Studies U.S. History, Government, Economics, World Geography or World History 2 credits in Languages other than English two credits in a World language or Computer Programming Foundation Plan + Endorsements 26 Credits 4 credits English ELA I, II, III, and an additional ELA credit 4 credits Math Algebra I, Geometry, and two additional math credits 4 credits Science Biology, three additional science credits 3 credits Social Studies U.S. History, Government, Economics, World Geography or World History 2 credits in Languages other than English two credits in a World language or Computer Programming Distinguished Level of Achievement 26 Credits 4 credits English ELA I, II, III, and an additional ELA credit 4 credits Math Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and one additional math 4 credits Science Biology, three additional science credits 3 credits Social Studies U.S. History, Government, Economics, World Geography or World History 2 credits in Languages other than Englishtwo credits in a World language or Computer Programming 1 credit in Fine Arts 1 credit in Fine Arts 1 credit in Fine Arts 1 credit in Physical Education 1 credit in Physical Education 1 credit in Physical Education 0.5 credit in Speech (pending Board approval) 0.5 credit in Speech ( pending Board approval ) 4.5 credits in electives (may include CTE or certification courses) 6.5 credits in electives (may include CTE or certification courses) 0.5 credit in Speech ( pending Board approval ) 6.5 credits in electives (may include CTE or certification courses) Credit requirements specific to at least one endorsement Credit requirements specific to at least one endorsement Endorsements Please refer to the Alvin ISD High School Course Guide for specific course requirements necessary to obtain each endorsement. Listed below are careers that can be associated with each endorsement. STEM Business & Industry Public Services Arts & Humanities Multidisciplinary Studies Environmental Science; Technology; Engineering; Advanced Math Database Management; Architecture; Information Technology; Construction; Communications; Welding; Accounting; Logistics; Finance; Auto Technology; Marketing; Agricultural Science; Graphic Design; HVAC Health Sciences and Occupations; Education and Training; Law Enforcement; Culinary Arts and Hospitality Political Science; English Literature; World Languages; History; Cultural Studies; Fine Arts Select courses from the curriculum of each endorsement area and earn credits in a variety of advanced courses from multiple areas sufficient to complete the distinguished level of achievement under the foundation program State Assessments Required for Graduation (EOC) Performance Acknowledgements English I Algebra I Biology English II US History Outstanding performance: Dual credit coursework; bilingualism/biliteracy; college AP; PSAT, ACT-Plan, SAT or ACT Certification: nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certificate or license *All information contained in this document is subject to change pending final approval by the State Board of Education 9

13 GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS For Students Who Entered High School Prior to (Cohort and prior) 10

14 GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS For Students Who Entered High School Prior to RECOMMENDED PROGRAM EOC requirements must be met at the appropriate level for the class of 2015 and beyond. COURSE LIST CREDITS English I, II, III, IV... 4 Mathematics... 4 Must include Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and one credit from Math Models (only if taken prior to Algebra II) OR one full credit of any other SBOE approved math course. Students who successfully complete Algebra I OR Algebra I and Geometry for high school credit in junior high shall be required to complete three additional credits of mathematics during grades Science... 4 Must include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and one credit of IPC (only if taken prior to Chemistry and Physics) OR one full credit of an approved SBOE lab-based science course. Social Studies... 4 World Geography ( 1 credit) World History ( 1 credit) U. S. History ( 1 credit) U. S. Government (.5 credit) Economics-Free Enterprise (.5 credit) Languages other than English... 2 Must include two credits of the same language Physical Education or equivalent... 1 Fine Arts... 1 Select from Art, Band, Choir, Dance, Theatre Arts, or Floral Design (CTE course) Communication Applications....5 Select from Professional Communications, Teen Leadership, Speech dual credit or Debate. Electives Credits required for graduation

15 GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS For Students Who Entered High School Prior to DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM EOC requirements must be met at the appropriate level for the class of 2015 and beyond. COURSE LIST CREDITS English I, II, III, IV... 4 Mathematics... 4 Must consist of Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and an additional SBOE approved mathematics course for which Algebra II is a prerequisite. (Math Models DOES NOT count as a math credit on the Distinguished Achievement Plan) Students who successfully complete Algebra I OR Algebra I and Geometry for high school credit in junior high shall be required to complete three additional credits of mathematics during grades Science... 4 Must consist of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and an approved SBOE lab-based science course. (IPC DOES NOT count as a science credit on the Distinguished Achievement Plan) Social Studies... 4 World Geography ( 1 credit) World History ( 1 credit) U. S. History ( 1 credit) U. S. Government (.5 credit) Economics-Free Enterprise (.5 credit) Languages other than English (Three credits of the same language)... 3 Physical Education or equivalent... 1 Fine Arts (Select from choir, band, art, Theatre, dance, or floral design)... 1 Communication Applications (Select from Professional Communications, Teen Leadership, Speech dual credit or Debate.)....5 Electives Credits required for graduation In addition to the credit requirements listed above, four advanced measures must be completed from the following: The measures must focus on demonstrated student performance at a college or professional level. Student performance on advanced measures must be assessed through an external review process. Requirements: A student must achieve any combination of at least four of the following: Original research and/or project (no more than two): judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is the focus of the project; or conducted under the direction of mentor(s) and reported to an appropriate audience; and related to the required curriculum set forth in 74.1 of this title (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills). Test data where a student receives: a score of three or above on a College Board Advanced Placement examination; a score of four or above on an International Baccalaureate examination; a score on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) that qualifies the student for recognition as a commended scholar or higher by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation, as part of the National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) of the College Board or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship Program of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The PSAT/NMSQT score shall count as only one advanced measure regardless of the number of honors received by the student; or College courses: college academic courses, including those taken for dual credit, and advanced technical credit courses, including locally articulated courses, with a grade of 3.0 or higher. No substitutions are allowed in the Distinguished Achievement High School Program. 12

16 AISD Graduation Requirements For Students Who Entered High School Prior to EOC requirements must be met at the appropriate level for the class of 2015 and beyond. Discipline Recommended High School Program (26 Credits) Distinguished Achievement Program (26 Credits) English Four credits: Four credits: Language Arts English I, II, III, and IV English I, II, III, and IV English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II only for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency. English I and II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English I and II only for students with limited English proficiency who are at the beginning or intermediate levels of English language proficiency. Mathematics Students who successfully complete Algebra I OR Algebra I and Geometry for high school credit in junior high shall be required to complete three additional credits of mathematics during grades Four credits: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II The additional credit may be selected from either of the following and must be successfully completed prior to Algebra II: o o Mathematical Models with Applications Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (CTE) The fourth credit may be selected from the following after successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II: o o o o o o o o o o o o Pre-calculus Independent Study in Mathematics AP Statistics AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Computer Science IB Mathematical Studies Standard Level IB Mathematics Standard Level IB Mathematics Higher Level IB Further Mathematics Standard Level Engineering Mathematics (CTE) Statistics and Risk Management (CTE) Four credits: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II The fourth credit may be selected from any of the following after successful completion of Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry: o Pre-calculus o Independent Study in Mathematics o AP Statistics o AP Calculus AB o AP Calculus BC o AP Computer Science o IB Mathematical Studies Standard Level o IB Mathematics Standard Level o IB Mathematics Higher Level o IB Further Mathematics Standard Level o Engineering Mathematics (CTE) o Statistics and Risk Management (CTE) Science Four credits: Biology, AP Biology, or IB Biology Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry Physics, Principles of Technology, AP Physics, or IB Physics The additional credit may be IPC and must be successfully completed prior to chemistry and physics. The fourth credit may be selected from any of the following: o Aquatic Science o Astronomy o Earth and Space Science o Environmental Systems o AP Biology o AP Chemistry o AP Physics B o AP Physics C o AP Environmental Science o IB Biology o IB Chemistry o IB Physics o IB Environmental Systems o Scientific Research and Design (CTE) o Anatomy and Physiology (CTE) o Engineering Design and Problem Solving (CTE) o Medical Microbiology (CTE) o Pathophysiology (CTE) o Advanced Animal Science (CTE) o Advanced Biotechnology (CTE) o Advanced Plant and Soil Science (CTE) o Food Science (CTE) o Forensic Science (CTE) Four credits: Biology, AP Biology, or IB Biology Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry Physics, AP Physics, or IB Physics After successful completion of a biology course, a chemistry course, and a physics course, the fourth credit may be selected from any of the following: o Aquatic Science o Astronomy o Earth and Space Science o Environmental Systems o AP Biology o AP Chemistry o AP Physics B o AP Physics C o AP Environmental Science o IB Biology o IB Chemistry o IB Physics o IB Environmental Systems o Scientific Research and Design (CTE) o Anatomy and Physiology (CTE) o Engineering Design and Problem Solving (CTE) o Medical Microbiology (CTE) o Pathophysiology (CTE) o Advanced Animal Science (CTE) o Advanced Biotechnology (CTE) o Advanced Plant and Soil Science (CTE) o Food Science (CTE) ) o Forensic Science (CTE) AISD Graduation Requirements 13

17 For Students Who Entered High School Prior to EOC requirements must be met at the appropriate level for the class of 2015 and beyond. Discipline Recommended High School Program (26 Credits) Distinguished Achievement Program(26 Credits) Social Studies Languages Other Than English Physical Education Health Education Speech Technology Applications Fine Arts Elective Courses Four Credits: World Geography Studies (one credit) World History Studies (one credit) U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (one credit) U.S. Government (one-half credit) Economics Free Enterprise (one-half credit) Two Credits: The credits must consist of any two levels in the same language One credit The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses: o Foundations of Personal Fitness o Adventure/Outdoor Education o Aerobic Activities o Team or Individual Sports In accordance with local district policy, credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities: o Athletics o o JROTC Appropriate private or commercially-sponsored physical activity programs conducted on or off campus In accordance with local district policy, up to one credit for any one of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in any of the following activities: o Drill Team o Marching Band o Cheerleading All allowed substitution activities must include at least 100 minutes per five-day school week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions. None One-half credit from any of the following: Communication Applications Professional Communications (CTE) None One credit from any of the following: Art, Level I, II, III, or IV Dance, Level I, II, III, or IV Music, Level I, II, III, or IV Theatre, Level I, II, III, or IV Principles and Elements of Floral Design (CTE) Five and one-half credits Four Credits: World Geography Studies (one credit) World History Studies (one credit) U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction (one credit) U.S. Government (one-half credit) Economics Free Enterprise (one-half credit) Three Credits: The credits must consist of any three levels in the same language. One credit The required credit may be from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses: o Foundations of Personal Fitness o Adventure/Outdoor Education o Aerobic Activities o Team or Individual Sports In accordance with local district policy, credit for any of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in the following activities: o Athletics o o JROTC Appropriate private or commercially-sponsored physical activity programs conducted on or off campus In accordance with local district policy, up to one credit for any one of the courses listed above may be earned through participation in any of the following activities: o Drill Team o Marching Band o Cheerleading All allowed substitution activities must include at least 100 minutes per five-day school week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Credit may not be earned for any TEKS-based course more than once. No more than four substitution credits may be earned through any combination of substitutions. None One-half credit from any of the following: Communication Applications Professional Communications (CTE) None One credit from any of the following: Art, Level I, II, III, or IV Dance, Level I, II, III, or IV Music, Level I, II, III, or IV Theatre, Level I, II, III, or IV Principles and Elements of Floral Design (CTE) Four and one-half credits 14

18 AISD Graduation Requirements For Students Who Entered High School Prior to EOC requirements must be met at the appropriate level for the class of 2015 and beyond. Discipline Recommended High School Program (26 Credits) Distinguished Achievement Program (26 Credits) Advanced Measures None The measures must focus on demonstrated student performance at a college or professional level. Student performance on advanced measures must be assessed through an external review process. Requirements: A student must achieve any combination of at least four of the following: Original research and/or project (no more than two): judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is the focus of the project; or conducted under the direction of mentor(s) and reported to an appropriate audience; and related to the required curriculum set forth in 74.1 of this title (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills). Test data where a student receives: a score of three or above on a College Board Advanced Placement examination; a score of four or above on an International Baccalaureate examination; a score on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) that qualifies the student for recognition as a commended scholar or higher by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation, as part of the National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) of the College Board or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship Program of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The PSAT/NMSQT score shall count as only one advanced measure regardless of the number of honors received by the student; or College courses: college academic courses, including those taken for dual credit, and advanced technical credit courses, including locally articulated courses, with a grade of 3.0 or higher. No substitutions are allowed in the Distinguished Achievement High School Program. Total Credits

19 LEVELS OF INSTRUCTION There are three levels of instruction at the AISD high school campuses: Advanced Placement, Accelerated, and Average. The Accelerated Level includes Dual Credit (DC) and Pre-AP. The Pre-AP, AP, and Dual Credit courses are designed to cover the content of the regular courses with sufficient enrichment materials to adequately challenge the above-average student. A student placed in an accelerated or AP course is enrolled because of exceptional achievement in a particular area as indicated by test records, high motivation, teacher recommendation, grade achievement, and interest. The average courses provide the subject content that is required for the average student and are college preparatory courses. Levels of instruction should be chosen carefully with the advice of teachers and counselors. A student who has been in average classes may find it difficult to do the work required of him/her in an accelerated class. Level changes will be made in accordance with the Pre-AP/AP contract. CLASS RANK All semester grades earned by a student for high school credit with Alvin ISD, transfer grades from an accredited high school, dual credit from Alvin Community College, and/or courses taken for initial credit, except those designated as local credits, are included in figuring class rank. GRADE POINT VALUES FOR THE THREE ACADEMIC LEVELS ADVANCED ACCELERATED NUMBER PLACEMENT (Dual Credit/Pre-AP) AVERAGE GRADE NO. OF POINTS NO. OF POINTS NO. OF POINTS 1OO or less The 6.0 weighted grade point average will be used to determine class rank. Grade points will be awarded once each semester for each course regardless of the credit value for the course. One, two, or three credit courses will receive the same number of grade points per semester as a one-half credit course. Students who lose credit due to excessive absences will also lose grade points for that course. 16

20 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS NOTE: Not all courses are available at all campuses. Students may only register for courses listed on their local campus course selection sheet. 17

21 ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS 1151ENGLISH I Pre-requisite: 8 th Grade English Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 9 English I is designed to emphasize student skills and to lay the foundation for writing. Content includes a comprehensive grammar review, vocabulary work, and literary appreciation and terminology. 1161ENGLISH I Pre-AP Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 9 Pre-requisite: 8 th grade teacher s recommendation and mastery of most recent STAAR Summer reading required. This is a college preparatory course stressing advanced placement strategies and concepts in literary analysis, composition, grammar, vocabulary, and class discussion. Students who take this course must be willing and able to meet the fast-paced and rigorous curriculum, which requires summer reading, an accompanying journal, and extensive reading throughout the year. Students and parents must sign a contract indicating their willingness to comply with course requirements. This class is the GT option in English. 1251ENGLISH II Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 10 Pre-requisite: English I English II students continue to increase and refine their communication skills through an intensive instruction in writing and reading. The focus of the study of composition is on elaboration, organization, and effective writing. A comprehensive study of grammar is also undertaken. Selected works of literature are included for detailed study, discussion, and composition. 1261ENGLISH II Pre-AP Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 10 Pre-requisite: English I teacher recommendation and mastery of most recent STAAR Summer reading required. Primarily a college preparatory course stressing Advanced Placement strategies and concepts in literary analysis, composition, grammar, vocabulary, and class discussion, English II Pre-AP is for students who are sound in basic writing skills, enjoy independent reading, and have an A average in English I or no less than a B average in English I Pre-AP. Extensive reading, a research project, independent summer reading, and accompanying journals are required of the self-motivated student who may later follow the Advanced Placement tract. Students must demonstrate a desire and the ability to meet academic challenge. Students and parents must sign a contract indicating their willingness to comply with course requirements. This class is the GT option in English. 1351ENGLISH III Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 11 Pre-requisite: English II English III is designed to offer the student who may or may not be college bound the curriculum that meets his needs through the integrated study of grammar, vocabulary, communication, research, and American literature ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION AP (ENG III AP) Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 11 Pre-requisite: English II Pre-AP, and Placement by English Department and Counselor Summer reading required. Students should be capable of doing college-level work in English and should be willing to devote the time and energy necessary to complete a rigorous and demanding curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced placement and/or credit in college. Students are being prepared for SAT, ACT, and English IV AP. Focusing on language and its effect, students write frequently and begin to develop their own styles while analyzing the styles of various authors with intensive study of vocabulary and grammar accompanied by frequent analytical discussion. Research, summer reading and continuous outside reading during the year is required. Students will have the opportunity to take the AP exam in May. Students and parents must sign a contract indicating their willingness to comply with course requirements. This class is the GT option in English. 1481ENGLISH IV A - DUAL CREDIT (ENGL 1301) Semester: 1 Credit:.5 Grade: 12 Pre-requisite: English III. See ACC s Dual Credit/Dual Degree TSI Testing Requirements This class is for students who want to receive credit for both the first part of English IV and the first semester of college English (1301). The literature read in this course will include short stories by twentieth-century world authors and selections of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon era to the medieval period. Students will write several papers based on the literary works read. A portion of these papers may be written in class. Students will also write a research paper. It is the student s responsibility to make payment to the college for all applicable fees, textbooks, and supplies. 1481ENGLISH IV B - DUAL CREDIT (ENGL 1302) Semester: 1 Credit:.5 Grade: 12 Pre-requisite: English IV A Dual Credit. See ACC s Dual Credit/Dual Degree TSI Testing Requirements This class is for students who wish to receive credit for both the second part of English IV and the second semester of college English (1302). The literature in this course will include British poetry from the sixteenth through the twentieth centuries and plays by William Shakespeare. Students will write several papers based on the literary works read. Some of these papers may be written in class. Students will also write a literary style research paper. It is the student s responsibility to make payment to the college for all applicable fees, textbooks, and supplies. 1451ENGLISH IV Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 12 Pre-requisite: English III Offering the student who may or may not be college bound the curriculum that meets his needs, English IV increases and refines communication skills. Focusing primarily on British literature, a variety of compositions designed to place emphasis on basic writing and communication skills as well as a research paper and project are required. 1491ENGLISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION AP (ENG IV AP) Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 12 Pre-requisite: English III AP, Placement by English Department and Counselor 18

22 Summer reading required. Students should be capable of doing college-level work in English and should be willing to devote the time and energy necessary to complete a rigorous and demanding curriculum designed to prepare students for advanced placement and/or credit in college. AP students must demonstrate the ability to critically read and analyze a range of literature from all genres and historical periods. Students will write various kinds of essays with focus on revision. Class discussion is an important component of AP English. Students will have the opportunity to take the AP exam in May. Summer reading is required. Students and parents must sign a contract indicating their willingness to comply with course requirements. This class is the GT option in English. 1131ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 9-12 LANGUAGES (ESOL I) Pre-requisite: Placement This course is required for students whose native language is other than English and who score below the fluency level on the IPT II Oral Grades 7-12 English Test. 1231ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: LANGUAGES (ESOL II) Pre-requisite: Placement This course is required for students whose native language is other than English and who score below the fluency level on the IPT II Oral Grades 7-12 English Test. COMMUNICATION APPLICATIONS 1550PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATIONS Semester: 1 Credit:.5 Grade: 9-12 Pre-requisite: None Professional Communications blends written, oral, and graphic communications in a career-based environment. Careers in the global economy require individuals to be creative and have a strong background in computer and technology applications, a strong and solid academic foundation, and a proficiency in professional oral and written communications. Within this context, students will be expected to develop and expand the ability to write, read, edit, speak, listen, apply software applications, manipulate computer graphics, and conduct Internet research. The student applies English language arts in professional communications projects. 1580PUBLIC SPEAKING DUAL CREDIT (SPCH 1315) Semester: 1 Credit:.5 Grade: Pre-requisite: See ACC s Dual Credit/Dual Degree TSI Testing Requirements This course concentrates on the methods of organization and the techniques of delivery of the platform speech, with emphasis on explanation and persuasion. The course includes a study of group methods of problem solving and parliamentary procedures. This course will satisfy one-half Communication Applications credit. It is the student s responsibility to make payment to the college for all applicable fees, textbooks, and supplies. ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS ELECTIVES 1511DEBATE I Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 9-12 Pre-requisite: Communication Applications recommended; 9 th graders must have teacher approval Debate I will acquaint students with the basic techniques of debate and its purpose. Students will learn the following: statement of propositions, analysis of argumentation, types of reasoning, methods of research and documentation, organization through outline, affirmative and negative positions, and evaluating a variety of cases. The second semester will further prepare students for debate contests both in and out of the classroom. Discussion techniques and a Mock Trial simulation will be included. This course may satisfy one-half Communication Applications credit. 1521DEBATE II Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: Pre-requisite: Debate I Debate II will further the skills of a debater. These students will do research in cross-examination and/or Lincoln-Douglas Debate, and Extemporaneous Speaking, both Informative and Persuasive. These students will be expected to compete in invitational tournaments and UIL District Competition. 1531DEBATE III Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: Pre-requisite: Debate II Debate III is a continuation of Debate II and will further the skills of a debater. 1611JOURNALISM Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 9-12 Pre-requisite: B or above in English Journalism is a class for students who like to write. It is designed to provide an overview of journalistic writing by developing skills in writing news articles, features, editorials, and sports. Also included in the course are units of study on freedoms and restrictions of the press, mass communication, page layout and design, advertising and photography. Two semesters must be taken consecutively. This course is not recommended for students who have difficulty with writing and grammar. 1461RESEARCH/TECHNICAL WRITING Semesters: 2 Credit: 1 Grade: 12 Pre-requisite: English I, II, III contingent upon administrative approval/input. This course is designed to develop and/or enhance students existing written and oral presentation skills and to facilitate the transference of such skills to technical applications in postsecondary studies and/or the work place. The course will entail instruction in key principles 19