COURSE CATALOG

Transcription

1 COURSE CATALOG Palo Alto Unified School District Palo Alto Senior High School 50 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto, CA

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Opening Statement... 1 Course Selection/Registration... 2 Graduation Requirements... 5 Expected Schoolwide Learning Results (ESLRs)... 7 Subject Requirements for Admittance to the University of Calif. & Calif. State University Systems... 8 UC / CSU Elibility Approved a-g Courses for University of California & California State University ( ) Courses Available for Repeat Credit NCAA Freshman Eligibility Center Quick Reference Guide NCAA Approved Courses Individualized Student Four-Year Plan Course Offerings Arts, Visual & Performing Visual Arts Performing Arts Music Performing Arts Theatre Career Technical Education Programs (Applied Academics) ESLRs Business Computer Technology Industrial Technology Home Economics Sports Medicine Work Experience Exploratory Experience Courses in Other Departments that May Be Taken for CTE Credit Regional Occupational Program (ROP) Courses English Journalism World Languages History-Social Science Mathematics Programming / Computer Science Physical Education Science Additional Offerings Alternative Programs Appendix Helpful Forms Time Management Assessment Time Management Activity Weekly Time Management Activity Yearly Four-Year Academic Plan (2014 & 2015) Four-Year Academic Plan (2016 & 2017) AP Application Form PLEASE NOTE: Programs for non- and limited-english speakers are available at Gunn High School. Please call for information.

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4 December 2012 Dear Paly Student, The mission of the Palo Alto Unified School District is to enable all students to strive for academic excellence, acquire the knowledge and skills that support learning, value creativity and life-long learning, demonstrate respect for self and others and participate meaningfully in our democratic society and interdependent global community. Toward that end, Palo Alto High School offers a rich and expansive program that requires you to plan and make decisions based on personal strengths, goals and interests. The Course Catalog is compiled to assist you and your parents with the decision-making process. Effective planning requires both long-term and short-range goals. Even though you select specific courses one year at a time, we require all students to plan out course selection for future years by developing their own four-year plan. Please read the following information carefully as it describes the selection process, requirements, and program choices involved in developing your academic program. The high school curriculum is based on our school mission. Palo Alto graduation requirements, your personal abilities and interests, and your future plans should serve as the basic guide in selection of your courses. Your future options are affected by the choices you make today. To assist you with making your selections, we encourage you to carefully read the Course Catalog and consult with appropriate individuals such as your teacher advisor, your teachers, your parents, and others who know you well. Before making choices read through this book and familiarize yourself with all of the opportunities available. Make yourself aware of the requirements of the various courses in order to determine how much time and effort you will need to satisfy these expectations. Taking five (5) courses from the core areas (English, History/Social Science, Mathematics, Science, World Languages and Physical Education) and one or two course(s) from the arts/technical areas (Visual and Performing Arts, Career Technical Education) generally provides for a balanced but demanding program. With the exception of World Languages, credits in all disciplines are required for graduation. Since our co-curricular program is designed to complement our academic program, opportunities in this area should also be considered in your overall planning. Together, they are especially relevant for planning post high-school options. Palo Alto High School offers a number of honors level, including Advanced Placement, courses. Honors course expectations are significantly greater than in our standard program. In fact, taking multiple honors level courses may require you to reexamine your after and out of school commitments in order to have the time to meet the demanding honors standards. We encourage you to design a program of study that is personally challenging and requires you to stretch and grow. Select one that will allow you to balance your academic priorities with the rest of your in and out of school responsibilities. Most of all, we urge you to take full advantage of the high quality educational opportunities available for you. It is an investment in your future! Phil Winston Kim Diorio Kathie Laurence Jerry Berkson Craig Tuana PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL DEAN OF STUDENTS/TOSA 1

5 COURSE SELECTION/REGISTRATION INTRODUCTION The school master schedule is built in the spring based upon student needs, student requests, teacher and teacher advisor recommendations. The schedule is constructed so that students are enrolled in courses they must have, and every effort is made to schedule the electives they would like to have. The schedule also takes into account the staff and facility parameters that affect the schedule. Therefore, every student should regard the schedule they receive as a contract. The school has provided the courses and the student has an obligation to attend and participate in those classes. All students must be enrolled in a minimum of five (5) courses to be considered full-time students. Students will not be permitted to drop a course if this puts them below the minimum required course/credit load. Student Responsibilities in the Scheduling Process 1. Discuss recommendations with the academic teachers and inquire about the elective programs from the teachers in those areas. 2. Read and discuss the Course Catalog with your parents. 3. Complete applications for any AP level courses on time. 4. Attend advisory and consult your teacher advisor. 5. Discuss the preliminary course selections with your parents. 6. Go to the Infinite Campus Portal and select your courses. 7. Print the Course Registration form and have one of your parents/guardian sign it. 8. Return the Course Registration form to your teacher advisor with your signature and that of a parent/guardian on or before the deadline. Failure to go through the course selection process on time will limit opportunities for choice and flexibility in scheduling. 9. After receiving confirmation of your course selections, report any errors immediately to the Guidance Office to make corrections. 10. Understand that courses selected at this time will be the schedule of courses for the following school year. Courses with low enrollment, or which are elective, may not be offered or may be offered on an alternating-year schedule. The only course changes from those courses selected during pre-registration that will be given consideration are those changes necessitated by the student s academic performance (i.e. failing a course, taking a course with department approval in summer school, necessary level changes), technical errors and the elimination of a requested course. SCHEDULE CHANGES Dropping a Course Requests to drop a class are discouraged. As described, the master schedule was constructed and funded to meet the original requests of the students. However, in extraordinary circumstances a student may wish to request to withdraw from a course. If a student wishes to withdraw from a course and the remaining schedule still remains at or above the minimum requirement of five classes, the following rules apply: The student must discuss the possibility and advisability of the drop with his/her teacher advisor and with the teacher of the class. Teacher recommendations will be considered. Parent approval is required. Prior to dropping the course, the student must notify the teacher of that course and return all textbooks. If a student drops a course within the first quarter of a semester (October 11, 2013 for 1 st semester and March 14, 2014 for 2 nd semester), the course will not be reported on the transcript. After the quarter, a dropped class will appear on the transcript with a mark assigned by the teacher. Colleges should be notified of substantive changes in academic schedule if completed after the application has been sent. It is the student s responsibility to make this notification. Adding a Course If a student wishes to add a class to his/her schedule, the following guidelines will be used: The selection must be discussed with the student s teacher advisor and signature required The appropriate Instructional Supervisor must approve the request (if a change in level) Parent signature is required Additions will not be honored if the class size exceeds the established limit. To add a new course, the request must be made prior to the end of the 10 th day of the new semester (August 28, 2013, January 17, 2014). Those requests not meeting the timeline shall be rejected. 2

6 Schedule Change Process All approved changes require the proper paperwork and the process is described below: 1. The student will fill out a Course Change Request form and discuss the possibility and advisability of the proposed change with their teacher advisor and, if currently enrolled, the teacher of the course. 2. The parent s signature is required when a course is being dropped, added or if an academic level is being changed. 3. The teacher and the respective Instructional Supervisor sign the form which indicates their approval. Textbooks are also returned at this time. 4. The student returns the form with ALL the appropriate signatures to the Guidance department. 5. The Counselors check class size figures. 6. If class size permits, the Counselor makes the change and prints out a copy of the new schedule for the student to pick up the following day. It is the student s responsibility to check back on the schedule change the next day. 7. The student must remain in the currently scheduled class until the copy of the new schedule is picked up by the student in the Guidance office. Students who stop attending classes are subject to the attendance policy and disciplinary consequences. Summer School and Courses Taken Outside of Palo Alto High School A student who fails a course may make up the credit by attending an accredited summer school program. Approval to take a summer school class for credit must be obtained from the Assistant Principal of Guidance. The summer school must certify course credit at the end of the session and send the report to the Palo Alto High School Registrar. Palo Alto High School will honor the recommended credit awarded in the summer program. Students who take courses for credit outside of Palo Alto High School (for example, through approved foreign language schools or community colleges) should be aware that a maximum of 40 units can be counted toward the high school diploma. Students wishing to take community college courses must first obtain the written permission of the Assistant Principal of Guidance. Permission to take community college courses in core classes required for graduation from high school credit will only be given in exceptional circumstances, and with the required paperwork. Of the elected units required to meet the 215-unit graduation requirements, no more than 40 units may be taken from off-campus producing courses and all off-campus courses must have the prior approval of the Assistant Principal of Guidance to be included on the Palo Alto High School transcript. The paperwork necessary to obtain prior approval can be picked-up with the Registrar located in the Guidance office. GRADING Overall evaluation in a course is measured in a number of ways: class participation, homework, written work, performance assessments and subjective and objective testing at intervals during the course. Course grades are an average of quarter and exam grades. The following definitions appear on report cards and transcripts: A Superior B Good C Satisfactory D Poor F Unsatisfactory I Incomplete P Pass-Credit NM No Mark The Use of Plus or Minus as Part of the Letter Mark The mark of record may carry a plus (+) or minus (-) attached to the letter grade of A, B, C, or D. The pluses and minuses will appear on both the report cards and transcripts. The Grade Point Average does not include the pluses or minuses in the calculation. Conditions Controlling Use of I, P, and NM Mark of I A mark of I (INCOMPLETE) may be given when for some unusual reason (illness) a student has been unable to complete required course work. The student must enter a contract with the teacher to complete the work. If the contract has not been fulfilled and the I has not been changed to a different mark by the end of the next grading period in which the student received an incomplete, the I will be converted to a mark of F by the Registrar. A mark of I may not be given as a final mark at the close of the school year. Mark of P A mark of P (PASS-CREDIT) may be given at the discretion of the teacher. If a mark of P is used, the grade book becomes the official record which an assigned mark of A, B, C, D, or F must be recorded. A mark of P is not used for calculation of the GPA. 3

7 Mark of NM A mark of NM (NO MARK) may be given when it is inappropriate to make an evaluation. Credit will not be given. A parenthetical notation of NO CREDIT should be included in any directives or handbooks for staff, students or parents. A student who is enrolled in a given course at least four weeks prior to the close of a grading-reporting period is entitled to a mark (including NM). Eligibility for a Mark A student who enrolls in a given course at least four weeks prior to the close of a grade-reporting period is entitled to a mark (including NM). A student who has withdrawn from school during the four weeks prior to the end of a grade reporting period is entitled to a valid mark even though the student is no longer enrolled in the school. Maximum Graduation Credits Earnable A student may earn a maximum of 80 units of credit toward graduation in any given school year. Repeated Course When an academic course is repeated because a student intends to improve the mark of record, the credit shall be attached to the better mark; both marks shall remain. The higher mark is used in the computation of the GPA. Compute Your Grade Point Average (GPA) for UC/CSU Eligibility* Use semester grades in all 10th, 11th, 12th (if filed after CSU priority filing period) grade UC/CSU approved courses. Summer school courses count, including the summer between 9th and 10th grade. For repeat courses, use the highest grade only. UC/CSU approved honors/ap courses (see UC-approved Course List) taken in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades (maximum of 8 semester courses total, with no more than 2 courses taken in 10th grade) receive one additional grade point for each A, B, or C grade. Step 1: Fill in the number of semester courses you have taken, next to the grade you earned. Step 2: Multiply the number of courses by the grade points per grade to get the total grade points. Step 3: Fill in the number of UC/CSU approved honors and AP courses (maximum as above) in which you received a C or better. Step 4: GPA equals the total of Column 4 including honors line, divided by total of Column 2, not including honors line. Your GPA = Grade Number of Semester Courses Grade Points per Grade A x 4 B x 3 C x 2 D x 1 F x 0 Honors/AP x 1 TOTAL TOTAL Total Grade Points *This calculation will approximate your GPA as of now; you will need to re-calculate it before completing your UC/CSU college application. Be aware that many campuses will re-calculate your GPA as part of the application review process. 4

8 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Students for the classes of 2014 and 2015 are required to have a minimum of 215 semester credits for graduation. Students for the classes of 2016 and 2017 are required to have 220 semester credits for graduation. Ten credits are granted for successfully completing a course that meets each day for a school year, five credits are granted for a semester course. PLEASE NOTE: 1) There is no community service graduation requirement. If a student attains 100 hours of community service, a notation can be made on the transcript. Students can earn community service hours in a number of ways, including working as a notetaker in their classes at Paly. The Community Service form is available in the Guidance Office. 2) As of June 2006, students must pass the High School Exit Exam, first administered to students in the spring beginning sophomore year, to earn their diploma in the state of California. SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CLASSES OF 2014 AND 2015 Subject PAUSD Credits D- or better Subject UC/CSU ( ) = RECOMMENDED Credits C- or better English 40 English 40 Social Studies 40 Social Studies 20 World History 10 World History 10 Cont. Wld./US Gov t 5 US Hist./US Gov t 10 US History 10 Econ. 5 Social Studies Elective 5 Mathematics 20 Mathematics 30 (40) Including Algebra 1 Through Algebra 2 Science 20 Science 20 (30) Biology 10 Lab Science Physical Science 10 PE 20 PE 0 Visual & Performing Arts 10 Visual & Performing Arts 10 Same field Career Technical Education 10 Career Technical Education 0 Living Skills 5 Living Skills 0 World Languages 0 World Languages 20 (30) Same language Additional Credit for Graduation 50 Additional Credit for Graduation 10 Electives Coll. prep electives Total Credits required 215 N/A In order to earn Paly credit for a course taken off campus, prior approval by the appropriate Instructional Supervisor and/or Assistant Principal is necessary. Off-campus Prior Approval form is available with the Registrar. For specific, detailed program and curriculum information see the Course Catalog on the Paly Web site 5

9 SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CLASSES OF 2016 AND 2017 Subject PAUSD Credits D- or better UC/CSU ( ) = RECOMMENDED Credits Subject C- or better English 40 English 40 Social Studies 40 Social Studies 20 World History 10 World History 10 Cont. Wld./US Gov t 5 US Hist./US Gov t 10 US History 10 Econ. 5 Social Studies Elective 5 Mathematics Must include Algebra 1 30 Mathematics - Through Algebra 2 30 (40) and Geometry Laboratory Science 10 Biology Laboratory Science 20 (30) 10 Physical Science PE 20 PE 0 Visual & Performing Arts 10 Visual & Performing Arts 10 Same field Career Technical Education 10 Career Technical Education 0 Living Skills 5 Living Skills 0 World Languages 20 World Languages 20 (30) Same language Additional Credit for Graduation 25 Additional Credit for Graduation 10 Total Credits required 220 N/A In order to earn Paly credit for a course taken off campus, prior approval by the appropriate Instructional Supervisor and/or Assistant Principal is necessary. Off-campus Prior Approval form is available with the Registrar. For specific, detailed program and curriculum information see the Course Catalog on the Paly Web site 6

10 EXPECTED SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING RESULTS (ESLRS) To achieve our mission, the Board of Education has adopted the following competencies as the basis of what we expect our students to know and be able to do when they are graduated from PAUSD: ESLRs to be Measured by Report Card Grades Demonstrate knowledge of key concepts, principles, processes, facts, and skills in the disciplines of language arts, history-social science, mathematics, science, physical education, visual and performing arts, foreign language, career technical education, and health/practical living skills. ESLRS to be Measured by the Rubrics 1. Effective communication through listening, speaking, and writing 2. Strong research skills 3. Ability to integrate knowledge among disciplines 4. Reading with understanding 5. Critical and creative thinking to solve problems 6. Effective use of technology The ESLRs addressed are indicated for each department. Most departments indicate the ESLRs addressed at the beginning of each department section. 7

11 !!! after!! 11 UC-required college-preparatory ("a-g") courses must be completed prior to senior year (including summer courses) 1 year of history/social science from either the a or g subject area 1 year of world history, cultures, and geography from the a subject area! At least 1 year of physical science and 1 year of biological science, one from the d subject area and the other from the d or g area** Must include at least two of the three foundational subjects of biology, chemistry, and physics; both courses must be from the d subject area; 3 years recommended 3 years recommended Note: Over 10,000 Career Technical Education courses are approved for fulfillment of a-g subject requirements. Maximum of 8 extra grade points awarded for approved high school honors, AP, or IB courses and transferable college courses. No more than two yearlong courses (4 semesters) taken in 10 th grade can earn honors points. * Coursework completed in 7th or 8th grade can be used to satisfy "c" and "e" requirements. ** It is best to prepare for both UC and the CSU by completing two laboratory courses from the d subject area. 8

12 !! Test required for CSU applicants to impacted campuses. Test required for CSU applicants to non-impacted campuses, who have earned an "a-g" GPA of less than 3.0. CSU combines best critical reading and math scores from multiple sittings of SAT; may combine best subscores from multiple ACT tests to calculate a best composite. The ACT plus Writing or the SAT Reasoning Test is required for UC applicants. UC uses the highest combined score from a single sitting of the ACT plus Writing or the SAT Reasoning Test. Some campuses may recommend SAT Subject Tests for specific majors. A grade of C or better in the second semester of a yearlong mathematics course validates a D/F in the first semester. A grade of C or better in the first semester of Algebra II validates both semesters of Algebra I. A grade of C or better in trigonometry or pre-calculus validates the entire high school college preparatory requirement. A grade of C or better in statistics will validate only Algebra I and Algebra II, not geometry. A grade of C or better in a higher-level course validates a lower-level course. A higher-level LOTE course can validate the appropriate number of years based on the level. A college course can validate a high school LOTE course. The level of validation depends on the college course prerequisite and description. A grade of C or better in the second semester of chemistry will validate a D in the first semester. A grade of C or better in the second semester of chemistry will not validate a D in the first semester. Required a-g courses must be completed with a grade of C or better. Courses in which grades of D/F are earned must be repeated, EXCEPT in the areas of math and language other than English, where grades of D/F can be validated by successful completion of higher-level coursework. Required "a-g" courses may be satisfied with appropriate test scores on SAT Subject Tests, Advanced Placement exams, and designated International Baccalaureate exams. A list of acceptable tests and scores is available on UC and CSU websites. The highest grade will be used in the GPA calculation. Only courses completed with a D or F grade can be repeated; they can be repeated only one time for a grade replacement. *** Beginning with the fall 2015 application cycle, students applying to UC may not validate the subject requirement for a geometry course. 9

13 UC/CSU ELIGIBILITY There are three paths to UC eligibility for prospective freshmen. The first path includes the subject, scholarship, and examination requirements. The second path is eligibility by examination alone. The third path confers UC eligibility upon the top nine percent of students at individual California high schools. Students who fulfill at least one of the three paths to UC eligibility will be entitled to a comprehensive review of their UC application(s). Most UC campuses use criteria that exceed the minimum to select students. Therefore, meeting the minimum eligibility criteria is not a guarantee of admission. The comprehensive review process varies by campus. Be sure to review how it's applied (i.e. campus-specific selection criteria) on the University of California Web site. PATH 1 ELIGIBILITY IN THE STATEWIDE CONTEXT This is the path that most prospective freshmen follow to attain UC eligibility. Students must satisfy specific course pattern, scholarship, and test requirements. Subject Requirement Students must complete 11 of the 15 year-long courses in designated A-G subjects areas by the end of junior year as outlined in the A-G CSU/UC Comparison Matrix found in the Course Catalog. For a list of designated UC-approved courses that fulfill these A-G subject area requirements, see the list in the Course Catalog. Scholarship Requirement Applicants must earn at least a 3.0 UC GPA in UC-approved courses taken in grades A table with directions on how to calculate a UC GPA can be found in the Course Catalog. Examination Requirement Students must have taken the SAT Reasoning test (includes writing) or the ACT plus Writing test. The highest total score from a single sitting of either test is used. PATH 2 ELIGIBILITY BY EXAMINATION ALONE You may qualify for eligibility to apply to the UC by earning high scores on the SAT Reasoning Test or ACT Assessment Plus Writing. To qualify this way, you must achieve a minimum UC Score Total calculated according to the Admissions Index instructions of 3450 (3550 for nonresidents). In addition, you must earn a minimum UC Score on each component of the ACT or SAT Reasoning Test and 2 SAT Subject Tests; see the exam translation table for more information; You may not use an SAT Subject Test to meet these requirements if you have completed a transferable college course in that subject with a grade of C or better. PATH 3 ELIGIBILITY IN THE LOCAL CONTEXT (ELC) Student must fulfill the following minimum requirements to be eligible for the UC in the local context (ELC): Have a UC-calculated GPA of 3.0 or higher Complete a specific pattern of 11 UC-approved courses in A-G subject areas by the end of junior year. Rank in the top 9 percent of the expected graduating class, based on a UC weighed grade point average that includes all UC-approved courses taken in the 10th and 11th grades. Following the junior year, for those students who submit a release to Paly, high schools will identify the top 9 percent of students in the class and forward copies of the students transcripts to the UC for evaluation. The UC will select the top 9 percent and notify these students by late September of the following school year. 10

14 UC GUARANTEED ADMISSION Two groups of California-resident students will be guaranteed admission to a UC campus: Those who rank in the top 9 percent of all high school graduates statewide Those who rank in the top 9 percent of their own high school graduating class at the end of the 11th grade (ELC) It's important to understand, however, that these students are not guaranteed admission to the UC campus or campuses to which they apply. Some campuses and majors are extremely competitive and aren't able to accommodate every qualified student who wishes to attend. In those instances, students will be offered admission to a UC campus with available space. Students must complete the UC's course and test-taking requirements by the end of their senior year in high school to be considered fully qualified to enroll. To determine whether California students rank in the top 9 percent statewide, the UC uses an admission index: UC & SAT SUBJECT TESTS Students are no longer required to take 2 SAT Subject Tests to be minimally eligible for the UC. However, some campuses and some majors *recommend* students submit SAT Subject Test scores to be considered for admission. The UC has now released that a few UC campuses already have determined SAT Subject Test recommendations for specific colleges or schools, and majors: If a major is not listed, then there is no recommendation--at least not at this point. The remaining campuses either have not finalized their position or have chosen to view Subject Test scores, in general, as adding merit to a student's application. Remember, these are recommendations, not mandates. The UC indicates that students will not be penalized for failing to take the SAT Subject Tests. On the other hand, submission of test scores may add positively to the review of their application--especially for selective campuses and majors. 11

15 APPROVED A-G COURSES FOR UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA & CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY ( ) This list will not include newly approved A-G courses see your Teacher Advisor in the Fall for the approved list. Underlined courses denote extra honors credit: A=5, B=4, C=3 a-history/social SCIENCE US History AP US History Contemporary World History US Government World History b-english American Classics Il (H) (American Lit 11 H) American Literature 11 American Writers of Color Analysis of the Writer s Craft AP English Literature & Composition English 9 & 9A English 10 & 10A Escape Literature Film Composition & Literature Humanities Il (H) Literature of Sport Reading Between the Lines Shakespeare / Chaucer Women Writers World Literature 12 & 12A c-mathematics (*may only be used for the 'c' requirement) Advanced Math *Algebra l, la, Alg 1A/Geo A *Algebra l.l, l.2 *Algebra 2, *Algebra 2/Trigonometry *Algebra2/Trigonometry (H), Algebra 2/Precalculus (H) Analysis (H) AP Calculus AB and BC *Geometry, *Geometry A *Geometry/Algebra 2A Pre-Calculus, Pre-Calculus A Introduction to Analysis & Calculus Statistical Applications Statistics (AP) Trigonometry/Analytic Geometry A d-laboratory SCIENCE Biology Biology H Biotechnology AP Biology Chemistry H Chemistry AP Chemistry Conceptual Physics Physics Physics H AP Physics C AP Environmental Science Geology Marine Biology e-language OTHER THAN ENGLISH (*may only be used for the e requirement) American Sign Language *l, 2,3,4 French *l, 2-4 [French 3(H), 4(AP)], French Civ & Cult German *l, 2-5 [German 3 (H), 4 (AP), 5 (AP)] Japanese *l, 2-5, (3 (H) Japanese 4 (H), 5 (H) Japanese Language & Culture AP Chinese 1, 2, 3 4, 5 (AP) Spanish *l, 2-6 [Span. 3 (H), 4 (AP), 5 (AP)] Spanish for Spanish Speakers *1, 2 f-visual/performing ARTS (* may only be used for the f requirement) Advanced Video Production Advanced Sculpture Advanced Photo Advanced Vocal *Art History AP Art History *Art Spectrum *Ceramics/Ceramic Sculpture *Choir *Concert Band Dance 2 *Graphic Design *Jazz Ensemble AP Music Theory *Music Theory l *Orchestra *Painting & Drawing *Photo AP Studio Art *Symphonic Band *Theater l Theater 2 Theater 3 Theater 4 *Video Production 12 g-elective COURSES (all courses listed under a-f with the exception of *Mathematics, *Language Other Than English, or *Visual Arts/Performing Arts courses, plus the following): Advanced Journalism (including Magazine Journalism) Astronomy AVID Senior Seminar Beginning Journalism Broadcast Journalism AP Computer Science A Creative Writing Economics ll AP Macroeconomics Engineering Technology Environmental Science Ethnic Studies ll Foundations of Science Integrated Science Introduction to Gender Studies Introduction to Kinesiology & Reh Java AP Psychology Psychology II Science Research Project (H) Sociology II US Foreign Policy Honors Web Journalism

16 COURSES AVAILABLE FOR REPEAT CREDIT These courses may be repeated any number of times for credit. ART Drawing/Painting Graphic Design Ceramics Sculpture Yearbook Advanced Photo Advanced Sculpture Advanced Video Advanced Drawing/Painting MUSIC/DRAMA Concert Band Symphonic Band Jazz Ensemble Orchestra Choir Advanced Vocal Stage Technologies Theatre 3 Theatre 4 CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION Computer Applications Auto 2 ROP Classes Computer Design Engineering Technology Work Experience Exploratory Experience Digital Design: Animation and Game Creation OTHER School Service Teacher Assistant Special Day Classes English Language Development Classes Academic Support Advanced Journalism Magazine Journalism Broadcast Journalism Web Journalism PE & SPORTS Physical Ed Adaptive PE Dance PLEASE NOTE: Certain course offerings or programs by their nature may put students in situations in which serious accidents could occur. These courses/programs include, but are not limited to, chemistry, home economic courses, physical education courses, and athletics. Parents may wish to discuss the accident potential of courses/programs with staff members before approving student enrollment. 13

17 Core Courses NCAA Division I requires 16 core courses. NCAA Division II currently requires 14 core courses. Division II will require 16 core courses for students enrolling on or after August 1, See the charts below. NCAA Division I will require 10 core courses to be completed prior to the seventh semester (seven of the 10 must be a combination of English, math or natural or physical science that meet the distribution requirements below). These 10 courses become "locked in" at the seventh semester and cannot be retaken for grade improvement. o Beginning August 1, 2016, it will be possible for a Division I college-bound student-athlete to still receive athletics aid and the ability to practice with the team if he or she fails to meet the 10 course requirement, but would not be able to compete. Test Scores Division I uses a sliding scale to match test scores and core grade-point averages (GPA). The sliding scale for those requirements is shown on Page No. 2 of this sheet. Division II requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68. The SAT score used for NCAA purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used. The ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and science. When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 to ensure all SAT and ACT scores are reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center from the testing agency. Test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used. Grade-Point Average Be sure to look at your high school s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website ( Only courses that appear on your school's List of NCAA Courses will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Use the list as a guide. Division I students enrolling full time before August 1, 2016, should use Sliding Scale A to determine eligibility to receive athletics aid, practice and competition during the first year. Division I GPA required to receive athletics aid and practice on or after August 1, 2016, is Divisions I and II Initial-Eligibility Requirements (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on Sliding Scale B on Page No. 2 of this sheet). Division I GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2016, is (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on Sliding Scale B on Page No. 2 of this sheet). The Division II core GPA requirement is a minimum of Remember, the NCAA GPA is calculated using NCAA core courses only. 4 years of English. 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 1 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). 3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 2 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 3 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). 3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 3 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy).

18 Sliding Scale A Use for Division I prior to August 1, 2016 NCAA DIVISION I SLIDING SCALE Core GPA SAT ACT Verbal and Math ONLY & above For more information, visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website at Sliding Scale B Use for Division I beginning August 1, 2016 NCAA DIVISION I SLIDING SCALE GPA for Aid and Practice GPA for Competition SAT ACT Sum Page No. 2

19 New NCAA Division I Initial-Eligibility Standards The initial-eligibility standards for NCAA Division I college-bound student-athletes are changing. College-bound student-athletes first entering a Division I college or university on or after August 1, 2016, will need to meet new academic rules in order to receive athletics aid (scholarship), practice or compete during their first year. First, here are three terms you need to know: Full Qualifier: A college-bound student-athlete may receive athletics aid (scholarship), practice and compete in the first year of enrollment at the Division I college or university. Academic Redshirt: A college-bound student-athlete may receive athletics aid (scholarship) in the first year of enrollment and may practice in the first regular academic term (semester or quarter) but may NOT compete in the first year of enrollment. After the first term is complete, the college-bound student-athlete must be academically successful at his/her college or university to continue to practice for the rest of the year. Nonqualifier: A college-bound student-athlete cannot receive athletics aid (scholarship), cannot practice and cannot compete in the first year of enrollment. Here are the new requirements: Full Qualifier must: 1. Complete 16 core courses (same distribution as in the past click here to view); Ten of the 16 core courses must be completed before the seventh semester (senior year) of high school. o Seven of the 10 core courses must be English, math or science. 2. Have a minimum core-course GPA of 2.300; Grades earned in the 10 required courses required before the senior year are locked in for purposes of GPA calculation. o A repeat of one of the locked in courses will not be used to improve the GPA if taken after the seventh semester begins. 3. Meet the competition sliding scale requirement of GPA and ACT/SAT score (this is a new scale with increased GPA/test score requirements); and 4. Graduate from high school. 16

20 New NCAA Division I Initial-Eligibility Standards Page No. 2!!! Academic Redshirt must: 1. Complete 16 core courses (same distribution as in the past click here to view); 2. Have a minimum core-course GPA of 2.000; 3. Meet the academic redshirt sliding scale requirement of GPA and ACT/SAT score; and 4. Graduate from high school. Nonqualifier is a college-bound student-athlete who fails to meet the standards for a qualifier or for an academic redshirt. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEW RULES AND SLIDING SCALES. Examples: Q: A college-bound student-athlete completes 15 core courses with a corecourse GPA and an 820 SAT score (critical reading and math). What is the college-bound student-athlete s NCAA initial-eligibility status? A: The college-bound student-athlete is a nonqualifier because only 15 core courses were completed, not the required 16 core courses. Q: A college-bound student-athlete completes 16 core courses in the required framework with a core-course GPA and a 68 sum ACT. What is the collegebound student-athlete s initial-eligibility status? A: The college-bound student-athlete is an academic redshirt. Under the new competition scale, a 68 sum ACT score requires a core-course GPA. Q: A college-bound student-athlete completes nine core courses prior to the seventh semester of high school. What is the college-bound student-athlete s initialeligibility status? A: The college-bound student-athlete cannot be certified as a qualifier because only nine of the 10 required courses were completed before the seventh semester. He/she would be permitted to practice and receive aid (scholarship), provided he/she presents 16 core courses and meets the necessary core-course GPA and test-score requirement at the time of graduation. 17

21 NCAA APPROVED COURSES More information regarding academic planning for athletes interested in pursuing athletics in college can be found at ENGLISH American Literature 11 American Literature 11H* Literature of Resistance* Analysis Of Writers Craft College English/AP English 9 and 9A* English 10 and 10A* Escape Literature Global Voices* Humanities 11 Humanities 11/H Literature of Sport Reading Between The Lines Shakespeare/Chaucer Women Writers World Literature 12 World Literature 12 A World Literature 11 World Classics 11H Exploratory Thinking 1 & 2 Critical Thinking 1 & 2 World Classics 12 American Writers of Color American Classics 11H *Pending NCAA approval HISTORY / SOCIAL SCIENCE AP Economics Macro Cont World History Economics 11 Ethnic Studies 11 Intro To Gender Studies Psych/AP Psychology 11 Sociology 11 US Foreign Policy/H US Foreign Policy: Post Cold War US Government 11 US History US History/Coll/AP ADDITIONAL CORE COURSES All World Language Courses PALO ALTO HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS AB Calc/AP Alg 1 Alg 1.1 (.5 Units Credit Max) Alg 1.2 (.5 Units Credit Max) Alg 1A Alg 2 Alg 2/Trig A Algebra 1A/Geometry A Algebra 2/Trig/H Analysis/H BC Calc/AP Computer Science AB /AP Geom Geom A Geom/Alg 2/A Introduction to Analysis and Calculus Java/Adv Java/Intro Pre-Calc Statistical Applications Statistics/AP Trg/Anlt A NATURAL / PHYSICAL SCIENCE Astronomy Biology 1A Biology/Coll/AP Biotechnology Chemistry 1A Chemistry/Coll/AP Chemistry/H Environmental Science Environmental Science/AP Geology 1 Integrated Science Intro to Kinesiology and Rehab Marine Biology Physics 1 Physics 1A Physics/Coll/AP Sci Proj H (Science Research Project) 18

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23 COURSE OFFERINGS 20

24 ARTS, VISUAL & PERFORMING Current assignments in the department provide evidence of student mastery of the following learning outcomes: Student demonstrates ability to integrate knowledge; Student uses critical and creative thinking to solve problems; Student utilizes technology effectively and creatively. Current assignments in the department provide some evidence of student mastery of the following learning outcomes: Student communicates effectively through listening, speaking, and writing; Student demonstrates strong research skills; Student reads with understanding. Notes on Projects & Performance-Based Assessments Projects and performance-based assessments are the core of most work in the department s courses. Through work on project-based learning activities and performance based assessments students are provided opportunities to expand their competencies in the following areas: Management of resources (time, money, materials, people); Teamwork and collaboration (working in various role on projects, teaching others, join decision-making regarding artistic choices, etc.); Information management (acquiring, organizing, evaluating, and processing information from a variety of sources in order to address intellectual and creative questions posed by projects); Understanding of social, organizational, and technological systems; Problem-solving (selection of appropriate equipment and methods for specific tasks, application of technological and human resources to tasks, trouble shooting, self-evaluation, etc.). u Art Spectrum 6205 Art Spec 1 Year 9-12 Art Spectrum is the pathway or prerequisite course for Paly s Painting/Drawing and Ceramics/Sculpture classes. It is a yearlong course that covers a variety of two and three dimensional art experiences, emphasizing design, technical and expressive skills, creative problem solving, critical thinking, and the language of art. While students may come with prior art experience, this class is important to building a strong high school level foundation. Lessons primarily focus on art making, but will also include discussions, reflection/critiques, written assignments, and introductions to artists and works of historical significance. Projects will include experiences in design, drawing, shading, perspective, portraiture, color theory and painting, as well as work in clay and other threedimensional media. Outside work will include sketchbook and occasional writing assignments. As a result of this course, students will be able to demonstrate the basic technical and creative skills needed to produce two and three-dimensional works of art, show an understanding of design theory, be able to make informed critical reflections about their work, AS WELL AS THE WORK of others, DEVELOP an appreciation of historical and cultural contributions of art, and understand connections between art and life. 21

25 u Drawing & Painting 6340 Pt/Dr 1 Year Prerequisite: Art Spectrum or a portfolio review and the consent of instructor. This course can be used to fulfill the f requirement, the Visual and Performing Arts requirement for the UC and CSU systems. It can be repeated for two years with credit. Painting and Drawing is a yearlong, U.C. approved course that covers a variety of more advanced 2-dimensional experiences, including use of graphite, charcoal, pastels, acrylic, ink, watercolor, collage, mixed media, and print making. The curriculum will foster use of advanced vocabulary and A variety of advanced 2-D technical skills, as well as more in-depth creative/ expressive problem solving and critical thinking experiences. Units will primarily focus on art making, but will also include discussions, reflection/critiques, and written assignments. Short art history lectures will supplement units to introduce students to works and masters of historical significance, to the cultural importance of art, and to inspire work on in-class projects. Outside work will include sketchbook and occasional writing assignments. As a result of taking this course, students will be able to demonstrate advanced technical and creative use of various drawing and painting tools and media, and participate meaningfully in critiques and critical reflection activities. u Advanced Drawing & Painting 6338 Adv Pt/Dr 2 Year Course Prerequisite: Successful completion of one full year of Drawing/Painting This course can be used to fulfill a year of Career Tech credit, the Visual and Performing Arts requirement for the UC and CSU systems, and can be repeated an additional year of regular (non-cte) credit. Advanced Painting and Drawing is a yearlong course that allows students to develop greater command of technical skills, media, and advanced vocabulary, while pursuing more thematic depth and complexity, and a wider range of personal creative responses. As an approved Career Tech class, students are given regular exposure to vocational education/ career paths, and acquire skills that prepare them for real world work in the arts. Overall, it is a Portfolio Preparation course meant to build and refine 2-D work for a college portfolio, AP Studio Art Portfolio, or for personal interest. In support of this, the class emphasizes the development of personal imagery, allowing students to formulate their own concepts or artistic intentions. To successfully complete the first semester, students will be expected to refine their use of various traditional art materials and processes, including graphite, charcoal, Conte, ink, pastel, watercolor, and mixed media. Second semester will focus on printmaking and oil painting, with the remaining time dedicated to the student s own work, based on a set of established personal artistic goals. Because the class involves more independent work, students will be expected to demonstrate self-discipline and motivation to meet deadlines. Work outside of class will be necessary. Students will also be given outside visual research assignments, asked to present their work in class digitally. Sketchbooks will be mandatory. u Ceramics/Sculpture 6246 Cer/Scul Year Suggested Course Preparation: Art Spectrum or equivalent. This course can be used to fulfill the f requirement for the University of California and CSU. This course provides experiences in the study of ceramics and sculpture. The emphasis of this course is in mixed media and primarily involves the use of clay as a sculptural medium. Materials studied include glass, wood, metal, stone, plaster, and found objects. As a result of taking this course, students will be able to create works of art that reflect an understanding of the three dimensional elements of art and design. Students will learn to appreciate and discuss art of various cultures from past to present based on their understanding of the concepts, ideas, techniques, and materials of those cultures. Written reports, gallery/museum visits and oral critiques are integral parts of the curriculum. 22