DESCRIPTION OF 9th GRADE
COURSES AT
2006-2007
The following courses
are required for all 9th grade students.
TECHNOLOGY
Business
Tech 1: In this one-quarter course
students develop abilities related to the use of computers and technology,
which they are then able to use to communicate their ideas into other classes, homes, communities, and
future work places. Students will learn
to keyboard by touch; they will gain skills in using word processing and
spreadsheets. Students will start
folders on computer to use as a reference for later projects. This class is open to students of all grade
levels, but recommended during the freshman year. This course, in conjunction with Tech
Discoveries, meets the technology foundations graduation requirement.
Technology and
Communications: In this one-quarter course students learn to use
computers and technology to aid their oral presentations. In addition to basic
keyboarding and word processing, students learn to use other software
applications used for presentations, while developing the basic skills of oral
communication. This class is open to students of all grade levels, but
recommended during Division I coursework. This course, in conjunction with Tech Discoveries, meets the technology
foundations graduation requirement.
Tech
Discoveries 1: The curriculum of
this one-quarter class is designed so that students will be exposed to various
technological concepts and career paths.
Students will learn a minimum of 7 technology skills including computer
animation, digital imagery, digital video editing, and web page design. This
course, in conjunction with Business Tech, meets the technology foundations
graduation requirement.
ENGLISH
English 1/2 is a Division 1 Graduation Requirement.
English 1C:
This is a two-quarter course
in reading and writing for the college bound 9th grader who will
also receive intensive instruction in grammar, vocabulary building, literary
analysis, and research techniques as outlined in the English-Language Arts
Standards for California Public Schools.
This course meets the UC/CSU requirement.
English 1H: This is an honors course for those who have
demonstrated high ability and achievement in English. Selection is based on teacher or counselor
recommendation. Summer assignment is
required. See Department Chair. This course
meets the UC/CSU requirement.
English
as a Second Language:
Placement in the ESL/ELD courses are based on
teacher recommendation and/or English Language Placement test.
MATHEMATICS
Geometry is the Division 1 Graduation
Requirement. An additional year of Math
is required for Division 2.
Sheltered
Math 1S: A two-quarter course that covers basic math skills for students
who are limited English proficient.
Sheltered Math Lab: A two-quarter course for the student who is limited English proficient and not yet ready for a mainstreamed
math course. All work will be
done independently and cover material including Basic Algebra, Algebra 1C,
Algebra 2C, or higher.
Algebra
1C: The entry level
mathematics course at
Algebra
Prep/Algebra Extension: A four-quarter program designed to assist students that struggle
in mathematics. This class meets every
day for 45 minutes and is only offered Period 0 (before school) or Period 5
(after school). Students in this class
are concurrently enrolled in Algebra 1C during term 2.
Algebra
1H
Prerequisite: A score between 25-50% on the Helix Honors
Mathematics Placement Test.
A two-quarter course in Algebra for
students that have been exposed to, but have not yet mastered first year
algebra. This course will place a heavy
emphasis on rational expressions, radical equations and problem solving. This
course meets the UC/CSU “C” requirements.
Geometry
1H:
Prerequisite: 1) A
score above 75% on the Helix Honors Mathematics Placement Test.
Or
2) A grade of "B" or better in Algebra
Enrichment (Summer)
A two-quarter
course in Euclidian Geometry for the student with excellent math skills. The course
emphasizes proofs in plane and coordinate geometry, relationships in plane and
solid geometry, and trigonometry. This course meets the UC/CSU “C”
requirements.
Fitness/Team Sports and Individual Sports are
division 1 Graduation Requirements. An
additional year of Physical Education is required for Division 2.
ALL
PHYSICAL EDUCATION CLASSES INCLUDE CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS ACTIVITIES.
Fitness/Team
Sports: This is a quarter course
for Division I students. Activities
include circuit training, testing on the California Fitness tests and various
team sports. This course is offered
quarters 2 & 3 and meets half of the Division 1 requirement for P.E.
Individual Sports: This is a
quarter course for Division 1 students. Activities include First-Aid, swimming and
tennis. This quarter course is taught
quarters 1& 4 and satisfies half of the Division 1 requirements for
PE.
All or the courses offered in the Science Department are UC
approved college prep, honors or advanced placement courses. Most colleges give a higher priority to
students who have completed 3 years of science.
First year science will choose from one of the following options to
complete the two-year science core graduation requirement.
Biology 1C:
(9-11) Prerequisites: none. This
two-quarter college prep course will cover basic biology skills, concepts and
processes, such as: laboratory technique and safety, scientific method, inquiry
problem solving, basic organic chemistry, cell structure and function, cell
division, genetics, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, DNA structure and
protein synthesis, evolution, ecology, and human biology systems. This course will meet the Life Science
graduation requirement, as well as the UC “D” and “G” requirements.
Medical Biology
1/2C: (9-11) Prerequisites: none. This is a four-quarter combined course
for students with a
strong interest in human health.
Students must complete the entire year to receive credit for either biology
or Tech Discoveries, but successful completion of this course confers a credit
for a life science
(Biology) and a credit for Tech Discoveries. This course uses issues of human health and anatomy
to explore all the topics required for biology by the state of
Physics 1S
(Sheltered): (9-11) Prerequisites: none. This two-quarter course is designed
for the non-native English learner.
Course content is the same as the mainstream class,
however, the class will be composed of fewer students and will emphasize CLAD
teaching strategies. Meets Helix Graduation Requirement for
Physical Science.
THE
FOLLOWING COURSES ARE REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION:
Ø
Introduction to
Social Studies
Ø
World History
Ø
Ø
Government
Ø
Economics
Sheltered
Classes: The following courses are
offered to students who are limited English proficient:
Ø
Social Studies Study Skills
Ø
Introduction to Social Studies
Ø
World History
Ø
9th Grade Options:
Honors
Introduction to Social Studies 1H/2H: (9) This two-quarter survey course is the foundation course for
the social studies. A framework is established in which themes and concepts are
explored. Although this course touches on numerous aspects of the social
studies, specific attention is given to the development of people through human
geography. In addition, students will practice basic skills in reading,
writing, test taking and note taking. Social skills in cooperative group work
and class discussion will also be taught Students earning credit in Honors
leveled courses have a higher standard in writing requirements. Students
enrolled in this course are STRONGLY recommended to enroll in the Social
Studies Honors Prep Course. This course satisfies the graduation requirement
for Introduction to Social Studies.
Introduction
to Social Studies 1C/2C: (9) This two-quarter survey course is
designed with the purpose of developing and improving reading, writing,
speaking, and critical thinking skills through Social Studies content. Students will study and reflect upon the
historical significance of past events, as well as the interactions of various
cultures throughout time. By guiding
students through content and learning processes, students will begin do develop
and /or improve the skills necessary for meeting the language demands of living
in a culturally diverse society as well as preparing students for the critical
reading and writing demands of a high-school education. This course satisfies the graduation
requirement for Introduction to Social Studies.
Introduction
to Social Studies 1/2
(Sheltered) (9-12): This two-quarter survey course is the
foundation course for the social studies. A specially trained instructor and an
aide use instructional techniques that will enable students to improve their
English skills while completing their Introduction to Social Studies
curriculum. A framework is established in which themes and concepts are
explored. Although this course touches on numerous aspects of the social
studies, all units are taught with the goal of improving students skills in
reading and speaking. Building a stronger sense of “cultural literacy” is a key
goal, which will assist students in future social studies courses. This course satisfies the graduation
requirement for Introduction to Social Studies.
Social
Studies Study Skills 1/2 (Sheltered) (9-12): Sheltered Social Studies Study
Skills is a two-quarter course for limited English speaking students. A specially trained instructor uses
instructional techniques that will enable students to improve their English
skills. This course is skill focused for
those students who are in their 1st and 2nd year of
language acquisition. A strong emphasis
is placed on vocabulary development, reading, writing, and processing skills
that are helpful in the Social Studies.
Social Studies elective credit is earned.
Reading Fundamentals 1/2 (9): Reading Fundamentals is a two-quarter course
with intensive concentration on improving a wide array of literacy skills. Starting with initial evaluation of student
reading levels, the course advances with checking and reinforcing phonemic
awareness, building vocabulary, and developing strategies for aggressively
approaching reading. Upon completion of
Reading Fundamentals students will be enrolled in term II-Intro to Social
Studies (see catalog listing). The end result will be a student who is
better prepared for a successful experience in his/her college prep courses for
the remaining 3 ½ years at Helix. Social
Studies elective credit is earned.
Extended
Learning (ExL): (No Credit) This course allows
ninth grade students time to study and complete homework, research projects,
and read for pleasure under the supervision of an adult tutor. Students will have the opportunity to
practice a variety of learning skills, which will be useful in all class
settings. Students will be expected to
maintain a calendar or assignment sheet of all class work. All students are assigned to ExL and will
remain in the program until the student has achieved and can maintain a GPA of
3.0 or above, this will be checked at the progress report time or close of the
quarter. At this time the student, all
current teachers, counselor and parents must agree on this release. No letter grade is given for this non-credit
course. However, students do earn a
conduct grade.
Alternative Classes
9th Grade students may
select one alternative class
in place of technology or science, depending on course availability.
ART
Art 1-2: This two-quarter course offers an exciting
investigation into the elements of design and how they apply to art creation,
art history and theory. Students will
explore multiple art medias in the application of
projects, exercises and studies of artists that came before them. Art lectures
will be provided. Students will learn to plan, propose, produce and critique
artwork from stills, models, and from their imagination. This course meets the GUHSD graduation
requirements for Fine Arts and meets the UC/CSU Fine Arts “F” requirement.
Digital
Art 1: This is a two-quarter Art
elective class. In this class you will
learn about the history of manipulated images, the ethics of editing images,
aesthetics, artistic perception, artistic composition, and creativity. Students will work with original photographs
and electronic images. You will expand
basic computer skills, learn new programs like
Photoshop, Illustrator, PageMaker, and Director. This course meets the UC/CSU requirement.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
At this time, only 2nd
year language classes are available for 9th grade students.
PLACEMENT IN SECOND YEAR LANGUAGE COURSES IS
BASED ON THE HELIX LANGUAGE ASSESSMENT EXAM ADMINISTERED AT THE MIDDLE SCHOOLS
OR BY APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR.
HOME ECONOMICS
Housing
and Interior Design 1S: This is a
two-quarter course open to all students who will learn to create desirable
environments by experimenting with color, fabrics, furniture arrangement and
accessories. This project based,
hands-on course, is open to all grades and meets the 1-year Fine Arts
graduation requirement. Males are encouraged
to participate.
Child
Development 1S: This is a two-quarter course, which covers relationships,
conception, prenatal development, the newborn, toddlers, and parenting
skills. Students will learn to
appreciate children as individuals and gain experience through our on-site 3
week preschool, Scottie Tots. Career
opportunities in child development and related fields will be explored. Open to All
students, grades 9-12. Males are
encouraged to participate - parenting is a two-person responsibility. This course articulates with
Grossmont/Cuyamaca Community College earning 3 units of college credit.
Clothing and Fashion
Merchandising: A 2 quarter
class open to all students (male and female) designed to teach the basics of
sewing, clothing design, merchandising and fashion. Students will learn how to use a sewing
machine, read patterns, and construct and fit clothes. A great class for anyone
interested in a career in the fashion world or someone who just wants to learn
how to make unique clothes or home decorating items.
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
Graphics: This is a two-quarter course in
offset and screen process printing techniques.
Get hands on experience and design logos, notepads, business cards,
T-shirts and more. No prerequisite or
fee.
Construction
Tech (Woodworking): This two-quarter
course provides basic technical information and laboratory experiences related
to current practices in the construction industry. Students gain exposure to tools, materials,
and processes: framing, roofing,
plumbing, electrical, drywall, painting finish carpentry, and common home repairs. There is no prerequisite or fee.
Drafting: This is a two-quarter course covering basic
drafting. Instruction in drafting
instruments, lettering, line value, multiview
drawing, pictorials, and auxiliaries are some of the topics covered. (Competency
in basic math fundamentals is recommended).
PERFORMING ARTS
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE: PERFORMANCE ATTIRE (EXCEPT FOR THE MARCHING BAND UNIFORM), AN ASB CARD AND AN INSTRUMENTAL DEPARTMENT FEE.
Introduction
to Music 1: A
two-quarter course open to all students with or without a musical
background. Students will learn basic
music theory and gain an understanding and appreciation of all styles of
music. This course meets UC/CSU requirement.
Class
Piano: This two-quarter course is
designed for the beginner with no piano skills through the intermediate piano
player who may have had some piano experience.
The course will cover basic piano keyboarding skills, basic music
theory, musicianship and historical context.
Instruction will be given class style with time for some individual
attention. Electronic keyboards will be
provided. Practice outside of class will
be expected, and there will be lab hours available for this, or students may
practice on a piano or keyboard at home.
Beginning Guitar: A two-quarter course open to all
students with or without a musical background. Students will learn basic music
theory as applied to guitar. Emphasis is
on chords and scales. A variety of folk,
blues and popular music will be learned.
Students must have an acoustic
guitar. This course
meets UC/CSU requirement.
Theatre: This two-quarter course is a beginning study
in drama that is open to all grade levels and covers pantomime, oral
interpretation, acting, theater history, and technical theater. This course meets UC/CSU requirement
Elective
Courses
There are a limited number of electives for 9th
grade students. Most of these classes meet on alternate days. Students will be
assigned to ExL on the opposite days.
AVID (Advancement via Individual
Determination): AVID is a four-year A/B college preparatory
program for under-served students with academic potential. The goal of
AVID is to support students in their core classes and prepare them for
university admission. Class time balances between curriculum and study
groups. College students are hired as social and academic mentors.
Students learn about universities and the program includes college
visitations. All AVID students 10th-12th grade are expected to be enrolled
in at least 1 Honors/AP course.
Students receive assistance in applying for college admission and
financial aid. AVID enrollment is not restricted by the 20-credit limit
for Non-Departmental (Y) courses. Prerequisite: Students must qualify
and meet teacher's selection for program criteria. Must have the approval of instructor.
Concert
Band: Yearlong A/B course. This
group of wind instrumentalists is a part of the marching band in the fall and
participates in concerts, a tour, and festivals in the spring. The school may furnish some instruments. Emphasis in this band is placed on learning
and developing basic music skills and techniques through the performance of
quality wind band literature. Students enrolled in this class must also
enroll in Marching P.E. in the fall term.
Participation in after school,
evening, and weekend rehearsals and performances is required. This course meets UC/CSU requirement.
Percussion
Ensemble: Yearlong A/B. This is a
course for percussionists only which is a part of the marching band in the
fall, and students from this class make up the percussion sections of the bands
and orchestra in the spring. The school
furnishes percussion instruments.
Students are expected to become proficient at playing multiple
percussion instruments and apply that proficiency in performance. Students
enrolled in this class must also enroll in Marching P.E. in the fall term. Participation
in after school, evening, and weekend rehearsals and performances is required.
Bagpipes: (By
audition only) Year-long A/B. This is a class for any student interested in
playing bagpipes and carrying out the Scottish theme of Helix. Individual instruction is given in the pipes
or drums. During the year these students
are a part of the marching band, and have the same responsibilities and
requirements. During the spring, the
pipe band performs at special events and concerts, and travels to Scottish
Games in
Colorguard:
(By audition only) Yearlong
A/B. Students in this course become members of Helix Color Guard and perform
routines which use tall flags, rifles, and letters. In the fall Color Guard performs with the
marching band in parades and field shows, and in the spring performs as a unit
in the Winterguard circuit in gymnasiums through out
Symphony
Orchestra: Yearlong A/B. Symphony Orchestra is an advanced level Honors Instrumental Music Class working on
and performing orchestra music at the college level. Music selected for this ensemble would be
selected from the SCSBOA (Southern California School Band and Orchestra
Association) Class AA music list, which is for advanced high school and college
ensembles. This course would be a
rigorous college-level program for students willing to accept the demands of
the program. This course would offer
accelerated California Performing Arts standards-based instruction for the
advanced and talented musicians. Participation in after school, evening, and weekend
rehearsals and performances is required.
This course meets UC/CSU
requirement.
Marching Physical Education: Term 1 A/B. this
is a companion course for all band classes and ensemble so outdoor
rehearsal can take place with all groups together. Stretching, warming up and aerobic exercise
through marching and playing musical instruments are the principle
activities. Per school policy, P.E.
credit is given to 10th and 11th grade only and credit
for these two terms is applied to the second year P.E. graduation
requirement. 9th and 12th
graders still must take this course and receive elective credit for being in
their band class.
Beginning Choir: (Middle school music, high school music or
director approval). Yearlong
A/B. This course is open to all students, regardless of musical
experience or ability level. This is a
traditional choral group. Emphasis is on
basic vocal/choral technique and musicianship.
Required performances include Winter Concert and Spring
Pops Concert. This course meets
UC/CSU requirement.
INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE: PERFORMANCE ATTIRE (EXCEPT FOR THE MARCHING BAND UNIFORM), AN ASB CARD AND AN INSTRUMENTAL DEPARTMENT FEE.
If the course meets the UC/CSU requirement for Visual and Performing Arts, it is noted in the course description.
Summer School
Options:
Highlander
Camp (Summer School): This is an award-winning
program, much different than traditional summer school. This 10-day camp is open to all incoming 9th grade Helix students and focuses on:
- Connecting students to Helix
- Changing student attitudes toward their education
- Learning strategies
- Discovering their learning style
Students may earn 5 credits if they are in attendance all 10 days and all requirements are met.
There
is a special enrollment for Highlander Camp. Space is limited. See separate
handout for more information.
Writing
Fundamentals 1 (summer):
This Summer prerequisite course addresses the needs of 9th
grade students whose literacy skills are below grade level. It is designed to prepare students for the 9th
grade core curriculum in English and geography through essential skill
development in reading, writing, and speaking, as well as extensive instruction
and support in organization, time management, and study skills. Upon successful completion of this course,
students will be enrolled in 9th grade English and Geography, (Placement
determined by writing/reading assessment and standardized test scores,
teacher/counselor recommendations from feeder school.) Elective credit.
Algebra
Enrichment (Summer): Prerequisite: A score between 50-75% on the
Helix Honors Mathematics Placement Test. This course meets 2 hours per day
during our 4-week summer school. This course is designed to prepare incoming
students for the rigors of a high school honors mathematics course. It will place a heavy emphasis on rational
expressions, radical equations and problem solving.
Social
Studies Summer Honors Prep Course (9): All freshmen entering the
Honors program at Helix are strongly recommended to take this summer prep
course. Student’s work will be centered on improving writing skills. Specifically, note-taking with expository text, writing complex and
developed sentences and paragraphs. Writing analytically is a key
component in Social Studies courses. In addition to writing, students will
build skills at interpreting data sets, charts, and graphs. Another useful
aspect of the course works with students to developed a “work –ethic” which
supports preparing properly for exams and quizzes.
Course Description 9th 06.07 (12-26-05)