9^th Grade Program Planning

PVMS EAST and WEST

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The Transition- High School will be here soon

• Favorite moment of middle school?

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• Favorite teacher in middle school?

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• What will you miss from middle school?

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• What advice would you give to a 6th grader about middle school?

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• What are you looking forward to the most in high school?

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• What are you the most nervous about with high school?

Sample High School Schedule

Note:

No Advisory

Everyone’s schedule is a different order

Health and PE is a full period every other day PE/Health

What house are you??

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RED HOUSE

Mr. Berk Principal

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Last Name Counselor

A-L Mrs. Felty

M-Z Ms. Conlan

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WHITE HOUSE

Mrs. Baker Principal

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Last Name Counselor

A-L Ms. Hannings

M-Z Ms. Kolenkiewicz

BLUE HOUSE

Mr. Stanson-Marsh Principal

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Last Name Counselor

A-L TBD

M-Z Mrs. Sobeck

Required Credits

for Graduation

Required Courses for 9th Grade

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English 1 credit

Social Studies 1 credit

Science 1 credit

Math 1 credit

PE 9/Health I 1 credit

Elective 1 credit

Elective 1 credit

TOTAL 7 CREDITS

Core Classes

You will be talking to your teachers now about the core classes for next year.

Levels

Core classes have levels of Core/Honors/AP

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You are placed into these levels by teacher recommendation. Your teachers will talk to you in the next few weeks

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Based on performance in class, grades, and standardized testing.

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You have heard this from your teachers since the beginning of the school year

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You do not need to be in Honors for every class! Consider your self motivation and career path for each decision

So what does Core/Honors/AP mean?

Weight

Core = 1.0

Honors = 1.125

AP = 1.25

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Qualities

• Pace of content
• Rigor
• Skills building
• Critical thinking
• Good time management skills

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English

10th/11th/12th

Social Studies

10th/11th/12th

Mathematics

Science

10th/11th/12th

Health and PE

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• North Montco students will take Health and PE at Tech.

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• Students will take Health (0.5) and Physical Education (0.5) Students will have Health and PE every other day rotating ACE or BDF.

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• Health topics include: Typical Health Topics

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• PE includes swimming and Typical PE Topics.

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Electives

You will be able to pick them starting 2/16.

ELECTIVES

• You will choose 2 electives and 2 alternates for each elective. Remember no electives are guaranteed

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• If you are hoping to go to NMTCC, choose 2 electives and NMTCC as your alternate.

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• *Do not forget about the humanities requirement and technology requirement (see page 27 in the PPG). Plan ahead!

Elective Areas

• Art
• Business, Computers, & Communications
• Music
• Technology and Engineering
• World Languages

Most are full credit (same period, every day, for the full year).

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Some are half credit (same period, every day, for one semester/half year)

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If you pick a half credit course, you will need to pick another elective, which will run the opposite semester.

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*NMTCC students complete electives as part of your tech program.

StudentVue: Select your courses on 2/16-3/7

World Languages

French or Spanish

French

Similar to core classes, French has several different Levels

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French Video

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French 1:

• various activities such as dialogues, role playing, viewing films, and reading short novels
• will enhance your skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking in French
• help develop an understanding of french and Francophone culture

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French II:

• develops your skills in reading, wring, listening and speaking in French
• studying thematic units, reading novels and viewing films
• interactive activities in class such as dialogues, role playing and skits
• study of French and Francophone culture

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Honors French II:

• same objectives as French II but at an accelerated pace
• the class will be conducted in French, requiring an advanced development of reading, wring, listening and speaking skills
• thematic units as well as reading short novels and viewing films
• A summer packet of reading and grammar practice is required

1 CREDIT

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6009 French I

6010 French II

6022 Honors French II

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Spanish

Similar to core classes, Spanish has different levels

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Spanish Video

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Spanish I

• foundation to communicate in Spanish.
• build skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing
• conversation in Spanish is a main component
• learn vocabulary and grammar
• Spanish culture comes alive with a classroom celebrations, enjoyment of native foods and the viewing of videos.

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Spanish II

• continue with the objectives of Spanish I
• improve the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking through role plays, dialogues, presentations, question/answer practice, etc
• grammar study will be a daily focus
• learn more about the differences between the Anglo and the Hispanic societies through novel discussions, holiday observances, art, and music, and foreign cuisine

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Honors Spanish II

• the class is conducted 100% in Spanish
• use formations in addition to using higher order thinking skills
• vocabulary development and grammar emphasis
• development of speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills
• authentic listening and reading texts, videos, music, short stories and poems are part of the curriculum
• NOTE : A summer reading assignment and grammar packet are required.

1 CREDIT

6609 Spanish I

6610 Spanish II

6622 Honors Spanish II

Other Courses in World Langes in 10th/11th/12th

Spanish III, Honors Spanish III, Spanish IV, Honors Spanish IV, Spanish V, AP Spanish

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French III, Honors French III, French IV, Honors French IV, French V, AP French

ART

Foundations, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Survey of Art, Studio

Foundations of Art

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FOUNDATIONS OF ART

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• The course concentrates on 3 main areas.
• elements and principles of design
• critique
• drawing and painting
• Art history will be incorporated

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• Foundations of Art is the prerequisite class for Studio Art I/II and AP Art Studio (11th grade).
• If a student is serious about art or considering an art career, it is highly recommended that Foundations of Art be taken in 9th grade.

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1 CREDIT

8025

Ceramics I

Ceramics

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• creative and technical aspects of clay
• hand-building, sculpture and wheel-throwing
• cultural study and art history
• elements and principles of design are reviewed
• there are out of class homework and drawing assignments.

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• This course is the prerequisite for Ceramics II.

1 Credit

8045

Graphic Design I

Graphic Design I

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• visually communicate ideas and ongoing image analysis
• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign
• includes art history

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• This course is the prerequisite for Graphic Design 2.
• This course fulfills the technology credit requirement.

1 Credit

8030

Survey of Art-Requires a Waiver

Survey of Art

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• basics of drawing, painting, and pen & ink
• units of identity, symbolism, fiber, crafts and watercolor, art history, and multiculturalism
• emphasis on craftsmanship, idea generation, and student written self-reflection
• some homework assignments will be given

1 Credit

8040

Studio Art-requires a waiver

Studio Art

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Students who complete both Studio Art I and II in high school may be eligible to earn 6 credits at Montgomery County Community College

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• observational drawing and painting
• drawing includes charcoal and conte crayon
• painting includes pastel and paint
• historical and contemporary influences
• some home drawing assignments will be required

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• This is a prerequisite for Studio Art II and later, AP Studio Art.

1 credit

8010

Other Art Classes available 10th/11th/12th

Ceramics 2

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Graphic Design 2

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Digital Photography

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Studio Art 2

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AP Art

BUSINESS

Intro, Business Apps, Creative Computing, AP, Hardware/Games

Intro to BUSINESS

INTRO TO BUSINESS

• Foundational course
• Stages of starting a business, how businesses function, and how to run a successful business
• Topics include:
• businesses in a global economy
• business organization/management
• business operations/technology
• social media marketing and other areas

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1 CREDIT

5640

BUSINESS APPS with 0ffice Certification

BUSINESS APPS WITH OFFICE CERTIFICATIONS

• Develop computer skills, interpersonal skills, and ethical issues relating to computers
• Units of study include:
• office applications
• internet skills
• research skills
• digital media, and
• employability strategies
• Students have the option to become a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

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1 CREDIT

5140

Creative Computing

CREATIVE COMPUTING

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• Examine technology’s role in creatively marketing products and services to consumers
• Creative expression is key
• Using various software not limited to Photoshop, Google Sketch Up, LucidCharts, KnightLabs Interactive Timelines, and more
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

1 CREDIT

5131

AP Computer Science Principles

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

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• Introduces students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts
• Use technology to address real-world problems and build relevant solutions
• Summer work is required. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

1 CREDIT

5297

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PREREQUISITE:

ALGEBRA 2

Intro to Hardware�& Principles

INTRO TO COMPUTER HARDWARE & PRINCIPLES

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• Covers multiple topics regarding technology and the impacts in our world
• Build a computer, learn about concerns in working with computers, explore how social media works
• Great course to take if you are exploring computer science or computer engineering careers
• In 9th grade, you must take this with Games and Apps.
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

0.5 CREDIT

5223

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Intro to Programming Through Games and Apps

INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING THROUGH GAMES & APPS

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• Includes developing solid design principles, graphic design, and computer programming
• Programs covered including Java, Stencyl, HTML, and CSS
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

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0.5 CREDIT

5224

Other Business Courses available 10th, 11th, 12th

• Accounting 1 and 2
• Social Media in the Business World
• Financial Literacy
• Sports and Entertainment Marketing
• Intro to Marketing/Management
• Web Design
• Education at Work
• AP Computer Science A
• APP Design Studio
• Viking Genious Bar 1 and 2
• Yearbook
• TV Production
• Advanced Media Broadcasting

MUSIC

Band, Chorus, Orchestra, 101, Piano

Band Chorus Orchestra

• Band Major I Course number: 8616
• Chorus Major I 8626
• Orchestra Major I 8666
• Orchestra/Chorus 8623
• Orchestra/Band 8663
• Band/Chorus 8613
• Band/Orchestra/Chorus 8609

• These groups perform winter and spring concerts and also at various community events.
• Classes will include appropriate terminology, sight reading, and major and minor key signatures.
• This is a great a opportunity to keep performing

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1 CREDIT

MUSIC 101�

MUSIC 101

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• Fundamentals of music theory as well as music history
• Theory concepts will include: rhythmic and melodic literacy, clefs, scales, key signatures, intervals, enharmonics, meter signatures, and standard notational practices
• Study of music history will include: time periods, composers, and touchstone compositions.
• This is a prerequisite for AP Music Theory

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1 CREDIT

Piano

• For Beginners
• Covers keyboard positioning, scales, chords, music theory and piano compositions
• Compose own pieces
• No prior experience needed

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1.0 Credit

Other Music classes grades 10/11/12

AP Music Theory

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Music Composition

TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING

Graphics, Manufacturing, Engineering

INDUSTRIAL PRINT GRAPHICS

INDUSTRIAL PRINT GRAPHICS

• Learn what it is like to start and operate a small business in industrial printing
• Print on paper, plastics, glass, metal, fabric and many other materials
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

1 CREDIT

7513

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Intro to Manufacturing

INTRODUCTION TO MANUFACTURING

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• A hands on course
• Experience the entire design and production process, from brainstorming and sketching to building a final product
• Use 3-D solid modeling CAD software
• Use traditional hand and power tools to produce projects
• *Lab fee is required to cover the cost of student projects.
• This course satisfies the technology credit requirement for graduation.

1 CREDIT

7502

Engineering Design

Engineering Design

• *PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Algebra I or Geometry in eighth grade with a grade of B or above.
• Weighted as Honors class
• Uses the engineering design process and technical documentation to create hands-on projects
• Work both individually and in teams
• Using 3-D modeling and printing software
• Develop problem-solving skills
• Apply knowledge of research and design

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 or Geometry

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1 CREDIT

7551

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Other Technology Courses grade 10/11/12

Industrial Print Graphics II

Advanced Manufacturing

Manufacturing and Construction

Precision Machining/3D Printing

Principles of Engineering

Architecture and Civil Engineering

Digital Electronics

Other Electives

Freshman Advisory

Freshman Advisory

• Freshman advisory is designed to support students during their transition to high school. The course focuses on academic and personal demands to assist in educational success. This semester course is offered daily for half a year. This course will allow students to receive skill-focused support in Math or English.
• Based on standardized tests
• During PE-you will need to take it in 11th

.5 CREDIT

9984

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Other Electives available 10th/11th/12th

Peer Buddies

Internships

Service Learning

Ursinus College

Dual Enrollment with MCCC

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NORTH MONTCO TECHNICAL

CAREER CENTER

NORTH MONTCO TECHNICAL CAREER CENTER

Apps Due 2/20

• Construction Trades (Construction Carpentry, Electrical Trades, HVAC)
• Cosmetology
• Culinary Arts
• Engineering/Manufacturing Cluster (Drafting & Design, Mechatronics, Precision Machining, Welding & Fabrication)
• Social Media Marketing
• Protective Services
• Power & Transportation (Auto Collision Repair, Automotive Technology, Diesel Truck Technology, Recreational Power Equipment, Retain & Distribution)
• Visual Communications Cluster (Commercial & Advertising Art, Graphic Arts, Internet Technologies
• Health Sciences

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2 ELECTIVE CREDITS

NMTCC

AM Session

NMTCC WILL TAKE THE PLACE OF THE 2 HIGH SCHOOL ELECTIVES

Common Questions

Study Hall

Summer classes

Summer work

• Study Hall is not available to 9th Grade students.

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• Students may only take health outside of the school year if it conflicts. PE must be taken at the high school.
• Any summer work taken before 9th grade will not count for high school credit.

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• Some AP and Honors classes require summer work. It will be posted on the school website at the end of May.

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Am I able to change my classes?

Changes will not be made for:

• Lunches
• Friends
• Preferred teachers
• Going up or down an academic level
• No longer wanting the class

Reminder: Pick 2 electives and two alternates

Need alternates to all your elective courses except:

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• World Languages
• Band/Chorus/Orchestra

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If you applied to NMTCC, select 2 electives and make NMTCC your alternate.

Program Planning Guide

High School website → Academics → Program Planning

Program Planning Guide (MS Level)

West’s Counseling Center → Click on the Program Planning tab

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT??

1/23-2/8 Teacher make recommendations in Synergy

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2/1 NMTCC Open House

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2/6-2/8 Classroom Presentations on Program Planning for West Students

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2/15 8^th Grade Parent Night at the HS

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2/16 Students and Parents are able to see recommendations in StudentVue

You may start to pick your classes on StudentVue.

There will be a video on how to pick classes in advisory.

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2/20 NMTCC applications and health forms due to counselors by 8am

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3/7 Last day for students to choose electives on StudentVue

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3/31 No more changes to course recommendations after this date

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5/17 6-9 pm May Mixer at high school with East Students @ HS

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