northwest high school incoming 9th … arts ... fine arts visual arts/music courses; academy of ......
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NORTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL INCOMING 9TH GRADE STUDENTS
ARTICULATION INFORMATION FOR FEEDER MIDDLE SCHOOLS
Roberto Clemente Middle School
Kingsview Middle School
Lakelands Park Middle School
Preparing for the 2015-2016 School Year
Mrs. Lance Dempsey
Principal
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Important Dates ........................................................................................................................................ 2
Staff Member Contact List ....................................................................................................................... 3
Counseling Department Contact Information ........................................................................................... 4
Grade 9 Course Offerings ......................................................................................................................... 5
Career, Business and Technology Education ........................................................................................... 6
English ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Mathematics .............................................................................................................................................. 8
Montgomery College Middle College Program………………………………………………………..10
Music ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
Physical Education / Health Education ................................................................................................... 12
Science .................................................................................................................................................... 13
Social Studies .......................................................................................................................................... 14
Special Education ................................................................................................................................... 17
Ulysses Signature Program……………………………………………………………………………..18
Visual Arts .............................................................................................................................................. 19
World Languages .................................................................................................................................... 21
IMPORTANT DATES
Wednesday, January 21, 2015 Incoming 9th Grade Parent Meeting & AP Fair
7:00 pm in the Northwest HS Auditorium
Friday, June 12, 2015 Incoming 9th Grade Student Orientation
7:25 am in the Northwest HS Auditorium
Roberto Clemente Middle School (RCMS)
Thursday, January 22 (Snow Date: 1/26) Students receive registration materials
Monday, February 2 Registration cards due to the RCMS Counseling Office
Kingsview Middle School (KMS)
Friday, January 23 (Snow Date: 1/27) Students receive registration materials
Monday, February 9 Registration cards due to KMS Counseling Office
Lakelands Park Middle School (LPMS)
Friday, January 23 (Snow Date: 1/27) Students receive registration materials
Monday, February 2 Registration cards due to the LPMS Counseling Office
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STAFF MEMBER CONTACT LIST
Name Title Types of Questions Contact Information
Lance Dempsey Principal
Courses,
Registration Process &
Articulation Dates
(301) 601-4620
Tim Britton Assistant Principal; 9th Grade
Administrator
Courses,
Registration Process &
Articulation Dates
(301) 601-4660
Matthew Niper
Assistant Principal; Master
Scheduler; 11th Grade
Administrator
Courses,
Registration Process &
Articulation Dates
(301) 601-4660
Matt Paushter
Assistant School
Administrator; 12th Grade
Administrator & Incoming 9th
Grade Administrator
Courses,
Registration Process &
Articulation Dates
(301) 601-4660
John Robertson Assistant Principal; 10th Grade
Administrator
Courses,
Registration Process &
Articulation Dates
(301) 601-4660
Mike Bednarcik Resource Teacher, Health &
Physical Education
Health & Physical
Education Courses
(301) 601-4656
Berdett Coleman Special Education Resource
Teacher, Cluster Program
Services for Students
with Emotional
Disabilities
(301) 601-4679
Aimee Conway Resource Teacher,
Mathematics Mathematics Courses
(301) 601-4651
Becky Ahearn Resource Teacher, World
Languages
World Language
Courses
(301) 601-4685
Theresa
Dethlefsen Resource Counselor
Courses,
Registration Process &
Articulation Dates
(301) 601-4642
Karen Guthro
Special Education Resource
Teacher, Learning &
Academic Disabilities (LAD)
LAD Program;
Resource Classes &
Inclusion Classes
(301) 601-4677
Angie Fish Resource Teacher, English English Courses (301) 601-4640
Rob Smith Resource Teacher, Social
Studies Social Studies Courses
(301) 601-4675
Celia Reidler Resource Teacher, Science
Science Courses;
Academy of
Biotechnology
(301) 601-4671
Ellen Beck Resource Teacher, Fine Arts
Visual Arts/Music
Courses; Academy of
Commercial & Fine Art
(301) 601-4628
Yolanda Rious Resource Teacher, Business &
Career Education
Business / Career
Courses and Technology
Courses; Academy of
Finance
(301) 601-4681
Suzanne
Borenzweig
Coordinator, Ulysses Signature
Program
Ulysses Signature
Program
(301) 353-8245
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COUNSELING DEPARTMENT CONTACT INFORMATION
(301) 601-4642
Student Last Names Beginning with A-B: Jeff Flach
Student Last Names Beginning with C-D: Tamela McCarthy-Redd
(SSL Coordinator)
Student Last Names Beginning with E-G: Christine Kravitz
Student Last Names Beginning with L and Z: Theresa Dethlefsen
(Resource Counselor)
Student Last Names Beginning with H-K: Athena Cois
Student Last Names Beginning with M-N Austin Freeman
Student Last Names Beginning with O-R: Ellen O’Connell
Student Last Names Beginning with S-U: Sue Bunting
Student Last Names Beginning with V-Y: Sean Stewart
College & Career Information Coordinator: Rochelle Davis
Registrar: Debbie Seamone
The Skills and Knowledge Our Students Need for Success in the 21st Century
Five Districtwide Milestones
Five districtwide milestones have been established to measure student progress. Performance targets
are being set for these milestones and their corresponding data indicators to guide schools and
departments in developing action plans to improve student achievement.
GRADE 9
English with a grade of C or higher
Mathematics with a grade of C or higher
Eligibility
GRADUATION—COLLEGE AND CAREER
READY
Algebra 2 with a grade of C or higher
AP 3 or higher/IB 4 or higher
SAT 1650 or higher/ACT 24 or higher
Hope, engagement, and well-being
On-time graduation
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GRADE 9 COURSE OFFERINGS
English
1311 English 9A
1312 English 9B
1313 Honors English 9A
1314 Honors English 9B
1167/1168 Yearbook 1A/B (Journalism)
Mathematics
3231 Related Math A
3232 Related Math B
3111 Algebra 1A
3112 Algebra 1B
3201 Geometry A
3202 Geometry B
3203 Honors Geometry A
3204 Honors Geometry B
3301 Algebra 2A
3302 Algebra 2B
3310 Honors Algebra 2A
3311 Honors Algebra 2B
3350 Honors Precalculus A
3351 Honors Precalculus B
Science
3661 Environmental Science 9 A
3662 Environmental Science 9 B
3621 Honors Biology A
3622 Honors Biology B
3821 Honors Physics 9A
3822 Honors Physics 9B
Social Studies
2110 US History A
2112 US History B
2111 Honors US History A
2113 Honors US History B
2114 AP US History (2 periods)
2124 AP US History (2 periods)
World Languages
1711/1721 Spanish 1A/1B
1712 Spanish 2A
1722 Spanish 2B
1713 Spanish 3A
1723 Spanish 3B
1733 Honors Spanish 3A
1743 Honors Spanish 3B
1734 Honors Spanish 4A
1744 Honors Spanish 4B
1777 Spanish for Spanish Speakers 1A
1778 Spanish for Spanish Speakers 1B
1611/1621 French 1A/1B
1612 French 2A
1622 French 2B
1613 French 3A
1623 French 3B
1633 Honors French 3A
1643 Honors French 3B
1634 Honors French 4A
1644 Honors French 4B
1596/1597 American Sign Language 1A/B
Computer Science
2922/2923 Foundations of Computer Science A/B
Business Management & Finance
5450/5451 Entrepreneurship & Business Mgmt. A/B
Technology Education Graduation Requirement 5161 Foundations of Technology A
5162 Foundations of Technology B
2812 Designing Technology Solutions A
2813 Designing Technology Solutions B
5152 Introduction to Engineering Design A
5153 Introduction to Engineering Design B
Fine Arts
6055/6056 Foundations of Art A/B
6355/6356 Drawing & Design A/B
6496\4697 Digital Art 1A/B
6926/6927 Theater 1A/B
Music
6821 Concert Band A
6822 Concert Band B
6851 Concert Orchestra A
6852 Concert Orchestra B
6828 Honors Symphonic Band A
6829 Honors Symphonic Band B
6868 Honors Symphonic Orchestra A
6869 Honors Symphonic Orchestra B
6871 Jazz Ensemble A
6872 Jazz Ensemble B
6711 Chorus 1A
6712 Chorus 1B
6585 Guitar 1A
6586 Guitar 1B
6520 Piano 1A
6521 Piano 1B
Physical Education
7720 General PE 1
7721 General PE 2
7742 Men’s Basketball
774231 Women’s Basketball
7752 Men’s Weight Training
775231 Women’s Weight Training
7737 Net Sports
7745 Personal Fitness/Nutritional Analysis
7747 Lacrosse/Floor Hockey
7748 Soccer
7751 Volleyball
7754 Yoga
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BUSINESS, CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION Graduation Requirements: Business and Career classes are part of selected graduation pathways and
should be discussed with your counselor.
Business / Academy of Finance (Grades 9-12)
Accounting
Honors Advanced Accounting
Banking and Credit
Entrepreneurship/Business Mgmt
Honors Financial Planning
Honors International Finance
For More Information: [email protected]
Computer Science Program (Grades 9-12)
Foundations of Computer Science
Computer Science Principles
Microcomputer Operating Systems
Website Design*
Advanced Design Applications
Advanced Technology Applications
For More Information: [email protected] or [email protected]
(CPU Classes) (Applications Classes)
*Website Design (NEW COURSE)
Students learn web design from storyboard to finished online web pages and develop actual websites to specifications, using HTML, CSS,
and web editors. Students will be working with Adobe Flash and Adobe Dreamweaver. Skills in streaming media, and simple animation
are developed, with real world application as members of the NWHS Web Team.
For More Information: [email protected]
Family and Consumer Sciences (Grades 10-12)
Child Development I
Advanced Child Development II
Advanced Child Development III
For More Information: [email protected]
Site-Based Work Experience (SBWE) Program – Grades 11-12
College and Career Research and Development (CCRD) (Grade 11; Grade 10 with counselor approval)
Career Seminar (Grade 12; must pass CCRD and be concurrently enrolled in SBWE)
Site-Based Work Experience (Grade 12; must pass CCRD and be concurrently enrolled in Career Seminar)
For More Information: [email protected]
Internship Program (Grade 12)
For More Information: [email protected]
Technology Graduation Requirement:
All students are required to take Foundations of Technology, Designing Technology Solutions, or
Introduction to Engineering Design to meet the State of Maryland technology education requirement.
Foundations of Technology: Students will develop an understanding of the characteristics and scope of
technology and its influence on history, along with the relationships and connections between technology and
other fields of study. Students will use the design process to solve technological problems.
Designing Technology Solutions: Algebra I Prerequisite. Through the study of construction, manufacturing,
communication, energy, and power, students will complete projects that enable them to develop software for
authentic applications. Students will apply programming concepts to robotics development.
Introductions to Engineering Design: Algebra I Prerequisite. Students will develop problem-solving skills
through visualization and communication. Students will study the design concepts of form and function using
3-D modeling software to help design products through the use of technology.
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ENGLISH
9th grade - 1st Semester
Informative/Explanatory Writing
Narratives
Argument
Independent Research Projects
Of Mice and Men (OL)
Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime (H)
The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (H
and OL)
9th grade - 2nd Semester
Units 1: Literature as Craft
To Kill a Mockingbird (OL)
Of Mice and Men (H)
Unit 2: Literature in Context
House on Mango Street (OL)
To Kill a Mockingbird (H)
Unit 3: Literature as Art
Romeo and Juliet (OL & H)
Key Components for English 9
Emphasis on writing (1st Semester)
Reading analysis (2nd Semester)
Research
Grammar taught through the writing
Preparation for High School Assessment
Formative assessments in all four units
Criteria for Honors English 9
Independent reading ability
Independent thinkers
Strong writing skills
Strong reading comprehension
3.5 or above in English classes
*OL: On-Level
*H: Honors
Course Options
9th Grade: English 9
Honors English 9
10th Grade: English 10
Honors English 10
11th Grade: English 11
Honors English 11
AP Language & Composition
12th Grade: English 12
Honors English 12
AP Language & Composition
AP Literature & Composition
Additional Electives
*College Prep Literacy 1/2 (9)
*College Prep Literacy 3/4 (9)
Theatre 1 A/B (9-12)
Theater 2 A/B (10-12)
Advanced Acting (11-12)
**Yearbook A/B (9-12)
Advanced Journalism A/B (10-12)
TV Production (10-12)
Yearbook II A/B (11-12)
College Test Preparation: ACT/SAT (11)
Advanced Composition (10-12)
Film as Literature (10-12)
Argumentative & Informative Writing / Debate
(10-12)
*Counselor Recommendation Only **This course is a pre-requisite for Advanced Journalism and Yearbook II. It
is is a combination of journalistic writing and page design and layout requiring the use of computer design applications.
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MATHEMATICS
Mathematics Pathways (For Rising 9th Grade Students)
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Algebra 1 C 2.0
Geometry C 2.0
Algebra 2 C 2.0
Statistics and
Mathematical
Modeling
Algebra 1 W/RM C 2.0
Honors Geometry C 2.0
Bridge Algebra 2 Algebra 2 C 2.0
Geometry C 2.0
Bridge Algebra 2 Honors Algebra 2 C 2.0
Precalculus C 2.0*
Honors Geometry C 2.0
Algebra 2 C 2.0
Precalculus C 2.0*
Honors Precalculus C 2.0*
Algebra 2 C 2.0
Honors Algebra 2 C 2.0
Honors Precalculus C 2.0*
Calculus with Applications
*Advanced Level
Honors Algebra 2 C 2.0
Precalculus
C 2.0*
Calculus with Applications
*Advanced Level
Advanced
Placement (AP)
Calculus AB
Honors Precalculus
Honors Precalculus
C 2.0*
Advanced (AP)
Placement Calculus
AB
Advanced
Placement (AP)
Calculus BC
Advanced (AP)
Placement Calculus
AB/BC
Advanced (AP) Placement Calculus
BC
AP Statistics (May be
taken in conjunction with
Calculus)
C 2.0 – Common Core Curriculum
Multivariable Calculus
Multivariable Calculus
*Unsure of changes in this course at this time.
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GUIDELINES FOR GRADE 9 MATH RECOMMENDATIONS
8th Grade Math
Course
Semester 1
Math Grade
Recommended
9th Grade Math
Course
Notes
Algebra Prep/
IM
A or B (high C)
Algebra 1 C 2.0 It is very important to look at each student individually when making
recommendations for 8th grade students
taking Algebra Prep. These are general
guidelines. Related Math is only for
students who need additional math
support in order to be successful.
Students will earn 2 math credits for this
course.
C, D or E
Algebra 1/
Related Math C 2.0
Algebra 1 C 2.0
A or B
Honors Geometry C 2.0
Honors geometry recommendation based
on students grades on actual county
assessments.
B or C Geometry C 2.0
D
E in Course or
E on Final Exam
Geometry C 2.0
Parents of these students should be contacted by the middle school math
department and strongly encouraged to
re-take Algebra 1 in summer school or
moved to 8th grade level math course.
Honors
Geometry
C 2.0
A or B
Honors Algebra
2
C 2.0
C
Algebra 2
C 2.0
D
E in course or
E on Final Exam
Algebra 2
C 2.0
Parents of these students should be
contacted by the middle school math
department and strongly encouraged to
re-take Geometry in summer school.
Honors
Algebra 2
C 2.0
A or B
Honors
Precalculus
C
Precalculus
D
E in Course or
E on Final Exam
Precalculus
Parents of these students should be
contacted by the middle school math
department and strongly encouraged to
re-take Algebra 2 in summer school.
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The Montgomery College Middle College Program at
Northwest High School [(MC)2@NW] is one of two programs
in MCPS and the first in Maryland to offer students an
opportunity to concurrently earn a high school diploma and an
Associate’s Degree. The primary goal of the program is to
make college a viable reality for all students. To this end,
Montgomery College has collaborated with Northwest High
School to build a program of study that provides a rigorous,
structured, and supportive academic program for all Northwest students.
(MC)2@NW prepares Northwest High School students to earn a Maryland high school diploma and
college credits towards a General Engineering Associate’s degree from Montgomery College that is
transferable to 4-year colleges within the University System of Maryland. Students are supported
through a progressive transition from a traditional high school experience to a college-like experience
on the high school campus, and finally to full college coursework and experience on the college
campus. During this transition, students are provided with dedicated college preparation including
preparation for the ACCUPLACER and dedicated Advanced Placement test support.
For enrollment into the program and for additional information about the program including program
pathways, course requirements, enrollment, and cost benefit, please visit our website at:
http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/northwesths/middlecollege.aspx.
The enrollment deadline for incoming 9th grade students is Friday, February 20, 2015
Required 9th Grade Courses:
• Honors English 9
• Honors Algebra 2 or Honors Geometry
• Honors Biology
• AP US History (recommended) or Honors US History
• MCPS Technology
• Foreign Language or Advanced Technology
UMCP – University of Maryland, College Park MC – Montgomery College
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MUSIC
The music program at Northwest High School provides opportunities for students to establish a
foundation for a life-long relationship with music. Students will develop abilities that allow
expression, a sensitivity to cultural diversity, and the capacity to embrace the sensory stimuli of
everyday life. The curriculum challenges students to develop perceptual awareness, historical
perspective, creative expression, artistic performance, and the acquisition of cultural literacy.
Basic to the music curriculum is the belief that all students have creative potential, and given
appropriate opportunities, that potential can be realized. The curriculum is designed to assist young
people in becoming knowledgeable, compassionate, productive, and creative members of society.
Choral Music Ms. Stephanie Baker, Choral Music Director
Instrumental Music Ms. Emily Widrick, Instrumental Music Director
* Audition Required
Chorus 2
(non-auditioned)
Grades 10-12
Honors Concert
Choir/Treble
Choir*
(Advanced
Women)
Chorus 1
Grades 9-12
Honors Chamber
Choir* (Advanced
Men and Women)
Band Courses
Concert Band
Honors Symphonic Band*
Orchestra Courses
Concert Orchestra
Honors Symphonic Orchestra*
Other Courses
Jazz Ensemble*
Electives
(Grades 9-12)
Piano 1
Guitar 1
Piano 2 (pre-requisite Piano 1)
AP Music Theory (Grades 10-12 only)
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION / HEALTH EDUCATION
Physical Education
Graduation Requirements: One full year of physical education. General Physical Education, or
Specialty Physical Education will fulfill the student’s graduation requirement.
General Physical Education - 9th Grade Only – both semester 1 and 2
This course includes opportunities for a varied selection of individual and team activities. Every 3
weeks the class will rotate to a different activity.
Specialty Physical Education
All of these courses meet for the entire semester and include instruction in either one or multiple
activities. If your son or daughter has an interest in any of these activities, we highly recommend he or
she registers for that specific class.
Men’s Basketball
Women’s Basketball
Men’s Weight Training
Women’s Weight Training
Soccer
Lacrosse/Floor Hockey
Net Sports: Badminton, Pickle Ball, Tennis, Volleyball
Volleyball
Yoga
Personal Fitness Enhancement & Nutritional Analysis - A course in which students examine their
own personal fitness levels and explore ways of improving and enhancing the components of fitness.
Personal nutritional data analysis along with instruction on nutritional needs is included.
Health Education
Graduation Requirements: A one-semester health course recommended to be taken in student’s
sophomore year.
Comprehensive Health Education (Fulfills the graduation requirement)
Honors Comprehensive Health Education (Fulfills the graduation requirement)
Family Life & Human Development – Students develop a greater understanding of how family
relationships and family structure have an impact on individual health and society. This class focuses
on real life projects that have to do with life situations and relationships.
First Aid – Students learn to recognize emergencies and make appropriate decisions for first aid care.
They acquire American Red Cross certified in CPR, AED and Basic First Aid.
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SCIENCE
Graduation Requirements: Three science credits, including one in biology, one in a physical
science and one science elective. It is recommended that all students take at least four credits in
science.
Guidelines for Grade 9 Science Recommendations
Honors Physics: Earned an A in 8th grade science and a B or Better in Algebra 1. Also recommended
to have an 8th grade fall MAP-R score of 223 or higher.
Honors Biology: Earned a C+ or better in 8th grade science and a B or better in 8th grade mathematics.
Student should have strong academic skills and it is also recommended to have an 8th grade fall
MAP-R score of 220 or higher.
Environmental Science 9: All other incoming 9th graders will take this course.
Course Sequence Recommendations:
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Sequence 1 Honors Physics Honors
Chemistry*
Honors* or
AP Biology*
Honors Elective*
and/or
AP Elective*
Sequence 2 Honors Biology Honors
Chemistry*
Honors or AP
Physics*
and/or
AP Elective*
Honors Elective*
and/or
AP Elective*
Sequence 3 Environmental
Science 9
Honors or Onlevel
Biology
Honors or Onlevel
Chemistry,
Environmental
Chemistry or
Nutritional Science
Science Elective
Sequence 4 Honors Biology
Honors Chemistry
and Honors
Physics
Molecular
Biotechnology
Special Topics &
Guided Research
in Biotechnology
**
* Students should consider taking two science courses in the 10th, 11th and 12th grades.
** Students can take an alternative course through the Academy of Biotechnology
AP Electives Honors Electives Science Electives AP Biology (DP) – 2 credits Chemistry Anatomy and Physiology
AP Chemistry (DP) – 2 credits Physics Environmental Chemistry
AP Environmental Science Forensic Science Horticulture (1/2 credit)
AP Physics 1 Guided Research in Biotechnology
AP Physics 2 Molecular Biotechnology (DP) - 2 credits
AP Physics C, Mechanics (with calculus) Nutrition Science
AP Physics C, E & M (with calculus) Wildlife Biology (1/2 credit)
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SOCIAL STUDIES
Graduation Requirements: Three social studies credits, including US History, NSL Government,
and Modern World History. All three courses are required.
Regular course selection
9th grade – US History
10th grade – NSL (National, State & Local) Government
11th grade – Modern World History
Honors course selection
9th grade – Honors US History*
9th grade – AP US History DP (2 periods)**
10th grade – Honors NSL Government
10th grade – AP US Government and Politics**
11th grade – Honors Modern World History
11th grade – AP World History**
**Course credit counts as the required course for graduation
*Criteria for Honors US History 9
Strong reading skills and critical thinking skills – 8th grade fall MAP-R score of 220 or higher
o Good reading comprehension skills
Strong basic writing skills
o Ability to write a basic essay
High level of maturity (good behavior, high motivation, ability to handle stress)
o Students must want to challenge themselves
Good time management skills; good organizational skills
Independent worker
Good attendance record
Minimum of a B in middle school Social Studies classes
Electives
Two-semester electives
AP Comparative Government & Politics
AP European History
AP Human Geography
AP Psychology
AP US Government and Politics
AP US History
AP World History
African American History
Psychology
Sociology
One-semester electives
AP Economics – Macroeconomics
AP Economics – Microeconomics
Ancient and Medieval History
Economics
Law 1
Law 2
Philosophy
Russian History
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Advanced Placement United States History
Course Description:
The US History course focuses on the development of historical thinking skills (chronological
reasoning, comparing and contextualizing, crafting historical arguments using historical evidence, and
interpreting and synthesizing historical narrative) and an understanding of content learning objectives
organized around seven themes, such as identity, peopling, and America in the world. In line with the
college and university US History survey courses’ increased focus on early and recent American
history and decreased emphasis on other areas, the AP US History course expands on the history of the
Americas from 1491 to 1607 and from 1980 to the present. AP US History is designed to be the
equivalent of a two-semester introductory college of university U.S. history course.
Text and Readings:
Bailey, Thomas A.; Cohen, Lizabeth; Kennedy, David M. The American Pageant; 14th Edition.
Boston: Wadsworth, 2010.
Selected readings from other texts will also be used throughout the semester. Students will engage in
periodic analysis of both primary and secondary sources. It is expected that students will keep up with
reading, both text and document based. While there will not be individual chapter tests, students are
expected to read every chapter of the textbook during the appropriate unit.
Work Per Night:
Students should expect approximately 1 hour of work per night. This may include textbook and
ancillary reading, as well as other assignments.
Classroom Expectations:
AP US History is a double-period of classes each day. Typically students will be receiving content in
some fashion for one period, and using that knowledge to build skills necessary for the AP Exam with
the other. Students will need to develop strong note-taking skills and be able to process and synthesize
a lot of information.
Brand new for the 2014-2015, the update AP US History course focuses even more on critical thinking
and analytical skills. Students will be engaged in daily exercises that will help them acquire skills of
interpretation and analysis that are stressed on the AP Exam. These include:
Comparison and Contrast
Continuity and Change Over Time
Cause and Effect
Periodization
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Outline of Topics Covered (days are approximate):
Period 1: 1491 – 1607 (7 days):
On a North American continent controlled by American Indians, contact among the peoples of Europe, the Americas, and
West Africa created a new world.
Period 2: 1607 – 1754 (14 days):
Europeans and American Indians maneuvered and fought for dominance, control, and security in North America, and
distinctive colonial and native societies emerged.
Period 3: 1754 – 1800 (16 days):
British imperial attempts to reassert control over its colonies and the colonial reaction to these attempts produced a new
American republic, along with struggles over the new nation’s social, political, and economic identity.
Period 4: 1800 – 1848 (14 days):
The new republic struggled to define and extend democratic ideals in the face of rapid economic, territorial, and
demographic changes.
Period 5: 1844 – 1877 (18 days):
As the nation expanded and its population grew, regional tensions, especially over slavery, led to a civil war – the course
and aftermath of which transformed American society.
Period 6: 1865 – 1898 (18 days):
The transformation of the United States from an agricultural to an increasingly industrialized and urbanized society
brought about significant economic, political, diplomatic, social, environmental, and cultural changes.
Period 7: 1890 – 1945 (24 days):
An increasingly pluralistic United States faced profound domestic and global challenges, debated the proper degree of
government activism, and sought to define its international role.
Period 8: 1945 – 1980 (21 days):
After World War II, the United States grappled with prosperity and unfamiliar international responsibilities while
struggling to live up to its ideals.
Period 9: 1980 – the Present (7 days):
As the United States transitioned to a new century filled with challenges and possibilities, it experienced renewed
ideological and cultural debates, south to redefine its foreign policy, and adapted to economic globalization and
revolutionary changes in science and technology.
Assignments:
Students complete a wide variety of in-class and homework assignments. Some example are below:
Document analysis of primary and secondary sources
Debates of historical and topical issues
Socratic discussions of class themes
Essays/Timed Writings according College Board AP format
Projects, particularly in review for Units and/or midterm and final exams
Parents and students: if you have any questions about AP US History please feel free to contact me at
17
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Cluster Program
Provides services for students with emotional disabilities
Montgomery County Public Schools has established Cluster Programs in an effort to provide
comprehensive services to students who are experiencing significant emotional and/or behavioral
difficulties. The Cluster Program model at Northwest High School provides intensive services within
a general education setting to special education students who are experiencing significant emotional
and/or behavioral difficulties. The program utilizes behavior management strategies to promote
positive student behavior and foster learning and growth. The focus of the Cluster Program is to
provide students with the services and skills necessary to be successful in the general education
setting.
The Cluster Program is comprised of four classrooms in the general education building. Each
classroom is staffed with a special education teacher and a special education paraeducator. There is
also a special education resource teacher who acts as a team leader and coordinates the Cluster
Program at the school level.
The Cluster Program has additional resources including a behavior support teacher, social worker, and
psychologist in order to provide students with a full continuum of services ranging from self-contained
programming to full mainstreaming and inclusion in school-wide activities
To promote student success, the Cluster Program is comprised of these target areas: staff training and
consultation; prevention and early intervention; identification; placement; social and emotional
development; mental health services; and parent support.
Learning and Academic Disabilities (LAD) Program
Northwest High School provides special education and related services for students with identified
disabilities in accordance with The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004. The
goal of the LAD program is to ensure students with disabilities receive appropriate support services
while providing access to the MCPS curriculum and maintain maximum participation in the general
education environment.
Northwest High School supports inclusive practices and differentiated instruction that will meet the
goals and objectives of each student’s Individualized Educational Program (IEP). Placement decisions
are made annually by the IEP team. Parents, students, special educators, general educators, counselors,
and administrators use a variety of data to determine the appropriate accommodations, supplementary
aids and services, and supports necessary to enable the students to be successful in the general
education classroom. In order to make the transition from middle school to high school as smooth as
possible, ongoing articulation among feeder middle schools occurs.
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The Ulysses Program is a four-year program that encourages student-initiated explorations in areas of strong
interest. Research skills are emphasized through signature sections of English, history, and science. All course
offerings are at the honors or AP level; interdisciplinary connections are encouraged. Through independent and
collaborative research and technology-infused presentations, students experience various modes of inquiry while
learning to use their minds well. Ulysses students study, create, and achieve in an intellectual and nurturing
community of learners.
The Ulysses Program is admission-by-application only. Students apply in their eighth grade year for ninth grade
admission to the four-year program. The online application submission window for the Ulysses Program will
remain open until midnight on February 17, 2015. The application is 100% online and is available through the
NWHS website:
http://northwesths-montgomeryschoolsmd.libguides.com/Ulysses
Freshmen who are accepted to the Ulysses Signature Program will be registered for the following courses:
Signature Honors English 9, Signature Honors Biology or Physics, and Signature Honors or AP US History.
Ulysses freshmen are also encouraged to take a Ulysses elective: Signature Digital Art or Signature Introduction
to Engineering Design (IED).
Ulysses upperclassmen take the following courses:
• Signature Honors English 10
• Signature Honors Chemistry
• Signature AP Biology or Physics
• Signature AP Government
• Signature AP World History
The required Ulysses research courses include:
Advanced Research A/B Required for Ulysses juniors, this semester course in research design prepares students for their senior projects.
Students will hone their writing and organizational skills while exploring the essential components of
quantitative and qualitative methodology, sophisticated technology, and professional presentations. The final
project for the course is the research proposal for the senior project.
Ulysses Senior Research Project A/B Required for Ulysses seniors, this semester course provides students with the structure and guidance necessary
to complete their final Ulysses Projects. All projects are presented to the community at the Ulysses Fair in
January or April.
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VISUAL ARTS Students in visual arts classes:
Form a positive and enriching lifelong relationship with art and the visual world.
Focus on creative problem-solving (open-ended and artistic).
Express ideas, thoughts, and feelings that learners want to explore and share
Employ visual critical thinking skills in actual art-making, and in describing, analyzing, and reflecting on their own works and the works of others.
Choosing between Drawing & Design and Foundations of Art
Drawing & Design Foundations of Art
Most interested in drawing, painting,
and printmaking
Passionate about continuing in art
Most interested in exploring a variety of art, such
as sculpture and painting
Less experience with art and art techniques
Two Dimensional Studio Art (Drawing/Painting/Printmaking)
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Drawing & Design OR
Foundations of Art
Drawing & Design OR
Foundations of Art
Studio Art 1
Drawing & Design OR
Foundations of Art
Drawing & Design OR
Foundations of Art
Studio Art 1
Studio Art 2
Studio Art 1
AP Studio 2D
Drawing
Studio Art 3
Studio Art 2
Courses with a double outlined box (like this one) may be taken in advance of the grade indicated, or may have the
prerequisite skipped at the discretion of its teacher. Only the teacher may advance a student, based on the skill level
evident in the student’s portfolio.
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Two Dimensional Design (Digital Art/Photography)
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Three Dimensional Art
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
Ceramics/Sculpture
1 Ceramics/Sculpture
1
Ceramics/Sculpture
2
Ceramics/Sculpture
1
Advanced
Ceramics/Sculpture 3
Ceramics/Sculpture
2
AP Studio 2D
Design – Digital
Art
Digital Art 1
Digital Art 1
Digital Art 2 –
Advanced Studio
Digital Art 1
Digital Art 2 –
Advanced Studio
Digital Art 3 –
Advanced Studio
Digital Art 1
Digital Art 2 –
Advanced Studio
AP Studio 2D
Design – Digital
Art
Digital Art 3 –
Advanced Studio
AP Studio 2D Design
–Photo can be taken any
time with portfolio review
Advanced Digital
Photo/Digital Photo 2
Advanced Digital
Photo/Digital Photo 2
AP Studio 2D Design
–Photo can be taken any
time with portfolio review
AP Studio 2D
Design – Digital
Art
AP Studio 2D
Design – Digital
Art
Digital
Photography
Digital
Photography
Digital
Photography
Ceramics/Sculpture
1
Ceramics/Sculpture
2
Advanced
Ceramics/Sculpture 3
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WORLD LANGUAGES
World Languages Course Offerings
Spanish 1-3
Spanish 3 Honors
Spanish 4 Honors
Spanish 5 Honors
AP Spanish Language
Spanish 6 Honors (Spanish Literature)
Spanish for Speakers of Spanish 1*
French 1-4**
French 3 Honors
French 4 Honors
French 5 Honors
AP French Language
French 6 Honors
American Sign Language 1A/B
American Sign Language 2A/B
American Sign Language 3A/B
Students who take and pass high school world language courses in middle school and who pass the
final exam for the course will earn credit toward high school graduation.
Criteria for Honors Level World Languages Courses
Students should have earned an A or B student in the previous level of instruction.
Students should have a strong interest in using the target language in oral and written
communication activities.
Students should be interested in continuing World Language instruction through high school.
Students should be open to embracing diverse cultures, products and practices.
Students should have highly developed study and organizational skills.
*Students who want to take Spanish for Speakers of Spanish 1 should be able to speak Spanish fluently and have some
experience with reading and writing in Spanish. Students must take a placement test for this course which will be
evaluated by the Northwest High School World Language Department to ensure accurate placement in our program.
**Native French speaking students will be tested to ensure accurate placement in our program.