8th GRADE PARENT NIGHT

GENEVA HIGH SCHOOL

January 23, 2020

GHS Extracurricular Fair

6:00 – 6:45 p.m.

GHS Mack Olson Gym

Coaches and sponsors of GHS athletic teams, clubs, and activities will be available in the cafeteria to share

information and answer questions you may have about our extracurricular opportunities at GHS. We like to say

“there is always something happening at GHS!” Come and find out what that is!!

*This opportunity is also intended for parents. Students will be hearing about these opportunities in April and

again next year during a PLC session.

Academic Information Sessions

7:00 – 9:05

(Parents will be assigned to a group and rotate through all sessions during the evening)

Time Presentations

7:00-7:20 Welcome and Introduction (Auditorium)

7:25-7:55 SESSION 1

8:00-8:30 SESSION 2

8:35-9:05 SESSION 3

SESSION LOCATIONS:

Cafeteria – Math, Science

Viking Commons – FAA, PE/Health/Dr. Ed

Auditorium – English, Social Studies, World Languages

Please share your feedback here:

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ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

Freshmen Course Comparisons

English I English I Honors

Grammar

During first semester, the focus is on parts of speech, usage and conventions. A research component is also required.

Pacing is quicker because there are additional novel studies and assignments.

Reading

The focus is on novels, plays, short stories, poetry, and non-fiction selections; some in-class reading time is given.

Students can expect at least 100 pages of reading per week in addition to other ongoing assignments. A summer reading assignment is required.

Writing

Students write regularly and are taken through the planning and organizing steps of a writing assignment in detail; some in-class time is devoted to writing and conferencing.

Students write regularly and are expected to have mastered the basics of organization, elaboration, grammar, usage and sentence structure with much higher expectation on the final product. Students are expected to support points with multiple examples and analyze the deeper meaning of abstract concepts.

Homework

Homework is assigned several times a week; occasionally multiple short-term assignments are given.

Homework expectations are higher. Multiple short-term and long-term assignments are regularly assigned. Long-term assignments frequently have a series of steps and seldom can be completed successfully at the last minute.

Freshmen English Options

English graduation requirements • 4 years of English

Required freshmen English course options • English I

• English I Honors

Freshmen English elective option

• Composition for Print Media

Freshmen English general elective option (does not count towards English graduation credit)

• Drama Workshop I and II

English I Honors Guidelines

• 8th Grade Teacher Recommendation

• Standardized test scores: o Score of 90th percentile or higher in English/reading/writing on recent

standardized test

• Eighth grade course grades: o Grade of B+ or higher in Enriched Language Arts o Grade of A in regular Language Arts

• Note: Students are not locked into a track. Students may move to or from the honors track at the semester or for the following year.

Important Skills and Personal Qualities for Honors Students

• Timely work completion and time to complete the work

• Good elaboration and detail on written material

• Willingness to revise writing material

• Aptitude in analyzing and interpreting difficult printed material

• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously

• Willingness to take risks

• Ability to follow multiple step instructions

• Willingness to seek help when needed, but generally able to work independently of excessive adult coaching and monitoring

• Genuine enjoyment of reading and writing

• Aptitude in making connections and analyzing the deeper significance of real life and fictional events

Summer Reading Information

• Students enrolled in honors or AP courses are expected to complete a summer reading assignment.

• All students who enroll in these classes are responsible for obtaining the summer reading information and copies of the required titles. The information about the specific titles and written requirements will be available on the English Department section of the Geneva High School web site in May (www.geneva304.org/ghs).

Geneva Community High School

Fine and Applied Arts Department

Art Family & Consumer Sciences

Business Music

Technology Education

Preparing Students for High School and …….. Beyond.

Art Education A variety of Art courses are offered at the high school. Student skills and perceptions expand with new media and techniques introduced in advanced courses.

Although students can enroll in an art course at any grade level, it is recommended that students interested in a 4-year art program follow the suggested sequence. Since many of the courses have prerequisites, a student wishing to take advanced classes would need to proceed through the art sequence early in high school.

Extracurricular and Organizational opportunities for students include:

- Art Club, Anime Club, Photo Club (all available to freshmen)

- National Art Honors Society

*Courses available to Freshmen

AP Art + Design

Drawing & Painting III*Drawing & Painting II*Drawing & Painting I

Ceramics III*Ceramics II*Ceramics I

Advanced Photography Concepts II

Advanced Photography Concepts I

*Digital Photography

*Film Photography

*Graphic Design

*3D Design Concepts

Family & Consumer Science Education

FCS courses prepare the student for necessary life skills needed for successful independent living. These courses are beneficial to students planning to attend college, begin working or doing both. Many career options are available in each segment of FCS education. There are four main pathways offered within FCS education at Geneva High School: culinary arts, education, interior design and fashion merchandising.

Reading, writing, math and science skills are emphasized throughout the FCS curriculum. Higher-level critical thinking and team building skills are sharpened as students interact with one another to solve problems in daily life situations and simulations.

Student-run programs are offered in our culinary arts and education pathways. In Little Vikings Preschool, high school students (taking Child Development and Early Childhood Education) create age-appropriate, hands-on lessons and teach children ages 3-5 twice a week. They also earn a credential that leads to several scholarship opportunities and workplace readiness. In Vikings Coffee and Vikings Café, students create menus and execute recipes to serve to the student population and faculty. They earn their food handlers license, learn how to run a business and keep up with current food trends.

Field trips are offered in every pathway, as well. Students go on trips to places such as: Claire’s headquarters in Fashion Merchandising, Merchandise Mart in Interior Design, Hamill Play Zoo in Child Development and students are the chaperones and teachers when on trips with the preschool children in Early Childhood Education.

In the culinary classes, students attend trips to community colleges like College of DuPage or Joliet Junior College. Other trips include: International Restaurant/Bakery Walking Tour in International Foods and the National Restaurant Show in Chicago in Baking & Pastry and Restaurant Entrepreneurship. There are also several guest speakers in each pathway in FCS courses to showcase various career options.

Extracurricular opportunities for FACS include FCCLA and FEA: Educators Rising (available to all high school students).

*Courses available to Freshmen

Restaurant Entrepreneurship II

Restaurant Entrepreneurship I

Baking & Pastry

*Culinary Arts

*International Foods

Hopitality & Tourism

*Culinary Arts or International Foods

Introduction to Teaching

Fashion Merchandising II

*Fashion Merchandising I

*Housing & Interior Design

Early Childhood Education

Child Development & Parenting

*Keyboarding & Technology

*Computer Software Applications

Technology Support Internship (TSI)

Business Education

The Business Department has a wide selection of courses which students can use to explore career interests, satisfy graduation requirements (as with Personal Finance), and develop skills and knowledge that can be applied immediately in high school.

Courses available to freshman are as follows:

• Keyboarding and Technology: Students learn to type with speed and accuracy, and to use the basics of MS Word 2016 to format essential documents such as resume cover letters, reports and tables. Students have the opportunity in working toward MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) Word Certification.

• Computer Software Applications: Students learn and apply MS Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint, working toward MOS Certifications.

• Business & Management: Students will learn what it takes to start their own business by exploring the basics of Production, Marketing, Finance, and Human Resource Management.

• Entrepreneurship: Students will develop effective communication and presentation skills while learning about entrepreneurship, social enterprises, business ethics and basic economic concepts related to small businesses.

• Accounting Principles: Recommended for all students considering any business major in college. Students will learn the concepts of financial record keeping and the basic accounting equation, and follow procedures for completing a basic accounting cycle.

• Advanced Accounting: This course builds on previous knowledge from Principles of Accounting and includes accounting for merchandisers, corporations and partnerships.

Advanced education to career classes include (after freshman year):

• Business & Personal Law • International Business • Marketing

• Technology Support Internship (TSI) • Virtual Enterprise International (VEI) • Advanced Marketing

Club & Organizational Opportunities:

• DECA (business, marketing and entrepreneurship club) is an international organization preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management through events and competitions.

• National Technical Honors Society: Students are inducted into this society based upon completed coursework, GPA, leadership and other criteria.

*Courses available to Freshmen

Virtual Enterprise International (VEI)

*Advanced Accounting

*Accounting Principles

Advanced MarketingMarketing

Business & Personal Law

International Business

Personal Finance (blended also available)

*Business & Management

*Entrepreneurship

Music Education High School Choir Four different choirs are offered at the high school. Viking Chorus is open to anyone and does not require an audition. Jazz Choir, Varsity Choir, and Treble Choir require an audition with the instructor. Eighth grade choral students received audition information prior to winter break.

Choral music is given full academic credit at the high school level and is graded as an academic class with a final exam at the close of each semester.

High School Band It is recommended that all eighth grade students who wish to enroll in the high school band program have prior band experience at the elementary and middle school level. Before entrance into the program, incoming freshmen will be given the opportunity during the spring of their 8th grade year to audition for Symphonic Band or Wind Symphony. Otherwise, all incoming freshmen are automatically placed in Concert Band or Percussion Methods (if a student plays percussion).

Eighth grade students will receive information regarding auditions in the spring. High School band is offered as a full credit course and includes a final exam at the end of each semester.

High School Orchestra It is recommended that all eighth grade students who wish to enroll in the high school orchestra program have prior orchestra experience at the elementary and middle school level. Before entrance into the program, incoming freshmen will be given the opportunity during the winter of their 8th grade year to audition for Symphony Orchestra. Otherwise, all incoming freshmen are automatically placed in Concert Orchestra.

Eighth grade students will receive information regarding auditions in the winter. High School orchestra is offered as a full credit course and includes a final exam at the end of each semester.

All course/ensembles on the far-left column are open to freshmen. Higher level ensembles are audition based.

Extracurricular and organizational opportunities include:

o Jazz Band, “Pit” Orchestra/Band, Chamber Ensembles, various music festivals and events

Jazz ChoirVarsity ChoirTreble ChoirViking Chorus

Chamber OrchestraSymphony Orchestra

Concert Orchestra

Wind SymphonySymphonic Band

Concert Band

Percussion Methods

Music Theory IVMusic Theory IIIMusic Theory IIMusic Theory I

Technology Education

Engineering Graphics applies several different drafting techniques. The class will learn about geometry of lines, sketching, problem solving, and more. The class uses the AutoCAD software and manual drafting techniques to produce technical drawings. The Engineering sequence of courses is highly recommended for students planning to enter the engineering field.

In the Introduction to Architecture course, students learn about residential construction. The class will learn about all aspects of construction, materials, and costs. The class uses a 3D modeling software to produce working architectural plans as well as 3D models and artistic renderings. The Architecture sequence of courses is highly recommended for students planning to enter the architectural field.

Courses in Woodworking cover a variety of woodworking skills that are useful for future homeowners, hobbyists, and people interested in woodworking and/or construction as a career. Students produce a variety of projects, each becoming more intricate in detail and design with advanced courses. Material fees will be charged to offset the cost of materials used in class. Independent study may be available to students interested in continuing to hone their skills after 4 semesters of woodworking.

Design & Technology of Animation focuses on the use and application of animation in the fields of entertainment, manufacturing, education, architecture, medicine, business, and product design. Students will produce their own animated shorts, work with a variety of software packages related to the field, analyze and examine existing animations, as well as learning other basic skills that are needed in the industry.

Honors PLTW (Project Lead the Way) – Introduction to Engineering Design or IED is first in a three course sequence for PLTW that includes Principles of Engineering and Engineering Development and Design. The class focuses on the engineering design process and its application. Through hands-on projects, students use industry standard 3D modeling software to help them design solutions to solve proposed problems, document their work using an engineer’s notebook, and communicate solutions to peers and members of the professional community. This course complements traditional mathematics and science courses. This is an Honors level course and students should expect the rigor and projects in class to reflect that. Completion of courses in this sequence and high scores on the End of Course exam can lead to college credit/scholarships at certain colleges and universities.

In all Technology Education courses, students learn and apply the design process, acquire strong teamwork and communication proficiency, and develop organizational, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills.

*Courses available to Freshmen Clubs that are related to the Technology Education curriculum are the Engineering Club, Robotics Team and Skills USA. All clubs are available to all students.

*PLTW Introduction to Engineering

PLTW Principles of Engineering

PLTW Engineering Design & Development

*Woodworking I *Woodworking II Woodworking III Woodworking IV

*Architectural Design*Introduction to

Architecture

*Engineering Graphics I *Engineering Graphics II

Eighth Grade Parent Night

Mathematics Department Presentation

Welcome to the Geneva High School

Mathematics Department

The members of the Geneva Mathematics Department look forward

to serving you and your freshman student during the next four

school years. Due to the variety of interests and ability levels in the

typical freshman class, our department offers five entry level

courses: Algebra I A and B, Algebra I, Geometry, Geometry

Honors, Algebra II Honors. It is our hope that your student will

have a positive and challenging experience during the first year of

high school, thereby encouraging the pursuit of the highest level of

mathematics possible.

Curriculum

Geneva High School offers an excellent traditional math curriculum

which emphasizes conceptual understanding, traditional algorithms,

problem solving and effective technology utilization while

addressing learning standards created and adopted by both the

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Illinois State

Board of Education. The program offers some unique courses

which are designed to meet the needs of students at all levels.

These courses include Algebra I A and B, Geometry Concepts and

Applications, Algebra II (3 Semesters), Discrete Math, and PTLW-

Computer Science.

Options and Requirements

You will find an attachment which will show a number of possible

paths for your student to pursue during the high school experience.

It is important to notice that there are a number of ways for each

student to fulfill the Illinois mandated three years of high school

mathematics. The state of Illinois has decided that these three years

must include an Algebra I course as well as a course containing

geometry content. There are also numerous paths for a student to

follow in order to complete Algebra II by graduation. Many

colleges and universities require Algebra II for standard admissions.

Finally, our curriculum provides excellent options for students who

wish to study advanced mathematics including AP Calculus and AP

Statistics.

Freshman Mathematics Recommendation

All eighth grade students will take the MAP test and will take a

semester exam in January for their respective math course. Your

student’s eighth grade mathematics teacher will use current course

performance, first semester final exam performance, and MAP test

results to make a course recommendation for freshman year.

Highlights of Possible

Freshman Recommendations

Algebra I Part A and B

This two year course sequence is designed to include all of the

topics from Algebra I. The two additional semesters provide the

time students need to remediate math deficiencies and develop

stronger problem-solving skills. This two-year course sequence is

recognized by colleges, universities, and the state of Illinois as a

full Algebra I course. This course is designed for students who are

cognitively ready for algebra concepts, but have struggled in 8th

grade Pre-Algebra.

Algebra I

This is a traditional entry level algebra course that provides the

fundamental skills necessary for further study of mathematics. A

strong emphasis is placed on algorithmic efficiency, problem

solving, and critical thinking. This course is designed for students

who are currently experiencing success in 8th grade Pre-Algebra or

have struggled in 8th grade Algebra I.

Geometry

This is a traditional geometry course in the standard college

preparatory sequence. Geometry emphasizes the development of a

formal, axiomatic system. Students use inductive and deductive

reasoning in the process of writing formal and informal proofs. A

continuous review of algebra is included through geometry related

problems.

Geometry Honors

This course covers all of the topics of Geometry with a much

stronger emphasis placed upon deductive and inductive reasoning

skills, problem solving, and critical thinking. Students will be

expected to apply concepts and skills that are learned to new

situations, write about the mathematical process, and make

connections between the various branches of mathematics.

Algebra II Honors

This course covers all of the topics of Algebra II with a much

stronger emphasis placed upon deductive and inductive reasoning

skills, problem solving, and critical thinking. Students will be

expected to apply concepts and skills that are learned to new

situations, write about the mathematical process, and make

connections between the various branches of mathematics.

Geneva High School: Some Possible Math Sequences

9th FALL 9th SPRING 10th FALL 10th SPRING 11th FALL 11th SPRING 12th FALL 12th SPRING

Algebra I (A) Algebra I (A) Algebra I (B) Algebra I (B) Geometry C&A Geometry C&A Algebra II (1/3) Algebra II (2/3)

Algebra I (A) Algebra I (A) Algebra I (B) Algebra I (B) Geometry C&A Geometry C&A & Algebra II (2/3) Algebra II (3/3)

Algebra II (1/3)

Algebra I (A) Algebra I (A) Algebra I (B) Algebra I (B) Geometry Geometry Algebra II Algebra II

Algebra I Algebra I Geometry C&A Geometry C&A Algebra II (1/3) Algebra II (2/3) Algebra II (3/3) Discrete Math

Algebra I Algebra I Geometry Geometry Algebra II (1/3) Algebra II (2/3) Algebra II (3/3) Discrete Math

Algebra I Algebra I Geometry Geometry Algebra II Algebra II Pre-Calculus Pre-Calculus

Algebra I Algebra I Geometry Honors Geometry Honors Algebra II Honors Algebra II Honors Pre-Calc Honors Pre-Calc Honors

Geometry Geometry Algebra II Algebra II Pre-Calculus Pre-Calculus Calculus Calculus

Geometry Honors Geometry Honors Algebra II Honors Algebra II Honors Pre-Calc Honors Pre-Calc Honors AP Calculus AP Calculus

Algebra II Honors Algebra II Honors Pre-Calc Honors Pre-Calc Honors AP Calculus AP Calculus Calculus II or III Calculus II or III

NetMath (U of I) NetMath (U of I)

Elective Options: Project Lead the Way Computer Science (2 courses): Open to all students Statistics (AP): Open to students who have completed Algebra II Discrete Math I and II: Open to students who have completed Algebra II

Geneva Community High School Physical Education, Health & Driver Education

Physical Education Physical education is required each year and is a Geneva High School graduation requirement. Students must pass 12 quarters of physical education in order to graduate. Letter grades are given each quarter. Physical Education is awarded ½ credit per semester and is counted in the students’ Grade Point Average. The department requires each student to wear a Geneva High School physical education uniform, tennis shoes, and socks. Warm ups/sweat suits may be worn while classes are outside in the fall and spring. Physical education uniforms are purchased through the mail-in registration process in August and distributed during the first day of class . All P.E. students will be issued their own locker and combination lock. All of our classes are co-ed and meet five days per week (Early Bird courses meet 4 days a week). Students excused from class participation for medical reasons are given written work to complete so they may earn credit. Students missing class for field trips, class meetings, illness, etc. will be given the opportunity to make the class up after school or during PLC time. The physical education curriculum is made up of the following different courses: 1. Team Sports and Conditioning

Freshmen are required to take “Team Sports and Conditioning”. Students are exposed to a variety of team sports that require the use of the large muscle groups and the increased development of cardio-vascular endurance. Team play, basic rules and basic skills will be stressed. Physical fitness testing will be done in the fall and the spring. Units in this course include: Football, Cross Country, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Indoor Soccer, Roller Blading, Conditioning, Floor Hockey, LaCrosse, Track, Softball, Team Handball, and Fitness (includes classroom work) Early Bird Team Sports and Conditioning This course is open to all 9th grade students. This class meets from 6:30 a.m. until 7:30 a.m. GHS is providing this course for freshman students that would like to take additional course work during the school day. Students enrolled in Early Bird Team Sports may not end their school day until 10th period. *The Early Bird curriculum follows the regular Team Sports and Conditioning curriculum.

2. Personal Fitness Sophomores are required to take this class for their one semester of physical education. Health is taken in lieu of P.E. the other semester. Courses taken in the sophomore year integrate a fitness oriented physical education curriculum with a comprehensive health curriculum. Health, safety and fitness are stressed throughout the year. During P.E., a student will learn the basic concepts and values of personal fitness, demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to participate safely in a variety of fitness activities, assess his/her fitness level and

design a personal fitness program for self-improvement and/or maintenance. One day each week is spent in the classroom. Early Bird Personal Fitness This course is open to all 10th grade students. Students may take this course during one of their semesters: fall or spring. This class meets from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. GHS is providing this course for sophomore students that would like to take additional course work during the school day. Students enrolled in Early Bird Team Sports may not end their school day until 10th period. *The Early Bird curriculum follows the regular Personal Fitness curriculum.

3. Lifetime Fitness This course is open only to junior and senior students. Here they are exposed to a variety of lifetime fitness activities. It is the department’s hope that by the end of the course, students will have the skills, knowledge and desire necessary to initiate and maintain a physically active lifestyle that will continue into and throughout adulthood. Physical fitness testing will be done in the fall and spring. Units in this course include: Golf, Tennis, Softball, Volleyball, Badminton, Bowling (fee charged), Physical Fitness, Pickelball, Archery, and Yard Games. Early Bird Lifetime Fitness This course is open to junior and senior students. This class meets from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Students enrolled in Early Bird P.E. may end their school day after 9th hour. Students enrolled in Early Bird P.E. will not be allowed to exempt out for sports and/or marching band. *The Early Bird curriculum follows the Lifetime Fitness curriculum.

4. P.E. Leadership This course is open to senior students. Students in P.E. Leadership assist with the instruction and supervision of the students who have varying physical, mental and emotional disabilities. This class follows G.H.S. physical education department polices on dressing, attendance and assessment. Emphasis is placed on individual achievement and effort. Units in this course include: Team and Individual Sports, Skills for Special Olympic Competitions, Weight Training, Aerobics and Fitness Testing. Modifications are used only when appropriate.

5. Applied Personal Fitness

Applied Personal Fitness is open to any junior or senior who is interested in further developing his/her physical capacities on a daily basis: cardio-vascular endurance, muscular endurance, strength, power and agility. Students work out on a daily basis, building on and applying the principles and techniques learned during the sophomore Personal Fitness class. Based on their knowledge of fitness principles, students will design their own individualized workout programs specific to his or her needs and then adhere to it throughout the class – progress will be charted. Fitness tests will be administered in the fall and spring.

6. Junior P.E. Leaders This course is open to juniors who wish to become an effective mentor, role model, and teaching assistant in P.E. classes during his/her senior year.

Students will learn how to assist the instructor with all aspects of the freshmen team sports and conditioning curriculum. Both the development of leadership skills and team building skills will be stressed. Students in this class will not be allowed to exempt out of the class.

7. Dance This course consists of basic to intermediate instruction in ballet, jazz, hip hop, and dance through the decades, international dance and modern dance. A final dance project will be included in this course. AEROBICS - Includes cardio kickboxing, step aerobics, funk, toning with hand weights, stretch bands, pilates and yoga. A performance assessment will be required during the semester. This course will fulfill a semester P.E. requirement.

8. Senior P.E. Leaders Students will earn P.E. credit while assisting the instructors in any of the physical education classes. Leaders will be expected to assist with all aspects of the class (attendance, pre-class warm-up, skill testing, officiating, and fitness testing). This may also serve as a career exploration for senior students who have an interest in pursuing physical education as a career. Students will not be allowed to exempt out of this class. Students may register to be a senior leader for one or two semesters.

9. Group Fitness Group Fitness is open to any junior or senior who is interested in further developing his/her physical well-being. Students will exercise on a daily basis. Exercises will included, but is not limited to, Zumba, Step Aerobics, Kettle bell, Pilates, core training, Yoga, Kickboxing, P90X, Insanity, Bosu Ball, Body Bar workouts, and free weights. Fitness tests will be administered in the fall and spring. *This class will only be offered during 10th period. Students enrolled in Group Fitness will not be allowed to exempt for sports and/or marching band.

Health Geneva High School’s health curriculum provides a comprehensive program that addresses students’ mental, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual health. The course is taken during the sophomore year in lieu of one semester of physical education. Health is a graduation requirement. Students also have the opportunity to earn their First Aid and Adult CPR certifications through the American Heart Association. The following units are offered: Personal Wellness, Nutrition and Physical Health, Mental Health, Drug Education, Sex Education, Diseases, First Aid and Environmental Health.

Personal Wellness Personal Wellness is an elective for juniors and seniors that is a continuation of the sophomore health and safety class. The students will be encouraged to use a higher level of thinking and problem solving in advanced health. Units that are covered include life skills, nutrition, complementary medicine, health careers, sexuality, drugs, environmental health and health care issues. The students will get a more global perspective on health concerns and use many cooperative learning strategies throughout the course. This course is a dual credit course, earning the student three credit hours at Waubonsee Community College. Driver Education Prerequisite: 15 years of age. Students must present their social security card when registering for the class. Laboratory fee to be determined. Students will be scheduled for the behind-the-wheel phase concurrently with the classroom phase. Each student is offered 6 clock hours of laboratory experience and 30 clock hours of classroom instruction. Any student who is absent for 2 behind-the-wheel sessions or 6 classroom sessions will not have the number of hours of instruction required by the State of Illinois for Driver Education. Therefore, any student who accumulates either of the above number of absences for any reason, whether excused or not, will be withdrawn and earn no credit. Students who enroll in Driver Education must have received a passing grade in at least eight (8) courses during the previous 12 months prior to enrollment.

Eighth Grade Parent Night Science Department

Information

General Information

✓ GHS has a two-year science requirement for graduation

✓ Most colleges and universities require three years of Laboratory

Science for admission

✓ Some colleges and universities are now requiring specific core science

courses

o Ex: Three laboratory sciences two of which being Earth

Science, Biology, Chemistry or Physics

Course Offerings

✓ Course offerings have changed greatly and are continually renewed

✓ Core courses in Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry and Physics are

designed to meet the needs of a college bound student

✓ Elective courses are designed to meet both the interest and ability

needs of the student.

o Honors/Advanced Placement courses are extremely challenging

and students are expected to come to these courses with both a

strong interest and high ability in science.

o All other courses are challenging and offer alternatives for

students with interests in science or other fields or who are not

yet ready to handle the pace and rigor presented at the honors or

AP level.

o Students with special needs have a variety of opportunities to

be successful in science now and prepare for college or work

after high school. Specifically, the General Science and Co-

taught Earth Science courses both offer students the opportunity

to be successful and build a repertoire of success skills they can

use in their future science courses.

Starting Points and Typical Student Profiles

1. General Science:

a. Math and Reading MAP Scores below grade level

b. Struggles on in class and on standardized tests

c. Student has trouble with daily classroom routines and deadlines

d. Student struggling with organizational and study skills

2. Earth Science:

a. Math and Reading MAP Scores at and above grade level

b. Student adapts easily to classroom routines and meet assignment deadlines

c. Student is developing and beginning to consistently use organizational and

study skills

d. Student is doing well in school and is managing course work effectively

3. Biology:

a. Math and Reading MAP Scores above grade level

b. Placement in Algebra I required, Geometry recommended in 9th grade

c. Student effectively manages classroom routines and is doing high level work

d. Student consistently uses organizational schemes and study skills effectively

e. Student finds learning science fun and easy

4. Biology Honors:

a. Math 245 and Reading 235 MAP Scores

b. Placement in Geometry or higher-level mathematics course required in 9th

grade

c. Student has mastered classroom routines and is doing exemplary work

d. Student has organizational schemes and study skills highly developed

e. Student finds learning science exciting and intuitive

Freshman Classes Sophomore

Classes Junior/Senior Classes

General Science

(Alg IA)

Earth Science

Biology Chemistry

Chem/Phys Physics

Astronomy Natural Disasters

Horticulture .

Earth Science

(Alg I or Alg IA)

Biology

or

Biology Honors

General Science

Chemistry Chemistry Honors

Chem/Phys AP Physics I

Physics Horticulture

Anat/Phys I and II AP Env Sci

Natural Disasters AP Biology

Astronomy AP Chemistry

Biology

(Alg I or Geometry)

Chemistry

or

Chemistry Honors

Horticulture

Earth Science

Physics

AP Env Sci

Physics Chem/Phys

AP Physcics I AP Physics C

Anat/Phys I and II AP Env Sci

Natural Disasters AP Biology

Astronomy AP Chemistry

Horticulture

Biology Honors

(Geometry or higher)

Chemistry Honors

or

Chemistry

Horticulture

Earth Science

Physics

AP Env Sci

Physics

AP Physics I AP Physics C

Anat/Phys I and II AP Env Sci

Natural Disasters AP Biology

Astronomy AP Chemistry

One semester course

Note: Most courses have prerequisites stated in the program of study

Important things to consider:

✓ Arrows indicate most commonly followed and strongly recommended course

sequences

✓ All courses offered in science at GHS count toward the two-year graduation

requirement

✓ Students may double-up science courses and this is commonly done during the junior

and senior years occasionally during the sophomore year

✓ Elective courses are designed to meet both the interests and ability level of the student

Placement Sequence and Events:

1. Middle school science teacher and guidance counselor review students:

a. Review individual’s performance on MAP tests

b. Review individual’s performance on teacher made exams

c. Review individual’s classroom functioning, behavior and performance

d. Discuss individual’s readiness for and interest in 9th grade science

2. Middle school science teacher selects the recommended 9th grade science course

3. Course recommendation is sent out to student and parent/guardian

a. Science course selection is reviewed by parents/guardians and the student

b. If parents/guardians and the student agree with the course recommendation, the

student is placed into that 9th grade science course

c. If there is a disagreement, parents/guardians and the student should fill out, sign

and return the Request for Course Change form to Geneva High School

d. Student is enrolled in the requested course

GENEVA HIGH SCHOOL

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT Contact Information: Matt Hahn – Social Studies Department Chair

(630) 463-3943

mhahn@geneva304.org

Mission of the Social Studies Department:

• Develop active citizens

• Engage students in global awareness

• Promote collaborative civic participation

• Develop skills necessary for college

• Provide a variety of opportunities for students to explore

Social Studies Course Sequence

Freshman Year Required

Course

World History

Or

AP Human Geography

Sophomore Year

Required Course

American Studies

Or

United States History

Or

AP United States History

Junior/Senior Year

Required Course

United States

Government

Or

AP United States

Government

Junior/Senior Year

Electives

AP Psychology

AP World History

Contemporary

American Issues

Contemporary

Global Issues

Economics

Political Campaigns and

Elections

Psychology

Sociology

Urban Studies

Required Course Expectations: World History: This year long course is designed to give students a flavor of world history and

culture beginning in 1500. A focus on a global perspective with relevance to today’s events is

emphasized throughout the course. This course is offered in an honors format as well.

AP Human Geography: This course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and

processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students

employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine socioeconomic organization and its

environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their

research and applications. The curriculum reflects the goals of the National Geography Standards

(2012).

United States History: This year long course is designed to give students an appreciation of United

States History. This course picks up in 1877 and works towards modern day. First semester topics

build through World War II, while second semester begins post-war and continues through modern

history. This course is offered in 2 alternate formats: American Studies, which is a team taught class

along with English II that uses the strengths of both teachers and a slightly longer timeline, or AP US

History which follows the dictates of the College Board preparing students for the AP US History test.

Your student’s freshman Modern World History teacher will make a recommendation on which format

is the best fit for your student.

United States Government: This is a one semester course designed to give students an overview of

the workings of US Government. Course topics include: Political ideology and elections,

Foundations of government including the Bill of Rights, Branches of government, and the Constitution

test is a course requirement to graduate from Geneva High School. The AP Government course

follows the dictates of the College Board preparing students for the AP Government test.

Social Studies Requirements and University Examples:

School Required Recommended

GHS Graduation 2.5 years 3.0 years University of Illinois 2.0 years 4.0 years

Illinois State University 2.0 years 3.0 years

University of Iowa 3.0 years 4.0 years

University of Wisconsin 3.0 years 4.0 years

Northern Illinois University 3.0 years 3.0 years

Indiana University 3.0 years 4.0 years

University of Missouri 3.0 years 4.0 years

Aurora University 3.0 years 4.0 years

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Social Studies National Honors Society

• A variety of service oriented projects to engage students in civic involvement

Model United Nations

• Students will be involved in a variety of simulations, discussing pressing issues of our world.

This involves a little travel and possibly overnight stays. Simulations traditionally involve

other schools.

Foreign Travel

• Opportunities to experience foreign countries in relation to the curriculum with an emphasis

on European travel.

Independent Study

• A variety of Independent Study topics chosen by the student to further explore topics of

interest.

History is a kind of introduction to more interesting people

than we can possibly meet in our restricted lives; let us not

neglect the opportunity. ~Dexter Perkins

WORLD LANGUAGES TOP TEN REASONS TO STUDY WORLD LANGUAGES AT GHS

10 To better understand your own language. (You’ll do better in English class and on your ACT/SAT!)

9 To get in touch with your cultural heritage.

8 To be a more informed and empathetic citizen and a contributing member to our global society.

7 To enhance your travel or study abroad experience.

6 Because of the awesome teachers!

5 To build personal relationships with people from different cultural backgrounds.

4 To be able to help people in other countries through medical and or missionary work.

3 To enhance the Number 1 skill of the 21st century; COMMUNICATION.

2 To fulfill your college language requirement at many colleges and universities OR to allow you to add a language to your college major.

…and the Number 1 reason to study a world language at GHS:

To become a global citizen and to increase your future educational and career opportunities

THE HONORS WORLD LANGUAGE STUDENT AT GENEVA HIGH SCHOOL…

…has been recommended by his language teacher. …wants to learn the language.

…is self-reliant and highly motivated. …is interested in the culture.

…takes the initiative to learn vocabulary and grammar. …wants to achieve fluency.

…uses the target language at every opportunity. ...has retained prior knowledge.

…is learning language for a set purpose. … connects prior knowledge to new learning.

…values learning a language. …is intellectually curious.

…knows his or her weaknesses and works to improve them. …volunteers often.

…is an active member in group work. …seeks additional help.

…takes responsibility for their own learning. …remains focused and engaged in class.

WORLD LANGUAGES STAFF Toni Tortorello -Allaway – French

Martha Behlow-French Elyse Barron-Spanish Jessie Egan-Spanish Lynn Fors-Spanish

Lynn Freedlund-French Susannah Hamilton-Spanish

Madison Joiner-Spanish Karen Kosog-German

Beth Morrison-Spanish Gina Nolan-Spanish (Dept Chair)

Joanna Parrin-Spanish Rene Swidenbank-German

Gina Thomas-Spanish

WORLD LANGUAGES ACTIVITIES

Spanish, German and French Clubs

International Club

Spanish, German and French National Honor Societies

International Travel opportunities for GHS students