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January 20, 2011

Dear Mustang,

When planning for a year, plant corn. When planning for a decade, plant trees. When
planning for a lifetime, train and educate people. – Chinese Proverb

Planning for your academic future is one of the most important responsibilities you will
have as a student at George Mason. As we head into the second semester of the school
year you have the exciting opportunity to actively participate in the selection of the
courses that will help you reach your personal academic goals.

At George Mason we collectively endeavor to Excel in Mind, Body, and Character. We


are confident that our course selections will provide you with opportunities to meet this
lofty expectation. The Program of Studies is designed to provide you with the
information you need to plan for your future. Within this document you will find detailed
information regarding academic requirements and procedures, as well as course
selections for the 2011 – 2012 school year. It is your responsibility to carefully read this
valuable resource and work closely with your parents or guardians, counselor, and
teachers to select courses.

An important annual goal of our faculty is to provide each of our students with
stimulating, relevant, and challenging educational opportunities in a nurturing
environment. Courses are added to our Program of Studies each year by representatives
from our student body and members of the faculty to ensure that our offerings
appropriately reflect your collective interests and needs. This important process ensures
that George Mason maintains its well earned reputation as a leader among schools.

George Mason High School has a long-standing and well-earned reputation as an


exemplary academic and social institution. Our collective commitment to each of our
students sets us apart from other schools. You now have an opportunity to proactively
participate in planning your future. Please take this responsibility seriously and use all
available resources.

Sincerely,

Tyrone Q. Byrd
Principal
Table of Contents

Introduction 1
Academic Requirements and Procedures 2
Academic/Athletic Eligibility 10
Recognition of Student Achievement 10
Special Programs 12
Program of Study Course Sequence 14
International Baccalaureate (IB) 15
Career and Technical Education 20
English 24
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) 28
World Languages 30
Interdisciplinary Electives 35
Mathematics 37
Mathematics Course Sequence Chart 42
Physical Education/Family Life Education/Health/Driver Ed. 43
Science 46
Science Course Sequence Charts 52
Social Studies 55
Social Studies Course Sequence Chart 59
Special Education 60
Visual and Performing Arts 62
Electives 67
Arlington Career Center 68
Rising 8th Grade Registration Form (Worksheet) 77
Rising 9th-12th Grade Registration Worksheet 78
INTRODUCTION

George Mason High School has served students in grades 9-12 since the inception of the Falls Church City Public School
System in 1949. Offering a wide range of educational options, the school now serves approximately 850 students in grades
8-12.

This booklet provides information for parents and students about George Mason High School (GMHS) course offerings,
academic programs, and graduation requirements. Course descriptions and course prerequisites are intended to help students
and parents make decisions about a program of studies appropriate for each student’s needs. To answer specific questions and
to select the most appropriate classes, students and parents are encouraged to contact the appropriate counselor and/or current
teacher.

DECLARATION OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Falls Church City Public School division does not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, or disability in
admission, access to, or treatment in its programs or activities. Inquiries should be directed to Ms. Lisa High, Director of
Human Resources, 800 West Broad Street, Falls Church, Virginia, 22046, (703) 248-5600.

Individuals with disabilities who require assistance or special arrangements to participate in a program or activity sponsored
by the Falls Church City Public Schools should contact Ms. Lisa High at (703) 248-5600. We request that you provide 48
hours notice so that the proper arrangements may be made.

SCHOOL SYSTEM ORGANIZATION

Central Office (703) 248-5600


Dr. Lois Berlin, Superintendent
Dr. Gloria Guba, Assistant Superintendent & Director of Curriculum Instruction and Assessment
Mr. Hunter Kimble, Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations
Ms. Elizabeth Germer, Director of Special Education and Student Services
Dr. Juanita Briscoe, Director of Testing
Ms. Lisa High, Director of Human Resources

Administration (703) 248-5500


Mr. Tyrone Byrd, Principal
Mr. Tim Guy, Assistant Principal
Mr. Ken Siekman, Assistant Principal
Ms. Paige Whitlock, Assistant Principal

Counseling Department (703) 248-5525


Ms. Amy S. Kurjanowicz, Director of Counseling
Ms. Valerie Chesley, Counselor
Ms. Nancy Goldman, Counselor
Mr. Brad McAdam, Counselor
Ms. Marcia Schumann, Counselor
Ms. Judy Becker, Student Services Coordinator
Ms. Judy Bracken, College/Career Specialist
Ms. Heather Grant, Counseling Secretary
Ms. Beth Bird, Registrar

1
ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES

School Day

The school is officially open for students from 7:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. After 3:45 p.m., students must be supervised by their
coach, activity sponsor or teacher. The school day consists of three 95-minute block periods and one 50-minute period. Classes
are held on alternating odd and even days; odd days feature blocks 1, 3, 5, and 7, and even days feature blocks 2, 3, 4, and
6. The official, usual end of the student’s school day is 3:00 p.m. Each day from 3:00-3:45 p.m. is reserved for contract classes,
club meetings, and extra help. Students who are scheduled by a teacher to stay after school during this time are required to do
so. Students not engaged in scheduled, planned student activities from 3:00-3:45 p.m. may remain in the building but will not
be formally supervised. Athletic practices do not begin before 3:45 p.m. Students are dismissed at 1:45 p.m. on shortened
Wednesdays which generally occur twice monthly.

High School Graduation Requirements (PLEASE NOTE: NEW VIRGINIA REQUIREMENTS!)

To be eligible for graduation from high school in the Falls Church City Public Schools, a student must have successfully
completed the requirements for graduation as specified in the Regulations of the State Board of Education, the Standards of
Quality, and the Regulations Establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in VA. Beginning with the 2011-2012
school year, there are five different diploma paths: the Standard Diploma, the Standard Technical Diploma, the Advanced
Studies Diploma, the Advanced Technical Diploma and the Modified Standard Diploma. The Standard, Standard Technical,
Advanced Studies and Advanced Technical Diplomas are available to all students. The Modified Standard Diploma is only
offered to special education students who have a current Individualized Education Program (IEP) in place at the school.

Students must meet the state diploma requirements that are in place at the time of their entry into grade nine. The standard unit
of credit for graduation is based on a minimum of 140 clock hours of instruction. Half credits are awarded to students who
successfully complete each semester of study in a given course. Students who achieve a passing grade in a course and a passing
score on an end-of-course SOL test shall be awarded a verified unit of credit in that course. Students may earn verified credits
in any courses for which end-of-course SOL tests are available.

The Falls Church City School Board awards diplomas to all secondary school students who earn the units of credit prescribed
by the State Board of Education, pass the required tests, and meet other requirements as prescribed by the local School Board
and approved by the State Board of Education. The local School Board awards Certificates of Program Completion to students
who complete required coursework but do not meet the Virginia testing requirements. Provisions are made for students who
transfer between secondary schools as outlined in the Standards of Accreditation. Reasonable accommodations to meet the
requirements for diplomas are provided for students with disabilities as needed. Special Diplomas are awarded to students with
disabilities who meet their IEP requirements but do not meet other Virginia diploma requirements. The requirements for each
high school diploma are summarized in the following tables:

2
Advanced Studies Diploma
Academic Areas Credits Revised credits SOL Verified Credits
effective with
ninth graders in
2011-2012
English 4 4 2
Mathematics* 4 4 2
Laboratory Science** 4 4 2
History and Social Sciences*** 4 4 2
Physical Education/Family Life Education/Health 2 2
Foreign Language**** 3 3
Fine Arts or CTE 1 1
Personal Finance and Economics 1
Electives 2 3
Student Selected Test 1
Total 24 26 9
*
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include at least three different course selections from among: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, or other
mathematics courses above the level of Algebra II. Beginning with ninth grade students in 2010-2011, those enrolled in the Integrated Algebra/Geometry
sequence will only be awarded math credit for two of these three courses. The third credit will count as an elective credit.
** Courses must include selections from at least three different science disciplines: earth science, biology, chemistry, or physics or completion of the
sequence of science courses required for the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
*** Courses completed to satisfy the requirement shall include U.S. and VA History, U.S. and VA Government, and two courses in either world history or
geography or both.
****Courses shall include three years of one foreign language or two years of two languages.
Standard Diploma
Academic Areas Credits Revised credits SOL Verified Credits
effective with
ninth graders in
2011-2012
English 4 4 2
Mathematics* 3 3 1
Laboratory Science** 3 3 1
History and Social Sciences 3 3 1
Physical Education/Family Life Education/Health 2 2
Fine Arts or Career & Tech Ed (CTE) 1
Foreign Language, Fine Arts or CTE 2
Personal Finance and Economics 1
Electives*** 6 4
Student Selected Test 1
Total 22 22 6
* Beginning with ninth grade students in 2010 -2011, students enrolled in the Integrated Algebra/Geometry sequence will only be awarded math credit for
two of these three courses. The third credit will count as an elective credit.
** Courses must include selections from at least two different science disciplines: earth science, biology, chemistry, or physics.
*** Two electives must be sequential.
Modified Standard Diploma
Only available to students with IEP plans
Academic Areas Credits SOL Verified Credits
English 4 0
*
Mathematics 3 0
Science 2 0
**
History and Social Sciences 2 0
Physical Education/Family Life Education/Health 2 0
Fine Arts or Career and Technical Education 1 0
***
Electives 6 0
Grade 8 Reading and Mathematics SOLs or their high school equivalents 2
Total 20 2
* Courses include the Integrated Algebra/Geometry sequence and Personal Finance.
** Courses completed to satisfy this requirement must include one credit in U.S. and VA History and one credit in U.S. and VA Government.
***Two electives must be sequential.

3
Advanced Technical Diploma
Academic Areas Credits SOL Verified Credits
English 4 2
1
Mathematics 4 2
2
Laboratory Science 4 2
3
History and Social Sciences 4 2
4
Foreign Language 3 0
Health and Physical Education 2 0
Fine Arts or Career and Technical Education 1 0
Economics and Personal Finance 1 0
5
Career and Technical Education 3 0
6
Student Selected Test 0 1
Total 26 9
1
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include at least three different course selections from among: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, or other
mathematics courses above the level of Algebra II. Beginning with ninth grade students in 2010-2011, those enrolled in the Integrated Algebra/Geometry
sequence will only be awarded math credit for two of these three courses. The third credit will count as an elective credit.
2
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include course selections from at least three different science disciplines from among: earth sciences,
biology, chemistry, or physics or completion of the sequence of science courses required for the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
3
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include U.S. and Virginia History, U.S. and Virginia Government, and two courses in either world
history or geography or both.
4
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include three years of one language or two years of two languages.
5
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement must include a career concentration as approved by the board. If a career concentration includes a specific
assessment approved by the board and the student is eligible to take the assessment, then the student must take this assessment.
6
A student may utilize additional tests for earning verified credit in computer science, technology, career or technical education, economics, or other areas as
prescribed by the board in 8 VAC 20-131-110.

Standard Technical Diploma


Academic Areas Credits SOL Verified Credits
English 4 2
1
Mathematics 3 1
2,5
Laboratory Science 3 1
3, 5
History & Social Sciences 3 1
Health and Physical Education 2 0
Fine Arts, or Foreign Language 1 0
Economics and Personal Finance 1 0
4
Career and Technical Education 4 0
Electives 1 0
6
Student Selected 0 1
Total 22 6
1
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include at least three different course selections from among: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra Functions
and Data Analysis, or Algebra II or other mathematics courses above the level of Algebra II.
2
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include course selections from at least three different science disciplines from among: earth sciences,
biology, chemistry, or physics, or completion of the sequence of science courses required for the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
3
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include U.S. and Virginia History, U.S. and Virginia Government, and one course in either world
history or geography or both.
4
Courses completed to satisfy this requirement must include a career concentration as approved by the board. If a career concentration includes a specific
assessment approved by the board and the student is eligible to take the assessment, then the student must take this assessment.
5
Students who complete a career and technical education program sequence and pass an examination or occupational competency assessment in a career
and technical education field that confers certification or an occupational competency credential from a recognized industry or trade or professional
association or acquires a professional license in a career and technical education field from the Commonwealth of Virginia may substitute the certification
competency credential or license for (i) the student selected verified credit and (ii) either a science or history and social science verified credit when the
certification license or credential confers more than one verified credit. The examination or occupational competency assessment must be approved by the
board as an additional test to verify student achievement.
6
A student may utilize additional tests for earning verified credit in computer science, technology, career and technical education, economics or other areas
as prescribed by the board in 8 VAC 20-131-110.

4
Verified Credits

Each student must take all applicable end-of-course Standards of Learning (SOL) tests following course instruction. Students
who achieve a passing grade in a course (min. of 140 hours) and a passing score on an SOL test will be awarded a verified unit
of credit in that course. Students may earn verified credits in any courses for which SOL tests are available. Students must
earn a specific number of verified credits to be awarded a high school diploma. A complete list of board-approved substitute
tests/scores can be found on the VA DOE website.

For students entering a VA public school for the 1st time during grades 10-12, the state has developed a verified credit provision
as listed below.

Advanced Studies and Advanced Technical Diplomas


Students transferring into a Virginia Must Earn Number of Credits
public school for the 1st time
9 Verified Credits
English 2
During 9th Grade Mathematics 2
Beginning of 10th Grade Science 2
History and Social Science 2
Student Selected 1
6 Verified Credits
English 2
During 10th Grade Mathematics 1
Beginning of 11th Grade Science 1
History and Social Science 1
Student Selected 1
During 11th Grade 4 Verified Credits
Beginning of 12th Grade English 1
Student Selected 3
Students should be given every opportunity to earn a diploma; if this is not possible,
During 12th Grade student may arrange to have the previous school award the diploma or seek a waiver of
the verified credit requirement from the DOE.
Beginning = First 20 hours of instruction During = After the first 20 hours of instruction

Standard and Standard Technical Diplomas


Students transferring into a Virginia Must Earn Number of Credits
public school for the 1st time
6 Verified Credits
English 2
During 9th Grade Mathematics 1
Beginning of 10th Grade Science 1
History and Social Science 1
Student Selected 1
During 10th Grade 4 Verified Credits
Beginning of 11th Grade English 1
Mathematics 1
Science* 1
History and Social Science* 1
During 11th Grade 2 Verified Credits
Beginning of 12th Grade English 1
Student Selected 1
Students should be given every opportunity to earn a diploma; if this is not possible,
During 12th Grade student may arrange to have the previous school award the diploma or seek a waiver
of the verified credit requirement from the DOE.
*Students who complete a career and technical education program sequence may substitute a certificate, occupational
competency credential or license for either a science or history and social science verified credit pursuant to 8 VAC 20-
131-50.
Beginning = First 20 hours of instruction During = After the first 20 hours of instruction

5
Standard and Verified Credits

Standard credits are earned for courses specified by the Regulations of the State Board of Education, the Regulations
Establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia, and Falls Church City Public Schools Policy and
Regulations (6.14). Standard credit courses appear on a student’s transcript and count towards the credits required to receive a
HS diploma.

Verified credits are earned by students who receive a passing grade in standard credit courses and a passing score on the
associated end-of-course SOL test. Verified credit requirements and tests that have been approved to substitute for end-of-
course SOL examinations are listed on the Virginia Department of Education website. Please see your counselor for more
information.

Standard and Verified Credits Earned in Grade 8 and Middle School

When students in grade 8 or middle school successfully complete the requirements for standard or verified credit courses, credit
will be counted toward the subject area requirement for graduation and will be counted in the cumulative grade point average
calculation.

Parents may request in writing that grades for any standard or verified credit-bearing course taken in grade 8 or middle school
be omitted from the student’s transcript, and the student will not earn the standard credit for that course. Such a request must be
submitted to the high school counseling office prior to the beginning of the tenth grade year.

Grading Information

All courses are either one or two semesters in length. Students earn one-half credit (0.5) for each semester of a course
completed with a grade of "D-" or better.
All students are required to complete a two-hour semester exam in each class. Semester exam grades will be recorded on the
report card. Second semester seniors who have earned third and fourth quarter grades of "A" in a course are exempt from the
final exam.
The semester grade is determined by counting each quarter grade 40% and the semester exam 20%. If a student fails to pass
two of the three measures used to calculate the semester average (each quarter and the exam), the student will receive an “F” for
that semester, regardless of the numerical average.
The final report card will show 4 quarter grades, 2 sem. exam grades, and 2 sem. grades for year-long courses.
High school transcripts include grades and credit earned at George Mason High School; transferred grades and credit from other
schools; and college entrance exam scores.
George Mason High School does not rank students. It does report final decile standing to colleges and universities that request
ranking and/or deciles.

George Mason uses the following grading system:


Weighted Course
+ - Quality Points Quality Points
A 90-100 98-99 90-91 4.0 5.0
B 80-89 88-89 80-81 3.0 4.0
C 70-79 78-79 70-71 2.0 3.0
D 60-69 68-69 60-61 1.0 2.0
F 59-Below 0 0 0 0
P Pass
I Incomplete
N No grade intended
WP Withdrawal/Pass
WF Withdrawal/Fail
FNA Failure due to non-attendance

Grade Point Average Calculations

The student’s grade point average is determined by totaling all quality points awarded and dividing the sum by the total number
of credits attempted.

Total Quality Points Awarded = Grade Point Average


Total Credits Attempted

6
Semester

For each letter grade earned at the end of a semester, a student is awarded quality points as follows:

A = 2.00 B = 1.50 C = 1.00 D = .50 F=0

Year

For each letter grade earned at the end of a year, a student is awarded quality points as follows:

A = 4.0 B = 3.0 C = 2.0 D = 1.0 F=0

Students taking IB or AP courses will receive one additional quality point per course per year. For those courses:

A = 5.0 B = 4.0 C = 3.0 D = 2.0 F=0

Pass/Fail Option

After careful consideration, students in grades 8 through 12, with the permission of their parent/guardian, teacher, and counselor,
may elect to be graded “Pass/Fail” in a specific course. The decision for pass/fail must be made by the end of the first or third
quarter of the semester. A passing grade will not be counted in the student’s GPA. A failing grade will be counted in the
student’s GPA. A student may not have more than one pass/fail course per semester in grades 8, 9, and 10 and not more than
two per semester in grades 11 and 12. Students who speak English as a second or other language may be eligible to be graded
pass/fail in more subjects during the first year they attend George Mason.

Independent Study Contract Courses

In very rare circumstances, a student may enter into an independent study contract in a subject if the teacher, the CIRT
(Curriculum Instruction Resource Teacher) and school administration agree. A Contractual Learning Agreement, which is
available in the Counseling Office, must be completed and approved by the teacher, student, parent, CIRT, the Director of
Counseling, and an administrator before the contract becomes effective. Contracts are governed by the same entrance and
withdrawal policies as all other semester credit courses. A student may contract a subject for a semester or the entire school
year and must meet the 140 hour requirement to receive a full credit. International Baccalaureate courses may not be taken as
contract courses.

Honors Courses

Some George Mason classes have been identified as Honors courses. The material in these courses tends to be greater in terms
of quantity and complexity than in other courses. The pace may also be faster at times. Students planning to enroll in Honors
classes should be academically motivated and have a a strong record of academic success.

Repeat and Audited Classes

Students may repeat sequential classes for various reasons. Students who have passed a sequential and/or prerequisite course,
but who have not earned the grade required to enter the next higher course may repeat the passed course for strengthening of
knowledge and grade improvement. In these cases the student will receive the higher letter grade, but no additional credit will
be awarded. Additionally, students who have earned a grade of “F” in a course may repeat the course. All courses attempted
will appear on the student’s transcript.

Students may, with the permission of the teacher, audit classes in areas of interest to them or for skill improvement, but for
which they do not wish to receive either a grade or credit. In this case, the student will receive a grade of “N” on the report card.
Students who audit and repeat courses are expected to follow all class regulations and complete all work. Note: Repeated
courses may not count toward VA High School League (VHSL) eligibility. Audited courses do not count toward VA High
School League eligibility.

Dual Enrollment

Northern Virginia Community College and George Mason High School offer dual-enrollment for students who wish to take
college courses for high school and/or college credit. Students must be at least sixteen years old and apply at least two weeks
before the NOVA semester begins. Applications are available in the Counseling Office and at NOVA.

7
E-Learning/Distance Learning

When it is not possible for a student to take a course in a traditional classroom setting which will lead to a Virginia Diploma,
certain online or correspondence courses may be approved. Approval of such courses for credit by GMHS must be determined
in advance of the student’s enrollment.

Verification of Transfer Credit and Grades

Students transferring into George Mason High School (GMHS) from accredited schools will be credited with the letter grades
they achieved in the school(s) from which they transfer. All grades will correspond from the transferring school’s grading
policy. These letter grades will be translated into the GMHS semester or year quality point system, and GPA will be calculated.
The transcript from the transferring school will become part of the student’s permanent record at GMHS. When transcripts are
requested and sent to colleges, vocational schools, and employers, the transfer transcript may be sent with the GMHS
transcript. Students who have not attended an accredited school are required to submit course outlines, testing results, teacher
summaries, portfolios of work, and/or other supporting materials documenting clock hours and proficiency. Grades awarded
will be “Pass” (P) or “Fail” (F). Students who transfer after beginning their senior year may be eligible for a waiver of the
Virginia verified credit requirement if there is an extreme hardship.

When receiving foreign transcripts and grades, the department curriculum leader will help evaluate the transferring student’s
credit and prerequisite status. In cases where unusual circumstances exist, the administration, counseling department, and
curriculum leader will consider the available information and come to a decision concerning credits. Portfolios, proficiency
tests, and other measures will be used to evaluate student records and grades. In cases where equivalent grades cannot be
determined, credit will be awarded on a pass/fail basis. If students come with non-standard transcripts, it may not be possible to
determine the relative difficulty of these classes or whether or not outside examinations were taken. The grades from the
previous school will be entered as pass/fail grades on the GMHS transcript. Only International Baccalaureate (IB) and
Advanced Placement (AP) courses will receive a weighted grade. The transcript from the previous school may be included with
GMHS college application materials.

Grade Placement

Grade placement and promotion requirements are determined by School Board Policy and Regulation Number 6.44. The
minimum requirements for placement in a given grade are as follows:

To be placed in grade: The student must have:

8 Successfully completed 7th grade


9 Successfully completed 8th grade
10 Earned 5 credits
11 Earned 10 credits, including a minimum of 5 core credits
12 Earned 15 credits, including 7.5 core credits and 3 verified credits. In addition, a student
must have an academic program in place which allows for the completion of all graduation
requirements by the last day of school.

Minimum Schedule Requirements

ƒ Students in Grade 8 are required to take seven classes. Eighth graders may not select a study hall.
ƒ Students in Grades 9 and 10 are required to take six classes, but they are advised to take seven. If they take six, their
seventh class will be a supervised study block.
ƒ Students in Grades 11 and 12 are required to take five classes. Twelfth graders who take fewer than seven classes and are
in good standing behaviorally and academically may have one unsupervised open study. Seniors with two unfilled classes
will normally be scheduled into one supervised study block and one open study block. Open study privileges are subject to
administrative approval. If seniors break school rules and incur sanctions, their open study privileges may be revoked.

Any student who wishes to take a reduced schedule or be dismissed at the completion of five class blocks must have the
permission of the principal. Parents must submit a written formal request to the principal stating the reasons for the waiver.

8
Schedule Change Procedures

Students may add a course for credit during the first 10 days of a semester without penalty. Students desiring schedule changes
must discuss the change with the classroom teacher, parent, counselor, and, when appropriate, IB Coordinator, Case Manager,
and Athletic Director. A signed form must then be turned in to the student’s counselor.

A student may drop a course for credit through the first 10 days of a semester without penalty. After this 10-day period and
through the first five days of the second or fourth quarter, students may also drop a course. However, students who are passing
at the time of withdrawal will receive a WP (Withdrawal/Pass) on their transcript and students who are failing at the time of
the withdrawal will receive a WF (Withdrawal/Fail) on their transcript. Students who choose to drop a course after the 5th day
of the second or fourth quarter will automatically receive a WF (Withdrawal/Fail) on their transcript.

Summer School

George Mason High School offers some summer school options. In some cases these courses may be required of identified
students. Please contact the Counseling Office for more information. If students are planning on attending summer school
outside of GMHS, they must notify their counselor.

Early Graduation

It is recommended that students attend high school for the entire five years (including 8th grade); however, it is recognized that
there are exceptional cases where it might be in the student’s best interest to complete high school in less than five years.
Therefore, if a student and his/her parent/guardian are interested in early graduation, they should contact the student’s counselor.
The principal, with recommendations from the counseling office, will make the final decision. Students who apply for early
graduation must meet the following criteria:

ƒ 15 credits by the beginning of the eleventh grade year


ƒ A quality grade point average of 1.5 or better
ƒ A viable post-graduation plan
ƒ A written request
ƒ A student who requests permission to take two English courses in one year must have a grade point average of 2.0 or better
in previous English classes.

Other factors considered include the age and maturity of the student, extraordinary family circumstances, and the need for
training not available through the school.

Long Term Medical Excuses from Physical Education

To meet Virginia high school graduation requirements students must earn one credit in 9th grade physical education and one
credit in 10th grade physical education. If a student is unable to participate in physical education for the school year, the student
must provide a written statement from a physician. The statement should include the reasons for non-participation and should
specify whether the student can participate on a limited basis or may not participate in any physical education activities for that
school year.

Students excused from physical education activities may be assigned to another class or study hall; however, students excused
from physical education must still take the health, family life, and driver education portions of the required courses. A
physician’s note must be on file at the school for every year that the student is unable to participate. The physical education
requirement is waived for students who are unable to participate during their entire high school career.

9
ACADEMIC/ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

Our extra-curricular activities are a vital part of our school program. Activities provide students opportunities to explore
personal talents and interests, as well as make the high school experience more enjoyable. Athletic, academic and theatre teams
operate under the Virginia High School League (VHSL) regulations.

VHSL Eligibility Regulations:

ƒ You must complete a VHSL eligibility form each year.


ƒ You must be a student in good standing at George Mason High School.
ƒ You must be currently taking 5 or more classes for credit. (Courses for which credit has previously been granted do not
count.)
ƒ You must have passed 5 subjects for credit the previous semester. (Courses for which credit has previously been granted do
not count.)
ƒ You must not have reached your 19th birthday on or before the 1st day of August of the year of participation.
ƒ You must not have been enrolled in grades 9-12 for more than 8 semesters.

Note: Freshmen are automatically eligible during their first semester of high school. All other students need to verify their
eligibility status with their counselor and coaches at the end of each semester.

Post-Secondary Athletic Eligibility:

Athletes who plan to participate in Division I or II sports in college must be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center. In order
to qualify as a Division I student-athlete, a student must:

ƒ Graduate from high school;


ƒ Complete these 16 core courses:
4 years of English
3 years of math (Algebra I or higher) *
2 years of natural or physical science (including one year of lab science if offered by your high school)
1 extra year of English, math, or natural or physical science
2 years of social science
4 years of extra core courses (from any category above, or foreign language, non-doctrinal religion or philosophy);
ƒ Earn a minimum required grade-point average in your core courses; and
ƒ Earn a combined SAT or ACT sum score that matches your core-course grade-point average and test score sliding scale
(for example, a 2.400 core-course grade-point average needs an 860 SAT).
*The courses in the Integrated Algebra/Geometry sequence enable a student to earn .33 credits per semester as opposed to .50
for all other math courses.

NCAA eligibility information may be obtained at: https://web1.ncaa.org/eligibilitycenter/common/index.html

RECOGNITION OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

Recognition from the Commonwealth of Virginia

Governor’s Seal

ƒ Awarded to students who:

o Complete the requirements of the Advanced Studies diploma with an average grade of “B” or better AND
o Successfully complete college-level coursework that will earn the student at least 9 transferable college credits in
Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge or Dual Enrollment courses.

Board of Education Seal

ƒ Awarded to students who:

o Complete the requirements for a Standard Diploma or Advanced Diploma with an average grade of “A.”

10
The Board of Education’s Career and Technical Education Seal

ƒ Awarded to students who:

o Earn a Standard or Advanced Studies Diploma and complete a prescribed sequence of courses in a career and
technical education concentration or specialization that they choose and maintain a “B” or better average in
those courses
o OR pass an examination or an occupational competency assessment in a career and technical education
concentration or specialization that confers certification or occupational competency credential from a
recognized industry, trade or professional association
o OR acquire a professional license in that career and technical education field from the Commonwealth of VA

The Board of Education shall approve all professional licenses and examinations used to satisfy these requirements.

Board of Education Seal of Advanced Mathematics and Technology

ƒ Awarded to students who:

o Earn a Standard or an Advanced Studies diploma AND


o Satisfy all the mathematics requirements for the Advanced Studies Diploma (four units of credit including Algebra
II; earn 2 verified units of credit) with at least a “B” average AND one of the following:

ƒ pass an examination in a career and technical education field that confers certification from a recognized
industry, trade, or professional association OR
ƒ acquire a professional license in a career or technical field from the Commonwealth of Virginia OR
ƒ pass an examination approved by the Board that confers college-level credit in a technology or computer
science area.
Lists of trade, industry, and professional licenses and certifications that satisfy the requirements of the Career and Technical
Education Seal and the Seal of Advanced Mathematics and Technology are available on the Internet at
www.doe.virginia.gov/instruction/graduation/diploma_seals/industry_certs_career-tech.pdf

Board of Education’s Excellence in Civics Education Seal

Awarded to students who meet each of the following 4 criteria:

Satisfy the requirement to earn a Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma


Complete VA and U.S. History and VA and U.S. Government courses with a grade of “B” or higher
Complete 50 hours of voluntary participation in community service or extra curricular activities, such as volunteering for a
charitable or religious organization that provides services to the poor, sick or less fortunate; participating in Boy Scouts, Girl
Scouts or similar youth organizations; participating in JR. Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC); participating in political
campaigns, government internships, Boy’s State, Girl’s State or model general assembly; and participating in school-
sponsored extracurricular activities that have a civics focus. Any student who enlists in the U.S. military prior to graduation
will be deemed to have met this community service requirement.
Have good attendance and no disciplinary infractions as determined by local school board policies.

Recognition Within the Falls Church City Public Schools

Honor Roll

Each quarter the Honor Roll is determined and student names are posted. In order to be listed on the Honor Roll, students in
Grades 9-12 must take at least five courses for credit that are graded “A-F”, earn a GPA of 3.25 or better, and receive no grade
lower than a “C-”. Students in Grade 8 must be enrolled in at least six classes that are graded “A-F”, earning a total quarter
GPA of 3.25 with no grade lower than a “C-”.

The Principal’s List of Outstanding Scholars

Each quarter the Principal's List of Outstanding Scholars is determined and student names are posted. In order to qualify for the
Principal's List of Outstanding Scholars, a student must take at least five courses for credit that are graded “A-F”, earn a GPA of
4.0 or better for the quarter, and receive no grade lower than a “B-”. Students in Grade 8 must be enrolled in at least six classes
that are graded “A-F”, earning a total quarter GPA of 4.0.

11
The Gunston Scholars

The Gunston Scholar designation is awarded to students earning all “A's” for their semester courses. In order to qualify for this
recognition, a 9-12 grade student must take at least five courses for credit that are graded “A-F”, and earn all “A's” for semester
grades. Eighth graders must be enrolled in at least six courses graded “A-F”, earning semester grades of “A” in all courses.

The George Mason Scholar Award

The George Mason Scholar Award recognizes outstanding academic achievement of graduating seniors. This award is
presented to students who complete a high school program which includes a minimum of 25 credits: a cumulative GPA of 3.85
or better; and the following courses taken for letter (A-F) grades: four years of social studies, four years of college preparatory
mathematics, three years of one foreign language or two years each of different foreign languages, three years of laboratory
science, and IB courses in two disciplines. Those students who successfully complete the program described above are
recognized at the graduation ceremony.

Valedictory Scholars

Valedictory Scholars are those students who complete high school with a cumulative GPA of 4.0 or better. They are recognized
at the graduation ceremony.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Special Education

Special Education services will be provided for all students found eligible to receive such services. Special Education services
for grades 8-12 follow the multi-categorical resource model. Students study in specific content areas or receive credit for basic
study skills and tutorial support for general education courses. Please contact the Director of Special Education and Student
Services, at the Central Office (703-248-5630) for information concerning Special Education services.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses are designed for the non-native speaker of English with limited
English proficiency. Screening tests determine student placement in the program. Exit testing, teacher recommendation, and
administrative approval are required before a student exits to mainstream classes. High school credits toward graduation are
provided upon successful completion of each ESOL class for ninth through twelfth grades.

Business in Education (BIE) Internship Program

In cooperation with the GMHS Counseling Office, the BIE offers an internship program for juniors/seniors. This program
provides career experience and education in the workplace. Students begin the application process with their counselor. Eligible
student applications are forwarded to the BIE Coordinator who matches students with local businesses for paid and/or unpaid
internships. Internship placements depend on student interests and schedules as well as the availability of positions. Acceptance
into the program does not guarantee placement; BIE does its best to place students in appropriate positions.

The After School Education Program

The After School Education program is primarily designed for students who are not on track to graduate on time. High school
credit may be earned and applied toward a high school diploma in the subjects of English and Social Studies. Students must
first pick up an application for these self-paced courses from their counselor. This must be signed by the parent/guardian,
student, counselor and administrator. A tuition fee of $250 per semester’s course is charged to pay for the use of the program
materials. Classes generally meet on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Attendance is mandatory. Students
sign a contract with the program’s facilitator. Interested students should see their counselor.

12
GMHS Alternative Education Program

The Alternative Education Program is designed for high school students who are not successful at GMHS. This program is
located in a self-contained classroom and is supervised by an administrator. Designed for a maximum of eight students, the
program is staffed by a teacher and paraprofessional. For most students, this school day lasts from 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
The curriculum of the program focuses on core subjects: English, mathematics, social studies, and science. On average,
students may earn four credits in the program, but additional courses may be offered as appropriate for individual students. For
all students, conflict resolution skills are promoted. Tutoring is available for each student, as the teacher and paraprofessional
work independently with students during classroom instruction. The goal for students is to graduate or to return to GMHS
when students have gained the competencies to be successful in a traditional setting.

If the Alternative Education Committee determines that Alternative Education is an appropriate placement for the student, and
the student and parent/guardian are in agreement with the placement, an appointment is scheduled for an orientation/ admissions
meeting with the Alternative Education teacher. When appropriate, an administrator will be in attendance at this meeting.
During this meeting, a contract will be signed by the student, parent/guardian, teachers, and school administrator. To complete
admissions procedures, the student must schedule an appointment to meet with his/her counselor to make arrangements for the
schedule change to Alternative Education classes. Enrollment in the program will last at least one semester.

Arlington Career Center Program

The Falls Church City Public Schools support a limited number of students in a career preparation program of studies in the
Arlington County Public Schools. The Arlington Career Center (ACC) is designed to serve as an extension of the program at
GMHS. The ACC provides educational experiences and vocational programs for 11th and 12th grade students. The ACC’s
purpose is to provide educational experiences in the areas of occupational exploration, career preparation, and enrichment to
those students seeking a “hands-on” learning style. The ACC faculty assists students in job placement upon successful
completion of their program. In many instances the completion of an ACC course provides students with the opportunity for
advancement in post high school programs, especially those of Northern Virginia Community College.

Tuition Students

George Mason High School accepts students from outside the city on a tuition basis. Tuition rates and service fees are set by
the School Board. The application procedures may be obtained online: www.fccps.org. A complete tuition application packet
consists of transcripts, immunization and health records, original birth certificate, test scores, and related school records. The
prospective student and his/her parent/guardian will meet with the Director of Counseling for an initial interview. Afterward,
the student and parent/guardian will meet with the Principal who will determine if the student will be recommended to the
Superintendent and School Board for acceptance.

13
PROGRAM OF STUDY

Traditionally, the majority of George Mason High School graduates successfully matriculate to four-year or two-year post-
secondary institutions throughout the United States and abroad. Most students at George Mason follow a program of study that
prepares them for college. Such courses are found in our two major programs of study: College Preparatory and International
Baccalaureate (IB). Many colleges and universities expect students to take the most rigorous courses available in which they
can be successful. At George Mason, the most rigorous courses are the International Baccalaureate (IB) classes and Advanced
Placement (AP) classes.

College-bound students should seek to meet these typical college preparatory guidelines: 4 credits of English, 4 credits of
mathematics (to include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II), 3-4 credits of social studies, 3-4 credits of laboratory science (to
include Biology, Chemistry, and Physics), 2-4 credits of foreign language, and 2-4 credits of elective study. It should be
remembered, however, that individual college requirements vary, so students should always check with prospective colleges
about minimum entrance requirements. Students are always advised to consult their counselors when considering colleges and
universities. The following shows an example of a general college preparatory program of study. Students work with their
counselor to develop an individualized five-year plan of study to meet their specific needs and goals.

An Example of a General College Preparatory Sequence


Grade 8 Grade 9
College Preparatory English 8 College Preparatory English 9
World Civilizations/Geography I World Civilizations/Geography II
Pre-Algebra 8 or Algebra I Integrated Algebra/Geometry I, Algebra 1 or Geometry
Physical Science Biology
Spanish, French, American Sign Language, or Mandarin Spanish, French, American Sign Language, or Mandarin Chinese
Chinese
Physical Education and Health 8 Physical Education and Health 9
Elective Elective
Grade 10 Grade 11
College Preparatory English 10 College Preparatory English 11
US/VA Government US/VA History
Integrated Algebra/Geometry II, Geometry or Algebra II Integrated Algebra/Geometry III, Algebra II or IB Mathematical
Studies SL
Chemistry Physics
Spanish, French, American Sign Language, or Mandarin Spanish, French, American Sign Language, or Mandarin Chinese
Chinese
Physical Education and Health 10/ Driver Ed. Elective
Elective Elective

Grade 12
College Preparatory English 12
Social Studies Elective
Algebra II, IB Mathematical Studies SL or Pre-Calculus w/Trigonometry
Science Elective
Spanish, French, American Sign Language, or Mandarin Chinese
Elective
Elective

14
George Mason High School’s International Baccalaureate Diploma
Program

Celebrating Thirty Years of Excellence and Expanding Opportunity (1981-2011)

IBO Mission Statement


The International Baccalaureate Organization aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to
create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. To this end the IB works with schools,
governments and international organizations to develop challenging programs of international education and rigorous
assessment. These programs encourage students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who
understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.

IB learners strive to be:

Inquirers They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and
research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning
will be sustained throughout their lives.

Knowledgeable They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance. In so doing, they
acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of
disciplines.

Thinkers They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach
complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.

Communicators They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one
language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in
collaboration with others.

Principled They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the
dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions
and the consequences that accompany them.

Open-minded They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to
perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to
seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.

Caring They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a
personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to
the environment.

Risk-takers They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the
independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in
defending their beliefs.

Balanced They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal
well-being for themselves and others.

Reflective They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess
and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal
development.

15
“The best thing about the IB program was that it turned me into a learner and it challenged me in ways I couldn’t
even recognize at the time. It made me a strong writer and an analytical thinker which have been unbelievably helpful
skills in college. I also really enjoyed being part of the IB class environment where we were sympathetic…while still
challenging each other to work really hard. IB made me effective at time management as well, and it made me well-
rounded by challenging me in such a wide variety of subjects.
-Mary Ryan, George Mason High School Class of 2004, University of Virginia, Class of 2008

Since 1981, the most rigorous course of studies offered to the students of George Mason High School is the International
Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program. This program of advanced internationally recognized syllabi and external
examinations offers a rigorous, comprehensive and world-class education during the last two years of high school. The IB
Diploma Program is designed as an academically challenging and balanced program of education with final examinations that
prepares students for success at university and life beyond. The program has gained recognition and respect from the world’s
universities.

The program:
• provides a package of education that balances subject breadth and depth, and considers the nature of knowledge
across disciplines through the unique theory of knowledge course
• encourages international-mindedness in IB students, starting with a foundation in their own language and culture
• develops a positive attitude to learning that prepares students for university education
• has a reputation for its rigorous external assessment with published global standards, making this qualification
welcomed by universities worldwide
• emphasizes the development of the whole student- physically, intellectually, emotionally and ethically

The Curriculum

The IB Diploma requires students to study in six core areas: English, foreign language, social science, science, mathematics,
and the arts or an elective. For the IB Diploma, a candidate must successfully complete the following: earn a minimum of 24
points on six examinations graded on a scale of 1–7; complete a 4000-word extended essay in one of the content areas;
complete the Theory of Knowledge course; and reflect upon extra-curricular activities in three areas: Creativity, Action and
Service. In 2010, George Mason seniors posted a 92% success rate in completing the IB Diploma and achieved Diploma
Scores above the international average. Thirty-five members of the class of 2010 completed the IB Diploma.

Students not wishing to fulfill all of the requirements of the IB Diploma are strongly encouraged to take individual courses in
the IB curriculum to help them prepare for future education. These students thus earn IB certificates. In the 2010-2011
school year, more than 83% of the school’s students enrolled in one or more IB courses during their junior and/or
senior years.

The IB program is guided by a clear mission translated into a set of learning outcomes for the 21st century. This clarity of the
mission as learning outcomes provides a consistent thematic approach that influences all of our educational practice at George
Mason High School.

The IB program has six groups of study:

16
At George Mason High School, we offer the following International Baccalaureate courses:

Group 1: Native Language of Fluency


• IB English A1 Higher Level or Standard Level (an advanced study of literature)
• IB A1 Self Taught Standard Level (This course is for a student with an advanced native fluency in a language
other than English. Generally we only offer this program to transfer students.)
Group 2: Second Languages
• IB Language B (for students who studied a language for four to six years) – Spanish, French and/or Mandarin
Chinese and/or English B (for advanced ESOL students) Higher Level or Standard Level
• IB Language A2 (second language of fluency/a study of literature) Spanish (for fluent speakers and writers)
Higher Level or Standard Level
• IB ab initio (for students after two or three years of study) – This examination is only offered to students who
did not have an opportunity to study a second language for four to six years due to transferring between schools.
Group 3: Individual and Societies (Social Studies)
• IB History at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
• IB Psychology at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
• IB Social and Cultural Anthropology at the Standard Level
• IB Business and Management at the Standard Level
• IB Information Technology in a Global Society at the Standard Level
Group 4: Experimental Sciences
• IB Biology at the Higher Level
• IB Chemistry at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
• IB Environmental Systems I and IB Environmental Systems II at the Standard Level
• IB Physics at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
Group 5: Mathematics
• IB Mathematics at the Higher Level (an advanced study of mathematics including advanced Calculus)
• IB Mathematics at the Standard Level (includes Calculus)
• IB Math Studies at the Standard Level
Group 6: Arts and Electives
• IB Visual Arts at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
• IB Theatre Arts at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
• IB Music at the Higher and/or Standard Levels
• IB Computer Science at the Higher Level or Standard Level
• Or a second course from groups 2, 3 or 4

A suggested general sequence of courses for students who seek to earn an International Baccalaureate Diploma is listed on the
following pages for your reference. Each student’s IB Diploma program is planned to meet the individual student’s needs,
strengths and interests. (Higher level IB courses are labeled “HL” and standard level IB courses are labeled “SL”)

Students who complete advanced placement, college-level, or courses required for an International Baccalaureate Diploma
shall be deemed to have completed the requirements for graduation under these standards provided that they have earned the
verified credits as required of students earning either a standard or an advanced studies diploma.
(Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia, July 28, 2000)

17
Recommended Sequence of Courses Leading to the IB Diploma or IB Certificates

The following courses are recommended, not required, in preparation for the IB Diploma or IB Certificates. Each
IB Diploma candidate will meet with the IB Coordinator to design an individual course plan, and frequently there
are slight alterations to the recommended sequence.

IB Groups Grade 8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12


Group 1: Honors English or Honors Honors English or IB English A1 HL 11 or IB IB English A1 HL 12or IB
English English 8/CP English or English 10/CP English A1 SL 11 English A1 SL 12
Literature English 9/CP
Group 2: Spanish I, Spanish Spanish I, Spanish II, Spanish III, IB Spanish IV or V B IB Spanish IV B SL/V or VI
Second II, Spanish for Spanish II, Spanish IV, Spanish SL/HL I, IB French IV or HL II, IB French IV SL/V or
Languages Fluent Speakers, Spanish III, for Fluent Speakers, V B SL/HL I, IB Spanish VI HL II, IB Spanish A2
French I, French Spanish for French II, French III, A2 SL/HL I or IB SL/HL II or IB Mandarin IV B
II or Mandarin Fluent French IV, Mandarin Mandarin IV or V B SL/V or VI HL II
Chinese I Speakers, Chinese II or SL/HL I, Spanish III,
French I, Mandarin Chinese III French III or Mandarin
French II, Chinese III (leading to SL
French III, only)
Mandarin
Chinese I or
Mandarin
Chinese II
Group 3: World World CP U.S. One of the following: IB World History HL, IB
Individuals and Civilizations & Civilizations Government1, AP IB History of the World History SL,
Societies (Social Geography I & Geography U.S. Government 1 Americas 2 HL, IB IB Psychology HL/SL, IB
Studies) II Modern World History Business & Management SL,
SL,IB Psychology HL IB Social & Cultural
I/SL, IB Business & Anthropology SL,
Management SL, IB Information Technology in
IB Social & Cultural a Global Society SL
Anthropology SL,
IB Information
Technology in a Global
Society SL 3
Group 4: Physical Science Honors Honors Chemistry IB Biology HL I, IB IB Biology HL II, IB
Experimental Biology and/or Physics Chemistry SL or HL I Chemistry SL or HL II , IB
Sciences Chemistry, IB Physics SL Physics SL or HL II or
or HL I or Physics I, IB Physics, IB Environmental
Environmental Systems SL Systems SL II or Geophysics
I or Geophysics
Group 5: 8th Grade Pre- Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II 4
Algebra II, PreCalculus, IB Mathematics HL II, IB
Mathematics Algebra, Algebra Geometry, or Honors Algebra Honors PreCalculus, AP Mathematics SL, IB
I, or or Honors II/Trig, PreCalculus, Calculus AB, IB Mathematical Studies SL or
Honors Algebra, Geometry Honors PreCalculus, Mathematics HL I/AP IB Mathematical Studies SL
Geometry Calculus BC, IB on Contract and AP Calculus
Mathematics SL, or IB AB or BC
Mathematical Studies SL
PE and TOK PE/FLE/Health 8 PE/FLE/Hea PE/FLE/Driver Ed IB Theory of Knowledge IB Theory of Knowledge
(Requirements) lth 9 10 (Semester 2) (Semester 1)

Group 6: Arts Elective Elective Elective Elective/IB Elective: Elective/IB Elective:


and Electives IB Music SL/HL II, IB IB Music SL/HL II, IB
Theater Arts SL/HL II, or Theater Arts SL/HL II, or IB
IB Visual Arts SL/HL II or Visual Arts SL/HL II or
A second Group 2, 3 or 4 Course A second Group 2, 3 or 4 Course
IB Computer Science SL IB Computer Science SL/HL
SL/HL

1
Meets state U.S. Government requirements
2
Meets state U.S. History requirements
3
A student may defer an SL Group 3 Credit to the Senior Year and take CP US History in eleventh grade
4
Some IB courses have prerequisites. Consult the course descriptions.
18
2011 - 2012

Course Descriptions

The following are the descriptions of courses that may be offered at George Mason in the 2011-2012
school year. The teaching of a particular course can depend on the number of students who select that
course and the availability of staff. It is not anticipated that every course described in this book will be
taught. In some instances it may be necessary to combine classes so that desired courses can be offered.

Students are required to have teacher approval of course selections. Only Advanced Placement and
International Baccalaureate courses will receive a weighted grade.

19
CAREER AND TECHNICAL analysis to enhance the understanding of complex
business activities finance. A credit in this course
EDUCATION will fulfill the fine/practical art or an elective
requirement for graduation. Please be aware that
The goal of the Career and Technical Education pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
Department is to have students satisfy the Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for
requirements for the Career and Technical Education IB exam registration for this course. If a student
Seal or the Advanced Mathematics and Technology receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
Seal before graduating from high school. The waived.
following CTE programs are recognized by the
Virginia State Department of Education and are
661385 IB INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
currently offered at George Mason High School.
Focus is placed on career pathways and provides the
IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY (ITGS)
student with career exploration, self-assessment, and Grades 11-12
workplace readiness skills. Elective

Through ITGS, students will keep pace with the


BUSINESS rapidly changing world of computers and their use by
individuals – and by society in general. Students will
The following combination of electives will qualify learn to utilize Information Technology (IT) tools
you for CTE Completer status which will entitle you (e.g., graphics programs, data bases, web page
to a Virginia Board of Education CTE Seal of development tools), in solving real-life problems.
Achievement or Advanced Math and Technology Seal ITGS students will be challenged to understand the
of Achievement: use and application of information systems, evaluate
the influences of IT on society, and project what
o Introduction to Gourmet Cooking, changes and developments are most likely to occur in
Gourmet Cooking I and Personal the future. GMHS offers ITGS at standard level only.
Finance & Economics It is part of Group 3 (Individuals and Society) for the
IB Diploma requirements. There is no prerequisite
o Fashion Design & Construction I, for this course. Please be aware that pending the
Gourmet Cooking (Intro or Level I) passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
and Personal Finance & Economics 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
o Fashion Design & Construction I, or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.
IB Business & Management and
Personal Finance & Economics 612017 PERSONAL FINANCE AND
o IB Business & Management, IB
ECONOMICS – This course is a new
ITGS, and Personal Finance & graduation requirement*
Economics Grades 10-12
Elective (Full year course, but semesters may
613585 IB BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT be divided)
Grades 11-12
Elective (Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I or
Integrated Algebra/Geometry II.)

The IB Business and Management course is a *The Virginia Department of Education has made the
rigorous and critical study of the ways in which Personal Finance and Economics course a graduation
individuals and groups interact in a dynamic business requirement for the Class of 2014 and beyond.
environment. It is an academic discipline that Student in earlier graduation years may take either or
examines how business decisions are made and how both semesters as an elective.
these decisions make an impact on internal and Personal Finance and Economics is a two semester
external environments. It is designed to give students elective class that will help students navigate the
an understanding of business principles, practices, and financial challenges and economic decisions they will
skills. Emphasis is also placed on understanding encounter after graduation. From creating a budget to
technical innovation and day-to-day business banking, establishing good credit and understanding
functions of marketing, human resource management, supply & demand, Personal Finance and Economics
and includes the application of tools and techniques of is an effective first step for students to learn to

20
manage money, make sound financial decisions and and Tourism, Interior Design, Fashion Design,
understand how the economic world works. Topics Childcare and more.
covered will include, but not be limited to, basic
economic concepts, basic economic structures, the 824987 INTRODUCTION TO GOURMET
role of producers and consumers in a market economy, COOKING
supply and demand, the factors that impact personal
Grades 9-12
income, different economic systems, the role and
goals of government in a market economy, the global Elective, 1 semester
economy, financial planning, insurance, financial
record keeping, consumer skills, identity protection, How does dough rise? What makes candy melt in
banking services, credit, loans, renting an apartment, your mouth? What is the difference between fruits
creating a budget, establishing and maintaining good and vegetables? What is important in putting together
credit, the different types of investments (including an attractive nutritious meal? In this elective you will
stocks, bonds, and mutual funds), how taxes work, investigate the answers to these questions while
and preparing a tax return. creating hands on culinary projects in the FACS lab.
Learn fun ways to prepare foods while advancing
your cooking skills and presentation techniques.
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES Explore different kinds of cuisine while preparing
recipes from various regions of the United States and
The following combination of electives will qualify other countries throughout the world. A focus will be
you for CTE Completer status which will entitle you placed on career exploration in the Family and
to a Virginia Board of Education CTE Seal of Consumer Science fields of Culinary, Food Science,
Achievement or Advanced Math and Technology Seal Hospitality and Tourism, Health and Nutrition and
of Achievement: more. This elective is a prerequisite to taking the
Gourmet Cooking I course.
o Introduction to Gourmet Cooking,
Gourmet Cooking I and Personal 825087 GOURMET COOKING I
Finance & Economics
Grades 10-12
o Fashion Design & Construction I,
Elective
Gourmet Cooking (Intro or Level I)
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Gourmet Cooking)
and Personal Finance & Economics

What do you need to know and be able to do to run a


824587 FAMILY AND CONSUMER restaurant? What do you need to plan for when
SCIENCES catering a wedding? What violations are you looking
Grade 8 for if you are a Food and Drug Administration
Elective Inspector? In this elective you will practice
managerial, production, and service skills used in
How do you create a great entree good enough to government, commercial, or independently owned
feature on the menu of a top notch restaurant? What's institutional food establishments and related food
the secret behind throwing a great dinner party for industry occupations. You will plan, select, store,
yourself or a client? How can clothes be judged for purchase, prepare, and serve food and food products.
quality, fit and value? Why are some stains harder to You will study basic nutrition, sanitation, and food
remove than others? How do you care for children safety; the use and care of commercial equipment;
whether they are yours or entrusted in your care by and the operation of institutional food establishments.
their parents? How can you design a room that meets Critical thinking, practical problem solving, and
your needs or the needs of a business? How do entrepreneurship opportunities within the field of
advertisers sell you and other consumers a product? culinary arts are emphasized. The basic skills of
In this elective you will investigate the answers to mathematics, science, and communication are
these questions while creating hands on projects in the highlighted throughout the course. You must have
FACS lab. When the course is complete, you will taken it before you can enroll in Gourmet Cooking I.
know the how and why of cooking, wardrobe Two additional levels of Gourmet Cooking (Culinary)
maintenance, interior design, child care, being a smart are offered at the Arlington Career Center.
consumer and the importance of building
interpersonal relationships. A focus will be placed on
career exploration in the Family and Consumer
Science fields of Culinary, Food Science, Hospitality

21
824787 FASHION, DESIGN AND in two and three dimensional drawing and model
CONSTRUCTION 1 making. Students will learn to design and build
Grades 9-12 projects using some of the best computers in the high
Elective, 1 semester school as well as learn to use a variety of machines in
our design shop. This is a great class for students who
want to build a portfolio of work related to
Have you dreamed of being on Project Runway? Are architecture, engineering, and three-dimensional
you constantly critiquing clothing designs and telling design.
yourself you could design something better? Well,
here is your chance to get your Fashion, Design and
Construction career started. If you answered yes to 843687 ENGINEERING DRAWING
both of these questions, then this elective is for you. Grades 10-12
The focus will be placed on design, apparel styles, Elective
textile types and uses, and construction techniques.
Individual projects using artistic design principles will (Prerequisite: Basic Technical Drawing)
be used as vehicles to further develop your skills.
Instruction will focus on sewing techniques, pattern Engineering Drawing builds on the foundation laid in
design, clothing construction, fitting and alterations, basic technical drawing with more in-depth studies of
accessorizing and costume design. A focus will be the graphic language and methods of design for
placed on career exploration in the Family and engineers, manufacturers and industrial designers.
Consumer Science fields of Fabric, Design and Students will be expected to acquire a working
Construction. knowledge of a variety of CAD software, including
AutoCAD and Inventor. We will employ these
drawing skills to create solutions to structural and
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION mechanical problems that can be constructed in our
design shop. This class is meant to prepare students
The following combination of electives will qualify for a career in engineering, but is great for anyone
you for CTE Completer status which will entitle you who likes working with their hands and working with
to a Virginia Board of Education CTE Seal of tools to invent and build.
Achievement or Advanced Math and Technology Seal
of Achievement:
843787 ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING
o Basic Technical Drawing, Grades 11-12
Engineering Drawing, and Elective
Architectural Drawing
(Prerequisites: Basic Technical Drawing and Engineering
Drawing)
840387 TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
Grade 8 Students who are interested in mechanical, structural,
Elective and spatial design can develop a comprehensive
portfolio to the specific technical interests of each
This is an introduction to the technology options that student. We want to encourage independent
are available for students who might be interested in exploration in topics that will help you develop a
computer graphics, design and build experiences, formal portfolio of the design work you hope to
animation, and CAD drawing. You will have the pursue at the college level. This could include
opportunity to learn to use a wide range of graphics portfolio work in architectural design, interior design,
software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Bryce, construction, prototyping, or three-dimensional
AutoCAD, and Flash just to name a few. This is your visualization.
chance to experiment with a wide variety of design
tools, a hands-on introduction for a variety of
918087 COMPUTER GRAPHICS
electives that are available at the high school level.
Grades 9-12
Elective
843587 BASIC TECHNICAL DRAWING
Grades 9-12 This is an art class for the computer age. Students
Elective draw, paint, visualize and design in pixels and with
vector graphics. They also edit digital photography,
Basic Technical Drawing and Design is a thorough make both the real world and their imagination visible
introduction to CAD design. This involves techniques using the best computers in the school on the most

22
creative software the school has been able to purchase.
By creating animations, web graphics, posters and
prints in a portfolio of work, students are generally
proud to show the world on the school web site. No
previous experience is necessary, just a willingness to
use computers and software to extend one’s sense of
visual possibilities.

144687 FILM STUDIES I (YR)


144693 FILM STUDIES I (SEM)
Grades 9-12
Elective

This course will help students develop an appreciation


of film as a both a narrative art form and as
entertainment. Students will learn to critically view,
analyze, and discuss movies from different genres
using the vocabulary of film makers. Students will
also learn the art of film production through the
creation of their own short digital movie projects.
Students will gain skills in directing, cinematography
and camera use, lighting techniques, recording and
mixing sound, editing, and the art of “four-wall”
producing as students produce their own film festival.

144787 FILM STUDIES II


Grades 9-12
Elective

(Prerequisite: Film Studies I or the equivalent independent


experience)

This second film studies course is an opportunity for


students who have fallen in love with filmmaking and
want to build a genuine portfolio of finished work
with an ensemble of like-minded students. This will
involve writing screenplays, taking on the roles of
director, cinematographer, or producer. Students will
assemble crews, cast, acquire locations, and create a
shooting schedule. From there, the company will
enter into production where, through practice, the
students will develop and refine directing, designing,
lighting, sound, and camera skills. Once the movie is
“in the can,” the company will enter postproduction,
where the movie will be cut together, a soundtrack
will be built, and a finished movie will take shape.
Final movies will be screened and film festival
submission packages will be created.

23
ENGLISH 112029 HONORS ENGLISH 8

The English program strives to provide the strongest (Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in Advanced
and most meaningful challenges for each student. English 7 or teacher recommendation)
Three programs of study lead to a student’s successful
completion of the requirements for graduation: the Honors English 8 follows the same basic format and
General English program, College Preparatory (CP) curriculum as CP English 8 but is taught at a more
program, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) accelerated pace; students read more selections and
program. All courses satisfy the Virginia English are presented with more complex topics both in
Standards of Learning. discussion and as writing assignments. During the
second semester students will take the SOL Exams in
Beginning in the eighth grade, students develop a writing and reading.
five-year plan in consultation with their counselors
and parents or guardians. This plan or curricular map 113007 GENERAL ENGLISH 9
may be adjusted as necessary along the student’s Genre Study
route to graduation. For example, a student who may
have difficulty in a particular English course may find General English 9 is available to selected students on
that a change of class is helpful from one year to the the basis of reading scores and teacher or counselor
next or even during the course of the year. Conversely, recommendation. It exposes students to a wide
a student who does not feel adequately challenged in a variety of language arts experiences, including
particular English course may be encouraged to seek a literature study, the writing process, a review of the
more appropriately challenging placement in another conventions of the language, research skills, and oral
course. As is true in all disciplines, the key to success communication. Emphasis is on practical reading and
for any student of English is to be in the courses that writing skills in an effort to make students more
feature the appropriate level of challenge for him or proficient in English. The literature study parallels
her. that of CP English 9, the Genre study.

112027 GENERAL ENGLISH 8 113008 CP ENGLISH 9


Genre Study
General English 8 is available to selected students on
the basis of reading scores and teacher or counselor
CP English 9 introduces students to the major genres
recommendation. It exposes students to a wide variety
(poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama) and their
of language arts experiences, including the study of
principal characteristics. Students examine the many
literature, the writing process, a thorough review of
universal themes in literature while continually
the conventions of the language, and oral
working on their writing skills. The course stresses
communication skills. This course has an emphasis on
the importance of the writing process: prewriting,
practical reading and writing skills to help students
writing, editing, and rewriting.
become more proficient in English. The study of
literature will parallel that of CP English 8. During
the second semester students will take the SOL 113009 HONORS ENGLISH 9
Exams in writing and reading. Genre Study

112028 CP ENGLISH 8 (Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in Honors English


8 or a “B+” or better in CP English 8 and teacher
recommendation)
CP English 8 focuses on the close reading and
thorough analysis of literature. Students use the Honors English 9 follows the same basic format and
writing process to write in a variety of forms curriculum as CP English 9 but is taught at a more
including critical analyses, persuasive essays, fictional accelerated pace; students read more selections and
pieces, and personal narratives. Ideas for student are presented with more complex topics both in
papers are generated through close reading and discussion and in writing assignments. Honors
discussion of literature that represents a variety of English 9 is the usual initial step toward the IB
genres. Students focus on writing using the proper English program.
conventions of the language. During the second
semester students will take the SOL Exams in writing
and reading.

24
114007 GENERAL ENGLISH 10 second semester, students will take the SOL End-of-
American Literature Course Exams in reading and writing.

General English 10 is available to students on the 115008 CP ENGLISH 11


basis of reading scores and teacher or counselor World Literature
recommendation. It exposes students to a wide 115055 IB ENGLISH A1 SL 11
variety of language arts experiences including World Literature
literature study, the writing process, a review of the
conventions of the language, research skills, and oral CP/IB English A1 SL 11 allows all students to be
communication. Emphasis is on practical reading and exposed to the IB works and materials. Students will
writing skills in an effort to make students more study the works in Parts I and IV of the IB curriculum.
proficient in English. The literature study will parallel The major texts, grouped by themes and genres, are
that in CP English 10, American Literature. selected from a broad IB list of prescribed authors and
works representing different cultures and languages in
114008 CP ENGLISH 10 translation. The course is designed to develop
American Literature students’ power of expression in both oral and written
communication to prepare them for the IB
CP English 10 is a study of American literature that assessments if they so choose to pursue the IB
highlights this country’s major literary movements certificate or diploma. This course promotes an
and its representative authors. Interspersed appreciation of literature and knowledge of a
throughout the year will be units on practical writing student’s own culture and that of other societies.
skills, creative writing, and vocabulary improvement. During the second semester, students will take both
This course is designed to enhance students’ cultural End of Course SOL exams in reading and writing.
literacy and to prepare them for the rigors of college
English. Students enrolled in IB SL 11 can complete a
challenging two-year English curriculum that features
one less externally examined paper and fewer texts
114009 HONORS ENGLISH 10
than in IB HL and also allows an IB Diploma
American Literature candidate full flexibility in distributing his or her
three SL and HL courses among the six IB Groups.
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in Honors English Students who are enrolled in CP 11 will complete the
9 or a “B+” or better in CP English 9 and teacher IB assessments in the junior year but those scores will
recommendation)
be used toward an internal grade as opposed to being
part of an English IB score. Students who
Honors English 10 provides students with an
successfully complete both IB internal and external
overview of American literature while introducing
assessments and maintain a minimum of a “C-”
students to the academic skills necessary for IB
average may be recommended for IB English A1 SL
English courses. Students examine a wide selection
12 for their senior year. Please be aware that pending
of American literature in order to gain a perspective
the passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
of its origins in thought and tradition. Honors English
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
10 follows the same basic format and curriculum as
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
CP English 10 but is taught at a more accelerated pace;
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.
students read more selections and are presented with
more complex topics both in discussion and as writing
assignments. 115056 IB ENGLISH A1 HL 11
World Literature
115007 GENERAL ENGLISH 11
World Literature IB English A1 HL 11 students will study the works in
Parts I and IV of the IB curriculum. The major texts,
grouped by themes and genres, are selected from a
English 11 is available to selected students on the
broad IB list of prescribed authors and works
basis of reading scores and teacher or counselor
representing different cultures and languages in
recommendation. It exposes students to a variety of
translation. The course is designed to develop
language experiences, including the study of classic
students’ power of expression in both oral and written
and modern world literature, the writing process, a
communication to prepare them for the IB
review of the conventions of language, research skills
assessments. This course promotes an appreciation of
and oral communication. The literature parallels that
literature and knowledge of a student’s own culture
of CP English 11/IBS, World Literature. During the

25
and that of other societies. During the second 116096 IB ENGLISH A1 HL 12
semester, students will take both End of Course SOL
Exams in reading and writing. Students who (Prerequisites: A grade of “C-” or better in IB English A1
successfully complete both IB internal and external HL 11 and teacher recommendation; completion of external
assessments and maintain a minimum of a “C-“ and internal assessments.)
average may select IB English A1 HL 12 or IB
English A1 SL 12 for their senior year. IB English A1 HL 12 students will study the works in
Parts II and III of the IB curriculum. IB HL is a two-
year course, and students who wish to enroll in IB HL
116007 GENERAL ENGLISH 12 12 must have satisfied the IB HL 11 requirements.
The major texts, grouped by themes, genres, and
British & World Literature
styles, are selected from a broad IB list of prescribed
authors and works representing different cultures and
General English 12 is available to students on the languages in translation. The course is designed to
basis of reading scores and teacher or counselor develop students’ power of expression in both oral
recommendation. It exposes students to a wide and written communication to prepare them for the IB
variety of language arts experiences including assessments. This course promotes an appreciation of
literature study, the writing process, a review of the literature and knowledge of a student’s own culture
conventions of the language, research skills, and oral and that of other societies. Oral and written
communication. Emphasis is on practical reading and examinations are used to assess students’ language
writing skills in an effort to make students more skills, their ability to critically analyze and comment
proficient in English. The literature study will parallel upon familiar and unfamiliar texts and their ability to
that in CP English 12/IB English A1 SL 12 British & express a personal and independent response to
World Literature. literature. Please be aware that pending the passage of
the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
116008 CP ENGLISH 12 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
British & World Literature for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
116095 IB ENGLISH A1 SL 12 price lunch” this fee will be waived.
British & World Literature

College Preparatory/IB English A1 SL 12 allows all 116095 IB ENGLISH A1 SL 12


students to be exposed to the IB works and
materials. IB SL is a two-year course, and students (Prerequisites: A grade of “C-” or better in IB English A1
who wish to enroll in IB SL 12 must have satisfied SL or HL 11 and teacher recommendation; completion of
the IB SL 11 requirements. Students will study the external and internal assessments.)
works in Parts II and III of the IB curriculum. The
major texts, grouped by themes and genres, are IB English A1 SL 12 students will study the works in
selected from a broad IB list of prescribed authors and Parts II and III of the IB curriculum. The major texts,
works representing different cultures and languages in grouped by themes, genres, and styles, are selected
translation. The course is designed to develop from a broad IB list of prescribed authors and works
students’ power of expression in both oral and written representing different cultures and languages in
communication to prepare them for the IB translation. The course is designed to develop
assessments if they so choose to pursue the IB students’ power of expression in both oral and written
certificate or diploma. This course promotes an communication to prepare them for the IB
appreciation of literature and knowledge of a assessments. This course promotes an appreciation of
student’s own culture and that of other societies. literature and knowledge of a student’s own culture
Students enrolled in IB SL 12 can complete a and that of other societies. Oral and written
challenging two-year English curriculum that features examinations are used to assess students’ language
one less externally examined paper and fewer texts skills, their ability to critically analyze and comment
than in IB HL and also allows an IB Diploma upon familiar and unfamiliar texts and their ability to
candidate full flexibility in distributing his or her express a personal and independent response to
three SL and HL courses among the six IB literature. IB English A1 SL allows a student to
Groups. Please be aware that pending the passage of complete a challenging two-year English curriculum
the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 that features one less externally examined paper and
Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration fewer texts than in IB English A1 HL and also allows
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced an IB Diploma candidate full flexibility in distributing
price lunch” this fee will be waived. his or her three SL and HL courses among the six IB
Groups. Please be aware that pending the passage of

26
the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 121007 JOURNALISM II
Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration Grades 10-12
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced Elective
price lunch” this fee will be waived.
(Prerequisite: Journalism I)

117107 CREATIVE WRITING (YR) This course is both theoretical and practical in nature.
117193 CREATIVE WRITING (SEM) Students refine and polish their skills as news, feature,
Grades 9-12 sports and editorial writers. Students will apply these
Elective skills directly as they work on the electronic student
newspaper, Lasso Online, in leadership positions. As
second year journalists, students will be expected to
Creative Writing is devoted to the highly demanding
contribute regular stories to this paper, edit and
art of creative writing in all its various genres,
proofread the articles of their peers, and manage a
including poetry, drama, prose, prose fiction, and non-
news section of their peers. Students will have
fiction. Part I will focus on the generating and
myriad publishing opportunities. They may also apply
sharing of original material in addition to the study of
for and take on leadership positions such as group
classic and contemporary writings for both
discussion leaders and section editors or Editor in
inspirational and modeling purposes. Part II focuses
Chief. In addition, students will continue to study
more on writing workshop, revision, and
such related topics as journalistic ethics, history and
performance/publication of students’ work. This class
practices. The content moves in sync with the
is for students who approach their individual lives,
Journalism I course, but the Journalism II students
and society at large with humor, intelligence,
apply for and take on the leadership roles for the
sensitivity, and a thirst for language. It’s a course for
Lasso Online.
individuals who want to share their hearts and minds
through solitary writing, then collaborative revision
and study, and communal publication and 118027 READING STRATEGIES Grade 8
performance. It’s for writers and for people who want 118007 READING STRATEGIES Grades 9-12
to be better writers. Students may only take Part I and 118093 Grades 9-12 (SEM)
Part II of Creative Writing one time for a total of two Elective
semesters.
Reading Strategies is a highly specialized reading
120007 JOURNALISM I (YR) course designed to remediate students whose reading
120091 JOURNALISM (SEM I) level falls below grade level. In this course, a reading
Grades 9-12 specialist will work with students to improve
Elective accuracy of word recognition, increase fluency,
develop robust vocabulary, expand use of
(Prerequisites: Successful completion in the previous
comprehension strategies, and improve various
semester’s English class and a teacher recommendation.) writing skills, including note-taking strategies.

Journalism I is both theoretical and practical in nature.


Students learn such skills as news, feature, sports and
editorial writing; editing and layout and design
techniques. Students will apply these skills directly as
they work on the electronic student newspaper, Lasso
Online. Students will be expected to contribute
regular stories to this paper and will have myriad
publishing opportunities. In addition, students will
study such related topics as journalistic ethics, history
and practices.

27
ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF 570797 ESOL CONCEPTS SCIENCE/
SOCIAL STUDIES Grade 8
OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL) 571097 ESOL CONCEPTS SCIENCE/
SOCIAL STUDIES Grades 9-12
The ESOL program goals:
This course is designed to provide students with the
1. To facilitate the rapid acquisition of English skills and background knowledge that they will need
literacy and academic skills for students to as they transition into general education science and
successfully participate in the general education social studies classes. Such skills include note taking,
program. reading for understanding, research skills, and
vocabulary building strategies and writing up lab
2. To provide instruction that supports the cultural as reports.
well as linguistic needs of the students.
570899 ESOL 2 Grade 8
3. To promote the contributions of different cultures 572099 ESOL 2 Grades 9-12
and languages to our society.
In this course students build on their basic proficiency
ESOL courses are designed for the non-native speaker
in speaking, listening, reading and writing. There is
of English with limited English proficiency.
continued focus on interactive oral communication
Screening tests are given at the time of registration to
and increased emphasis on developing reading and
determine student placement. Exit testing, teacher
writing skills. More complex language structure and
recommendation, and administrative approval are
a wider range of vocabulary and idioms are acquired
required before a student moves to the next course
through conversational activities, readings and short
level or exits to general education classes. High
essays.
school credits are provided for ESOL classes in
grades 9-12.
570898 ESOL GENERAL ENGLISH 2 Grade 8
572098 ESOL GENERAL ENGLISH 2 Grades
570799 ESOL 1 Grade 8
9-12
571099 ESOL 1 Grades 9-12
This course exposes students to a wide variety of
This course provides a balanced approach to
language arts experiences including the study of
acquisition of the four skills of listening, speaking,
literature and the writing process. The students are
reading and writing. Students learn basic vocabulary
introduced to the major genres (poetry, short story,
and structure and apply these in authentic
essay, drama and novel) and their principal
conversations and situations. Additional vocabulary
characteristics. The course stresses the importance of
and relevant culturally information is introduced
the writing process: prewriting, writing, editing and
through short texts, recordings and videos.
rewriting. The reading and writing assignments
support increased English proficiency, vocabulary
570798 ESOL GENERAL ENGLISH 1 Grade 8 development, written and oral communication skills,
571098 ESOL GENERAL ENGLISH 1 Grades and application of correct English usage and
9-12 mechanics.

This course exposes students to a wide variety of 570897 ESOL CONCEPTS SCIENCE/
language arts experiences including the study of SOCIAL STUDIES 2 Grade 8
literature and the writing process. This course has an 572097 ESOL CONCEPTS SCIENCE/
emphasis on practical reading and writing skills to SOCIAL STUDIES 2 Grades 9-12
help students become more proficient in English as
well as vocabulary development, oral communication
skills, and application of correct English usage and In this course students will continue to work on the
mechanics. background knowledge and skills that they will need
as they transition into general education science and
social studies classes. Such skills include note taking,
reading for understanding, research skills, and
vocabulary building strategies and writing lab reports.
In addition, students will be given academic support
for their general education classes.

28
571427 ESOL 3 Grade 8
573047 ESOL 3 Grades 9-12

This course focuses on continued language


development through the exploration of various
themes. With each theme students focus on academic
reading and writing skills, the intensive study of
English grammar, and vocabulary building. The
readings are taken from a variety of genres. In
addition, students use the writing process to produce
persuasive essays, personal narratives, fiction and a
research paper. Students are also given opportunities
to develop their oral language through class
discussions, small group work and class presentations.

571627 ESOL 4 Grade 8


573147 ESOL 4 Grades 9-12

This advanced ESOL course follows a similar format


to the ESOL 3 class emphasizing continued language
development through the exploration of various
themes. With each theme students focus on academic
reading and writing skills, the intensive study of
English grammar, and vocabulary building. Students
are also given opportunities to develop their oral
language through class discussions, small group work
and class presentations.

MONITOR STATUS

Monitored students no longer take ESOL classes, but


they are provided services through the ESOL
Department. Their progress is monitored in their
general education classes until they successfully test
out of the program. Testing and instructional
accommodations are provided to monitored students
and instructional support is provided to their general
education teachers. ESOL services may include co-
taught general education classes, individualized
tutoring, supplemental materials, translation services,
alternative assessments, and parental outreach.
ESOL co-taught general education classes and ESOL
content area support classes are offered on an as-
needed basis.

29
WORLD LANGUAGES ESOL students who need two years of a foreign
language to satisfy the Advanced Studies Diploma
foreign language requirement may qualify to receive
Students at George Mason High School are
two years of credit by taking a written and oral
encouraged to study World Languages in order to
assessment in their native language. They may find
satisfy state requirements for an Advanced Studies
out more about this from their ESOL teacher, their
Diploma, prepare for future studies at the university
counselor, or the World Languages Department
level, enhance their knowledge of the world, and
Leader.
participate as global citizens in the 21st century.

Most four-year colleges require a minimum of two 511507 FRENCH 1-8


years of foreign language study for admission. Grade 8
Students are encouraged to thoroughly investigate the
requirements of the college or university of their This course is primarily offered to 8th grade students
choice. Although American Sign Language counts as who were enrolled in French 1A as 7th graders in
a foreign language for the Advanced Studies Diploma, middle school. Other students may also be placed in
many universities do not accept American Sign this class depending on a teacher’s recommendation
Language (ASL) in fulfillment of foreign language or the results of a placement test. There is a balanced
admissions requirements. Students should check with approach to development of the four skills of listening,
prospective colleges before mapping out their high speaking, reading, and writing. Proper pronunciation
school foreign language classes. is stressed. Basic vocabulary and structures are
learned and applied to functional real-life contexts.
Aural/oral communication is the major objective of
World Language (WL) requirements for the
the course, and there will also be an emphasis on
Advanced Studies Diploma are two years of two
acquiring mastery of structures and vocabulary
foreign languages or three years of one foreign
covered in the Level I course, on developing accurate
language. Students may take an IB Standard Level
written expression, and on use of effective study skills.
Language B examination at the end of the 4th or 5th
year of study and a Higher Level Language B exam at
the end of the 5th or 6th level. 511007 FRENCH I

There are extraordinary situations when students need There is a balanced approach to acquisition of the four
to accelerate language study, for example, in order to skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.
prepare for an IB examination in pursuit of the IB French is heard and spoken immediately. Basic
Diploma, or to satisfy Advanced Studies Diploma vocabulary and structures are learned and applied to
requirements. In order to do so, in lieu of taking a functional conversational contexts. Supplementary
high school level class at George Mason, students vocabulary and cultural material are introduced by
may enroll in a college-level course or, on rare means of short texts and videos. The emphasis is on
occasions, may be given permission to do individual developing oral proficiency in real-life contexts.
summer contract study. Arrangements must be made
with the current language teacher and the World 512007 FRENCH II
Languages Department Leader prior to taking a
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in French I)
college course or pursuing individual summer study.
Although students are encouraged to participate in
summer enrichment programs (such as immersion By use of the balanced skills approach, the student’s
camps, exchange programs, and intensive summer mastery of the language is further developed at this
study programs) in order to enhance their knowledge level. More complex language structures and a wider
and skills, neither high school credit nor acceleration range of vocabulary and idioms are acquired through
is granted for these experiences alone. conversational activities, readings, and a variety of
short written tasks. Cultural awareness and
Students who wish to receive credit for study of a knowledge are further developed through authentic
language not offered at George Mason High School readings and videos. The major goal of the course is
may enroll in a college course (at Northern Virginia to continue to develop oral proficiency in real-life
Community College, for example). They will receive contexts, while beginning to develop personal
one high school credit for successful completion of a expression in writing as well.
5 credit-hour college course, and ½ credit for a 3
credit-hour course. Students should see their
counselor well in advance in order to complete
necessary dual enrollment procedures.

30
513007 FRENCH III films and videos, and listening activities designed to
enable students to comprehend sophisticated native
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in French II) oral input. Please be aware that pending the passage
of the Falls Church City School Board FY 2911-2012
This intermediate French course further develops the Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
four skills of listening comprehension, speaking, for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
reading, and writing. Emphasis is placed on price lunch” this fee will be waived.
spontaneous expression and creative use of the
language in a wide variety of contexts. Effective 551507 SPANISH 1-8
spoken and written communication and development Grade 8
of reading comprehension are major objectives of the
course. Students will be introduced to unedited This course is primarily offered to students who have
literary texts in textbook and supplementary readings. studied Spanish in elementary and/or middle school
A variety of themes will include contemporary culture but need a transitional course prior to enrolling in
of France and cultures of French-speaking countries. Spanish II in the high school. Other students may
Movies, videos and magazines enrich the classroom also be placed in this class depending on a teacher’s
experience. recommendation or the results of a placement test.
There is a balanced approach to development of the
FRENCH IV & IB FRENCH four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Proper pronunciation is stressed. Basic vocabulary
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in French III) and structures are learned and applied to functional
real-life contexts. Aural/oral communication is the
514007 FRENCH IV major objective of the course, and there will also be
514055 FRENCH IV/IB FRENCH B SL an emphasis on acquiring mastery of structures and
514056 FRENCH IV/IB FRENCH B HL I vocabulary covered in the Level I course, on
developing accurate written expression, and on use of
This fourth-level course fosters further development effective study skills.
of the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and
writing, with increased emphasis on the latter. 551007 SPANISH I
Articles from newspapers, magazines and the Internet,
as well as literary texts, video and audio materials will There is a balanced approach to acquisition of the four
provide the basis for comprehension activities, writing skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.
tasks, and speaking practice related to unit themes. Spanish is heard and spoken immediately. Basic
Students may choose to take the Standard Level IB vocabulary and structures are learned and applied to
examination at the end of this course. Please be functional conversational contexts. Supplementary
aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church vocabulary and cultural materials are introduced by
City School Board FY 2911-2012 Budget, there may means of short texts and videos. The emphasis is on
be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a developing oral proficiency in real-life contexts.
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived. 552007 SPANISH II

FRENCH V & IB FRENCH (Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Spanish I)

(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in French IV) By use of the balanced skills approach, the student’s
mastery of the language is further developed at this
515007 FRENCH V level. More complex language structure and a wider
515055 FRENCH V/IB FRENCH B SL range of vocabulary and idioms are acquired through
515056 FRENCH V/IB FRENCH B HL I conversational activities, readings, and a variety of
515096 FRENCH V/IB FRENCH B HL II short written tasks. Cultural awareness and
516096 FRENCH VI/IB FRENCH B HL II knowledge are further developed through authentic
readings and videos. The major goal of the course is
This is an advanced level course in which students to continue to develop oral proficiency in real-life
explore a variety of topics related to cultural change, contexts, while beginning to develop personal
issues, and current events in France and French- expression in writing as well.
speaking countries. Students will continue to perfect
their communicative skills and enrich their
vocabulary through the reading of literature and
articles, discussions and other oral activities, viewing

31
553007 SPANISH III SPANISH V & IB SPANISH

(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Spanish II) (Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Spanish IV)

This intermediate Spanish course further develops the 555007 SPANISH V


four skills of listening comprehension, speaking, 555055 SPANISH V/IB SPANISH B SL
reading, and writing. Emphasis is placed on 555056 SPANISH V/IB SPANISH B HL I
spontaneous expression and creative use of the 555096 SPANISH V/IB SPANISH B HL II
language in a wide variety of contexts. Effective 556096 SPANISH VI/IB SPANISH B HL II
spoken and written communication and development
of reading comprehension are major objectives of the Level 5 IB Spanish is an advanced course in which
course. Students will be introduced to unedited students explore a variety of topics related to cultural
literary texts in textbook and supplementary readings. change, issues, and current events in Spain and
A variety of themes will include modern Spanish life Spanish-speaking countries. Students will continue to
and cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Movies, perfect their communicative skills and enrich their
videos and magazines enrich the classroom vocabulary through the reading of literary texts and
experience. articles, discussions and other oral activities, viewing
films and videos, and listening activities designed to
554007 SPANISH IV enable students to comprehend sophisticated native
554054 AP SPANISH IV oral input. Please be aware that pending the passage
of the Falls Church City School Board FY 2911-2012
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Spanish III) Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
This option is offered to students who have attained a price lunch” this fee will be waived.
high level of proficiency in Spanish prior to the 11th
grade. The primary goal of the AP Spanish Language IB SPANISH A2
course is to provide students opportunities to refine
their skills in speaking, understanding, writing, and
(Prerequisite: Native speaking students will be placed by
reading Spanish and to integrate the use of these
teacher on an individual basis.)
skills. Students enrolled in AP Spanish will follow
Spanish IV with some differentiation of tasks and
558055 IB SPANISH A2 SL I
assessment that will prepare them for the rigor and the
558056 IB SPANISH A2 HL I
format of the Advanced Placement Spanish Language
558095 IB SPANISH A2 SL II
examination, which they will take during the month of
558096 IB SPANISH A2 HL II
May
The primary goal of this course is to develop a variety
554055 SPANISH IV / IB SPANISH B SL
of linguistic skills through the study of a wide range
554056 SPANISH IV / IB SPANISH B HL I
of texts, to promote an appreciation of the wealth and
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Spanish III)
subtleties of the language, and to facilitate the clear
expression of ideas by engaging in close, detailed and
critical examination of texts. It is designed to meet
This fourth-level course fosters further development
the needs of bilingual students or those who have,
of the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and
through extensive previous study or residence in a
writing, with increased emphasis on the latter.
Spanish-speaking environment, acquired a very high
Articles from newspapers, magazines and the Internet,
level of fluency in Spanish. Please be aware that
as well as literary texts, video and audio materials will
pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
provide the basis for texthandling and for written and
Board FY 2911-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for
oral activities related to unit themes. Oral proficiency
IB exam registration for this course. If a student
continues to be developed through communicative
receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
activities based on functional situations and cultural
waived.
topics. Students may choose to take the Standard
Level IB examination at the end of this course. Please
be aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
City School Board FY 2911-2012 Budget, there may
be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived.

32
556507 SPANISH FOR FLUENT SPEAKERS will continue to focus on correct pronunciation,
Grades 9-10 pinyin, the Chinese character writing system,
calligraphic techniques, and sentence composition.
(Prerequisite: Proficiency evaluation by Spanish teacher) Students will acquire sufficient knowledge of Chinese
characters to understand simple authentic readings
In this course fluent Spanish speakers in grades 8-10 and to write paragraphs on basic topics. Topics will
will have the opportunity to focus on strengthening include daily routine, rooms of the house and home
their basic reading and writing skills in their native life, classes and school routine, leisure activities,
language, while developing their speaking and health and fitness, shopping, vacation and travel. The
listening skills in an appropriate manner. Students study of Chinese history and culture is integrated into
will listen to and read various authentic materials the language development process.
representing Hispanic cultures and various dialects of
their native language. Topics will include current 583007 MANDARIN CHINESE III
events, everyday activities, and other areas of study
and personal interest. Students will also learn (Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Mandarin
additional vocabulary and structures to strengthen Chinese II)
their speaking and writing skills in Spanish. Students
will improve their vocabulary and reading skills by In this course students will continue to develop and
studying word roots, syllables, prefixes and suffixes, refine their proficiency in the skills of speaking,
and other word structures. Various authentic materials listening, reading, and writing Mandarin Chinese in a
related to Hispanic culture, current events, and unit proficiency-based context, with continued focus on
themes will be used to support higher level reading interactive oral communication and increased
skill acquisition. Correct grammar structure and emphasis on developing reading and writing skills.
spelling will be an important focus, with an emphasis Students will continue to develop oral communicative
on developing accurate and more complex written skills using more complex language structures.
expression. This course will grant one credit toward Topics will include household chores and
fulfillment of the Advanced Studies Diploma foreign responsibilities, education plans and career choices,
language requirements (three years of one language or teen culture, fashion and clothes, leisure activities,
two years each of two languages). An alternate-year nature and wildlife, ecology, current events, history,
curriculum will be written so that students can take holidays and traditions. Classroom activities will
the course in consecutive years and be prepared to integrate culture with the teaching of the language
take IB Spanish A2 in grades 11 and 12. through readings, videos, and other authentic
resources that will enable students to deepen their
581007 MANDARIN CHINESE I understanding of China and its culture.

In this course students will be introduced to Chinese 584007 MANDARIN CHINESE IV


language and culture. The objectives are for students 585155 MANDARIN CHINESE IV/IB SL
to acquire basic proficiency in the skills of speaking
and listening comprehension in the context of (Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Mandarin
contemporary Chinese culture. Chinese characters Chinese III)
will be introduced systematically as they relate to the
oral/aural skills being acquired during the course. This fourth-level course fosters further development
Topics will include greetings, descriptions of people, of the skills of speaking, listening, reading, and
family members, clothing, colors, numbers, time, writing Mandarin Chinese, with increased emphasis
calendar, school, leisure activities, weather, places on reading authentic texts and on using more complex
and transportation, shopping, and food. language structures in writing. Students will study
themes and topics such as Beijing life and culture,
582007 MANDARIN CHINESE II traditional arts, drama, and medicine, social life and
community service, hobbies and leisure activities,
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Mandarin environmental issues and protection of endangered
Chinese I) animals, college studies and professions. Classroom
activities will integrate culture with the teaching of
In this course students will build on their basic the language through readings, videos, and other
proficiency in the skills of speaking, listening, reading, authentic resources that will enable students to deepen
and writing Mandarin Chinese in a proficiency-based their understanding of China and its culture. Students
context, with continued focus on interactive oral may choose to take the Standard Level International
communication and increased emphasis on Baccalaureate examination in Mandarin Chinese B at
developing reading and writing skills. The course the end of the course. Please be aware that pending

33
the passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
2911-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.

585007 MANDARIN CHINESE V


585155 MANDARIN CHINESE IB SL
585156 MANDARIN CHINESE IB HL I
585196 MANDARIN CHINESE V/IB HL II

(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Mandarin


Chinese IV)

This is an advanced fifth-level course in which


students will further develop sophisticated
communication skills in speaking, listening, reading,
and writing Mandarin Chinese, with a focus on
interactive and presentational oral communication,
reading authentic texts, and using complex language
structures in writing. Students will explore a variety
of themes and topics such as cultural change, social
issues, current events, globalization, politics,
technology, media, literature, history, visual and
performing arts, environmental issues and problems,
health issues, and scientific progress. Students will
continue to perfect their communicative skills and
enrich their vocabulary through the reading of
literature and articles, discussions and other oral
activities, viewing films and videos, and listening
activities designed to enable students to comprehend
sophisticated native oral input. Students will be
prepared to take the Standard Level International
Baccalaureate examination in Mandarin Chinese B at
the end of the course, with some students (IB HL I)
continuing with an additional year of study to prepare
to take the IB Mandarin B HL examination. Please be
aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
City School Board FY 2911-2012 Budget, there may
be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived.

34
INTERDISCIPLINARY global economy, financial planning, insurance,
financial record keeping, consumer skills, identity
ELECTIVES protection, banking services, credit, loans, renting an
apartment, creating a budget, establishing and
The following combination of electives will qualify maintaining good credit, the different types of
you for CTE Completer status which will entitle you investments (including stocks, bonds, and mutual
to a Virginia Board of Education CTE Seal of funds), how taxes work, and preparing a tax return.
Achievement or Advanced Math and Technology Seal
of Achievement: 121427 YEARBOOK/ PHOTOJOURNALISM
8: INTRODUCTION TO YEARBOOK
o Introduction to Gourmet Cooking,
Grade 8
Gourmet Cooking I and Personal
Finance & Economics Elective

o Fashion Design & Construction I, (Prerequisite: Yearbook Advisor approval)


Gourmet Cooking (Intro or Level I)
and Personal Finance & Economics. Yearbook/Photojournalism 8 is a year-long, non-
credit elective course in which students learn the
o Fashion Design & Construction I, publication, layout, design, organization and
IB Business & Management and leadership skills necessary to produce a yearbook.
Personal Finance & Economics. Substantial work outside of the class meeting time
will be required of all students. In addition to the
o IB Business & Management, IB technical skills of publishing, students also learn
ITGS, and Personal Finance & teamwork and time management skills. All aspects of
Economics. publication are covered, including: organization and
planning; press law and legal issues; business
management and sales; layout and design; time
612017 PERSONAL FINANCE AND management; photographic and written
ECONOMICS – This course is a new communication; copy and proofreading; and use of
graduation requirement* the computer in design. This course meets after school
Grades 10-12 for one full year.
Elective (Full year course, but semesters may
be divided) 121507 YEARBOOK/ PHOTOJOURNALISM
I: INTRODUCTION TO YEARBOOK
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I or Grades 9-12
Integrated Algebra/Geometry II.) Elective
*The Virginia Department of Education has made the (Prerequisite: Yearbook Advisor approval)
Personal Finance and Economics course a graduation
requirement for the Class of 2015 and beyond. Yearbook/Photojournalism I is a year-long, non-credit
Student in earlier graduation years may take either or elective course in which students learn the
both semesters as an elective. publication, layout, design, organization and
leadership skills necessary to produce a yearbook.
Personal Finance and Economics is a two semester Substantial work outside of the class meeting time
elective class that will help students navigate the will be required of all students. In addition to the
financial challenges and economic decisions they will technical skills of publishing, students also learn
encounter after graduation. From creating a budget to teamwork and time management skills. All aspects of
banking, establishing good credit and understanding publication are covered, including: organization and
supply & demand, Personal Finance and Economics planning; press law and legal issues; business
is an effective first step for students to learn to management and sales; layout and design; time
manage money, make sound financial decisions and management; photographic and written
understand how the economic world works. Topics communication; copy and proofreading; and use of
covered will include, but not be limited to, basic the computer in design. This course meets after school
economic concepts, basic economic structures, the for one full year and students are awarded ½ credit
role of producers and consumers in a market upon completion of the full year.
economy, supply and demand, the factors that impact
personal income, different economic systems, the role
and goals of government in a market economy, the

35
121607 YEARBOOK/ PHOTOJOURNALISM 121807 YEARBOOK/ PHOTOJOURNALISM
II: ADVANCED STUDIES IV: PRODUCTION
Grades 9-12 Grades 11-12
Elective Elective

(Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook/ (Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook/


Photojournalism 8 or I; Yearbook Advisor approval) Photojournalism III; Yearbook Advisor approval)

Yearbook/Photojournalism II is a year-long course Yearbook/Photojournalism IV is a year-long course in


that provides advanced and individualized instruction which students assume a leadership role in the
in the various aspects of publication. Substantial production of the yearbook. Substantial work outside
work outside of the class meeting time will be of the class meeting time will be required of all
required of all students. In addition to the continued students. As editors of the high school publication
technical skills of yearbook, there is an increased students will plan and develop a theme, create the
emphasis on photography, copywriting and caption ladder, create the design layout for pages, design the
writing. Students will also get extensive training in cover and supervise the yearbook staff in writing and
the use of Photoshop as a tool in journalism. This selecting photos for the yearbook. Editors are also
course continues to build on the teamwork and time responsible for approving and proofing features/
management skills taught in Yearbook/ pages. This course continues to build on the
Photojournalism 8 and I. This course meets after teamwork and time management skills taught in
school for one full year and students are awarded ½ Yearbook/Photojournalism 8, I, II and III. This
credit upon completion of the full year. course meets after school for one full year and
students are awarded ½ credit upon completion of the
121707 YEARBOOK/ PHOTOJOURNALISM full year.
III: ONLINE/DESKTOP PUBLISHING
Grades 10-12 122107 YEARBOOK/
Elective PHOTOJOURNALISM V: LEADERSHIP
Grade 12
(Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook/ Elective
Photojournalism II; Yearbook Advisor approval)
(Prerequisites: Successful completion of Yearbook/
Yearbook/Photojournalism III is a year-long course in Photojournalism IV; Yearbook Advisor approval)
which students learn how to design magazine layouts,
plan and execute features and are given advanced Yearbook/Photojournalism V is a year-long course in
instruction in the business aspects of publication. which students assume a leadership role in the
Substantial work outside of the class meeting time production of the yearbook. Substantial work outside
will be required of all students. Students will receive of the class meeting time will be required of all
advanced instruction in YearTech Online, a web- students. As editors of the high school publication
based publishing tool that is used to create yearbook students will plan and develop a theme, create the
pages. Students will plan and create an ad campaign ladder, create the design layout for pages, design the
to sell the yearbook, as well as maintain school cover and supervise the yearbook staff in writing and
interest in the development of the yearbook selecting photos for the yearbook. Editors are also
throughout the year. This course continues to build responsible for approving and proofing
on the teamwork and time management skills taught features/pages. This course continues to build on the
in Yearbook/Photojournalism 8, I and II. This teamwork and time management skills taught in
course meets after school for one full year and Yearbook/Photojournalism 8, I, II, III and IV. This
students are awarded ½ credit upon completion of the course meets after school for one full year and
full year. students are awarded ½ credit upon completion of the
full year.

36
MATHEMATICS 313007 ALGEBRA I
Grades 8-12

To earn a Standard Diploma, students must complete (Prerequisites: Passing score on the 8th grade math SOL
3 credits in mathematics classes, all of which must be test, a grade of “C” or better in Pre-Algebra, and a teacher
at or above the Algebra I level. Students who wish to recommendation)
earn the Advanced Studies Diploma must complete
four credits of mathematics, which must include the This course is the standard algebra course in the
Algebra II level or above. To fulfill the Group V college-bound academic sequence. It is a challenging
requirement for the IB diploma, students must course which stresses the importance of and synthesis
complete the requirements for the IB Mathematics HL, of abstract algebraic concepts as well as the
IB Mathematics SL, or IB Mathematical Studies SL. connections between algebra and arithmetic,
geometry, and probability and statistics. Tables and
NOTE: Graphing calculators are used in all high graphs will be used to interpret algebraic expressions,
school mathematics classes, however students will be equations, and inequalities and to analyze functions.
required to show work and complete problems These algebraic skills and concepts are used as tools
demonstrating steps used by hand without a calculator. to represent and solve practical real-life problems.
Technology including computers and graphing
NOTE ON MATH COURSE SELECTIONS: calculators will be used to assist in problem solving.
Students anticipating a college major in math, At the end of this year, students take the Algebra I
sciences (including pre-med), or engineering are SOL test.
advised to take either IB Mathematics SL, AP
Calculus AB or AP Calculus BC. Students enrolled 313009 HONORS ALGEBRA I
in IB Mathematics HL must also enroll in or have Grades 8-9
already completed AP Calculus BC. AP Calculus BC
may also be taken independently of IB Mathematics
(Prerequisites: Passing score on the 8th grade math SOL
HL. test, a grade of “A” or better in Pre-Algebra, and a teacher
recommendation)
For the suggested mathematics course sequence,
please refer to the chart following the course This course is designed for students who have
descriptions. extremely strong pre-algebra and abstract reasoning
skills. Students must be independently motivated as
311227 PRE-ALGEBRA 8 this is a fast-paced, rigorous course, which stresses
Grade 8 the importance of and synthesis of algebraic concepts
as well as the connections between algebra and
As a preparation for Algebra I, this course reviews arithmetic, geometry, probability, and statistics.
and extends previous concepts and skills and begins Tables and graphs will be used to interpret algebraic
to move from concrete into more abstract algebraic expressions, equations, and inequalities and to
concepts. This math course assumes mastery of analyze functions. These algebraic skills and
fractions, decimals, ratio, proportions and percents concepts are used as tools to represent and solve
and requires familiarity with integers. The units of practical real-life problems. Technology, including
study focus on both pre-algebra and pre-geometry computers and graphing calculators, will be used to
topics, which include properties of real numbers, assist in problem solving. At the end of this year,
integers, equations, inequalities, graphing, similarity, students take the Algebra I SOL test.
statistics and probability, transformations, and
number theory. Students will concentrate on
strategies of problem solving throughout the year. At
the end of the year, the students will take the 8th grade
math SOL test. This is not a high school credit class;
therefore, grades from this course do not appear on
high school transcripts.

37
THE INTEGRATED Integrated Algebra/Geometry III is the third course in
ALGEBRA/GEOMETRY SEQUENCE the three-year integrated course sequence that
combines the content for Algebra I and Geometry.
The Integrated Algebra/Geometry sequence is a 3- This third year of the sequence concentrates on topics
year sequence. Students who begin this program must from geometry which utilize and reinforce algebraic
complete all three years in order to receive 3 credits. skills and reasoning. In this class students will utilize
See below for individual course descriptions. For the problem solving skills from Integrated Algebra/
classes of 2011, 2012, 2013, students will earn a Geometry I & II in order to solve problems involving
mathematics credit for each of the 3 courses. geometric figures. At the end of this year, students
Beginning with the class of 2014, students will earn: take the Geometry SOL test.

1 elective credit for Algebra/Geometry I; 314307 GEOMETRY


1 math credit for Algebra/Geometry II; Grades 9-12
1 math credit for Algebra/Geometry III.
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I)
314607 INTEGRATED
ALGEBRA/GEOMETRY I This course is the standard high school geometry
Grades 9-12 course in the academic sequence required for college
bound students. The course includes both inductive
and deductive mathematical reasoning as well as
(Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation)
emphasis on two- and three-dimensional reasoning
skills, coordinate and transformational geometry. At
Integrated Algebra/Geometry I is the first course in
the end of this year, students take the Geometry SOL
the three-year integrated course sequence that
test.
combines the content for Algebra I and Geometry.
Students will continue working on pre-algebra skills
as they begin to apply these skills towards problem 314309 HONORS GEOMETRY
solving using algebraic equations and linear functions. Grades 8-10
Students will be introduced to basic geometry and
learn the vocabulary that will be used in describing (Prerequisites: A grade of “B+” or better in Honors
figures. Students will not be taking a Standards of Algebra I; or a grade of “B+” or better in Algebra I and a
Learning (SOL) test at the end of this first year of the teacher recommendation)
sequence.
Honors Geometry is the second course in the honors
high school math sequence. It is a very challenging
314707 INTEGRATED
course that emphasizes the study of geometric proofs.
ALGEBRA/GEOMETRY II Inductive and deductive reasoning are included in
Grades 10-12 topics such as transformations, congruence, similarity,
and measurement of two-dimensional as well as three-
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Integrated Algebra/ dimensional figures, and an introduction to
Geometry I) trigonometry. Connections and extensions are made
to algebra throughout the year. Students will be
Integrated Algebra/Geometry II is the second course expected to recall these topics and integrate
in the three-year integrated course sequence that previously learned skills with new concepts.
combines the content for Algebra I and Geometry. In Technology, including computers and graphing
this second year, students review and continue to calculators, provides an important component of this
develop problem solving skills while focusing on course. At the end of this year, students take the
algebra and how it can be applied through geometric Geometry SOL test.
models. At the end of this year, students take the
Algebra I SOL test.

314807 INTEGRATED
ALGEBRA/GEOMETRY III
Grades 11-12

(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Integrated Algebra/


Geometry II)

38
313507 ALGEBRA II 316209 HONORS PRECALCULUS
Grades 10-12 Grades 10-12

(Prerequisites: Successful completion of the Integrated (Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in Honors Algebra
Algebra/Geometry Sequence with a grade of “A” or better II/Trig and a teacher recommendation)
in Integrated Algebra/Geometry II; or the successful
completion of both Algebra I and Geometry with a grade of This course prepares students for IB Mathematics SL,
“C” or better in the second semester of Algebra I. Students AP Calculus AB, or AP Calculus BC and/or IB
must have passed the Algebra I SOL.)
Mathematics HL. This course follows Honors
Algebra II/Trig in the honors sequence. It expands
This is a fast-paced, rigorous course which is an on the fundamentals of Honors Algebra II/Trig and
extension of the Algebra I curriculum. Topics that Honors Geometry, plus covers topics from college
were first introduced in Algebra I will be built upon algebra, analytic geometry and introductory calculus.
and applied to problems that require higher order Technology is used to enrich and expand upon
thinking skills. Additional topics introduced in this various topics. The course provides a solid
course include the study of functions, polynomials, background for students who plan to take calculus and
rational expressions, complex numbers, matrices, and other higher level math courses.
sequences and series. Algebra II builds a foundation
of mathematics for those students going on to Pre-
Calculus and/or students who are college bound. 319655 IB MATHEMATICAL STUDIES SL
Along with many colleges, a majority of careers Grades 11-12
require a successful completion of an Algebra II
course. At the end of this year, students take the (Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Algebra II)
Algebra II SOL test.
IB Mathematical Studies SL is a standard level
313709 HONORS ALGEBRA II/ mathematics course in the IB program. Included in
TRIGONOMETRY the course is a mandatory independent internal
assessment project which requires students to utilize
Grades 9-11 mathematical concepts in real-world applications.
This course emphasizes writing in mathematics.
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in both Honors Topics include sets and logic, geometry and
Geometry and Honors Algebra I, passing scores on both the
trigonometry, statistics and probability, functions,
Algebra I and Geometry SOL tests, and a teacher
recommendation) financial mathematics, series and sequences, and
introductory differential calculus. Students who are
This course is designed for advanced students who are taking or have completed either the AP Calculus AB
capable of a more rigorous course at an accelerated or AP Calculus BC class are not permitted to take this
pace. Topics include those in Algebra II as well as a course. Please be aware that pending the passage of
study of trigonometric definitions, applications, the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
graphing and solving trigonometric equations and Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
inequalities. At the end of this year, students take the for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
Algebra II SOL test. price lunch” this fee will be waived.

316207 PRECALCULUS w/ 319855 IB MATHEMATICS SL


TRIGONOMETRY Grades 11-12
Grades 11-12
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Honors
Precalculus or a “B” or better in Precalculus
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in Algebra II or w/Trigonometry)
the successful completion of Honors Algebra
II/Trigonometry and a passing score on the Algebra II SOL
test) IB Mathematics SL is the more rigorous of our
standard level IB mathematics courses. This is a
This course prepares students for IB Mathematics SL college level course designed to introduce students to
and AP Calculus AB. This is an advanced class in the major topics of differential and integral calculus,
mathematics and covers topics from college algebra, vectors, statistics, and other discrete math topics. As
analytic geometry, trigonometry, as well as functions part of the IB internal assessment for this course,
and introductory calculus. students will complete two portfolio assignments.
Please be aware that pending the passage of the Falls
Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget,

39
there may be a fee for IB exam registration for this assignments. This course must either be taken in
course. If a student receives “free or reduced price conjunction with/or after the successful completion of
lunch” this fee will be waived. AP Calculus BC. Please be aware that pending the
passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
317755 AP CALCULUS AB 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
Grades 11-12 registration for this course. If a student receives “free
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.
(Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in Precalculus
w/Trigonometry or successful completion of Honors COMPUTER SCIENCE
Precalculus)
Computer Science classes count as elective credit and
This is a very fast paced and rigorous mathematics not mathematics credit towards graduation.
course with emphasis on limits, differential calculus
and integral calculus. Applications of calculus to
science, engineering, and economics will be made. At 318487 COMPUTER SCIENCE I
the end of the year, students will take the AP Calculus Grades 10-12
AB Exam. This course is equivalent to one semester Elective
of college calculus. Please be aware that pending the
passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY (Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I)
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for AP exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free Computer Science is a one-year course that studies
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived. the topics of programming techniques, computer
architecture, applet development, and computer ethics.
317756 AP CALCULUS BC/IB Mathematics Students will program and solve interdisciplinary
HL I problems in the computer language of JAVA.
Grades 11-12
318585 IB COMPUTER SCIENCE SL
(Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in Honors Grades 11-12
Precalculus) Elective

This is a very fast paced and rigorous mathematics (Prerequisite: A grade of “B-” or better in Computer
course with emphasis on limits, differential calculus Science I)
and integral calculus as well as power series, infinite
sequences, and parametric, polar, and vector IB Computer Science SL is a one-year course that
equations. There will be emphasis on theorems and concentrates on problem solving techniques and
proofs. At the end of the year, students will take the programming style while learning various data
AP Calculus BC Exam. This class is equivalent to structures and algorithms in JAVA. Computer
two semesters of college calculus. Please be aware systems, social implications, and practical
that pending the passage of the Falls Church City applications are integrated into the course. Students
School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a will take the standard level IB examination. Please be
fee for AP exam registration for this course. If a aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may
will be waived. be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
319756 IB MATHEMATICS HL II will be waived.
Grade 12
318586 IB COMPUTER SCIENCE HL I
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in Honors Grade 11
Precalculus and enrollment in/or successful completion of First year of a two-year program
AP Calculus BC) Elective
IB Mathematics HL II is a survey course in
(Prerequisite: A grade of “B-” or better in Computer
mathematics that includes selected topics in vectors, Science I)
trigonometry, linear algebra, probability, statistics,
and other topics in preparation for the IB higher-level IB Computer Science HL is a one-year course that
examination. As part of the IB internal assessment concentrates on problem solving techniques and
for this course, students will complete two portfolio

40
programming style while learning various data
structures and algorithms in JAVA. Computer
systems, social implications, and practical
applications are integrated into the course. Students
will take the standard level IB examination. Please be
aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may
be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived.

318594 IB COMPUTER SCIENCE HL II


Grade 12
Second year of a two-year program
Elective

(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in IB Computer


Science HL I)

This course is designed for those students who wish


to continue their studies in computer science. The
topics covered will prepare students to take the IB
higher level Computer Science exam. Programs will
be written in an object-oriented language, either C++
or JAVA. Students will take the higher level IB
Computer Science examination. Please be aware that
pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for
IB exam registration for this course. If a student
receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
waived.

41
42
PHYSICAL EDUCATION Basketball Ultimate Frisbee
Archery Indoor Games
FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION Badminton Outdoor Games
HEALTH Fitness Softball
Flag Football Soccer
DRIVER EDUCATION Floor Hockey Tennis
Track and Field Volleyball
Physical Education and Health with Family Life Weight-Training
Education (FLE) component are required in grades 8,
9 and 10. Driver Education is also a required course The Health section focuses on issues associated with
in 10th grade. An elective Championship Training adolescent growth and development, reproduction,
course is available for students in grades 9-12 who are and peer relationships. These issues are discussed,
interested in more advanced physical training. especially those involving dating, alcohol, pregnancy
prevention and disease control, and adolescent
720007 PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND pregnancy. Students will be assigned a research
HEALTH/FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION project that will include a research paper, presentation
Grade 8 and visual aid. The FLE component of the Health
section includes topics surrounding sexuality and
The 8th grade Physical Education curriculum health issues that relate to adolescence. Parents have
concentrates on the development of individual fitness, the option of removing their children from any or all
proper social attitudes, and productive use of leisure portions of the FLE component of the Health section.
time. Students may be introduced to the use of heart
rate monitors and pedometers. Some of the units 740007 PHYSICAL EDUCATION, DRIVER
include flag football, soccer, tennis, basketball, EDUCATION AND HEALTH/FAMILY
volleyball, weight training, archery, track and field, LIFE EDUCATION
softball, indoor games, ultimate frisbee, floor hockey Grade 10
and outdoor games.
The Physical Education/Driver Education/Health/FLE
The Health section includes wellness, nutrition, stress
program in the 10th grade includes one semester of
management, substance abuse prevention, diseases
Physical Education, one quarter of Driver Education,
and disorders, assertiveness skills, health care and
and one quarter of Health with an FLE component.
current health issues. Topics in the FLE component
The emphasis of the Physical Education program in
include dating, relationships and safety, STD
the 10th grade is the development of selected team
prevention and an introduction to birth control and
strategies and activities with a focus on the
disease prevention. The Health portion consists of
importance of lifetime fitness. Activity units of
discussions concerning current health issues.
approximately two weeks may include:
Students will be responsible for a research project that
will include a research paper, presentation and visual
Badminton Floor Hockey
aid on a health topic selected by the student. Parents
Outdoor Games Track and Field
have the option of removing their children from any
Basketball Soccer
or all portions of the FLE component of the Health
Flag Football Volleyball
section.
Indoor Games Golf
Tennis Weight Training
730007 PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND Ultimate Frisbee Softball
HEALTH/FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION Fitness
Grade 9
The 10th grade quarter of Driver Education follows
th
The 9 grade Physical Education/Health/Family Life the state guidelines for the classroom portion of the
Education program includes approximately three Virginia State Driver Education program. Successful
quarters of Physical Education and one quarter of completion of this course is required in order for a
Health with a FLE component. student to obtain a DEC-1 certificate. The DEC-1
certificate is required for enrollment in an in-car
The emphasis in the 9th grade Physical Education driver education program. Students that fail to meet
program is the refinement of established skills/team the state’s requirements of 36 class periods or 18
strategies in selected activities and a focus on the blocks will be given the opportunity to remain in the
principles of lifetime fitness. Activity units lasting course provided that they are in good standing with
approximately two weeks may include: the instructor/school in order to earn credit for the

43
course but will not be able to obtain a DEC-1 764291 SEM 1
certificate. There is a State required 90-minute 764292 SEM 2
presentation that the Parent/Guardian/Student must Level 2
attend before the student receives the DEC-1.
This course introduces the student to various methods
The Health section looks at human growth and
of resistance training as a means of enhancing
development through the life cycle using Erik
muscular strength and endurance, optimizing lean
Erikson’s 8 Stages of Human Development. The first
body mass, and increasing metabolic efficiency.
stage starts with Infancy and continues through
Students will develop an understanding of the joint-
Advanced Age with an emphasis on the issues
movement patterns essential for safely executing
surrounding Adolescence. Students will be assigned a
resistance training exercises. Students will acquire an
Research Project that will include a research paper,
understanding of how the body’s muscles adapt to
oral presentation and visual aid based on a topic that
physical conditioning and strength training. Students
they select with the instructor’s approval. The FLE
will be introduced to training concepts designed to
component of the Health section includes Date Rape,
develop and enhance the individual’s level of physical
Binge Drinking, Eating Disorders and the Stages of
training fitness in the areas of speed, agility, reaction
the Normal Sexual Life Cycle. Parents have the
skills, and advanced physical conditioning. This
option of removing their children from any or all
course also provides a unique opportunity for students
portions of the FLE component of the Health section.
to examine and develop their personal goals and
values system by the teaching of self-image, positive
CHAMPIONSHIP TRAINING attitude, character, leadership, goal-orientation, and
Grades 9-12 managing adversity.
Elective, 1 or 2 Semesters
764391 SEM 1
S1 – Fall Semester; S2 – Spring Semester 764392 SEM 2
Level 3
For registration purposes, Championship Training has
two numbers – one for the Fall Semester and one for This course introduces students to the principles of
the Spring Semester. All students should register strength training and injury prevention. Students will
using course numbers #764191 and/or #764192. acquire an understanding of the concepts of strength
Students will be placed at the appropriate level after training for the development of power, strength,
registration. explosiveness, and hypertrophy. A foundation of
knowledge emphasizing proper preparation for
764191 SEM 1 training will be developed. Students will be
764192 SEM 2 introduced to the concepts of training specificity and
Level 1 periodization. A knowledge of those concepts will be
applied by students in developing individual and
group training goals and training protocols. Students
This course introduces the student to anatomy and the
will be introduced to training concepts designed to
mechanics of body movement with respect to muscle
develop and enhance the individual’s level of physical
proprioception (communication with the brain
training fitness in the areas of speed, agility, reaction
resulting in muscle action). Students will apply the
skills, and advanced physical conditioning. This
principles of muscle proprioception by utilizing
course also provides a unique opportunity for students
instability balls as their primary training tool.
to examine and develop their personal goals and
Functional, stable and dynamic movements will be
values system by the teaching of self-image, positive
emphasized as avenues of improving physical
attitude, character, leadership, goal-orientation, and
performance and reducing the risk of injury.
managing adversity.
Students will be introduced to training concepts
designed to develop and enhance the individual’s
level of physical training fitness in the areas of speed, 764491 SEM 1
agility, reaction skills, and advanced physical 764492 SEM 2
conditioning. This course also provides a unique Level 4
opportunity for students to examine and develop their
personal goals and values system by the teaching of This course introduces the student to the principles of
self-image, positive attitude, character, leadership, sport-specific performance training. The student will
goal-orientation, and managing adversity. acquire an understanding of the physiological and
neurological responses that result from proper training

44
techniques. The relationship between proper nutrition
and optimal physical and mental performance will be
explored. An application of the principles of sport-
specific performance training and sports nutrition will
be stressed. Students will develop an understanding
of the essential components of program design (needs
analysis, program-design variables, rest & recovery,
exercise selection & ordering, and training cycles).
That understanding will be applied toward the
development of a comprehensive training protocol
that meets the performance requirements of a specific
sport or training event. Students will be introduced to
training concepts designed to develop and enhance the
individual’s level of physical training fitness in the
areas of speed, agility, reaction skills, and advanced
physical conditioning. This course also provides a
unique opportunity for students to examine and
develop their personal goals and values system by the
teaching of self-image, positive attitude, character,
leadership, goal-orientation, and managing adversity.

770007 ADAPTIVE PHYSICAL


EDUCATION
Grades 9-12, 1 SEM

This course is taught as a separate class or as a special


grouping within standard physical education classes.
This course is designed to develop specific gross
motor and fine motor skills on an individualized basis.
Students are only permitted to take this course with
parental and teacher approval and a physician’s
recommendation.

770033 ADAPTED FLE


Grades 9-10, 1 SEM

This course is taught when needed as a separate FLE


course for students with special needs. It is taught in
a small group format and is an adapted version of the
regular FLE program. Students are eligible to take
this course as a substitute for 9th and /or 10th grade
FLE as indicated in their individual education plans.

740607 PE EXEMPT
Grades 9-12

For students who are not able to participate in PE or


have been exempted from the Physical Education
program. Students must have a physician’s statement
to be granted the waiver. Students may also substitute
outside PE activities, other than competitive sports
teams, with clock hour certification from the
instructor for equivalent credit.

45
SCIENCE EARTH SCIENCES

421007 GEOPHYSICS
The science department suggests that all students take Grades 11-12
four science courses from the courses described in
this book, including studies in Biology, Chemistry,
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology I)
Physics, Geophysics, and any of the International
Baccalaureate science offerings. It is suggested that
Geophysics is the study of the physical properties and
students and parents consult the student’s counselor
laws that govern the composition, structure, and
and the IB coordinator to plan a four-year sequence
behavior of earth systems. It encompasses the study
that is best suited for each individual.
of meteorology, geology, oceanography, and
astronomy. The course standards stress the
To earn a Virginia Standard Diploma, students must
interpretation of maps, charts, tables, and profiles; the
have a minimum of three science credits from two
use of technology to collect, analyze, and report data;
different disciplines, including one verified science
and science skills in systematic investigation.
credit. To earn a Virginia Advanced Studies Diploma,
Problem solving and decision making are an integral
students must have a minimum of four science credits
part of the standards, especially as they relate to the
from three different disciplines, including two verified
costs and benefits of utilizing the Earth’s resources.
credits. Students may take two science courses
Major topics of study include plate tectonics, the rock
concurrently during their sophomore, junior or senior
cycle, Earth history, the oceans, the atmosphere,
years.
weather and climate, and the solar system and
universe. At the end of the year, students take the
Students who are on track to receive the IB Diploma
Earth Science SOL test.
are exempt from the different discipline requirements.
These students may earn a Virginia Advanced Studies
Diploma with four years of science from two different BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
disciplines, but must still earn 2 verified credits.
However, it is our recommendation that, except in 431007 BIOLOGY I
unusual circumstances, students complete science Grades 9-12
courses in three different disciplines during their four
years of high school. This course for the college-bound student is a
rigorous, molecular-based study of modern and
All science students are required to maintain a traditional biological science. Concepts and
portfolio of lab activities and a journal of notes and principles of biology applicable to all life are
observations. presented to emphasize that all living systems are
similar and related. Laboratory skills are developed
For the suggested science course sequences, please to reinforce the understanding of biological concepts
refer to the charts following the course descriptions. and processes. Units of study include: life and cells,
genetics, evolution, ecology, human structure and
412527 PHYSICAL SCIENCE function, classification – monerans, protists, fungi,
Grade 8 plants and animals. At the end of the year, students
take the Biology SOL test. Dissection is a part of this
Eighth grade physical science introduces students to course. An alternative to dissection is available for
the elementary principles of physics and chemistry. any student or parent of a student who requests one.
Students use a hands-on approach to discover the
properties and interactions of matter, forms of energy 461007 BIOLOGY SKILLS
and the laws of motion. Lab activities are designed Grades 9-12
by students for the purpose of practicing and refining
skills used in scientific problem solving. Critical (Co-requisite: Concurrent enrollment Biology I)
thinking and the application of problem solving skills
are an emphasis of this course. Students will This highly individualized course is designed to
frequently use computers for research, measurement, supplement and support students who have
and the processing of laboratory data. demonstrated difficulty in mastering science concepts.
Mastery of Biology I concepts are reinforced through
vocabulary building skills, concept mapping, practice,
modeling, hands-on activities, computer activities,
and organizational skills. SOL concepts are

46
emphasized. This course is taken for elective credit 438055 IB BIOLOGY SL
only and does not satisfy state requirements for Grade 12
science credit.
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in all high school
431009 HONORS BIOLOGY science courses, completion of Honors Biology and Honors
Grades 9-11 Chemistry or Chemistry I with Chemistry teacher
recommendation)
(Prerequisite: A grade of "A" in previous science course or
a "B" or better and teacher recommendation; "B" or better This course provides for an in-depth approach to
in previous high school science course) biological principles and processes through more
extensive reading and writing, and laboratory
This is a course for the college-bound student experiences with heavier emphasis on laboratory
interested in an increased challenge in the Biology I experimental design and documentation than in a
course, as well as any student planning to take any IB Biology I course. College level texts and laboratory
science in the junior or senior year. The course is work as coupled with extensive review and
SOL based with more in-depth coverage for each enrichment of basic biology. This course prepares
topic than that offered in the standard Biology I students for the IB Biology SL Standard Level
course. More extensive reading and writing will be Examination which fulfills the Group 4 (Experimental
emphasized. Laboratory skills will be developed to Sciences) requirement. Units of study include: human
reinforce the understanding of biological concepts and anatomy and physiology, cell biology and
processes. This course will also introduce students to biochemistry, genetics and evolution, ecology and
the IB lab format and grading standards. Topics special topics. Dissection is a part of this course. An
covered will include: the chemistry of biology, cells, alternative to dissection is available for any student or
genetics, evolution, classification, human anatomy parent of a student who requests one. Please be aware
and physiology, and ecology. At the end of the year, that pending the passage of the Falls Church City
students take the Biology SOL test. Dissection is a School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a
part of this course. An alternative to dissection is fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
available for any student or parent of a student who student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
requests one. will be waived.

434087 BIOLOGY II: ECOLOGY 438056 IB BIOLOGY HL I


Grades 10-12 Grade 11
First year of two year program
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology I)
(Prerequisite: Average grade of “B” or better in all high
This college preparatory laboratory science course in school science courses, completion of Honors Biology and
Honors Chemistry or Chemistry I with Chemistry teacher
Biology builds on concepts learned in Biology I and
recommendation)
provides an in-depth examination of ecological
principles and interactions. The aim of this course is
This course provides for a more in-depth approach to
to help students integrate information from biology,
biological principles and processes than an Honors
chemistry, and physics topics to help them understand
Biology course. It requires extensive reading and
the environment and make sound decisions regarding
writing; laboratory experiences with a heavier
management of natural resources. Students will carry
emphasis on experimental design, data collection,
out laboratory activities, collect, analyze, and interpret
statistical analysis of data, and drawing conclusions.
data to learn about the diverse and unique
College level texts and laboratory work are coupled
characteristics of ecosystems, use and interpret basic
with extensive review and enrichment of basic
statistics, and understand the multifaceted nature of
biology. This course is designed to provide the
environmental problems. Dissection is a part of this
student with the first year of biological education in
course. An alternative to dissection is available for
their 2-year sequence. Units of study in this first year
any student or parent of a student who requests one.
will include: cell biochemistry and biology, cell
This course does not provide a verified unit of credit.
energetics, cell division, molecular genetics,
mendelian genetics, genetic engineering, evolution
and diversity. Please be aware that pending the
passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.

47
438096 IB BIOLOGY HL II student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
Grade 12 will be waived.
Second year of two year program
428056 IB ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C-” or better in IB Biology HL I) AND SOCIETIES SL II
Grade 12
This course in Biology continues in an in-depth Second year of two year program
approach to biological principles and processes
through extensive reading, writing, and laboratory (Prerequisite: A grade of “C-”or better in IB
experiences begun in the first year. Units of study in Environmental Systems and Societies I)
the second year will include diversity, plant form and
function, animal form and function, ecology.
Dissection is a part of this course. An alternative to This course provides students with a coherent
dissection is available for any student or parent of a perspective of the interrelationships between
student who requests one. This course prepares environmental systems and societies; one that enables
students for the IB Biology Higher Level them to adopt an informed personal response to the
Examination which fulfills the Group 4 (Experimental wide range of pressing environmental issues that they
Sciences) requirement. Please be aware that pending will inevitably come to face. Units of study in the
the passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY second year include systems and models, resource
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam management, global warming, and environmental
registration for this course. If a student receives “free value systems. This course prepares students for the
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived. IB Environmental Systems and Societies SL exam,
which fulfills either a Group 3 (individual and
societies), Group 4 (experimental sciences), or Group
6 (second experimental science) requirement. Please
428055 IB ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS be aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
AND SOCIETIES SL I City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may
Grade 11 be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
First year of two year program student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived.
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry I or
Honors Chemistry) CHEMISTRY

This course provides students with a coherent 441007 CHEMISTRY I


perspective of the interrelationships between Grades 10-12
environmental systems and societies; one that enables
them to adopt an informed personal response to the (Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I)
wide range of pressing environmental issues that they
will inevitably come to face. Units of study in the This course is for the college-bound student and is a
first year include systems and models, the ecosystem, rigorous study of chemical principles. Atomic
human population, carrying capacity, resource use, structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding,
conservation, and biodiversity. This course is chemical equations, stoichiometry, the gas laws,
designed to provide the student with the first year of a solutions and reaction processes are some specific
scientific foundation to build a personal areas of study. An introduction to nuclear chemistry
environmental ethic. Students pursuing the IB and quantum effects is explored very basically.
Diploma may choose this course for either a Group 3 Families of elements are studied from the standpoint
(individual and societies), Group 4 (experimental of the relationship between the structure and
sciences), or Group 6 (second experimental science) properties of substances. The approach is both
credit. This course provides a verified unit of science mathematical as well as conceptual. Laboratory skills
credit, although students not pursuing the IB Diploma will be developed to reinforce the understanding of
will need to take an additional science course in a chemical concepts and principles. At the end of the
third discipline for an advanced diploma. Please be year, students take the Chemistry I SOL test.
aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may
be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a

48
441009 HONORS CHEMISTRY 441055 IB CHEMISTRY SL
Grades 10-12 Grades 11-12

(Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I and (Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Chemistry,
teacher recommendation) a grade of “B” or better in all previous high school science
courses and a grade of “C” or better in Algebra II)
This is a course for the college-bound student
interested in an increased challenge in the Chemistry I This course provides for an in-depth approach to
course as well as any student planning to take IB chemical principles through more extensive reading,
Chemistry or Biology in the junior or senior year. writing, laboratory experiences with heavier emphasis
The course is SOL based with more in-depth coverage on laboratory experimental design and documentation
for each topic than that offered in the standard than Chemistry I, and more complex problem solving.
Chemistry I course. More extensive reading and College level texts and laboratory work are coupled
mathematical manipulations will be emphasized. with extensive review and enrichment of basic
Laboratory skills will be developed to reinforce the chemistry principles. The course content is identical
understanding of chemical concepts and principles. to that of the IB Chemistry HL I first year course and
This course will continue to reinforce the IB lab the two classes are taught concurrently. The scope of
format and grading standards introduced in Honors this course includes atomic structure, balancing
Biology. Applications of chemistry and careers will equations, and extends through acid/base chemistry
be discussed. At the end of the year, students take the and organic chemistry. This course prepares students
Chemistry I SOL test. This course is recommended for the IB Chemistry Standard Level Examination
for any student who expects to take Chemistry in which fulfills the Group 4 (Experimental Sciences)
college. requirement. Please be aware that pending the passage
of the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
442007 CHEMISTRY II: FORENSICS Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
Grades 11-12
price lunch” this fee will be waived.
(Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in Chemistry I or a
grade of “C” or better in Honors Chemistry) 441056 IB CHEMISTRY HL I
Grade 11
This course focuses on how scientific concepts apply First year of two year program
to real world situations. The course requires students
to recall their knowledge of basic chemistry concepts (Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Chemistry,
as the first quarter begins with rigorous course work a grade of “B” or better in all previous high school science
and laboratory work in the area of organic chemistry. courses and a grade of “C” or better in Algebra II)
This information will then be applied to drug
chemistry and toxicology during the second quarter. This course provides for an in-depth approach to
The second semester focuses specifically on forensic chemical principles through more extensive reading,
investigations. Topics of study will include the history writing, laboratory experiences with heavier emphasis
of forensic science and major forensic disciplines on laboratory experimental design and documentation
such as fingerprinting, questioned documents, than Chemistry I, and more complex problem solving.
entomology, anthropology, trace evidence, pathology, College level texts and laboratory work are coupled
etc., as well as law and ethics and current legal issues with extensive review and enrichment of basic
affecting the field of forensic science. After learning chemistry principles. The course content is identical
basic concepts, student will apply their knowledge to to that of the IB Chemistry SL course and the two
the investigation of simulated crime scenes and classes are taught concurrently. This course is
participate in mock trials. This course focuses on designed to provide the student with the first year of
problem solving, with an emphasis on writing, using chemistry education in the two-year sequence. Please
experimentation, theorization, research, synthesis of be aware that pending the passage of the Falls Church
information and making evidence-based conclusions. City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may
be a fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived.

49
PHYSICS School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a
fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
451007 PHYSICS student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
will be waived.
Grades 10-12

(Prerequisites: A grade of “C” or better in Algebra I and 451056 IB PHYSICS HL I


concurrent enrollment in Algebra II. Completion of Grade 11
Chemistry I is recommended.) First year of two year program

Physics I is presented as a continuing process by (Prerequisites: There are several ways a student meets the
which one seeks to understand the physical world and prerequisites for IB Physics HL I:
not a mere body of its facts. Physics is a single
subject of study in which time, space, and matter 1. Will be taking Calculus concurrently and has a grade of
cannot be separated. Light, mechanics, electricity, “B” or better in all previous science courses
magnetism and structure of the atom are studied with
2. Took Physics I, has a grade of “C” or better in Algebra
emphasis on careers and their impact on society. The
II, and is currently enrolled in Pre-Calculus
course puts an emphasis on daily lab work and w/Trigonometry or Honors Pre-Calculus, and has a grade
rigorous problem solving involving Algebra and of “B” or better in all previous science courses
Trigonometry. Units of study include: kinematics and
dynamics, heat and sound, electricity and magnetism, 3. Will take the GM IB Physics Prep Course (contact
and light and nuclear physics. This course does not Science CIRT or Department Leader for details), has a
provide a verified unit of credit. grade of “C” or better in Algebra II, and is currently
enrolled in Pre-Calculus w/Trigonometry or Honors Pre-
Calculus, and has a grade of “B” or better in all previous
451055 IB PHYSICS SL science courses)
Grades 11-12
The aim of this course is to develop abilities to use
(Prerequisites: There are several ways a student meets the mathematical skills to provide solutions to physical
prerequisites for IB Physics SL: phenomena. The students should be able to reason
through the sequential steps of physical phenomena,
1. Will be taking Calculus concurrently and has a grade of perform experiments and report observations logically.
“B” or better in all previous science courses
Units of study for the first year course include the
2. Took Physics I, has a grade of “C” or better in Algebra following: measurement, mechanics, thermal physics
II, and is currently enrolled in Pre-Calculus and properties of matter, waves, electricity and
w/Trigonometry or Honors Pre-Calculus, and has a grade magnetism, atomic, nuclear physics and astrophysics.
of “B” or better in all previous science courses This course does not provide a verified unit of credit.
Please be aware that pending the passage of the Falls
3. Will take the GM IB Physics Prep Course (contact Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget,
Science CIRT or Department Leader for details), has a there may be a fee for IB exam registration for this
grade of “C” or better in Algebra II, and is currently course. If a student receives “free or reduced price
enrolled in Pre-Calculus w/Trigonometry or Honors Pre-
lunch” this fee will be waived.
Calculus, and has a grade of “B” or better in all previous
science courses)
451096 IB PHYSICS HL II
The aim of this course is to develop the student’s Grade 12
ability to use mathematical skills to provide solutions Second year of two year program
to physical phenomena. The students should be able
to reason through the sequential steps of physical (Prerequisite: A grade of “C-” or better in IB Physics HL I)
phenomena, perform experiments and report
observations logically. The course content is identical This course uses college level texts and laboratory
to that of the IB Physics HL I first year course and the experiences and includes a detailed approach to the
two classes are taught concurrently. Units of study for principles of physics. The course amplifies the
the course include the following: measurement, material taught in the first year of the course with a
mechanics, thermal physics and properties of matter, greater emphasis on problem solving skills involving
waves, electricity and magnetism, atomic, more advanced mathematical methods. This course
astrophysics and nuclear physics. This course does prepares students for the IB Physics HL II Higher
not provide a verified unit of credit. Please be aware Level Examination which fulfills the Group 4
that pending the passage of the Falls Church City (Experimental Sciences) requirement. Units of study

50
include measurement, mechanics, thermal physics,
waves, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear
physics and optics. This course does not provide a
verified unit of credit. Please be aware that pending
the passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.

51
SCIENCE COURSE OFFERINGS
Physical
8 Science

Biology

9 Honors Biology

Biology Skills*

Biology Chemistry Physics*

Honors Biology Honors Chemistry


10 Biology Skills* Chemistry II
Forensics*
Biology II/Ecology*

Biology I Chemistry Geophysics Physics* IB Design


Technology
Honors Biology Honors Chemistry IB Physics SL* SL**
IB Biology SL IB Chemistry SL IB Physics HL I*
11 IB Biology HL I IB Chemistry HL I

Biology Skills* Chemistry II


Forensics*
Biology II/Ecology*

IB Biology SL Chemistry Geophysics Physics* IB Design


Technology
IB Biology HL II Honors Chemistry IB Physics SL* SL**
Biology II/Ecology* IB Chemistry SL IB Physics HL II*
12
IB Chemistry HL II

Chemistry II
Forensics*

* These courses do not provide a verified credit in the state of Virginia. One to two verified units are required for graduation depending on
whether the standard or advanced diploma is sought.

**IB Design Technology SL does not count as a science credit in the state of Virginia. It only satisfies the science requirement for the IB
Diploma.

52
RECOMMENDED COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCIENCE COURSE SEQUENCE

Physical
8th
Science

Biology I Biology
9th Skills

Chemistry Biology
10th I II

Phys I Geo- Chem II: Chem Geo-


11th physics Forensics I physics

Geo- Phys I Phys I Phys I Chem


physics I

12th
Chem II: Chem II: Geo- Geo-
Forensics Forensics physics physics

Bio II Bio II
Ecology Ecology

Please note that this is a recommended course sequence for college preparatory students and not every option is presented.
Students who show early success with science may be permitted to move into the IB sequence. Likewise, students who
struggle with the IB sequence may move into this one.

53
RECOMMENDED IB SCIENCE COURSE SEQUENCE

8th Physical Science

9th Honors Biology

10th Honors Chemistry Physics

11th IB Bio IB Chem Physics IB Physics Honors


HL I/SL HL I/SL HL I/ SL Chem

12th
IB Bio HL II IB Chem HL II IB Bio SL IB Phys HL II IB Chem SL

IB Bio SL
IB Chem SL IB Bio SL IB Chem SL

Physics I Physics I IB Physics SL

Students are recommended to double up in science sometime during the 10th, 11th or 12th grade years if they plan to
take IB Higher Level science without pursuing the IB Diploma. If this is done in the 10th or 11th grade years,
additional science courses become available as options for the student. For example: a student taking both Honors
Chemistry and Physics in the 10th grade year will have all courses listed in the 11th and 12th grade years as options.

54
SOCIAL STUDIES 2216074 WORLD CIVILIZATIONS AND
GEOGRAPHY II
Grade 9
Students must take three years of social studies for a
Standard Diploma and four years of social studies for This course surveys the historical achievements of
an Advanced Studies Diploma. Courses which fulfill humanity from 1500 AD to the present. Students are
these requirements include World Civilizations and introduced to historical periods, including the
Geography, U.S. Government or AP Government, Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration,
U.S. History or IB History of the Americas HL, IB Enlightenment and Revolutions, and significant 20th
World History HL and Modern World History. century events such as the world wars. At the end of
(Students may not enroll in both IB World History the year, students take the World Civilizations and
and Modern World History.) All students are Geography II SOL test.
encouraged to take four years of social studies and
most competitive colleges expect students to take
social studies each year of high school. 244007 COLLEGE PREPARATORY
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
For the International Baccalaureate Diploma students Grade 10
must take one higher or standard level exam in social
studies. Higher level courses are two-year courses This course studies the structure and function of the
taken in both the junior and senior years, standard U.S. national and state governments with an emphasis
level courses are one-year courses taken either in the on citizenship and decision-making. Topics of study
junior or senior year. History and Psychology are include: theory and structure of the Federal
offered at the higher level, and Psychology and government, civil rights, civil liberties, the political
Anthropology are offered at the standard level. process, personal economics, and state and local
Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS) governments.
may also be used to fulfill the social studies
requirement for the IB diploma. However, not all 244555 AP UNITED STATES
colleges will recognize ITGS as a social studies
GOVERNMENT & POLITICS
course, and it will not meet the social studies
requirements for a regular or advanced studies Grade 10
diploma.
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in World
Civilizations and teacher recommendation)
For the suggested social studies course sequence,
please refer to the chart following the course
descriptions. This course is a prerequisite for the IB History
sequence in the eleventh and twelfth grades. It fulfills
the U.S. Government requirement for graduation and
221507 WORLD CIVILIZATIONS AND prepares students for the AP Exam in Government,
GEOGRAPHY I introducing political theory and examining the
Grade 8 constitutional basis of the U.S. Government. The
class will cover the basic institutions of government
This course surveys the historical development of and how public policy is made and executed. Through
people, places, and patterns of life from ancient times current events and historical examples, students will
until 1500 A.D. The knowledge, skill, and analyze political beliefs and behavior and the role of
perspectives of the course are centered on the world’s political parties, special interest groups, and the media
populations and cultural characteristics, its countries in the political process. In order to complement the
and regions, land forms, economic and political eleventh grade IB history course, U.S. History from
systems, and migration and settlement patterns. 1950 to the present is studied in detail with special
Spatial concepts of geography are linked to emphasis given to civil liberties and civil rights.
chronological concepts of history to set a framework Students enrolled in this course are required to take
for studying human interactions. Emphasis is placed the national AP Government Examination
on how people in various cultures influenced and administered each May by the College Board, which
were influenced by their physical and ecological may earn them early college and/or university credit.
environments. At the end of the year, students take Please be aware that pending the passage of the Falls
the World Civilizations and Geography I SOL test. Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget,
there may be a fee for AP exam registration for this
course. If a student receives “free or reduced price
lunch” this fee will be waived.

55
236008 COLLEGE PREPARATORY historical dimension of the human condition; and an
UNITED STATES HISTORY ability to use and communicate historical knowledge
Grade 11 and understanding. During the school year students
are required to complete a research paper that also
leads into their IB internal assessment for this
This course is a chronological review of United States
course. Please be aware that pending the passage of
history. Students are encouraged to analyze material
the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
on their own, as well as apply research skills. Units
Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
of study include: the Colonial Period, Independence,
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
Nation Building, the Civil War, Reconstruction,
price lunch” this fee will be waived.
Industrial Expansion, Colonialism, Nationalism,
World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and Civil
Rights. At the end of the year, students take the 238707 MODERN WORLD HISTORY
United States History SOL test. Grades 10-12
Elective, 2 Semesters (may be taken as 1
236056 IB HISTORY OF THE AMERICAS HL semester)
Grade 11
(May fulfill World History graduation requirement)
(Prerequisites: A grade of “B” or better in AP United
States Government & Politics and teacher recommendation) Modern World History is a course designed for
students who enjoy history and are not taking the IB
At the end of the year, students take the United States History sequence. This class will provide students the
History SOL test. opportunity to study the history of the world in which
they live. The focus of study is on the major political,
The description for this course is outlined below in social, and economic issues and events of the last two
course #236196. Please be aware that pending the centuries. This course is for students interested in
passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY understanding the current world condition.
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.
281007 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (YR)
281091 SEM 1/281092 SEM 2
Grades 10-12
236196 IB WORLD HISTORY HL/SL Elective
Grade 12
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of World Civilizations
and Geography I and II)
(Prerequisites: For HL a grade of “C-” or better in IB
History of the Americas HL and teacher recommendation;
for SL, 11th grade U.S. History teacher recommendation)) What can we do about terrorism, the growing gap
between rich and poor, global warming, the
In 12th grade IB World History students study three proliferation of nuclear weapons, and AIDS in Africa?
topics from 20th century world history: causes, These are just some of the topics this course is
practices and effects of war; the rise and rule of designed to address by inspiring students to research,
single-party states; and the Cold War. For seniors debate, and discuss the most important global issues
taking this course HL, this course is a continuation of of our time. Students will examine such issues as
the IB Americas class that they took as 11th international law, human rights, politics, diplomacy,
graders. Seniors are also allowed to take this course economics of wealth and opportunity, trade, security,
SL with the permission of his/her 11th grade U.S. balance of power, use of resources, the environment,
history teacher. This course is designed to promote and war and conflict. Students will be challenged to
the acquisition and understanding of in-depth view these issues, not just from an American
historical knowledge across different cultures; an viewpoint, but from an international point of view by
appreciation and understanding of history as a focusing on the historical, political, cultural,
discipline, including the nature and diversity of its environmental, and ethnic differences of all those
sources, methods and interpretations; international involved. Students will apply the lessons of world
awareness and understanding of people living in history to the unique challenges of our world today.
diverse places and at different times; a better Students will participate in field trips at local
understanding of the present through an organizations that have an international focus and
understanding of the past; an appreciation of the listen to guest speakers involved in international

56
affairs. Extensive research, writing, prepared receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
discussion, and analysis will be required. waived.

237407 CP ANTHROPOLOGY 280087 ECONOMICS


Grades 10-12 280091 SEM 1/280092 SEM 2
Elective, 2 semesters (may be taken as 1 Grades 11-12
semester) Elective

This course consists of an introduction to Social and Have you ever wondered why some people are
Cultural Anthropology, which is the comparative lavishly wealthy and some people do not have enough
study of culture and human societies. Anthropologists food to eat? Have you ever wondered why that
seek an understanding of humankind in all its compact disc at the music store is not free? The study
diversity. Students in the course will attempt to of economics is the study of how economic systems
achieve this through the study of both theory and allocate their scarce resources, and in the process
method of the anthropological approach as well as determine the value of those resources like that rich
through study of specific societies. Why do we see person's income or the price of that music c.d. This
some behaviors or ideas as bizarre or strange that course surveys the structure and functions of
people in other societies see as completely normal? economic systems with emphasis on the U.S. mixed
Features of societies such as marriage, gender, capitalistic system. Topics covered will include
language, religion, and others will be used as supply and demand, consumer economics, and
examples in order to address this question. business organizations. The first semester will
emphasize individual consumer and firm behavior in
237455 IB SOCIAL AND CULTURAL markets. The second semester will emphasize
ANTHROPOLOGY SL governmental regulatory policies and conduct of
monetary and fiscal policies that combat inflation and
Grades 11-12
unemployment in an economically interdependent
Elective world.

(Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in previous social


studies courses) 238107 COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS
Grades 10-12
Offered at the standard level at GMHS, Social and Elective, 1 Semester
Cultural Anthropology is designed to introduce
students to the universal principles of social and (Prerequisites: Completion of World Civilizations and
cultural life and to characteristics of specific societies Geography I and II and teacher recommendation)
and cultures. The course will cover the underlying
anthropological principles related to ways of In this course, students will begin to explore the
understanding society and culture, key wisdom traditions of the world that have arisen to
anthropological concepts, methods and techniques meet humankind’s needs. Those needs include
used in field research, the nature of ethnography, and understanding who we are and our connection to the
the applied relevance of social and cultural larger universe; finding meaning within that universe;
anthropology. The primary themes of the course and learning how to live a good life. The traditions
include social organization, systems of belief and studied will include both major world religions and
knowledge, and the process of cultural change and indigenous traditions of smaller societies. The
transformation. All students will study from a comparative approach will be used in order to
selection of topics such as food-getting, social appreciate the diversity and uniqueness of each
stratification, kinship, marriage, gender, religion, art, tradition, especially its meaning for those who
language, economics, and political organization. practice it. This approach should also reveal the
Students are required to conduct an anthropological similar insights people in different times and places
observation and provide criticism and analysis of their have had about the deepest questions regarding
own observation. Students are also required to read human existence.
three ethnographies and apply their anthropological
understanding of these readings. Please be aware that
pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for
IB exam registration for this course. If a student

57
290007 CP PSYCHOLOGY psychology and of its different theoretical approaches.
Grades 10-12 At the higher level, the course guides students
Elective through the study of behavior by examining key
290055 IB PSYCHOLOGY SL topics from the biological, learning, cognitive, and
humanistic perspectives. At the standard level,
Grades 11-12
students study behavior from the biological, learning,
Elective and cognitive perspectives, but not the humanistic
perspective. Additionally, Psychology HL students
College Preparatory/IB Psychology SL allows all must study two of seven, and Psychology SL students
psychology students to be exposed to the content must study one of seven, optional topics in
matter of IB Psychology and are given a broad comparative psychology; cultural psychology,
understanding of psychology and its different psychology of dysfunctional behavior, health
theoretical approaches. All students will study human psychology, life-span psychology, psychodynamic
behaviors from the biological, cognitive, and psychology, and social psychology. The course seeks
sociocultural perspectives. The course also introduces to introduce students to diverse methods of
students to diverse methods of psychological inquiry psychological inquiry and to research and application,
and many applications such as health psychology, as well as undertake one or more experimental studies.
life-span psychology, abnormal psychology, the Please be aware that pending the passage of the Falls
psychology of human relationships, and sports Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget,
psychology. IB Psychology SL students will study there may be a fee for IB exam registration for this
one of these applications in depth for the IB external course. If a student receives “free or reduced price
Assessment. Junior and senior students will decide by lunch” this fee will be waived.
November if they wish to pursue the additional
requirements for IB Psychology SL. IB Psychology
661385 IB INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
SL students must complete an experimental study as
part of their Internal Assessment and take the IB IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY (ITGS)
Exam. Please be aware that pending the passage of Grades 11-12
the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 Elective
Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced ITGS is one of the newest and most exciting subject
price lunch” this fee will be waived. areas to be offered by the IB in recent years. Through
ITGS students will keep pace with the rapidly
290056 IB PSYCHOLOGY HL I changing world of computers and their use by
Grade 11 individuals – and by society in general. Students will
learn to utilize information Technology tools
First year of a two year program
(commercial programs – Desk Top Publishing, Data
Elective Bases, GPS, Web page development), in solving real-
life problems. Students of ITGS will be challenged to
(Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in previous social understand the use and application of information
studies course) systems, evaluate the influences of those technologies
on society, explore fully the social and practical
See description for course 290096. IB Psychology impact that has resulted, project what changes and
HL 1 Students will not be able to take the SL Exam at developments are most likely to occur in the future.
the end of the year. Please be aware that pending the The IBO offers ITGS at standard level only. It is part
passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY of Group 3 (Individuals and Society) for the IB
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam Diploma requirements. There is no prerequisite for
registration for this course. If a student receives “free this course. A credit in this course will fulfill the
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived. fine/practical art or an elective requirement for
graduation. Please be aware that pending the passage
290096 IB PSYCHOLOGY HL II of the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
Grade 12 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
Second year of a two year program for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
Elective price lunch” this fee will be waived.

(Prerequisite: Successful completion of IB Psychology HL I)

Offered at both the higher and standard levels,


students are given a broad understanding of

58
119755 IB THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE human knowledge through the examination of the
Grade 11 assumptions and presuppositions on which various
Elective, 1 semester academic subjects and belief systems are based.
Through the study of the theoretical foundations of
the different branches of human knowledge, the
119855 IB THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE students are enabled to unify the knowledge they have
Grade 12 acquired in a specialized and dispersed fashion
Elective, 1 semester throughout their schooling. This course is required
for students who are working to earn an IB Diploma.
(Prerequisite: Enrollment concurrently in at least three IB Units of study include: the nature of knowledge,
courses) language, logic, perception, and comparison of the
different academic disciplines and the type of
In the Theory of Knowledge course students reflect knowledge they provide. Please be aware that pending
upon and analyze the knowledge, skills, and beliefs the passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
they have formed and acquired in their early lives. 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
The object of this study is not to gain further expertise registration for this course. If a student receives “free
in any particular academic discipline, but to gain a or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.
deeper understanding of the range and limits of

Sample College Preparatory Sequences

World Civilizations & World Civilizations & World Civilizations &


8th
Geography I Geography I Geography I

World Civilizations & World Civilizations & World Civilizations &


9th
Geography II Geography II Geography II

10th U.S. Government AP U.S. Government U.S. Government

IB History of the
11th U. S. History U. S. History
Americas HL

IB Psychology SL or IB Social
12th Social Studies Elective IB World History HL
and Cultural Anthropology SL

59
SPECIAL EDUCATION 789683 LIFESKILLS

This course is designed primarily for students with


These courses are available to students who have been moderate and severe disabilities and focuses on
found eligible to receive Special Education services. vocational training, career awareness, and functional
The courses selected are determined by the Special academics.
Education teacher, administrative designee, student
and legal guardian(s), and each course is listed in the
783533 INDIVIDUALIZED ENGLISH
Individual Education Plan (IEP). The courses are
taught in a small-group setting by a special education Grades 9-12
teacher who is highly qualified in the relevant subject Elective
area.
This course exposes students to a wide variety of
language arts experiences guided by IEP objectives.
789923 INDEPENDENT LEARNING AND Objectives may include vocabulary development,
literature appreciation and comprehension, practical
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES (ILMS)
and formal written and oral communication skills,
Grade 8 application of correct English usage and mechanics,
Elective and consumer information. Meeting the requirements
of this course will qualify as an elective credit, not as
a verified English credit.
788933 INDEPENDENT LEARNING AND
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES (ILMS) 783633 INDIVIDUALIZED MATH
Grade 9 Grades 9-12
Elective Elective

789033 INDEPENDENT LEARNING AND Focus will be on individualized instruction with


MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES (ILMS) emphasis, on practical, everyday math skills,
Grade 10 including computation, measurement, consumer math,
Elective and basic algebraic concepts. This elective course
does not qualify a student for a verified math credit.
789133 INDEPENDENT LEARNING AND
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES (ILMS) 783733 PERSONAL FINANCE
Grade 11 Grades 9-12
Elective
This course extends student’s knowledge of basic
personal finance through the study of taxes, budgeting,
789233 INDEPENDENT LEARNING AND managing debt, savings, and consumer rights and
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES (ILMS) responsibilities. A strong emphasis is placed on
Grade 12 making connections to real-world data and
Elective applications. Calculator and computer technologies
will be used as tools wherever appropriate.
These courses are designed to offer assistance to Successful completion of this course will count as a
students in identifying their own learning styles and verified math credit for students who are pursuing a
developing planning and learning strategies, Modified Standard Diploma. Otherwise it will count
supplemented with time management and as an elective credit.
organizational skill training. Transition from school-
to-work will be discussed, and students will be 812083 EDUCATION FOR EMPLOYMENT
introduced to strategies that will help them succeed in I CLASS
the post-secondary world. A portion of most classes Elective
will be devoted to providing students with academic
support.
This career education course is designed for 11th and
12th graders who are interested in understanding more
about the academic, daily living, personal-social, and
occupational knowledge and skills necessary for the
21st century workplace. Field trips and guest

60
speakers will augment classroom lessons. Students
will receive assistance in identifying and meeting
their goals related to transitioning to post-secondary
life.

819283 EDUCATION FOR EMPLOYMENT


I WORK
Elective

Students enrolled in the classroom portion of EFE I


have the option to receive an additional elective credit
for voluntary or paid employment. Students must
complete a minimum of 10 hours per week
throughout each semester. Employment will be
monitored by GMHS Special Education staff and
consist of on-the-job site visits, supervisor interviews,
and student feedback.

770007 ADAPTIVE PHYSICAL


EDUCATION
Grades 9-12, 1 Semester

This course is taught as a separate class or as a special


grouping within standard physical education classes.
This course is designed to develop specific gross
motor and fine motor skills on an individualized basis.
Students are only permitted to take this course with
parental and teacher approval and a physician’s
recommendation.

770033 ADAPTED FLE


Grades 9-10, 1 Semester

This course is taught when needed as a separate FLE


course for students with special needs. It is taught in
a small group format and is an adapted version of the
regular FLE program. Students are eligible to take
this course as a substitute for 9th and /or 10th grade
FLE as indicated in their individual education plans.

61
VISUAL AND PERFORMING 143055 IB THEATRE SL
Grades 11-12
ARTS Elective
THEATRE (Prerequisite: Theatre Arts I or permission of teacher)

139027 THEATRE 8 Students in this course will study the theatrical history
Grade 8 of several cultures, analyze and interpret plays, study
Elective acting theory and techniques, develop their ability to
perform in front of an audience, and study the basic
Through improvisation, theatre games and activities, principles of theatre production. This course prepares
creation of original scripts, scene study, performance, students for the IB Theatre SL exam. Please be aware
and discussion, students will learn to identify, that pending the passage of the Falls Church City
evaluate, and implement the skills necessary to tell a School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a
story well, work effectively as a team member, and fee for IB exam registration for this course. If a
communicate specific ideas to specific audiences. student receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee
Students will also study the historical perspectives will be waived.
and theatrical design techniques necessary to enhance
their performances. The course will culminate in the 143056 IB THEATRE HL I
performance of a one-act play. Grade 11
Elective
141007 THEATRE ARTS I
141091 SEM 1/141092 SEM 2 (Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation)
Grades 9-12
Elective This is the first year of the two-year higher level
course of study. See course description for IB
Theatre HL II (#143096). Please be aware that
This elective course is designed to expose students to
pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
all aspects of drama production including acting, set
Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for
design, principles of directing, makeup and costuming.
IB exam registration for this course. If a student
In this hands-on course, students will be actively
receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
involved in a variety of theatrical experiences from
waived.
improvisations to staging, writing, and acting in one-
act plays. Principles and techniques learned in
Theatre Arts can be used throughout the curriculum to 143096 IB THEATRE HL II
enhance, energize and personalize education. Grade 12
Elective
142007 THEATRE ARTS II
Grades 10-12 (Prerequisites: Successful completion of IB Theatre HL I,
portfolio review and teacher recommendation)
Elective
This is a two-year course of study. Students are
(Prerequisite: Theatre Arts I) enrolled in IB Theatre SL or IB Theatre HL I for the
first year. In addition to the topics studied in IB
As an elective, this theatre arts class allows the Theatre SL, IB Theatre HL II students engage in an
students to further explore the areas of theatre history Individual Study project, chosen in consultation with
and develop more extensively the student’s abilities in the teacher, on a specific aspect of theatre arts. This
theatre production, improvisation, play writing and course prepares students for the IB Theatre HL II
analysis. Exciting and mentally stimulating projects exam. Please be aware that pending the passage of the
are what this course is about. Theatre games and Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
activities create a comfortable yet motivating Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
environment throughout the course. for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
price lunch” this fee will be waived.

62
VISUAL ARTS 912007 ART I
913007 ART II
919307 PHOTOGRAPHY I Grades 9-12
Grades 10-12 Elective
Elective
(Prerequisite for Art II: Art I)
Photography I introduces the student to basic camera
skills, film processing, and print development. The The art program is loosely structured between
class is a survey of photographic procedures, styles beginning (one or two years of classes) and advanced
and history, including early photographic techniques, (those students who can’t get enough of our
wet darkroom processes and some basic digital stimulating and challenging projects and enroll for
imaging. Students will be encouraged to see and three or four years). The beginning classes heavily
frame the world creatively through the camera and emphasize the basic skills necessary to visualize and
explore a variety of subjects, themes, and meanings. build works of art with confidence and sophistication.
Students draw, paint, sculpt, carve, print and invent in
as many materials and projects as students can
919407 PHOTOGRAPHY II thoroughly complete in a given semester. Students
Grades 11-12 are invited to share in this experience – all students
Elective have the potential to express themselves creatively
and should acquire the skills necessary to
(Prerequisite: A grade of “B” or better in Photography I, communicate visually, whatever their goals in life.
permission of instructor, or portfolio review)

This advanced course in photography allows students


to develop and refine techniques, processes, and
themes covered in Photography I. Independent 914007 ART III
research into the history of photography and critical 914507 ART IV
analysis of master photographers is an essential Grades 11-12
component of this class. Students are expected to be Elective
motivated, self-disciplined, focused photographers
that are capable of completing projects independently. (Prerequisite: Permission of instructor)

ART The advanced classes are geared towards more


sophisticated and comprehensive projects than our
911527 ART 8 introductory selections. A more in-depth study of
technique, art history, and personal development is
Grade 8
expected. A goal is to produce a competitive and
Elective presentable portfolio suitable for job and college
applications. Whatever the students’ long-term plans
The standards in this class focus on the synthesis and are, teachers encourage work that reflects the best that
application of previously learned concepts. Using each student can do at this stage in their lives.
traditional and emerging technologies, students are
able to apply more complex technical skills as they
914955 IB VISUAL ARTS SL
manipulate the elements of art and the principles of
design, art media, and ideas. Students acquire art Grades 11-12
skills that enable them to make conscious choices of Elective
media and techniques for expressive purposes.
Students produce works of art that are developed from (Prerequisites: In-depth portfolio review and/or completion
preliminary ideas and sketches. They compare and of Art I with teacher recommendation. Portfolio review and
contrast art from different world cultures and candidate interview to be held during spring registration.)
investigate how context can influence meaning.
Students debate the purposes of art, formulate This class is for the serious art student who wants to
reasoned responses to meaningful art questions, build a comprehensive and internationally competitive
develop their own criteria for making art judgments, portfolio, as well as the academic student who wants
and develop a personal aesthetic. The acquisition of to explore the wide world of aesthetic choices as a
these skills enables students to develop a worldview, requirement for the IB diploma. Students will
placing the discipline of art within a broader context maintain a Research Work Book/Journal as a formal
and relating it to other fields of knowledge. requirement of the course. Self-directed learning is

63
encouraged. Teachers expect high standards of appearances and will perform on our annual trips.
inquiry and personal development in all the students, Past trips have included Toronto, New York City,
whatever their principle interests. Please be aware that Florida and Atlanta.
pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for 923427 SYMPHONIC BAND Grade 8
IB exam registration for this course. If a student 923407 SYMPHONIC BAND Grades 9-12
receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
Elective
waived.
(Prerequisites: Audition and Teacher Recommendation)
914956 IB VISUAL ARTS HL I
Grade 11 This band is an intermediate band open to all students
First year of a two year program who play a brass, percussion or wind instrument.
Elective This performance class performs music of many
different styles in a variety of venues. It provides
(Prerequisites: Successful completion of art classes, instruction in band performance with emphasis on
portfolio review, and teacher recommendation) development of skills such as articulation, tone, and
rhythm concepts. Students learn to refine their
This is the first year of the two-year higher level technical performance skills and learn to develop their
course of study. See course description for IB Visual own expression on their instrument. This class will
Arts HL II (#914996). Please be aware that pending include concert, jazz and solo ensemble music. The
the passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY symphonic band makes numerous public appearances,
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam both in concert and at athletic functions, school and
registration for this course. If a student receives “free community events as well as performs on our annual
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived. trips. Past trips have included Toronto, New York
City, Florida and Atlanta.
914996 IB VISUAL ARTS HL II
Grade 12 923527 WIND ENSEMBLE Grade 8
Second year of a two year program 923507 WIND ENSEMBLE Grades 9-12
Elective
(Prerequisite: Audition and teacher recommendation)
(Prerequisites: Successful completion of IB Visual Arts HL I,
portfolio review, and teacher recommendation) The Wind Ensemble is a highly select group which
performs the finest of advanced band literature. It is
This is a two-year course which includes both studio designed for the advanced player who understands the
and research components. Students work on building concepts of the instrument and can demonstrate a high
a portfolio and produce several research workbooks in level of proficiency in performance skills. Proper
the areas of appreciation and history of art and design. instrumental technique, ear training skills, music
Please be aware that pending the passage of the Falls theory and appropriate rehearsal/performance
Church City School Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, disciplines will be taught and maintained within the
there may be a fee for IB exam registration for this group throughout the year. This ensemble makes
course. If a student receives “free or reduced price numerous public appearances; in concert and at
lunch” this fee will be waived. athletic functions, school and community events as
well as performing on an annual music festival trip.
923327 CONCERT BAND Grade 8 Past trips have included Toronto, New York City,
923307 CONCERT BAND Grades 9-12 Florida and Atlanta. The course includes smaller
ensembles such as jazz, woodwind quintet, and brass.
Elective
Band hopes to promote a lifelong involvement in
music!
This is an entry level band for all students who play a
brass, percussion or woodwind instrument. It
provides basic instruction on the fundamentals of
instrumental music such as scales, tone, and rhythm,
and it prepares students for entry into the symphonic
band and wind ensemble. Students will learn to refine
their technical performance skills as well as learn to
develop their own expression on their instrument.
This band will make numerous public concert

64
923390 CONTRACT BAND students in grades 9-12 are awarded ½ credit upon
Grades 11-12 completion of the full year.
Elective
924507 GUITAR I
This is a performance-oriented class for students Grades 9-12
unable to fit band into their junior and senior Elective
schedules. Rehearsals for contract band take place
before school. Contract band students perform in the No guitar experience is necessary to take this course.
concerts, music festivals, and competitions in which In Guitar I, the basics of guitar playing are introduced
the high school band participates. The course meets through a variety of repertoire from standards to
for one full year and students are awarded ½ credit popular and rock n’ roll pieces. Students learn all the
per semester. Prior instructor permission is requested. skills necessary to get started playing all the music
they love to listen to. Skills and topics covered
923627 CONTRACT JAZZ ENSEMBLE 8 include: Strumming, open chords, power chords, barre
923691 CONTRACT JAZZ ENSEMBLE chords, finger picking, and reading music. Learn
SEM 1 Gr 9-12 songs by artists that range from The Beatles and Jimi
923692 CONTRACT JAZZ ENSEMBLE Hendrix to The Foo Fighters and Avril Lavigne.
SEM 2 Gr 9-12
924607 GUITAR II
(Prerequisite: Must be enrolled in Symphonic or Concert Grades 9-12
Band. This is also open to piano, guitar and bass guitar Elective
performers of all levels.)
(Prerequisites: Guitar I and teacher auditions)

This Jazz Ensemble, while based on the standard Students already familiar with the skills from Guitar I
saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and rhythm and who want to experience music at a more in-depth
instrumentation, welcomes all instrumentalists who level should sign up for Guitar II. Guitar II builds on
are interested in learning about and performing in the the foundation of Guitar I and works on the process of
jazz idiom. Time is spent on learning about turning you from a "Guitarist" into a "Musician."
improvisation and how to approach it, and also on Guitar II covers advanced techniques such as picking,
how to interpret notation in the various styles of scales, music theory, ear training, chord analysis, and
swing, Latin, and funk. This class is designed to odd time signatures. An extensive unit on
teach students the various concepts of jazz phrasing, songwriting is covered, as well as stage performance
style and improvisation. Students will be exposed to technique.
as many varied styles of “big band jazz” as possible.
The class will rehearse after school and perform at
various concerts, community affairs and festivals 929627 DRUMS Grade 8
during the year. Members will be expected to take 929707 DRUMS Grades 9-12
part in these performances and in extra rehearsals. Elective
This course meets after school for approximately one
hour per week for one full year and students in grades Drums is a course where students of all abilities can
9-12 are awarded ½ credit upon completion of the full learn to perform on drums, timpani, mallet and
year. keyboard instruments as well as steel drums and other
types of percussion instruments. Pianists are
928490 CONTRACT CHOIR Grade 8 especially encouraged to enroll. Percussionists will
928591 CONTRACT CHOIR SEM 1 Gr 9-12 be able to perform in a Percussion Ensemble, as well
as perform with the concert and symphonic band.
928592 CONTRACT CHOIR SEM 2 Gr 9-12
The repertoire ranges from classical transcriptions to
Elective contemporary jazz and world music. Membership is
open to all interested students from the beginning to
Contract Chorus is a performance-based class in the advanced skill level. This course meets for one
which students learn the basics of vocal production year. The DRUMS group will make numerous public
and health, music theory, music history, and ensemble appearances, including school and community events
skills. Students learn and perform literature of all as well as performing on an annual trip. Past trips
periods and styles and participate in school and have included Toronto, New York City, Florida and
community performances throughout the year. The Atlanta.
course meets before school for one full year and

65
922555 IB MUSIC SL
Grades 11-12
Elective

(Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation)

The IB Music curriculum includes the study of all


music including western and world music. The
required IB Music components of the course include
the following: western and world music study using
prescribed scores; a musical investigation which
includes the comparison of two different musical
genres; and a solo or group performance recording.
Students will also study basic music theory and write
music using Sibelius notation software. This course if
open to all musicians – instrumental, vocal, piano and
guitar. Please be aware that pending the passage of
the Falls Church City School Board FY 2011-2012
Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam registration
for this course. If a student receives “free or reduced
price lunch” this fee will be waived.

922556 IB MUSIC HL I
Grade 11
First year of a two year program
Elective

(Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation))

This is the first year of the two-year higher level


course of study. See course description for IB Music
SL (#922555). Please be aware that pending the
passage of the Falls Church City School Board FY
2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for IB exam
registration for this course. If a student receives “free
or reduced price lunch” this fee will be waived.

922596 IB MUSIC HL II
Grade 12
Second year of a two year program
Elective
(Prerequisites: Successful completion of IB Music HL I
music and teacher recommendation)

In addition to a more in-depth examination of the


topics studied in IB Music HL I, students prepare a
portfolio of original compositions. This course
prepares students for the higher level IB Music exam
which includes listening, written, performance and
composition components. Please be aware that
pending the passage of the Falls Church City School
Board FY 2011-2012 Budget, there may be a fee for
IB exam registration for this course. If a student
receives “free or reduced price lunch” this fee will be
waived.

66
GENERAL ELECTIVE COURSES Technology Education Electives
IB Information Technology in a Global Society (IB
ITGS), Technology Education, Film Studies, Basic
984201 STUDENT AIDE (Non-credit) Technical, Engineering, and Architectural Drawing
Visual and Performing Arts Electives
Theatre Arts, Art, Photography, Band, Contract
Students may elect to be assigned as aides in classes Choir, Contract Band, Guitar, Drums, Computer
and offices in the school. They enter a contractual Graphics
agreement with a teacher/supervisor that defines the
duties and learning activities. The students must
submit a contract with the appropriate signatures. COURSES NOT OFFERED FOR 2011-2012

013307 SUPERVISED STUDY (Non-credit) The following courses are included in the GMHS
curriculum; however, they will not be offered during
the 2011-2012 school year:
Juniors/seniors whose supervised study falls in the
beginning and/or ending blocks may request Early #102 English 9-10
Release/Late Arrival. This request may be made #103 English 11-12
once the schedule shows that such an arrangement is #138 Thematic Reading – A Gathering of Voices I, II
possible without a change in classes. #146, 149 Oral Interpretation and Forensics I, II
#237 Anthropology
Seniors who wish to obtain Open Study privileges #383 Internet Applications
must sign up for supervised study and request Open #570, 571, 572 Latin I, II, III
Study at the beginning of the year. This is subject to #575 Conversational Italian
administrative approval and available to students who #578 Conversational German
are in good standing behaviorally and academically. #580, 581, 582 Arabic I, II, III
#615A Personal Computer Proficiency
ELECTIVES #620 Accounting
#630 Desktop Publishing/Multimedia Presentations
Arlington Career Center Electives #632 Business Law
All Arlington Career Center courses provide elective #640 Business and Computers
credit. #645 Business Economics
Business Electives #651A Keyboarding Applications for Business
IB Business Management, #651B Computer Applications for Business
English Electives #782 Reading Tutorial
Journalism, Reading Strategies, Creative Writing #890 Strings
Family and Consumer Sciences #982, 983 Dance, Culture, and Musical Theatre I, II
Family and Consumer Sciences, Gourmet Cooking, #990, 989 TV Production I, TV Production II
Fashion Design and Construction #234SR World Civilizations Skills
Foreign Language Electives #012882, 013002 Tutorial 8, Tutorial 9/10
French, Spanish, , Mandarin Chinese #312087 Real World Finance
Health/Physical Education Elective #441096 IB Chemistry HL II
Championship Training #916027 Crafts and Cultures 8
Interdisciplinary Electives #917507 Ceramics and Culture
Personal Finance and Economics, Yearbook/ #921327 Music 8
Photojournalism #458585 IB Design Technology SL
Math Electives #319907 Geomath
Computer Science I, IB SL and HL Computer Science #236047 ESOL U.S. History
Science Elective #221847, ESOL World Cultures Grades 8 and 9-12
Biology Skills #598907 American Sign Language 1-8
Social Studies Electives #599007 American Sign Language I
Modern World History, Anthropology, IB Social and #599507 American Sign Language II
Cultural Anthropology SL, IB Psychology SL and HL, #599707 American Sign Language III
Economics, Comparative Religions, International
Relations, IB Information Technology in a Global
Society SL (ITGS), IB Theory of Knowledge

67
Arlington Career Center

68
ARLINGTON CAREER CENTER ARLINGTON CAREER CENTER - SKILL
PREPARATORY PROGRAMS

As part of the Career and Technical Education Note: A credit earned in the following courses will
program, the following courses are offered at the fulfill the fine/practical art or an elective
Arlington Career Center in order for students to requirement for graduation.
complete a planned career goal. Students should see
their counselor for a detailed description, prerequisites,
and other information concerning these offerings. 791387 AIR FORCE JROTC I
When scheduling, students need to keep in mind that 791687 AIR FORCE JROTC II
most ACC courses meet a full block EVERY DAY, Grades 11-12
so students are limited to five other course selections. 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
Bus transportation is provided to and from the
Arlington Career Center. Students must complete all (Prerequisites: Students must be 14 years of age and
permission forms, sign a contract, and meet on the physically fit. Students must comply with USAF grooming
first day of school with the Assistant Principal, standards – hair length and personal grooming.)
Counseling Director, and the Bus Supervisor to hear
the responsibilities they must accept. This is a very This course of study includes the history of aviation,
serious commitment to a selected program sequence. principles of flight, meteorology, navigation, and
Scheduling must be planned very carefully in order to flight physiology. THE AFJROTC program also
meet the course requirements as well as all other includes leadership development, including leadership
graduation requirements. styles and principles, goal setting, and written and
oral communications. Students participate in drill
If you are currently a tenth or eleventh grade student teams, field trips, parades, Color Guards, and other
and want to enroll in a class at the Arlington Career program activities. All uniforms, including shoes, are
Center for the first time during the 2011-2012 school provided by the Air Force. Enrollment in AFJROTC
year, you must complete the following steps so that does not obligate a student to any military service;
your request will be approved: instead, completion of two years of the program
(including AFJROTC III & IV) may entitle the
1. Attend the mandatory GMHS-sponsored Open student to advanced rank upon completion of basic
House with your parent(s) at the Arlington Career training after enlistment, or extra consideration when
Center. Assistant Principal Mr. Siekman must be applying for AFJROTC scholarships and colleges,
notified immediately if there is an extenuating and/or nomination to the service academies. There is a
circumstance that will not allow you or a parent to one time fee at the beginning of the first year of the
attend on the evening designated for this event. program for cleaning of the military uniforms and
overcoats.
2. After attending the Open House, apply in writing to
Mr. Siekman, Assistant Principal, stating your career 791887AIR FORCE JROTC III
goals, reasons for wanting to attend the Arlington 791987 AIR FORCE JROTC IV
Career Center, and any other information that would Grades 11-12
be helpful to the administration in order to grant your 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
request to enroll in the program.
(Prerequisites: Completion of AFJROTC I & II. Students
3. Request a letter of recommendation from one of must be 14 years of age and physically fit. Students must
your teachers that will support your intentions to comply with USAF grooming standards – hair length and
enroll at the Arlington Career Center and submit it to personal grooming.)
Mr. Siekman.
This course includes study of our universe, basic
4. Place your course name and registration number on space maneuvering, and the various elements of the
your 2011-2012 schedule form and request a signature space program and related hardware. Also included
from Mr. Siekman to verify your completion of the are propulsion systems, international space programs,
above listed items. and space technology. Drill and leadership are
included as an integral part of the program with an
emphasis on leadership and management of the Cadet
Corps. AFJROTC III & IV students fill leadership
positions in the cadet organization and are responsible
for a large portion of cadet activities. Cadets are also
instructed in the basics of budgeting and financial

69
management, job search techniques, and career earn dual enrollment credits at the completion of the
opportunities after high school. Students participate in course.
drill teams, field trips, parades, Color Guards, and
other program activities. All uniforms, including 850887 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY III
shoes, are provided by the Air Force. Enrollment in Grade 12
AFJROTC does not obligate a student to any military
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
service; instead, completion of two years of the
program (including AFJROTC III & IV) may entitle
the student to advanced rank upon completion of (Prerequisite: Automotive Technology II)
basic training after enlistment, or extra consideration
when applying for AFJROTC scholarships and Automotive Technology III is the most advanced
colleges, and/or nomination to the service academies. segment of the three-year vocational sequence. This
program provides specialization in a particular
automotive field such as front-end alignment, fuel
867787 AUTO BODY REPAIR I injection, on-board computers, emission controls or
Grades 11-12 electrical systems. Use of sophisticated testing
2 Credits, 2 Blocks devices and other modern equipment prepares
students with job entry skills needed for today. An
867887 AUTO BODY REPAIR II articulation agreement with the Northern Virginia
Grade 12 Community College allows a student to receive
2 Credits, 2 Blocks college credit for completion of this program.
Automotive Technology III students will have the
opportunity to enroll with Northern Virginia
(Prerequisite: Auto Body Repair I)
Community College (NOVA) and earn dual
enrollment credits at the completion of the course.
This program is designed to prepare students for
employment in the auto body field. There are two
areas of specialization: auto painting and collision 848787AVIATION TECHNOLOGY
work. Although students obtain experience in both, it Grades 11-12
is possible to specialize in one particular area. The 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
majority of time is spent in practical “hands-on”
experience. (Prerequisite: Students must be 15 years old prior to the
completion of the course)
850687 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY I
Grades 11-12 This course provides an introduction to the world of
aviation and the aerospace industry. It is designed for
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
students who intend to pursue either pilot training or
aviation-related career fields. Course content includes
This is a two semester course taken at the Arlington careers in aviation and aerospace, aviation history,
Career Center. This course is required before students principles of flight, aircraft systems and performance,
can take courses #965 and #969. meteorology for pilots, interpreting weather data,
basic navigation, electronic navigation, aviation
850787 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY II physiology, flight planning and decision making, the
Grades 11- 12 nature of space, rockets, and space flight. The
2 Credits, 2 Blocks students will receive flight training in full motion-
base and stationary flight simulators and participate in
(Prerequisite: Automotive Technology I) two actual aircraft flights at a local airport. Visits will
be made to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum
The curriculum for Automotive Technology II and a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air
involves “real world training” in an on-the-job type traffic control facility. Students who successfully
facility. Training in the most up-to-date technologies pass a screening test will take the Federal Aviation
enables a student to gain experience in this exciting Administration (FAA) aeronautical knowledge
and fast growing industry. Use of modern specialized written examination for a private pilot license.
equipment with emphasis on “hands-on” training
makes this course beneficial to future technicians, as
well as automobile owners. Automotive Technology
II students will have the opportunity to enroll with
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) and

70
818187 BANKING, FINANCE AND 862487 CIS ADVANCED TOPICS
INVESTMENTS Grades 11-12
Grades 11-12 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
The course is designed to allow students to develop
This course is designed for students interested in expertise in specific technology areas. Students may
obtaining an understanding of the financial industry. study in the following areas: Programming, network
Students have the opportunity to gain practical administration, computer imaging, computer 2D/3D
experience from experts in the field of finance. The graphic animation, desktop systems, advanced
curriculum places strong emphasis on job software applications and other topics with instructor
interviewing and human relations skills. Students approval. The requirement for the course can be
learn the characteristics of the Federal Reserve, the satisfied through individual or team projects,
stock market and banking systems. They also learn mentorships, or independent study during the class
the basic skills in establishing credit and managing periods. Advanced Topics students will have the
financial accounts. Students also have the opportunity to enroll with Northern Virginia
opportunity to earn extra credit by working up to Community College (NOVA) and earn dual
twenty-five hours in a related job at a local financial enrollment credits at the completion of the course.
institution. Students should have good written and
oral communication skills, a sound background in 663087 COMPUTER GRAPHICS FOR THE
consumer mathematics and some background in WEB
computer operations. Grades 11-12
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
860187 CARPENTRY I
Grades 11-12 Students study the background structure of the
2 Credits, 2 Blocks Internet while delving into the World Wide Web. The
built-in language code of the Web, known as
Carpentry I introduces students to the tools, materials, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) is explored.
and equipment used in cabinet-making, as well as Introductory web pages are developed using HTML
commercial and residential carpentry. Students are exclusively on a text-based editor. Web pages, both
taught basic safety techniques before they are allowed explored on-line and those developed by students are
to use power tools and equipment. The cabinet- evaluated for their success in meeting necessary
making portion of the course allows students to informational purposes. The Internet itself is used as
construct custom-made projects such as bookcases, the “textbook.” Using a visual-based editor to design
stereo cabinets, and rough-cut furniture. Students are different kinds of web pages (personal, promotional,
also taught how to select wood, read blueprints, educational), students learn how to optimize the flow
estimate costs of building materials, and are of information on their pages and to enliven their
introduced to basic skills of house and frame building. pages with graphics and features. The web pages are
created, tested on various platforms and browsers, and
860287 CARPENTRY II then refined to insure a successful launch of each
Grades 12 design. Students who complete this course are
empowered to become designers of interactive media
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
and to explore their own potential in the
communication age.
(Prerequisite: Carpentry I)

Carpentry II provides continued instruction on rough 827587 CULINARY ARTS AND SCIENCES I
structural work and finished carpentry, using both Grades 11-12
wood and metal framing techniques. Students erect 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
wood and metal frameworks including studding, floor
joists, rafters, sheathing, sub flooring, partitions and (Prerequisite: Students must have a tuberculin skin test or
learn to install finish molding, trim, hardware, and chest X-ray)
flooring. Students enrolled in Carpentry II study and
utilize computers and computer-assisted design Culinary Arts & Sciences I will provide a basic
programs to prepare related blueprints and designs. introduction to culinary arts. In this course students
will become familiar with essential skills required for
entry-level work in a professional food service
operation. This course will include basic knife skills,

71
sanitation & safety, and an introduction to baking. In 19th century cameras and photographs. There is a
addition, students will acquire fundamental cooking yearly lab fee for this course.
techniques including; frying, sautéing, and roasting of
meats and vegetables. 919487 DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY II
Grade 12
827687 CULINARY ARTS AND SCIENCES II 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
Grade 12
2 Credits, 2 Blocks (Prerequisite: Photography I or Digital Photography I)

(Prerequisites: Culinary Arts & Sciences I and a tuberculin This is an advanced course in which students will
skin test or chest X-ray) have the opportunity to expand his/her portfolio of
photographs using large format cameras, multiple
Culinary Arts & Sciences II presents an intense electronic flash, and the MacIntosh computer in
curriculum designed to prepare students for successful conjunction with photo shop imaging software.
advancement into the food service industry. This Special color film processing and printing will be
course will focus on the following: Cook-to-order utilized in photographing architecture, commercial
entrees, Garde Mange, pizza and bread making and assignments, fine arts, journalism, portraiture, and
advanced sanitation and safety (ServeSafe studio. There is a yearly lab fee for this course.
Certification). Students will work in a real-world Digital Photography II students will have the
kitchen environment preparing meals for patrons. In opportunity to enroll with Northern Virginia
addition, advanced baking skills will be taught with Community College (NOVA) and earn dual
an emphasis on production costs, profits and loss, enrollment credits at the completion of the course.
scaling formulas, and successfully running a small
business. Students will compete in the SkillsUSA 845987 DIGITAL VISUALIZATION:
competition which could yield scholarships and other
ANIMATION & VIRTUAL WORLDS
monetary awards. At the successful completion of the
Culinary Arts & Sciences II class, the students will Grades 11-12
have gained insight into fundamental chemistry, 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
design, and mathematics required to succeed in the
general culinary field. Students will practice scaling (Prerequisite(s): Computer Graphics for the Web or
formulas and recipes, extrapolating service Computer-Assisted Technical Drawing or permission of the
requirements for banquets, as well as varying instructor)
essential combinations of ingredients (acids, bases,
proteins, and fats) and their effects on the final Students will gain experience related to computer
products. animation by solving problems involving 2D and 3D
object manipulation, storyboarding, texture mapping,
lighting concepts and environmental geometry. They
919387 DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY I will produce animations that include interdisciplinary
Grades 11-12 projects related to science, engineering, information
2 Credits, 2 Blocks technology and the entertainment industry. A major
emphasis will be placed on the production of a digital
Digital Photography I teaches basic camera skills for portfolio that showcases original student work.
processing and printing color, black and white film, as
well as computer generated photography. Students 828487 EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION I
develop a portfolio that can be used for college Grades 11-12
admission and other related fields of occupations
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
This class also prepares students for pursuing
professional photography careers focusing on
(Prerequisite: Students must have a tuberculin skin test or
architecture, commercial, fine arts, photo-journalism,
chest X-ray)
medical-scientific, museum, portraiture, printing,
sales, and teaching. Each student is assigned a 35mm,
This course is designed for students interested in
single lens reflex camera with an enlarger for the
preparing to be early childhood teachers in child care
entire year. Students have the opportunity to
education and elementary education. Students receive
photograph in professionally equipped classroom
classroom instruction and practical experience
studios and are allowed to check out various
working with day care, and elementary and preschool
equipment for shooting assignments outside the
special needs children and elementary school age
classroom. The history of photography will be
children. Students learn basic principles of child
explored by the student through research and handling

72
growth and development, explore the characteristics commercial wiring is taught to the standards of the
of early childhood programs and implementation of National Electrical Code. The communications
early childhood curriculum. cabling is taught to the BICSI/RBT Systems standard
and meets the TIA/EIA-568A standard. Students will
828687 EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION II study communications wiring standards, wiring
Grade 12 methods and techniques, network and cabling history
and terminology. Students will have an opportunity
2 Credits, 2 Blocks
to take the BICSI/RBT certification examination.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(Prerequisites: Early Childhood Education I and a Construction Safety course is also offered. Students
tuberculin skin test or chest X-ray)
who successfully complete the OSHA instruction will
be issued an OSHA-10 Construction Safety card.
This course continues to improve students' skills in Both network cabling certifications are recognized by
teaching young children. Students become aware of the Virginia Department of Education as verified
the full-range of occupational opportunities in the credits toward graduation requirements from high
early childhood field and focus on the special needs of school.
exceptional children. Students will also have the
opportunity to implement a variety of early childhood
curriculum activities through field work placements. 844187 PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING/
Completion of this course will assist students in ENGINEERING II
achieving the Child Development Associate (CDA) Grades 11-12
National Credential, which will help students find 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
employment at a higher level of responsibility and
compensation following graduation. Early Childhood (Prerequisite: Engineering Drawing, GMHS)
Education II students will have the opportunity to
enroll with Northern Virginia Community College This course provides an overview of engineering
(NOVA) and earn dual enrollment credits at the technology. Students develop problem – solving
completion of the course. skills by tackling real – world engineering problems.
Through theory and practical hands-on experiences,
853387 ELECTRICITY I students address the emerging social and political
Grades 11-12 consequences of technological change. Some of the
2 Credits, 2 Blocks topics covered will be an overview and perspective of
engineering, the design process, communication and
documentation, engineering systems, statics, materials
Electricity I enables students to develop skills in
and materials testing, and thermodynamics.
working in residential (home) construction. Students
will be taught the proper use of common electrical
tools, wiring techniques, the building and analyzing 849187 COMPUTER INTEGRATED
of electrical circuits, reading of electrical plans, and PRODUCTION/ENGINEERING
electrical problem-solving. Students are introduced to DEVELOPMENT AND
commercial new construction and communication IMPLEMENTATION/ENGINEERING III
wiring. Instruction is based on the National Electrical Grades 11-12
Code. Most of the instruction is practical and hands- 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
on. Safety and good work habits are emphasized.
(Prerequisite: Engineering II)
853487 ELECTRICITY II
Grade 12 This course builds upon the computer solid modeling
2 Credits, 2 Blocks design skills developed in Introduction to Engineering
and Engineering Design. Students will be presented
(Prerequisite: Electricity I) with design problems that require the use of Inventor
to develop solutions using mass property analysis
Electricity II provides instruction in the wiring (study of the relationship among the design function
methods of commercial construction and and materials used), make appropriate modifications
communication wiring methods, including telephone, and use prototyping equipment to produce three-
cable television, BICSI/RBT Systems copper based dimensional models of the solutions. Students will
network cabling, and Fiber Optic network cabling. work in teams of two to four to design and construct
Seniors may be eligible for a work-study program in the solution to an engineering problem. The problems
the electrical supplies distribution field. The will involve a wide range of engineering applications

73
(e.g., a school robot – mascot, automated solar water 866887 TELEVISION AND MULTIMEDIA
heater, remote control hovercrate). Students will PRODUCTION I
maintain a journal as part of a portfolio for their work. Grades 11-12
Each team will be responsible for delivering progress 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
reports and making final presentations of their project
for an outside review panel. The completed portfolio
will be invaluable as students apply to college. Television Production I focuses on media production
for television, radio, and multimedia CD-ROM.
Emphasis is placed on teamwork, good
844087 DIGITAL ELECTRONICS/ communication skills, and professionalism. Students
ENGINEERING IV break into teams and cooperatively learn the theories
Grades 11-12 and techniques of operating state-of-the-art media
2 Credits, 2 Blocks production equipment. Skills include lighting, set
design, location videography, and the operation of
(Prerequisite: Engineering III) studio production equipment. Students build skills
through hands-on exercises and eventually produce
This course is a study in applied digital logic. The news pieces, commercials, music videos, and public
course is patterned after the first semester course in service announcements.
Digital Electronics taught in two and four year
colleges. Students will study the application of 866987 TELEVISION AND MULTIMEDIA
electronic logic circuits and devices and apply PRODUCTION II
Boolean logic to the solution of problems. Such Grades 11-12
circuits are found in watches, calculators, video 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
games, computers and thousands of other devices.
The use of smart circuits is present in virtually all (Prerequisite: Television Production I)
aspects of our lives and its use is increasing rapidly
making digital electronics an important course of
engineering technology. Television and Multimedia Production II is available
to those students with a producing and directing focus
who have taken and passed Television Production I,
834487 FORENSIC TECHNOLOGY/WITH as well as students with an interest and experience in
APPLICATION IN BIOTECHNOLOGY computer – drive multimedia production. Besides
Grades 11-12 reinforcing the basic skills in video and studio
2 Credits, 2 Blocks production for broadcast, cable and videocassette
distribution, this course will add the increasingly
(Prerequisite: A grade of “C” or better in Biology or important multimedia skills required for the
permission of the instructor) production and distribution of media via the Internet,
CD-ROM and DVD. Students will work on
This program is designed for students seriously independent projects or elect a concentration in
interested in any of the forensic sciences as a career broadcast engineering or multimedia production. All
field, particularly ones involving biotechnology. It is hardware used in the program is digital and industry
a challenging course because of the amount of standard. Software includes Ulead’s Cool 3D, Sonic
college-level material. Students will learn how to Foundry’s Acid Music, Sonic Solutions’ DVD it! and
process crime scenes, perform DNA analysis Adobe’s Photoshop, After Effects and Premiere.
including PCR, perform refractive index tests on glass
samples, analyze blood spatter patterns, and
participate in seminars which are designed to discuss
case studies and examine scenarios of ethical issues in
genetic engineering that are presented in the class.
Students will be required to perform standard
laboratory protocols, and follow the scientific method
in all analyses. Students will learn various techniques
used in the different forensic sciences, for example,
entomology, osteology, anthropology, forensic botany,
toxicology, and DNA analysis.

74
Note: A credit earned in the following courses will work with tools such as NIH image analysis and
fulfill the fine/practical art requirement, an protein data bank, as well as studying NASA's use of
elective credit, or one of the life laboratory science microgravity protein synthesis experiments. Students
requirements for graduation. also perform DNA transformation and fingerprinting,
do protein electrophoresis, and practice polymerase
808887 ADVANCED ANIMAL SCIENCE/ chain reaction and subsequent chi-square tests using
BIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATIONS I/II the Hardy-Weinberg equation. Seminars are
frequently conducted to discuss the many ethical
Grades 11-12
issues in biotechnology, such as cloning, stem cell
2 Credits, 2 Blocks research, genetically modified food and plants, and
genetic testing on fetuses. Recommended for students
(Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1) interested in working as lab technicians, genetics
technicians, and DNA fingerprint technicians. With
Advanced Animal Science is designed as an advanced an advanced college degree, students can also pursue
biology course with an emphasis on animal biology careers as an epidemiologist, microbiologist,
(zoology). This course will prepare students for biochemist, cell specialist, plant biologist, and
further education in animal science, wildlife or embryologist, etc.
fisheries sciences, veterinary medicine, or other
animal-related careers. Students study and apply the
principles of scientific investigation in comparative
833387 EMERGENCY MEDICAL
anatomy, physiology, disease transmission, genetics, TECHNOLOGY
behavior, and ecology. Both wild and domestic Grades 11-12
animals (including exotics) are the focus of the course 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
units. Students will receive hands-on experience with
a wide variety of animals housed at the Career Center (Prerequisite: Students must have a tuberculin skin test or
including dogs, cats, rabbits, mice, goats, parakeets, chest x-ray.)
cockatoos, snakes, iguanas, turtles, frogs, fish, and
anthropods. This course also has a strong emphasis in This program is a college-level course taught to the
Internet research and publishing. National Highway Transportation Safety Agency/US
Department of Transportation 1994 Emergency
831087 TECHNICAL ANIMAL Medical Technician - Basic (EMT-B) National
Standard curriculum. This program is ideal for the
SCIENCE/BIOLOGY I/II
student interested in the medical field or in any career
Grades 11-12 requiring first aid certification. Students will study
2 Credits, 2 Blocks anatomy, physiology, introduction to emergency
medical care, airway management, patient assessment,
This course is designed to give students an in-depth medical emergencies, obstetrical/gynecological
look at animal related vocations. Students are given a emergencies, care of the trauma patient, pediatric
brief biology base. The students then study animal emergencies, and ambulance operations. Students
behavior and health; animal’s relationship to man will also complete the American Heart Association
both as a companion and as a work tool; man’s use of Basic Life Support for the healthcare provider and a
animals; and his responsibility to animals. Each unit first aid course. Students will also be provided the
focuses on careers and related technical skills. opportunity to assist and observe in a hospital
Recommended for students contemplating careers in emergency department or ride along in an emergency
pet sales, grooming, training, breeding, and animal ambulance.
care careers.
830287 HEALTH & MEDICAL SCIENCES
846887 BIOTECHNOLOGY TECHNIQUES Grades 10 – 12
AND APPLICATIONS 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
Grades 11-12
2 Credits, 2 Blocks This is a one-year, two-credit introduction to the field
of Health & Medical Sciences. It is designed to help
(Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or better in Biology I) students understand the key elements of the U.S.
health care system and to learn basic health care
Biotechnology Techniques and Applications is terminology, anatomy and physiology for each body
designed to introduce students to the history, themes system, pathologies, diagnostic and clinical
and careers related to biotechnology. Some examples procedures, therapeutic interventions, and the
of student activities include performing laboratory fundamentals of traumatic and medical emergency

75
care. Throughout the course, instruction emphasizes 836587 PHYSICAL THERAPY/SPORTS
safety, cleanliness, professionalism, accountability, MEDICINE
and efficiency within the health care environment. Grades 11-12
Students also begin gaining job-seeking skills for 2 Credits, 2 Blocks
entry into the field of health and medical sciences. In
addition, instruction may include the basics of
(Prerequisite: A tuberculin skin test or chest X-ray is
medical laboratory procedures, pharmacology required if participating in the optional 3rd credit-Clinical
fundamentals, biotechnology concepts, and Observation.)
communication skills essential for providing quality
patient care. This program is designed for students interested in all
aspects of rehabilitative medicine such as: physical
830587 PHARMACY TECHNICIAN therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training,
Grades 11 – 12 exercise physiology, and sports medicine. It is a very
2 Credits, 2 Blocks challenging course because of the substantial amount
of college level material and competency-based
This certificate program is designed to provide curriculum. Students will study anatomy and
students with the basic skills and knowledge to begin physiology, cardiovascular stress testing, therapeutic
work as a pharmacy technician. The coursework will exercise, body composition, ambulation, effects of
fulfill the requirements of the Board of Pharmacy and ultrasound/electrical stimulation, hydrotherapy, and
prepare students to take either the state examination goniometry. They become skilled in evaluation of
or the national examination administered by the athletic injuries, initial emergency medical assessment
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Trained, and care, modality application, formation of
experienced pharmacy technicians who can rehabilitative exercise programs and taping. In
demonstrate the right skills and knowledge should be addition, student will receive certification in the
able to pursue many exciting and respected career AHABLS for the healthcare providers and standard
options or postsecondary study in the pharmacy first aid. An integral part of the program is the
field.Certifications: Pharmacy Technician “hands-on” experience students can earn while
Certification Board (PTCB) Examination. assisting and treating patients under the supervision of
licensed physical therapists, certified athletic trainers,
orthopedic physicians, and exercise physiologists
during clinical internships.

Note: A clinical internship meets experience


requirements for college physical therapy programs.

76
GEORGE MASON HIGH SCHOOL – RISING 8TH GRADE REGISTRATION FORM

Student Name________________________________________________________________________________ Student Number____________________________


Last First
Please make your course selections for the 2011-2012 school year by checking the appropriate box for each subject. Where appropriate, current teachers should indicate approval of the
course selections. Selected courses may be changed if student work does not remain at the present level. PLEASE SUBMIT THIS FORM BY FEBRUARY 25, 2011.

Mathematics
 Pre-Algebra 8 311227  Algebra I 313007  Honors Algebra I 313009 Electives/Foreign Language
 Honors Geometry 314309  Other _______________________  French I 511007  Spanish I 551007
 French 1-8 511507  Spanish 1-8 551507
Teacher Signature (indicating approval)_____________________________________
 Chinese I 581007  Spanish II 552007
Comments (if necessary):  Other ______________________________
Teacher Signature (indicating approval)_____________________________________

Comments (if necessary):

English 8th Grade Electives


 General English 8 112027  CP English 8 112028  Honors English 8 112029 • Art 91527 • Concert Band 923327 • Drums 929627
 Other __________________
• Family & Consumer Sci 824587 • Reading Strategies 118027
Teacher Signature (indicating approval)_____________________________________
• Technology Education 840387 • Theatre 139027
Comments (if necessary):
• Wind Ensemble 923527

Choice #1 ________________________________________________________

Choice #2 ________________________________________________________
Science (if not taking a foreign language)

 Physical Science 412527  Other ______________________________________ Select two alternate elective courses as your first choices are not guaranteed.

Alternate #1 ______________________________________________________

Alternate #2 ______________________________________________________
Social Studies

 World Civ & Geo I 221507  Other __________________________________ Contract Courses


These courses meet outside the regular school day.

• Contract Jazz Ensemble 8 923627


Physical Education • Contract Choir 928490

All 8th grade students are required to take ■ PE/FLE/Health 8 720007


Student Signature________________________________________________

Parent Signature ________________________________________________

Case Manager Signature__________________________________________


(Required for students with IEPs)
77
Schedule Worksheet
Grades 9-12

Course Selections for Meets Teacher Teacher Comments Teacher


2011-2012 School Year Prerequisites Approval (if needed) Signature
Course Course Course Name(s) Yes No
# Name Grade(s)

S1 _ _ ______ ____________ __ __ _____________ __________


S2 ___ _____ _____ ___

S1 _ _ ______ ____________ __ __ _____________ __________


S2 ___ _____ _____ ___

S1 _ _ ______ ____________ __ __ _____________ __________


S2 ___ _____ _____ ___

Opt Contract
Course

78

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