Memorial High School’s 9th Grade Honors Options
in English, U.S. History, and Integrated Science
Memorial High School continues next year with several Honors level academic courses to complement our already rigorous standard offerings of grade nine English, U.S. History, and Integrated Science. These Honors options may be appropriate for your student depending upon factors described below.
Please read the course descriptions on the back of this sheet before reading further.
Are you considering Honors level curriculum?
An Honors section may be an appropriate choice when the student possesses:
· advanced reading and writing skills (minimum MAP reading lexile of 1300)
· EXPLORE test scores at or above the 90th percentile (Composite >=20)
· above average time management and organizational skills
· strong self discipline to effectively manage higher expectations and daily work responsibilities
· a willingness to learn content that is complex and challenging
· a passion for learning the particular subject they are thinking about studying at an honors level, along with successful performance in the middle school subject they would like to select for honors in 9th grade, and recommendation from middle school teacher.
Additional considerations as you make these decisions:
· Once the school year is underway, changing to a different level will not be possible except in situations of extreme need AND if space is available.
· Honors courses should be chosen on a course by course basis. Will the overall load of 6 to 7 classes plus any commitments to sports/extracurriculars be manageable for your son/daughter? (A standard load of non-honors classes this year averaged 1 to 1 ½ hours of homework per night. At times, Honors classes can double that load).
· Each year, and in each subject, students can choose whether or not to select Honors. For example, a student can take English 1 and U.S. History Honors in 9th grade, and then English 2 Honors and World History Overview (non-honors) in 10th grade.)
*How do I find my child’s reading lexile score and EXPLORE scores? For MMSD students, the reading lexile is located in the “Assessment” section when you log on to your child’s “Infinite Campus” record under “MAP2014 à MAP Fall Reading Lexile”. You could also contact this year’s Language Arts teacher, or counselor. Your public school secretary can help you retrieve your username/password if you’ve forgotten it. If your student attends a private school, ask their counselor or teacher if they have taken an EXPLORE Test and if so, where the results can be accessed.
Official Course Descriptions:
Integrated Science: This laboratory-based class illustrates the nature of science by examining connections among the major disciplines of physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and astronomy. Students will investigate concepts both qualitatively and quantitatively and will continue to build on their science and math skills. The course content is consistent with Wisconsin State Science Standards and will be consistent with the Common Core Standards. Both versions of Integrated Science are aligned and cover the same content, skills, and essential understandings.
Integrated Science Honors: Recommended: Enrolled in Geometry A or above; MAP lexile score of 1300 or above. This laboratory-based class illustrates the nature of science by examining connections among the major disciplines of science such as physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and astronomy. Students will investigate concepts relying heavily on mathematics, and will continue to build on their science and math skills. These students will experience additional enrichment activities that allow them to practice sophisticated math and reasoning skills.
English 1 introduces analysis of literature and offers practice in expository and other modes of writing. Typical units include short literature, mythology, Shakespeare, the novel, creative writing, and independent reading.
English 1 Honors is a course for students who have advanced reading and writing skills and who will be actively engaged in the learning process. English 1 Honors parallels English 1 and supplements the freshman English curriculum with discussions and assignments that require a higher level of thinking and a greater time commitment to class than is expected of the average student.
US History 1 is a comprehensive course that provides students with a survey of the history of the United States, examining time periods from the post-Civil War era through World War Two. It includes an historical overview of political, economic, military, scientific, cultural and social developments. This course investigates US history through the use of discussion, inquiry and hands-on product-based research. Students will be expected to participate in class and complete homework assignments. Skill instruction will focus on research, reading for learning, a variety of writing techniques and clarity of expression.
US History 1 Honors covers the content and skill development of US History. In addition, students will be engaged in more rigorous study facilitating the development of higher order skills and historical thinking. To be successful, it is recommended that students have advanced reading and writing abilities and a willingness to be challenged.
How do I access the full Curriculum Guide?
Your student will receive a hard copy of the Curriculum Guide during the classroom presentations in late January in their middle school. Another strategy is to check the online version in the Memorial High School homepage at http://memorialweb.madison.k12.wi.us/ and look in the yellow box after clicking on “News, Announcements, Information, Publications” or on the Student Services page.
To Whom Do I Direct Additional Questions? After working with your 8th grade teachers and middle school counselor, if you still have questions, feel free to contact Memorial’s Counselors:
Len Mormino- 663-6061,
Sherry Lucille- 663-6175,
Ying Vang (ELL Families)- 663-6062,
------To download the 8th grade Course Selection Powerpoint, and to view the Memorial Curriculum Guide, go to: https://memorialweb.madison.k12.wi.us/node/1356