Frequently Asked Questions…

By Incoming 9th grade families

 

How many years of world language (foreign language) do I need to take to graduate from high school?

You do not need to take a foreign language to graduate from high school.  However, most colleges require at least two years of the same foreign language, preferably taken at the high school level.  More selective colleges want to see three to four years of world language on a transcript.

 

Honors Classes

 

How are students chosen for Honors Classes?

Students are recommended for honors classes based on the recommendation of their current (8th grade) teacher for that subject.  Students may be asked to submit samples of work or complete questionnaires.  Standardized tests scores are also a component of consideration.

 

Here is some information we have received from our math department regarding characteristics of successful honors students.  These will likely help you determine if your student is a good candidate for other honors classes as well.

 

Characteristics of a Student Well-suited for Honors Courses:

 

1.      Works well independently.  Seeks help only when necessary.  Does not require detailed or repeated directions from teacher in order to proceed.  (Math teachers tell us this is the number one criteria for honors math students.)

2.     Is creative.  Can think of things to try, or use original methods, when faced with a problem situation.

3.     Readily applies learned principles to new situations.  Shows persistence in searching for solutions.  Finds satisfaction in independently solving a problem rather than accepting another person’s solution or help. 

4.     Readily applies learned principles to new situations.  Can solve novel problems.  Responds well to guided discovery.

5.     Likes to analyze, generalize, derive, prove, abstract; to investigate relationships and alternative solutions.

6.     Has a strong intuitive sense for the subject matter.  Sorts out key relationships quickly.

7.     Shows a high degree of interest and motivation.  Is intellectually curious and a critical thinker. 

8.     Has experienced high achievement in past courses without undue stress.  Has not depended on rote learning or tutoring.

9.     Shows above average ability in oral and written expression.

 

My child was recommended for honors classes, but is nervous about taking on a workload that is overwhelming for them, with the transition to high school and cocurricular activities. Should they still take honors courses?

Based on past experience, if students are recommended for honors classes, we believe they should enroll in these classes.  Only extremely rarely does an honors student request a change to standard classes after 9th grade has begun because the classes are too difficult.  Far more commonly, recommended honors students who have chosen the standard classes request the honors classes once the school year has begun.  This request may not be possible to grant once the school year begins; however students have the opportunity to join honors classes at the beginning of the next school year.

 

My child was not recommended for honors classes, and I believe they should have been. 

You may wish to speak with the current (8th grade) teacher in the appropriate subject.  Historically, we have found middle school teachers to be excellent assessors of students based upon their knowledge of both students and our honors curricula.  You will likely receive a more honest evaluation if the teacher knows you will respect their professional judgment.

 

The middle school teacher has not recommended honors classes, but my child really wants to take them.

Students who wish to be considered for honors classes may enjoy the accelerated learning in these classes, but should be open to the possibility of less than an “A” grade in these classes.  GPA concerns will be a consideration. 

 

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I hope this information has been helpful to you!  Appropriate registration for classes can be a challenge, and if you are still really puzzled or have questions about selection of classes, please feel free to contact me!

 

Mary Hanson

Guidance Counselor, Alpha A-D

Mary.hanson@district196.org