International Baccalaureate Program

Handbook International Baccalaureate Program Phoenix Union High School District North High School PUHSD Governing Board Ms Amy Kobeta Ms Linda Abril Ms Lela Alston Mr Richard Gallego Mr Randy Schiller Mr Ben Miranda Ms Laura Pastor Superintendent Dr Kent Scribner Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance Ms Lorrie Drobny Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Accountability Dr Althe Allen Assistant Superintendent for Operations Ms Nora Gutierrez Interim Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Mr Jose Arenas North High Administration Interim Principal Mr Juan Aldo Nunez Assistant Principal for Instruction Dr Martha Sheffield Assistant Principal for Registration Ms Anna Rodriguez Assistant Principal for Student Opportunities Mr Melville McKay Dean of Students Ms Belinda Mountjoy North High Mission Statement: The mission of North High School is to establish an environment that results in high levels of achievement and requires all students to meet or exceed Arizona State standards and graduation requirements IB FACULTY 2012-13 Student Services: Julie Pallissard Jill Parra Abigail Dolin Director of IB (602-764-6532) IB Office Manager (602-764-6550) Guidance Counselor (602-764-6536) English: Janet Blankenship Mary Powell Virginia Tennyson Susan Wolf blankinship@phoenixunion.org mpowell1@phoenixunion.org tennyson@phoenixunion.org wolf@phoenixunion.org Social Studies: Jim Minnick Brock Danskin Mary McDowell Katie Hansen minnick@phoenixunion.org danskin@phoenixunion.org mcdowell@phoenixunion.org parod@phoenixunion.org TOK: Gina Vullo Penny Hansen vullo@phoenixunion.org phansen@phoenixunion.org Math: Donna Sampson Dahn Keil John Doherty Meena Mathews Molly Mosketti Yin Qiu sampson@phoenixunion.org dkeil@phoenixunion.org doherty@phoenixunion.org mathews@phoenixunion.org mosketti@phoenixunion.org yqiu1@phoenixunion.org Science: Charlie Toft Melani Calloway Mary Cheeney Estaban Flemons George Cardenas toft@phoenixunion.org calloway@phoenixunion.org cheeney@phoenixunion.org flemons@phoenixunion.org gcardenas@phoenixunion.org Foreign Language: Ellen Driscoll Brigit Lawson Anne Boisdin Susan Campbell Karen Azari driscoll@phoenixunion.org lawson@phoenixunion.org boisdin@phoenixunion.org scampbell@phoenixunion.org azari@phoenixunion.org Art: Penny Hansen Dawn Knobbe Julie Peters Bill Osborne phansen@phoenixunion.org reeths-knobbe@phoenixunion.org jpeters@phoenixunion.org osborne@phoenixunion.org Performing Arts: Janice Guerrero Matthew Bock Theatre IB Band & Orchestra jguerrero@phoenixunion.org mbock@phoenixunion.org Health: Valarie Garcia pallissard@phoenixunion.org jparra@phoenixunion.org adolin@phoenixunion.org vgarcia1@phoenixunion.org Table of Contents Welcome Letter I Section One – Academic Development A Academic Success Timelines II Section Two - Career Choices Career Exploration at North H.S Bridges After High School Options How to Study/Study Tips Listening Skills Preparing to Study Learning Styles Improve Learning Skills Taking Notes in Class Reading Skills/Reading Strategies Time Management How to Calculate GPA Improve Test Taking Skills 10 11 13 14 15 16 18 19 21 The Plan: Decision-Making Skills What to in High School High Growth Occupations in AZ SCAN Skills Finding the Job The Job Application Cover Letter Sample Cover Letter The Resume The Interview 50 53 54 56 57 58 59 60 61 63 III Section Three – Personal/Social Self-Awareness Effective Communication Goal Setting Stress and Coping Skills A Person of Character Diversity How to Get Along in High School Resources (Mental Health Resources) 66 67 68 69 70 71 74 75 76 IV Section Four – IB Information Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) Sports and Clubs at North The IB Hexagon IB 4-Year Course of Study 77 78 79 80 V Section Five-Appendixes References Useful Websites District Calendar Definitions (IB/Academic/College) Recommendation Info Sheet AIMS/Terra Nova Information 84 85 87 88 91 96 B Post-Secondary Planning SAT and ACT Information 22 Test Mania 20 ACT/SAT Registration On-line 23 Compare the ACT and SAT Test 24 SAT Prep Programs 25 SAT/ACT Score Comparison 26 Where Will Your ACT/SAT Score Take You? 27 PSAT/National Merit Information 28 College Choice Factors 30 College Application Process 31 College Comparison Worksheet 32 Application Guidelines 33 College Application Plan 34 Writing the College Essay 35 Financial Aid Information 36 Budget Planning Worksheet 37 Letters of Recommendation 38 Community College 39 Vocational and Technical Schools 40 Apprenticeships 41 Military 42 Enlistment Qualifications 43 NCAA Eligibility Reference Sheet 44 WELCOME! 46 47 48 49 Congratulations on being part of the International Baccalaureate Program at North High School Whether you are a first year student or a senior getting ready to take your Diploma exams and apply to universities, you have accepted the challenge of this rigorous program “The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a challenging …curriculum It leads to a qualification that is widely recognized by the world’s leading universities Students learn more than a collection of facts The Diploma Programme prepares students for university and encourages them to: ask challenging questions, learn how to learn, develop a strong sense of their own identity and culture, and develop the ability to communicate with and understand people from other countries and cultures” (www.ibo.org) Successfully completing the program and transitioning out of high school takes guidance and support We have created an IB handbook as an added resource to help you and your parents You will find information about studying, stress management, college, college entrance exams, financial aid, careers, the IB Program, and other topics The handbook can be downloaded on the NHS IB website by going to www.northhs.com/domain/646 Click on NHS IB Handbook on the left-hand side The year ahead will be filled with great opportunities and challenging classes Keep the following in mind as you forge ahead: • Be sure to stay organized with a planner and use one of the timelines provided in this handbook • Attend tutoring as needed • Check the ‘Midas Touch’ on-line and in the Counseling Office for scholarship and college information • Complete your CAS hours • Visit the Counseling Office and ask your counselor for assistance! Have a great year! SECTION ONE ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT This section will focus on the standards that will help you be successful in high school – getting good grades and graduating on time You will also learn about your options for continuing your education after graduation Here are the standards we will teach to help you: Standard A: Students will acquire the attitudes, knowledge and skills that contribute to effective learning in school across the life span Standard B: Students will complete school with the academic preparation essential to choose from a wide range of college and university options Standard C: Students will understand the relationship of academics to the world of work and to life at home and in the community Here are the competencies for this section: 9th grade 9.1.1 9.1.2 9.1.3 9.1.4 9.1.5 9.1.6 10th grade 10.1.1 10.1.2 10.1.3 10.1.4 10.1.5 11th grade 11.1.1 11.1.2 11.1.3 11.1.4 11.1.5 11.1.6 12th grade 12.1.1 12.1.2 12.1.3 12.1.4 12.1.5 Develops academic goals and high school 4-year educational plan Demonstrates the ability to compute GPA Utilizes communication skills to know when and how to ask for help Develops effective study skills to improve academic achievement Demonstrates time management and organizational skills Identifies reasons for enrolling in rigorous curriculum Updates 4-year plan and recalculates GPA Identifies learning style to increase academic achievement Identifies post-secondary options consistent with interests, achievement, aptitude and abilities Recognizes importance of pre-college and state standards test Preparation essential for graduation and post-secondary options Continues to develop effective study skills, time management and organizational skills to increase academic achievement Completes a credit check for high school graduation Identifies post-secondary options consistent with interests, abilities, achievement and aptitude Uses problem solving and decision-making skills and assessment results in educational planning Demonstrates the ability to balance school studies, employment, extra-curricular, leisure time and family time Demonstrates research skills to describe entrance requirements for post-secondary options Prepares and takes college entrance exams, ASVAB and/or other tests by post-secondary programs Evaluates transcript to confirm completion of credits for high school graduation and postsecondary options Completes entrance exams for post-secondary education or programs Applies to post-secondary programs of interest after high school Applies for financial aid and scholarships for post-secondary programs, if applicable Demonstrates academic preparation for wide range of post-secondary option, including college Adapted from the ASCA National Model Standards FRESHMAN TIMELINE FIRST SEMESTER _ Check your high school credits to ensure that you are taking the necessary courses to meet graduation requirements and post-secondary options _ Develop a serious attitude toward your studies Grade point average and class rank are important considerations for your acceptance into most colleges Your GPA counts! _ Develop good study habits If you find yourself struggling with your studies at any point during your freshman year, first consult with your teacher, and then check with the Counseling Office for study skills assistance and for peer tutorial help _ Set personal goals for academic achievement Evaluate and re-assess your goals frequently Ensure that you are actively working toward your goals _ Plan ahead for major project deadlines and your semester exams _ Read the daily announcements and watch for special programs available for freshmen _ Select extra-curricular activities, clubs and organizations that interest you and GET INVOLVED! Start working on your CAS hours _ Plan your involvement in extra-curricular, class, and community activities purposefully Your resume (which includes academic achievements, awards, honors, GPA, leadership positions and school/community activities) becomes very important as you apply for jobs, special programs, post-secondary schools and scholarships _ Encourage your parents to attend Parent-Teacher Conferences so that they will become familiar with your class schedule, teachers and the school _ Remember— the Counseling Office is here to help you in any way they can Contact your counselor if you have any concerns— personal, educational or career SECOND SEMESTER _ Visit the Counseling Office and become familiar with the reference materials available for career and post-secondary exploration _ Visit with people employed in your occupational interest area Ask questions about actual job tasks, training required, helpful skills, advantages and disadvantages, employment opportunities, advancement, etc _ Using the post-secondary materials in the Counseling Office, make a list of post-secondary schools to which you may want to apply Check the entrance requirements of the schools and make sure you select appropriate course work for next year _ Begin your course selection process for next year Create 4-year educational IB plan Select courses for next year that are compatible with your college and career goals _ Review your academic skills with your counselor and teachers to identify any weak areas that need improvement Consideration should be given to any deficiencies as you register for the next school year _ Discuss your educational goals and 4-year plan with your parents _ You will be taking standardized tests along with all other 9th through 11th graders Do your best! The results will provide additional information regarding your academic strengths, as well as identify areas that you may want to improve upon _ Plan ahead for major project deadlines and your semester exams _ Read as much and as widely as you can during the summer ahead Set aside time for reading every day A wide variety of reading material will benefit you in your course work next year _ Have a safe and fun summer! SOPHOMORE TIMELINE August-October _ Contact your counselor if you have any concerns regarding your classes Be sure that you are enrolled in the classes that you originally signed up for last year No changes are allowed past the second week of school _ Develop a serious attitude toward your studies Your grade point average (GPA) and class rank are important considerations for college acceptance _ Develop good study habits! If you are struggling at any time 1st consult your teacher, 2nd seek tutoring assistance and 3rd consult with your counselor _ Set personal goals for academic achievement Evaluate and re-assess frequently to make sure you are working toward your goals _ The PSAT is scheduled for mid-October Please check with your counselor to find out what date North will be administering the PSAT November-December _ Become familiar with the reference materials and the Internet available in the Counseling Office, including Bridges, for career and post secondary exploration and information _ Plan ahead for project deadlines and semester exams Visit people employed in your career interest area Ask Questions about job tasks, helpful skills, advantages and disadvantages; also ask about employment opportunities _ Plan your extracurricular class and community activities for CAS carefully They will be needed on your resume for college or for work _ Begin to compile information to develop a resume Activities, GPA, Class rank, special programs, internships and school awards or scholarships should be included _ Read and or listen to the daily announcements The announcements will provide information on job opportunities and scholarships January-March _ Review your career and educational goals _ The AIMS Writing and Reading tests will be given in February _ Review your academic skills with your teachers (Strengths and Weaknesses) _ Register for your junior classes and review your four year IB plan with your counselor _ Request recommendations in areas you need to improve or have a deficiency _ Discuss your career or educational goals with your parents and counselor _ Make a list of schools, jobs, & colleges to which you may want to consider applying _ Check the entrance requirements to schools listed above _ Make sure you select appropriate course work for next year and for colleges in consideration April-May _ The AIMS Mathematics test will be given in April _ Take an interest inventory and analyze the results against possible career choices _ Learn to use the Bridges for occupational and post secondary information Do your career choices fit your abilities and interests? _ Plan ahead for major project deadlines and semester exams _ Set aside time for reading EVERYDAY during the summer This will help prepare you for higher education or college Request suggestions from your teachers for reading that will also benefit you in course work for the upcoming year _ Use your time wisely This is a good time to find a job, volunteer or explore your career interests JUNIOR PLANNER AUGUST: _ Contact your counselor if you have any concerns regarding your classes Be sure that you are enrolled in the classes that you originally signed up for last year Major changes to your four year plan (Diploma/Certificate) require parental approval SEPTEMBER: Register for IB Exams if you plan on taking any this year Check with your counselor about credits for graduation and make sure you are on track Prepare for the PSAT test See your counselor about programs to help Organize a calendar with deadlines Use your planner OCTOBER: Take the PSAT Test in Oct (results in about-6 weeks.) Top scores qualify for National Merit Scholarships (notification next fall.) AIMS Writing, Reading, and Math retakes NOVEMBER: Develop a preliminary college list with parents and counselor Talk with military, college, and vocational school representatives who visit your school DECEMBER: Continue exploring career options Use Bridges and other resources Keep accumulating CAS hours though various activities Read and or listen to the daily announcements The announcements will provide information on job opportunities and scholarships JANUARY: Discuss PSAT scores with counselor, SAT/ACT prep courses Register to take the SAT or ACT! FEBRUARY: Prepare for SAT I and ACT given this month if applicable Check transcript with counselor and plan senior year AIMS Writing and Reading retakes MARCH: Register for your Senior Classes with your counselors Check with your counselor to make sure you are on the way to graduation Review your four-year IB plan Register for SAT I and ACT for May or June Write to colleges or other programs for brochures and admission information APRIL: Notify your counselor of scholarships/academic awards received AIMS mathematic test retakes Prepare a resume, and begin looking for a summer job or volunteer program MAY: SAT I and SAT II given this month Many colleges have summer school classes or programs you can take Check them out! Make appointments to visit colleges, universities and tech programs during the summer JUNE: SAT I and II, and ACT given this month SENIOR PLANNER AUGUST: • Contact your counselor if you have any concerns regarding your classes Major changes to your four year plan (Diploma/Certificate) require parental approval SEPTEMBER: • Register for IB Exams • Make decisions regarding post-secondary education • Athletes get cleared by the NCAA by submitting on-line at www.ncaa.org • Visit your school guidance counselor to see if you are on track for college • Continue college search and acquire admission applications to selected colleges • Work on college applications and outline essay topics • Organize your calendar with deadlines • Check your transcript for correct credits • Finalize resume Develop and organize a scholarship folder • Begin to apply for available scholarships: Have adequate supply of senior photos • Apply for ROTC scholarships • Register by mail or online for the ACT, SAT I SAT II: Subject Tests • Contact colleges you hope to attend and arrange on-campus visits IB certificate candidate: must take a minimum of IB exams during the senior year, complete the Theory of Knowledge class, complete 200 CAS hours (100 – 9th & 10th grades; 100 – 11th & 12th grades) YOUR CANDIDATE CLASSIFICATION (Diploma or Certificate) PRACTICAL ARTS/FINE ARTS: Class Year to be completed FRESHMEN YEAR IB CLASSES SOPHOMORE YEAR IB CLASSES JUNIOR YEAR IB CLASSES JUNIOR YEAR EXAMS STANDARD LEVEL SENIOR YEAR IB CLASSES SENIOR YEAR EXAMS HIGHER LEVEL STANDARD LEVEL IB CURRICULUM English 1-2 IB IB English 3-4 IB English 5-6 IB IB English 7-8 IB Algebra 1-2 IB Geometry 1-2 IB Algebra 3-4 IB Pre- Calculus 1-2 IB Calculus 1-2 IB Math Topics 1-2 IB Calculus 3-4 IB* Biology 1-2 Chemistry 1-2 IB Physics 1-2 Biology 3-4 IB Biology 5-6 IB Chemistry 3-4 IB Physics 3-4 IB World History 1-2 IB World Gov’t./Econ 1-2 IB U.S History 1-2 IB World History 3-4 IB Social-Cultural Anthropology 1-2 IB* Spanish 1-2 IB Spanish 3-4 IB Spanish 5-6 IB Spanish 7-8 IB Spanish 9-10 IB Art 1-2 Art 3-4 Adv Art 1-2 IB Adv Art 3-4 IB Theory of Knowledge French 1-2 IB French 3-4 IB French 5-6 IB French 7-8 IB Photo 1-2 Photo 3-4 Adv Photo 1-2 IB Adv Photo 3-4 IB Theatre Arts 1-2 IB *Contingent upon enrollment numbers IB Tests Diploma Candidate Tests Required Typically Higher Level and Standard Level It is possible to take Higher Level and Standard Level 250 CAS hours (100 from 9th & 10th and 150 from 11th & 12th) English Math Science Social Studies Foreign Language Science Foreign Language Art Photo Theatre Arts Social/Cultural Anthropology PSAT SAT _ SAT _ SAT _ Certificate Candidate Tests Required With permission are possible 100 CAS hours – 11th & 12th grade total SAT II _ _ _ SAT II _ _ _ ACT Eng. Math Read Sci. _ Composite ACT Eng. Math Read Sci. _ Composite College Applications Major Science CREDITS Social Studies 10 11 12 TOTAL Social Studies Foreign Languages OTHER CREDITS Health Fine Arts University Voc Tech / or Fine Arts English GRADUATION English Junior IB Scores Math Math Senior IB Tests _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Science Appendix REFERENCES Armstrong, W & Lame, W Barron’s Pocket Guide to Study Tips: How to Study Effectively and Get Better Grades Barron’s Educational Series, New York 1990 Carter, C & Lyman Kravits, S Keys to Success – How to achieve your goals Prentice Hall/Simon & Schuster Co., Upper Saddle, New Jersey, 1996 Coman, M & Heavers, K How to Improve Your Study Skills VGM Career Horizons, a division of NTC Publishing Group, Lincolnwood, Illinois, 1990 Covey, Sean The Habits of Highly Effective Teens Simon and Schuster, New York, 1998 Tucson Unified School Disctrict, Tucson, Arizona Montgomery County Public Schools, Rockville, Maryland Channing L Bete, Inc Booklet, South Deerfield, MA 2001 The College Board, www.collegeboard.com ACT, www.act.org 10 NCAA, www.ncaasports.com 11 AzCIS, www.azcis.intocareers.org 12 Clark County School District, Guidance & Counseling, http://ccsd.net/cpd/guidance_counseling/index.htm 13 Boone High School Counseling Department, http://www.boonebraves.ocps.net/2001/guidance/index.htm 14 Occupational Outlook Handbook, www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm 15 Arizona Tech Prep, http://www.aztechprep.org/ 16 Career and Technical, Career Pathways, http://www.ade.state.az.us/cte/careerpathways/ 17 Career Builder, http://www.careerbuilder.com/ Appendix Websites for the 21st Century Graduate College Information Arizona Colleges Arizona State University Northern Arizona University University of Arizona Grand Canyon College DeVry Institute of Technology-Phoenix Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Arizona H.S./College Relations Council Maricopa Community Colleges Community Colleges www.asu.edu www.nau.edu www.arizona.edu/ www.grand-canyon.edu www.phx.devry.edu www.erau.edu www.azhscrc.org http://www.maricopa.edu/ www.ade.state.az.us/resourcecenter/ Arizona College and Career Guide College Resources ACT Colleges by State College Board Campus Tours College Search NACAC for parents & students Collegeview Search Peterson’s Guide to Colleges and Universities COLLEGENET College Parents of America NCAA Eligibility Guide The Princeton Review Sallie Mae Knowledge for College AZ Career Resource Network AZ Workforce/Labor Market Info Career Browser Planning a Career The Career Key The Keirsey Temperment Sorter Occupational Outlook Handbook Career Paths Fedworld.gov America’s Job Bank Resumania Military Career Center Career Magazine Job Board America’s Career Resource Network Career Builder FAFSA FAFSA—PIN Financial Aid Estimator Federal Student Aid collleges_universities.asp http://www.azhighered.org/home.aspx www.act.org www.top-colleges.com/V/state.html www.collegeboard.com www.campustours.com apps.collegeboard.com/search/index.jsp www.nacac.com/p&s.html www.collegeview.com www.petersons.com www.collegenet.com www.collegeparents.org www.ncaaclearinghouse.net/NCAA/common/index.html www.princetonreview.com www.collegeanswer.com Career Information www.ade.state.az.us/cte/azcrn/ www.workforce.az.gov www.collegeboard.com www.adventuresineducation.org www.careerkey.org www.keirsey.com/frame.html www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm www.careerpathsonline.com www.fedworld.gov www.ajb.dni.us www.resumania.com www.todaysmilitary.com/app/tm/careers www.careermag.com www.collegeJobBoard.com www.acrnetwork.org/ www.careerbuilder.com/ Scholarship/Financial Aid Information www.fafsa.ed.gov www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp www.finaid.org/calculators/finaidestimate.phtml www.studentaid.ed.gov Financial Aid Tips from NASFAA www.nasfaa.org/Home.asp AZ Commission for Postsecondary Ed www.azhighered.gov/home.aspx AZ College Answer www.arizona.collegeanswer.com/arizona/content/index.jsp Free Scholarship Info www.freschinfo.com FastWeb www.fastweb.com FinAid www.finaid.org CollegeNet’s Mach25 Scholarship Search www.collegenet.com/mach25 United Negro College Fund www.uncf.org Arizona College and Career Guide http://www.azhighered.org/home.aspx Undocumented Students http://hs.houstonisd.org/debakeyhs/Departments/counselors/Undocumented.html http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/gPg.cfm?pageID=1586&1534-D83A_1933715A Testing and Study Skills College Board Online www.collegeboard.org ACT www.act.org TESTPREP.COM www.testprep.com College Admission Testing (Kaplan) www.kaptest.com Vanier College Learning Center www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/tlc/ Discovery Channel Homework Help school.discovery.com/homeworkhelp/bjpinchbeck/index.html Purdue University Writing Center owl.english.purdue.edu Columbia University Study Skills www.columbia.edu/cu/augustine/study/ UMD Study Skills and Time Management www.d.umn.edu/student/loon/acad/strat/ How to Study www.how-to-study.com/ Learning Styles Inventory pss.uvm.edu/pss162/learning_styles.html Academic Homepage for H.S Students www.highschoolace.com/ace/ace.cfm Appendix Phoenix Union High School 2008-2009 District Calendar First Semester Tuesday – Friday Monday Monday Friday Monday – Friday Tuesday Thursday Friday Wednesday - Thursday Friday Friday July 29 – August August September October October 6-10 November 11 November 27 November 28 December 17 – 18 December 19 December 19 Second Semester Teacher Inservice Classes Begin Labor Day End of First Term Fall Recess Veterans Day Recess Thanksgiving Day Thanksgiving Recess Semester Exams Report Preparation – No Classes End of Second Term/First Semester Monday – Friday Monday Monday Monday Friday Monday – Friday Monday Friday Tuesday – Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday December 22 – January January January 19 February 16 March March 9-13 March 30 May 15 May 19-20 May 20 May 21 May 21 May 22 May 22 Friday May 22 Winter Recess Classes Begin MLK/Civil Right’s Day President’s Day End of Third Term Spring Recess Cesar Chavez Day Senior Exams Semester Exams 180th Day/Last Day of Classes Graduation Day Report Preparation – No Classes Report Preparation – No Classes End of Fourth Term/Second Semester Last Day of Month Contracts Appendix Important Definitions IB TERMS IB Diploma: A diploma candidate must take a minimum of IB exams during the junior and senior years (at least and no more than at the Higher Level and others at the Standard Level); complete the extended essay; complete the CAS requirements of 250 hours, and the Theory of Knowledge course IB Certificate: A certificate candidate must take a minimum of IB exams during the senior year, complete the Theory of Knowledge class, complete 200 CAS hours CAS (Creativity, Action, and Service): Extra curricular hours are required for the Diploma and the Certificate See the IB office for more information Extended Essay: An independent research assignment of no more than 4,000 words in one of the six IB subject areas is required of diploma candidates in their junior year Higher Level: HL courses and exams represent a recommended 240 teaching hours Standard Level: SL courses and exams represent a recommended 240 teaching hours Theory of Knowledge (TOK): An interdisciplinary course that explores the different concepts of knowledge found in the IB Diploma subject areas GENERAL TERMS Acceptance: Candidate is in; most colleges notify students by April Student should reply if she/he will or will not attend the college Accreditation: Recognition of a college or university by any of the regional or national accrediting bodies indicating that the institution as a whole has been judged to be meeting itsobjectives ACT Assessment: A college entrance achievement examination that is a predictor for your college success It is required or recommended by many colleges as part of the admission process The ACT measures educational development in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science Apprenticeship Programs: During this process, the worker (apprentice) learns an occupation in a structured program sponsored jointly by employers and labor unions or operated by employers and employer associations Associate Degree: A degree granted after the satisfactory completion of a two-year full-time program of study or its part time equivalent In general, the Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree is granted after completing a program of study similar to the first two years of a four-year college curriculum ASVAB: This test shows your skills or various strong points that you may have in order for you to have a more successful life This test is also given to determine people's ability to learn certain skills needed for every day life This test is required for a career in the military Bachelor's Degree: A degree received after the satisfactory completion of a four or five year full-time program of study at a college or university Career-Oriented Program: A group of courses, which prepares students primarily for employment, often in a specific occupation Such a program, which can last a few months or more than two years, may lead to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree College Entrance Exams: Tests that are used by colleges and universities for evaluation of applicants for admission or for placement in courses Tests used most frequently are the ACT and the SAT I & II College Transfer Courses: Courses that transfer as college credit to bachelor's degree programs elsewhere Community College (Junior College): Regionally accredited, post-secondary institutions at which the associate degree is the highest credential awarded They offer comprehensive, technical, transfer, and continuing education or specialized curriculums Confidentiality: This is privileged communication, which is not disclosed unless it does or should involve the court or legal system Core Classes: Social Studies Classes or curriculum that are considered major areas of study including Math, Science, English and Credit: A credit is earned when you have completed and passed a class Credits are given for a semester Crisis: Is a situation that requires immediate attention Something you consider a danger to yourself or someone else See your counselor or an assistant principal Deferred Admission: The practice of some colleges to allow an accepted student to postpone enrollment for one year Early Action: Under early action, you follow an accelerated application process and apply by early October Students are notified of a decision by mid-December; if accepted, students not have to inform the institution of their decision until May Federal Pell Grant: Financial assistance, awarded by the federal government to undergraduate students on the basis of need The grant may be used toward tuition, room and board, books or other educational costs This money does not have to be repaid Federal Work Study: A federal financial aid program providing on and off campus work for college students Financial Aid Form (FAF): A form, which is required by some colleges as a supplement to the FAFSA This is to be completed by the student and his/her parents Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The starting point in applying for financial aid in which information about the students total family income, assets and expenses, and analysis of the family's potential contribution toward college expenses is collected Grade Point Average (GPA): This is your Grade Point Average, the cumulative average of all a student’s grades Our system is a standard system: A = 4.0 B = 3.0 C = 2.0 D = 1.0 F = 0.0 (no points) Honors and IB classes earn one EXTRA point for each letter grade as follows: i.e A= 5.0, B = 4.0, C = 3.0, except D = 1.0 and F= 0.0 Internships: Opportunities for "hands on" experience Some internships are performed for pay, and some are performed as a volunteer Incomplete: Failure to COMPLETE work or assignments for a class may result in an “Incomplete.” Students have one semester to complete the work After one semester an “incomplete” will become an F or failed grade Job Shadowing: This process allows students to be taken to a place of business in order to observe the employees going about their daily work Shadowing is a relatively short unpaid experience It can be only a few hours in length or it can extend over a few days Letters of Recommendation: Letters that student’s request of teachers, parents, friends, counselors, employers, etc to support their applications for college admission and/or scholarships and employment Most out-of-state colleges and universities require some form of recommendation (either a letter or a rating sheet.) Be considerate Give the person at least two weeks to write a letter for you Loans: Monies borrowed that must be repaid along with interest Major: The subject of study in which the student chooses to specialize and pursue in college; a series of related courses, taken primarily in the junior or senior years of college This may be in any number of subject areas or fields Scholarships are often associated with majors Minor: A secondary subject of study the student chooses to specialize and pursue in college NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association): If you are planning to enroll in college as a freshman and you wish to participate in Division I or II intercollegiate athletics, your initial 50 eligibility status must be determined by the NCAA Clearinghouse You should apply for certification after your junior year in high school NCAA Student Release Form: This form authorizes high schools to release student transcripts - including grades, proof of graduation, and other academic information to the Clearinghouse It also authorizes the Clearinghouse to release this information to the colleges that request it Non-Traditional Career: Occupations that require working in a field that has been traditionally dominated by 70% of the other gender These jobs usually require post-secondary vocational or technical training These jobs break the stereotypes of "men's work" and "women's work' Open Admissions: The policy of some colleges of admitting virtually all high school graduates, regardless of academic qualifications such as high school grades and admission test scores Portfolio: A collection of work that documents a student’s educational performance and employment experiences over a range of time Portfolio files are a collection of the best examples of a student's work Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT): A program designed to provide a practice test for juniors as a warm-up and preparation for the SAT Rank: A student's standing in his/her high school graduating class Rank is based on grade point average and is expressed in percentiles or rank order Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC): Air Force, Army and Navy programs on certain campuses which combine military education with baccalaureate degree study Resume: An outline of your life from grades 9-12 It should contain important information about you, which will paint a picture for admissions and scholarship committees as well as for employers SAT: Achievement test of verbal and mathematical skills, which are given at specified test centers throughout the year Required or recommended by colleges as part of the admission process as it is considered a predictor of college success Scholarship: A merit-based award for students with outstanding achievements; students with high grades and ACT or SAT scores; athletes; musicians; artists, etc Many scholarships are available from corporations, community agencies, civic and military associations, and more The competition for them is rigorous Semester: ½ a school year ♦ 1st Semester is August – December ♦ 2nd Semester is January - May ♦ Students earn ½ or credits upon completion of each semester course Transcript: A complete record of classes and grades that you have earned with credits listed, GPA and class rank PSAT/SAT/ACT scores are included on your transcript Appendix NORTH HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT SELF-ASSESSMENT DIRECTIONS: Please fill out this form as thoroughly and as thoughtfully as possible The information that you provide on this form can be used as a springboard to a personal statement for your college essays It can also be a reference source for developing a resume or activity list, which can be included in your college applications The more thoughtful you are now, the more it will help you in the future The completion of this form is required by your counselor for recommendation writing Your teachers may request this as they write recommendations for college as well Please be specific and give examples as necessary While colleges are reviewing you based on your academic curriculum, they are also reviewing you for creativity, intellectual promise, commitment, initiative, leadership potential, capacity for growth, and unique talents NAME: PART I: ACADEMICS Describe a rewarding or satisfying learning experience you had during your time at North a Why was it rewarding? b How did you grow or change? Name at least three academic strengths List three of your favorite courses in high school and explain why they’re your favorites Describe any special circumstances that may have affected your academic performance Explain how your academics were affected Explain what you tried to to manage or remedy your situation List academic honors or awards you earned during high school PART II: PERSONAL List three adjectives that your friends would use to describe you Explain or give an example - List and describe three personal traits about you that you would like colleges to recognize Describe a book, play, film, article, world event, or personal experience that influenced you either in your thoughts, beliefs, or actions a Explain how you see this influence surfacing on a daily basis for you? 10 Name 1-3 things you are doing now that you hope to continue in college Explain 11 List in order of importance all major activities in which you have been involved during high school ACTIVITY POSITION/ROLE YEAR IN SCHOOL/HOURS PERWEEK a Pick the activity that is most meaningful to you and explain why you devote your time to it b In what fashion you see yourself pursuing this activity after high school? 12 List your work experience JOB HELD RESPONSIBILITIES HOURS PER WEEK a Explain why you work Discuss what skills you are learning and your interest in this area 13 List any honors, prizes, or awards that are non-academic, which you earned during high school 14 What you over the summers and vacations? Describe any particular experiences that were meaningful 15 List 1-3 personal goals you have for yourself PART III: COLLEGE & CAREER PLANS 16 What careers are you currently thinking about for yourself? 17 Explain why you are or why you not want to attend college 18 List college majors you are considering and give an explanation for your consideration 19 List colleges you are currently considering Explain for each why you are considering it 20 Name any specific programs either academic or support for which you may be looking (i.e combined medical programs, learning disabilities, ) 21 Describe how you want your college campus to be the same as or different from North 22 What financial concerns you have for college entrance? 23 Choose your preference for college: Location: Midwest / North / South/ East / West Size: 800-3000 / 3000-7000 / 7000-15000 / above 20,000 Setting: urban / suburban/ rural 24 Please share any other information that would be helpful in writing a letter, such as obstacles you have overcome 25 Is there anything that you would like me to specifically include in your recommendation that is not above? Appendix ARIZONA’S INSTRUMENT TO MEASURE STANDARDS (AIMS) The AIMS HS (High School) is a test based on the Arizona Academic Standards In order to graduate from an Arizona High School it is necessary to pass the AIMS HS assessment in addition to earning the required 20 course credits It is an assessment of three content areas: Writing, Reading and Math The AIMS is given to all 10th graders in the spring semester The AIMS tests are available again in the fall and spring of each year to students in Grades 11 and 12, who have not met or exceeded the standard (passed) in one or more of the content areas The Science AIMS assessment is being piloted in 2006-07 and may be a requirement for students beginning with the class of 2010 In order to graduate (receive a diploma), student must pass each area of the AIMS The passing scores in 2007 are: • Writing - 678 • Reading - 674 • Math - 683 For further information, please check the Arizona Department of Education website http://www.ade.state.az.us/AIMS AIMS/TERRA NOVA Students in grades 2-9 will take the Terra Nova The Terra Nova is a national normreferenced assessment created by CTB/McGraw to test English and Math Freshmen will take the Terra Nova and these scores will be used as a baseline to assist students in the areas of their weakness The Arizona law requires that every public school district test every child, who is enrolled ... apply to universities, you have accepted the challenge of this rigorous program “The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a challenging …curriculum It leads to a qualification that... Eligibility Reference Sheet 44 WELCOME! 46 47 48 49 Congratulations on being part of the International Baccalaureate Program at North High School Whether you are a first year student or a senior getting... http://www.princetonreview.com/college/testprep/testprep.asp?TPRPAGE=141 SAT Prep Programs The following is a list of SAT preparation programs These programs are in no way affiliated with North High School other