8th Grade Resources
Incoming 9th Grade Course Selection Guide
Incoming 9th Graders Must Select 6 Courses
- #1 - English
- #5 - Physical Education
- #2 - Mathematics
- #3 - Science
- #4 - Language other than English
- #6 - Electives (Choose 1)
#1 - English
#5 - Physical Education
Students wishing to participate in Athletics MUST TRY OUT. In the meantime, all 9th grade students will be placed into Life Fitness.
- Athletics - Team websites and Coach Contact information can be found HERE.
- FYI - "Pancakes with Patriots" will be held virtually this year, please check for updates on our Athletics Page HERE
- Life Fitness - Video HERE
- PE Marching Band/Jazz Ensemble - Information HERE
- PE Colorguard/Jazz Ensemble
#2 - Mathematics
Your student will be placed in a math class based on their grades and 8th grade Mastery Checkpoint score.
- Algebra Enrichment (Pre Algebra)
- Algebra 1
- Algebra 1 Honors (Course Placement Recommendation: A or strong B in 8th grade math and proficient 8th grade matery checkpoint score)
- Geometry (Course Placement Recommendation: C Grade or Better in Algebra 1)
- Geometry Honors (Course Placement Recommendation: A Grade in Algebra 1)
- Algebra 2/Trig (Course Placement Recommendation: C Grade or Better in Geometry)
- Algebra 2/Trig H (Course Placement Recommendation: A Grade in Geometry)
#3 - Science
- Biology
- AP Biology (Strong study habits/skills/grades in science and math classes recommended)
BIOLOGY vs. AP BIOLOGY
Middle School Science
- "A" Grade in 7th & 8th Grade Science
- Strong Background in Life Science
High School Math Placement
- Algebra 1 Honors or higher to address math component of the AP Exam
Work Habits
- Marks of "O" or Outstanding
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to manage multiple large scale assignments simultaneously
- Ability to read college level text to gain necessary content/information
Early College
- Students in Early College should take Biology
#4 - Language other than English
#6 - Electives (Choose 1)
CTE (CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION) PATHWAYS
- Human Body Systems-how the body systems work together to maintain homeostasis and good health
- Engineering Design-research, analysis, teamwork, engineering standards, technical documentation
- Photo Design-technical photo skills to make art and develop individual and cultural experiences
- Graphic Design-applying 2D design to solve real world visual arts problems
- Dramatic Production-writing, script analysis, directing, design, acting, self-evaluation, and critique
VPA (VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS) PATHWAYS
- Exploration of Art-exploring visual art forms including drawing, painting, digital art, and sculpture
- Dramatic Production-writing, script analysis, directing, design, acting, and understanding theatrical genres
- Concert Orchestra-study and performance of music written for varying combinations of string instruments
- Symphonic Band-develop and practice basic instrumental techniques
- Guitar-reading chords, strum techniques of classical guitar playing while singing
- Mixed Chorus-study and performance of music written for varying vocal ensembles
OTHER ELECTIVES
- AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY-studying processes shaping human understanding, use & alteration of earth’s surface.
- Yearbook-photo journalism, layout, copy fitting & writing, head-line and outline writing, and picture cropping
- Requires separate application - Download HERE
- Email completed applicaitons to cblair@tustin.k12.ca.us
- AVID-working in tutor-led groups, learn note taking, outlining, test-taking skills to prepare for college
- Requires separate application - Download HERE
- Email completed applications to tdawson@tustin.k12.ca.us
- ASB/Student Leadership- Download powerpoint HERE
- Applications & Interviews in August 2021