Beckman Course Selection Guide
9th Grade: 2022-2023

Slides from "Counseling and Resources" Presentation

7 Period Day Qualifications
AP and Honors Limit Information
In an effort to create a healthy academic balance, freshmen may request up to two weighted classes (AP or Honors). If the student wishes to request a third honors or AP class, the student and parent must complete an online interactive presentation and turn in a signed AP Limit Waiver.
Both the mandatory video and waiver can be found here. Email the paper waiver to Mrs. Hungerford at shungerford@tustin.k12.ca.us
Course Sequences at Beckman
FRESHMAN MUST CHOOSE 6 COURSES
#1 ENGLISH
English 1
English 1 H (Course Placement Recommendation: B Grade or Better in Grade 8 English)
#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)

#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. Team websites and coachs' contact information can be found here or on the BHS Website under “Athletics.”
PE Marching Band/Jazz Ensemble-Marching Band is primarily for wind and percussion players however, many students that play piano or strings join the band as well. 1st semester earns PE credit. Marching Band plays at home football games, school pep rallies, community and special school events.
PE Colorguard/Jazz Ensemble is P.E./Dance/Drill/Flag to support athletes
Students Must Tryout to Join an Athletic Team
#6 ELECTIVES (CHOOSE 1)
CTE (CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION) PATHWAYS
Human Body Systems-science, application, and foundation of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Provides a foundation for athletic training and sports medicine.
Engineering Design- allows students to explore mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. This course is a hands-on, project-based experience for students interested in engineering design, development, and robotics
Photography and Design-a sequence of courses exploring everything from studio lighting, camera operations, Adobe Photoshop/Lightroom, and alternative techniques in both digital and traditional applications. You will connect your interest to a college or career in the arts linking subject matter to the content, using industry grade equipment and software to edit their creative expression.
Graphic Design-The Graphic Design 1 goals are to have students understand the IMPACT and ROLE of visual art and design has on their society and culture. To stimulate CREATIVITY through a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional media as they apply artistic processes and skills to CREATE designs that demonstrate their ability to effectively communicate their design PURPOSE. To have students PROCESS RESPOND to, and JUDGE design works using their knowledge of the elements of art and the principles of design.
Dramatic Production-This course focuses on production as collaborative art. It is designed to solidify your basic understanding of the elements, functions, and processes of production as an art form. You will participate in writing, script analysis, directing, design, acting, self evaluation, and critique. You will also study various genres, historical/cultural periods, and styles in the theatrical tradition through reading, writing and researching.
VPA (VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS) PATHWAYS
Exploration of Art-exploring different mediums and techniques in fine art, such as painting, drawing, portraits, collages, art history and so much more!
Dramatic Production-writing, script analysis, directing, design, acting, and understanding theatrical genres
Concert Orchestra-study and performance of music written for orchestral string instruments (violin, viola, cello, & bass); perform at least 2 concerts annually
Symphonic Band- made up of woodwinds, brass, and percussion players and perform at least 2 concerts annually
Guitar-reading notes and 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 (see attached file below). Email completed applications to cblair@tustin.k12.ca.us
AVID-working in tutor-led groups, learn note taking, outlining, test-taking skills to prepare for college *Requires this application.
Athletics, Arts, Activities, and Academics
ASB/Student Leadership
Early College Information
For 8th grade students wanting to apply, complete this application process by April 27, 2022 by 5:00 pm. If you have any questions, please email Gabriela Tomlinson at gtomlinson@tustin.k12.ca.us
For more information, please attend our 8th Grade Parent Night on March 23, 2022 and attend the Early College breakout session. Early College is not for everyone. Our program is a 4-year commitment, so please make careful considerations when applying to our program. You must meet the minimum application requirements to be considered for the program.
Please Note: Only CURRENT 8th grade students will be considered for the 2026 cohort. The 2023, 2024 and 2025 cohorts are closed, and will not be accepting new applicants.
Registration Dates and Deadlines
Please have your course requests entered in Aeries by 3/27/22
To Enter your Course Requests, log in to Aeries and go to Student Info and Course Requests
Disclaimers
- Parent and student have reviewed and agree to the expectations of all courses selected.
- We realize these are course requests and placement is not guaranteed.
- We understand that teacher and/or period requests will not be accommodated due to scheduling constraints.
- We have listed two mandatory course alternates in the event our first choice is unavailable.
Questions?? Post on Your Padlet Wall
Registration Dates
Counselors will be back to your middle school on the following dates for class registration:
UTT - March 30th
Columbus Tustin - March 31st
Orchard Hills - April 6th
Tustin Connect-March 31st
Sycamore - March 29th