Grade 9 Guidance

What should be expected?

More Choices

• Which classes to take
• How to manage your time
• Which activities to take part in such as clubs and teams

More Independence

You’ll be challenged to think for yourself and make good decisions.
You’ll also have to start thinking about career choices, job training and college

More Responsibility

• Good attendance
• Getting to class on time
• Planning a study schedule
• Adjusting to new school rules

Teachers will let students know what is needed for their class on the first day of school.

Grades are important. They will have an impact on what colleges you get into and what jobs you get. Your first year grades are part of your grade point average (GPA). Colleges and employers will use your overall GPA to help determine what kind of student or worker you will be. It is important during your 9th grade year that you come to the Counseling Office and meet your counselor.

Get Organized

• Know when your work is due by keeping a homework assignment notebook (all students are given one on the first day of school).
• Write down dates for tests and quizzes as well as long range assignments.
• Schedule a regular homework time
• Set up a study area where you can do homework without being disturbed.
• Avoid distractions while you study. These include e-mail, instant messaging, my space, TV, loud music, and the telephone.
• Set short-term goals that you can reach
• Plan to do quality work and get it done on time
• Use color coded notebooks for each class. Write the name of the class on the cover. Make separate sections for homework, notes, quizzes, tests, and handouts.
• Keep your book bag and locker neat so you can find what you need without wasting time. Repack your bag at night to avoid rushing to find things in the morning.
• FIND OUT WHAT WORKS BEST FOR YOU AND STICK TO IT!! Not everyone studies the same way. You will be surprised at the difference good study habits can make!

Grade 9 Calendar:

SEPTEMBER

Check your schedule. Take another look at the program of studies handbook. Be certain that you are taking all of the courses based on your 4 year plan.
If you have a problem with your schedule, make an appointment with your guidance counselor. Appointments are available during study hall, before school, lunch time, and after school.
Become involved.

OCTOBER, NOVEMBER, DECEMBER

Continue to remain involved in academics and extra-curricular activity.
Resolve any mid-year course conflicts.

JANUARY

Review your 4 year plan.
You can make schedule changes as your career and post-secondary plans evolve.

FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL

Students will receive their course selection materials for next year.
Review your course selections with your present teachers.
Return course selection sheet to your teacher advisor. Courses fill fast so make sure to get your selection sheet in on time.
Make certain your courses match your 4 year plan.
Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss academic choices. Your course selection should match your career ideas.
Create a portfolio (either electronic or hardcopy) This should included copies of report cards, lists of honors and awards, school and community activities to include both paid and volunteer work along with descriptions of each activity.
Continue to build upon your 4 year plan.

JUNE

Review your course schedule for next fall. Make all changes before you leave for the summer.
Have a safe, healthy, happy summer and remember read, read, read.