Learning Strategies

u Work towards the resolution of relationships and transition issues involving family, peers and community. u Anticipate and plan for life changes ahead. u Develop and understand the skills necessary for a successful transition to life beyond high school. u Develop practical skills for daily living such as budgeting, well-being, and time management.

This class is designed to follow a large group guidance structure. Students will receive a grade of Successful Completion contingent on attendance, reflections, structured learning activities and discussions.

Learning Strategies – ½ credit

Elective: Grades 9-12

May be repeated for elective credit.

Special Requirements: Permission of instructor.

Home Learning: Light

Grading Scheme: Pass/Fail

Course Description This course helps students to understand their own learning profile and acquire both the academic and interpersonal skills necessary for success in high school. Students learn to maximize their learning strengths as they develop strategies for organization, exam prep and taking tests, note-taking and effective communication. Specific compensatory skills are addressed on a personal basis and included in the goals section of the student’s Individual Learning Plan.

Activities include a daily balance between completing independent work recently assigned as well as small group content instruction and teacher- student conferencing. The development of advocacy skills is a primary focus along with the opportunity to use their extra-time accommodation to finish any test.

Learning Outcomes Students will: u Make an effort to understand and be able to communicate their learning strengths and challenges. u Develop and implement an individualized learning plan that includes a self-reflection at semester’s end. u Be willing to practice strategies to improve their learning so they can accurately assess and monitor their growth. u Demonstrate an ability to consistently apply strategies to content and coursework in other classes.

Assessment Students will be assessed on their approaches to learning and how they make effort to transfer relevant learning strategies to new academic and social situations.

Strategies for Self-Advocacy – ¼ credit

Elective: Grade 12

Special Requirements: Permission of the instructor

Home Learning: Light

Grading Scheme: Pass/Fail

Course Description This course is a transition-planning course for students with special learning needs. The emphasis is on understanding the rights and responsibilities for students with disabilities in college and university settings and learning about the support services that are available. Activities include small group discussions, viewing case studies, reading and research activities, teacher-student conferences, role-play activities and reflective writing.

Learning Outcomes Students will: u Develop an understanding of the laws and rights that apply to students with disabilities. u Learn about the support services available at college and university and understand how to access these services. u Be guided in reading and understanding their educational assessment reports so that they can explain what this means for their own learning. u Understand the specific accommodations and learning strategies that will be helpful for success in a college setting.

Assessment Students will be assessed on their participation in class discussions and practical activities.