The Cornerstones of Pre AP in Columbia Heights Public Schools
Last revised: August, 2008
In order to clarify the intent of a Pre AP course, the Columbia Heights teaching staff has created this list of the characteristics that parents and students can expect from a Pre AP (Pre Advanced Placement) classroom.
The classes are designed to prepare students for successful participation in Advanced Placement classes in high school through increasing the level of rigor when compared to general education through both content and instructional style.
Content
1. Go beyond the required academic standards
2. The study of content material is in-depth and often moves much faster than other classes.
3. Pre AP courses have an emphasis on writing; and a variety of writing styles are used.
4. Course material is supplemented with readings significantly above grade level.
Instructional Style
1. Increased pace
Students take in information at differing rates. A Pre AP student needs few repetitions when learning new skills and concepts.
2. Open ended instruction
Research-based teaching methods tell us that students learn in phases: the presentation of new information, guided practice, and independent practice. Pre AP classes are designed to approach learning through an open-ended approach, where students are given less detail in instructions and processes than a general education classroom.
3. Facilitated choices
In an effort to offer learning opportunities that are appropriately challenging for each student, Pre AP classes may offer a degree of student choice. Depending on the task at hand, teachers may allow students to have choices about how they learn information or how they show what they have learned.
4. High expectations in regard to behavior, the ability to work independently, and the quality of student work
A big part of Pre AP is building a sense of responsibility within students so that they will be well prepared when faced with college level work in an AP classroom. AP requires extensive reading, writing, discussing, and thinking about course material. Successful AP students have developed high expectations for themselves in behavior, independence, and work quality. This begins in middle school.
5. Require effective student time management skills
Pre AP teachers work with students on managing time well. This is important so that there is enough time to complete schoolwork and build a sense of balance between school and home.
Students can expect the following from Pre AP instructors
1. Pre AP teachers are fascinated by their discipline (i.e. English, math, social studies, or science).
2. Instructors will expect students to advocate for themselves.
3. Instructors will be human and approachable.
4. Instructors will work to mentor students. We value risk-taking and setbacks, as they are essential within the process of learning.