Kilmer Middle School Academic Level IV Center Program
Introduction • Assistant Principals: Debra David and Chris Musgnug • English: Marnie Hennessy • Math: Eunice Park • Social Studies: Steve Thomas • Science: Marileigh Blake • Technology Education: Kent Schweitzer
Advanced Academic Programs 3
English Marnie Hennessy
Similarities and Differences in AA English vs. Honors? ● The curriculum is similar ● AA students absorb information at an accelerated rate ● AA students enjoy more in depth discussions that focus on analysis ● They get less of the “what” and more of the “why”
Students Reflecting on the Differences Between AA and Honors “Topics are slightly different, but you learn the same material, just more in depth.” “Topics are the same, but you face a different set of challenges learning it.” “AA is a little more advanced, and the discussions are better because everyone in there wants to learn.”
AA Writing Extension ● AA students are strongly encouraged to seek publication for their writing ● ● Students experience what it is like to write for an authentic audience
Project-Based Learning • Students are expected to participate in at least one project-based learning experience • These assignments are intended to enrich instruction with real-world understandings and an authentic audience.
ENGLISH CLASS IS AWESOME!
US History Steve Thomas
So how will AA be different? •Higher level reading/text •Stringent Test and Quiz standards •In Depth Analysis of American History •Advanced Level Projects and Problem Solving
So how will AA be different? • In depth class discussion and written analysis of important historical events that support ascending levels of intellectual demand • Extension activities and assignments allowing for independent and higher level learning/understanding • Opportunities for students to grapple with complex and ambiguous issues and problems
What will students learn in AA History? Great Depression Unit -Great Recession of 2006-2009 -Stock Market Crash and Investing Early Immigration to US late 1800s early 1900s -Current Immigration/US Border issues Example: DACA and Wall along border Cold War Era -Russia/Putin Invades Crimea -Iran and N. Korea (Sanctions and Nukes)
History Student Work Yellow Journalism Current Events
Science Ms. Blake
How is AA different? – Higher Level Discourse and Scientific Writing • hypotheses • summarizing • justification • conclusions – Project and Problem Based Learning • student centered projects with teacher guidance
How is AA different? – Higher level texts • scientific journals and articles – Lab work • supplementary labs • more opportunity for independent investigation – Introduction of higher level concepts • touching on topics that are above 7th grade standards • going into more depth on 7th grade standards
MATHEMATICS Mrs. Park
Math - Where have you been? Accelerated Math Where are you going?
7 th grade Mathematics Courses • Math 7 Honors (Math 8 SOL) • Algebra 1 Honors – Fast paced instruction – High school credit course – New concept almost daily – Fast paced instruction – Extensions each unit – New concept daily – Prepares students for Algebra 1 – Assessments weekly or honors biweekly – Assumes student is proficient at – Extensions each unit Math 7 concepts – Data has shown Algebra grade predicts future success in later math courses
Tech Explorations • Mr. Schweitzer
Thank you for attending!
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