Know What to Expect in High SchoolMore independence and more responsibility … Greater need for time management and organization
More courses and more to choose from later on
Greater emphasis on academic achievement – grades really count
Consequences for failing grades – for graduation and college admissions
More extracurricular and summer enrichment opportunities
College Admissions – HS transcript gets you through the doorGet good grades in challenging courses
How do you get good grades??? Be organized
keep a daily planner, assignment calendar and use it
Manage your time wisely block out study times turn off all electronic distracters like cell phones, Facebook, chat rooms, etc.
Be successful in the classroom ask appropriate questions and for clarification when needed
stay on task and lead by example
More ways to get good grades…. Take good notes and make outlines Study smart
outline, flash cards, review old tests, attend tutorials and teacher hours
Use test-taking strategies elimination, scanning, rephrasing, Review test before handing it in
Rewrite, rewrite and rewrite until it’s the best you can do
Make a Four Year Plan 9th -12th
Minimum course work to graduate, but some highly competitive colleges may expect more…
4 English3 History3 Science3 Math3 Foreign LanguageLatinTechnology Information LiteracyArt Foundations1 Visual and Performing Arts4 College Prep ElectivesCommunity Service and Ensemble Participation
General college admissions criteria 23 CA State Universities
The HS Transcript• Strength and rigor of course selection based on your school’s offerings (minimum or maximum in subject area)
• Grades in each course (upward trend) • Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)Standardized Test Scores
• PSAT & SAT• ACT - especially for STEM programs • YAS and AP Classes and AP Exams• SAT Subject Exams - Note* if you take Pre-calculus in 10th grade sign up for June SAT Math 2
College admissions criteria – what gets you to the admit pile?
extracurricular activities sports, clubs, community service, etc.
special talents and awards
personal qualities, demographics, special circumstances
teacher and counselor recommendations
personal statement/essays
interview, portfolios, and/or auditions
Set Goals Get in the habit of setting both short-term and
long-term goals.
At the beginning of each term, set academic and non-academic goals for yourself.
Once you have set your goals, make a list of
the specific things you need to do to reach each goal.
Summary of Freshmen Year
Work Hard to get good grades Become involved in a variety of activities Select appropriate 9th and 10th grade courses Plan meaningful summer activities NOW Be careful with your Internet use Start a college savings account Apply for scholarships and enter contests
Get to know your College Counselor!