Academic Portfolio
SWB-A is a unique opportunity to gain leadership skills and a global perspective, combining local activities with an extended international experience. A key benefit is that you are able to do this with other like minded individuals who are ready to make a difference. SWB-A takes place during a regular school semester, without sacrificing academic progress.
Students will complete all requirements for:
· English 11/12
· Spanish 11/12 or Intro/beginner Spanish 11
· Leadership 11/12
· Global Education 12
· Independent Directed Studies 11/12 – or a course selected by the cohort (several to chose from)
Students will receive 4 credits for each course (20 credits). These are not light courses. They will be challenging and will thoroughly prepare students for the next step in their education.
Some students may be able to adapt this program in special circumstances. We will be flexible where possible. In most cases there will be little problem arranging a schedule to suit your local school.
All courses will begin week one at the SWB-A orientation camp. Courses then continue with regularly scheduled online and/or classroom activities. During the five week program in Panama, we will continue to study each course in a group setting. It makes sense that Global Education, and Spanish will receive a high concentration of hours during the five week odyssey.
Then, when students return, they will complete the final modules of their courses in the online format. Leadership, English and the Independent Study will be the focus of the non odyssey period. The highly concentrated odyssey experience will create high efficiency and deep learning. No course will be underplayed. Academics will not suffer but be enhanced as a result of participation in this program.
Evaluation
A student’s mark will be based on a combination of traditional pen and paper assignments and tests, portfolio assessment, and involvement in each of the classes. Reporting of student progress for this program will occur concurrently with School District 22 reporting periods. Each course will generate specific reports. A program exit interview will also be part of student evaluation.