Critical and Creative Thinking Strategies, Grades K-6 (Level I)

The Advanced Academic Resource Teacher and classroom teachers teach nine higher order thinking strategies across all subject areas and grade levels. The strategies are embedded in lessons that incorporate 21^st Century thinking skills and extend and enrich the Program of Studies (POS) for all learners.  Student responses to the lessons are also used to collect evidence of advanced academic potential in order to ensure equity and increase access to Advanced Academic Programs.

Differentiated Lessons in Areas of Academic Strength, Grades K-6 (Level II)

Differentiated lessons are offered to students in areas of specific academic strength. The Advanced Academic Resource Teacher collaborates with classroom teachers to provide additional challenges and resources within the general education program.

Part-Time Advanced Academic Program, Grades 3-6 (Level III)

Students identified by a local school screening committee for advanced academic services (Level III) are challenged through models and strategies designed to extend and enrich the POS in the four core subject areas. Students receive direct instruction from the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher in their local schools.

Full-Time Advanced Academic Program, Grades 3-8 (Level IV)

Students found eligible for placement in a full-time Advanced Academic Program (Level IV) through a central selection process receive a highly challenging instructional program in the four core subject areas.  The Level IV program is designed to meet the needs of advanced learners with a strong emphasis on higher level thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making. Students have ongoing opportunities for reflection and self-assessment that develop an understanding of the characteristics, demands, and responsibilities of advanced intellectual development.

Middle School Opportunities

IBMYP: Selected Schools, Grades 6-10

The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program is designed for students ages 11-16. The program helps students develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes, and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world. The curriculum is supported by the fundamental concepts of intercultural awareness, holistic learning, and communication.

Honors, Grades 7-8

Students who demonstrate high achievement in one or more areas of academic strength may participate in honors courses in any of the four core academic subject areas. Honors classes use a curriculum that extends the POS in depth and complexity. Honors classes, which are available in all middle schools, seek to provide opportunities to build on the individual student strengths, develop critical and creative thinking skills, and prepare students for advanced coursework in high school. Students eligible for full-time Level IV placement have the option to take full honors at their local middle school.

For additional information about the screening process or advanced academic opportunities at your child's school, contact the principal or Advanced Academic Resource Teacher at your local school. For information on countywide services for advanced learners, visit the Advanced Academic Opportunities web site at www.fcps.edu/DIS/gt or call the Advanced Academic Programs Office at 703-846-8670.

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High School Opportunities

Advanced academic courses in high school are open to all students who seek academic rigor. Students have the opportunity to enroll in honors courses as underclassmen and continue in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and dual enrollment courses. Students may earn college credits based on the results of their examinations (AP and IB) or course grade (dual enrollment).

Advanced Placement (AP)

The AP program provides rigorous academic college preparatory coursework in the major subject fields. Individual AP classes are designed to emulate introductory college courses.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The IB program provides a comprehensive rigorous education emphasizing analytical thinking, reading and writing skills with an international perspective. Students may choose to pursue the IB diploma or take individual certificates in IB courses.

Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment courses are offered in conjunction with local universities in a few select schools. These college-level courses include English, government, multi-variable calculus, and matrix algebra.

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)

TJHSST provides an innovative, specialized learning environment for highly motivated students who have a genuine interest in the biological, physical, mathematical, and computer sciences. Designated as the Governor's Regional School in Northern Virginia, TJHSST offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with additional required courses in science, mathematics, and technology.