SUMMER ASSIGNMENT GUIDELINES for AP/IB COURSES

Summer assignments for AP and IB courses are not mandatory. They are not a prerequisite to any AP or IB course, nor are they to be used as a route to discouraging or limiting access to such courses. There are, however, many advantages to requiring them. The guidelines below are suggested considerations when developing summer assignments. These guidelines are also appropriate for pre-AP and pre-IB courses.

Purpose of summer assignments

· To build on students’ readiness for higher level studies

· To review introductory topics/prerequisites for the course

· To create and enhance enthusiasm and interest in a subject

· To serve as a springboard for future learning

Guidelines for assignments

· Length of time to complete

o A typical assignment geared towards the average AP/IB student should require approximately 10 hours to complete.

· Research material availability

o Research materials must be readily available, source identified, or provided by the teacher.

o The teacher should be available as a resource to respond to questions concerning required research. Email availability is acceptable.

· Nature of assignments to be completed

o The assignment should not replace what is to be taught during the school year.

o The assignment should be related to the course.

o Where appropriate, students may be offered a choice of assignments.

· Communication of assignments

o Assignments should be widely communicated, both electronically and in hard copy.

o Prior to the summer, teachers may use strategies such as class meetings, PA announcements, web sites, and class visits.

o Over the summer, teachers in each school will ensure that materials are available in a designated location within the school.

Evaluation procedures

· Following the guideline that one should not test what one has not taught, summer assignments should not be immediate test material.

· Reasonable accommodations should be made for students who register for class during the summer.

· Evaluation of the assignment should not significantly distort the student’s quarter grade.

· Completion and effort should be a part of the assessment.

· Offering a variety of assessment formats for the summer activity should be considered.