Questions of a Mom to a Soon-to-be Freshman

As my oldest enters the realm of high school I find myself treading on unfamiliar territory.

What now?  

Credits, transcripts, dual credits, ACT, SAT - OH MY!!

Q:  Credit?  What constitutes a credit?

A:  A full year course is equal to 1 credit.  Typically 1 credit is equivalent to 120-180 hours.  A 1/2 year course or 60 hours merits 1/2 a credit.  Elective classes are usually 30 hours (1/4 credit).  On average 6-8 credits are earned per school year.

Q:  Which classes should my freshman be taking to ensure she receives enough credits (general course of study)?

A:   Language Arts - every year

      Math - 3-4 years  Suggested classes:

• Algebra I
• Algebra II
• Geometry
• Trigonometry
• Calculus

      Science - At lease 3 years of laboratory science classes.  A good combination includes a year of each of      

                     the following: 

• Biology
• Chemistry or Physics
• Earth/Space Science

     History/Social Studies -  1 full year of U.S. History, 1 full year of World History, & half a year of
                                           U.S. Government & Economics

     Foreign Language - 2-3 years

     Arts - 1 or 2 semesters in the arts is a  good choices (include studio art, dance, music, & drama)


Q:  What are electives?

A:  Typically courses that fall outside of the main core academic subject areas.  Electives are not required, but a student chooses to take them. They typically reflect a teen’s interests, introduce or improve skills, or are directly related to a future career. Electives do not require as much time or work as a core subjects, but should include educational content.
Possible electives include the following:

• Apologetics
• Bible  
• Business Related
• Communication
• Computer
• Fine Arts
• Health 
• Life Skills
• Physical Education
• Social Sciences

Q:  What is a transcript & where do I get one?

A:   A transcript is a record of the courses your child completed in high school, the credit he/she earned for each course, & a final grade for the course.  They also include a grade point average & personal information for identification purposes.  You can create a transcript for your child.  For sample transcripts & step-by-step instructions see HSLDA High School Website.