PREP is primarily academic in nature. Though coursework occupies most of our time, information about Moeller school life and social interaction are part of the program as well. Typically, only the English instructors assign homework.
Math
The summer prep math classes are mainly designed to introduce students to different aspects of high school math. Areas such as geometry, trigonometry, algebra, probability and statistics are part of this introduction. Many of the symbols, terms, and fundamentals of mathematics are covered as well. Since the math classes are divided into different ability levels, the amount and depth of each topic covered will vary.
Along with the general areas to be covered, other items such as interesting math facts, short cuts, and helpful techniques for math use as well as mental math, identifying long and short term memory are built into the program. Several problem solving strategies are introduced through the use of enrichment problems; plus the use of organizational and study skills are emphasized with the students' math work during the entire program. At the conclusion of the program each student will have his math assessment sent to his home.
English
All English sections are ability tracked. Students are placed according to their fall registrations and their Moeller entrance test scores. Most subject matter is grammar. The focus of instruction is on those areas that have historically given students trouble during their first year. The subject matter selected also fits easily into the brief three-week parameters of the program.
Group 1 is chiefly comprised of CPII students; groups 2 and 3 are CPI students; group 4 is composed of honors-tracked students and more able CPI students.
Groups 1, 2, and 3 study verbs, subjects and predicates, prepositions, and agreement. A short story may be assigned and quizzed to check reading skills.
Group 4 studies subordinate clauses, main clauses, sentence types, sentence combining, and selected aspects of verbs.
If registration numbers grow too high, a fifth section will be added in all classes. Group 5 will be the most academically challenging, and other groups will be adjusted accordingly.
Study Skills
The study skills course is aimed at improving student effectiveness in the classroom. The students will learn organization skills relative to homework, note taking, and test preparation. Students will also learn to prioritize in daily assignments, as well as in long term projects. Note taking skills will also be developed.
In addition, the course will examine different styles of learning and teaching. This will help students understand potential test material, what questions to ask in class, and how to determine the sources of test material (notes, text, etc.). Examination of learning styles will give students insight into how to learn best and how they can utilize their own strengths.
Grades, evaluations, and comments will be mailed home for each student at the completion of the program. Comments will be sent home at the halfway point for some students.
Based on staff observations, course registration changes may be recommended for fall classes. Parents will be contacted in those cases.